Not every AMG needs to break the bank. Sure, Mercedes-AMG is known for brutal horsepower, snarling exhaust notes, and luxury to match—but there are plenty of models on the used market that deliver the same thrill without the eye-watering price tag. Whether you’re after a growling V8 coupe, a sleeper sedan, or a track-ready hatchback, there’s an AMG out there that offers real performance without draining your savings. If you’ve been waiting to jump into AMG territory, these are the ones worth hunting down.

Mercedes-AMG CLK55 C209

The CLK55 AMG hits that sweet spot between classic styling and raw V8 power. With a naturally aspirated 5.4-liter V8 under the hood, this coupe cranks out 362 horsepower and a deep exhaust note that never gets old. It’s a refined powerhouse that still knows how to throw a punch.

You can find clean examples hovering around the $10,000 mark, which is a steal for what you’re getting. It’s also one of the last AMG coupes before things started getting a bit too digital. Old-school cool with modern muscle—that’s the CLK55.

1998-2000 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG

The C43 AMG might not scream for attention, but it’s one of those sleepers that punches way above its weight. Powered by a 4.3-liter M113 V8 with 306 horsepower, it blends comfort and performance in a slick, unassuming package.

It was one of the first AMG-tuned C-Class cars, and you could even get it as a wagon—making it one of the coolest ways to haul groceries in style. Affordable, practical, and fast, it’s a perfect entry point into the AMG world.

Mercedes-AMG A-Class

Don’t let the hatchback shape fool you—the AMG A-Class is a serious machine. In A45 S trim, you’re working with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that cranks out 421 horsepower. That’s a ton of power for something this compact.

Even the more budget-friendly A35 brings 306 horsepower to the table. It’s agile, quick, and perfect for city driving while still being an absolute blast on the backroads. A proper hot hatch with AMG DNA.

Mercedes-AMG C63 S W205

The W205 C63 S takes everything you love about AMG—grit, noise, and power—and wraps it up in a modern, refined shell. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 throws down 510 horsepower in S trim, with a sound that’ll send chills down your spine.

Available as a coupe, sedan, wagon, or cabriolet, it’s one of the most versatile performance cars out there. Prices on the used market are surprisingly approachable considering how much car you’re getting.

2010-2015 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The SLS AMG is one of those halo cars you never forget. Gullwing doors, a long hood, and that screaming 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8—it’s pure theater every time you drive it. The M159 engine pumps out 563 horsepower and a soundtrack you’ll never tire of.

It’s not cheap by any stretch, but prices have remained steady and even started climbing. As far as high-end used AMGs go, the SLS might be one of the most reliable and special investments you’ll find.

Mercedes-AMG GT

The AMG GT doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves, but it’s one of the most well-rounded sports cars AMG has built. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 serves up 557 horsepower and can hit 60 mph in under four seconds.

It’s sharp in the corners and delivers a driving experience that rivals cars twice the price. If you want track-ready speed with a street-friendly vibe, this one checks every box. And on the used market, it’s a surprisingly strong value.

2002-2004 Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG

The C32 AMG is a sleeper hit. It came with a supercharged 3.2-liter V6 that pushed out 354 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque—more than enough to get your heart racing. It also had a 0–60 time of just 4.7 seconds.

Compared to its BMW rivals, the C32 AMG brought serious heat and underrated appeal. You can find well-maintained examples for cheap, and they’re still quick enough to keep up with modern sport sedans.

Mercedes-AMG SL65 AMG R230

The SL65 AMG brings V12 thunder to the party, and that alone makes it special. With 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque from its twin-turbo 6.0-liter engine, it was a luxury missile built for autobahn runs.

It’s not cheap, but compared to other V12 cars, it’s an absolute bargain. Earlier models are creeping up in value, and if you want bragging rights and serious firepower, the SL65 delivers both.

2013-2018 Mercedes-AMG CLA45

The CLA45 blends compact luxury with serious performance. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, it delivers 381 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. All that in a tidy, stylish sedan that doesn’t look like every other AMG on the road.

It’s small, agile, and still quick enough to mess with much more expensive cars. It’s also pretty easy to find clean used examples for under $30,000, which makes it a solid deal for what you’re getting.

2012-2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG

The SLK55 AMG is all about having fun with the top down and a V8 rumble behind you. Its naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 cranks out 422 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most exciting convertibles in its class.

What sets it apart is the retractable hardtop—giving you a coupe when you need it and a roadster when you want it. Used prices are holding steady, and it’s one of the most affordable ways to get that classic AMG sound with open-air driving.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been car-fully, I mean carefully, reviewed by our editors.