10 Luxury Cars That Are Notoriously Reliable Yet Crazy Cheap

In the world of luxury cars, the blend of opulence and reliability often seems like a dream. However, there exists a solid grouping of automobiles that defy this stereotype, marrying lavishness with dependability while having a surprisingly low second-hand price point. From the iconic Toyota Cressida to the unexpected inclusion of the Porsche 911, these vehicles are among some of the most reliable luxury cars you can get your hands on. Despite their bargain-basement prices, these luxury cars offer an unparalleled ownership experience, challenging the notion that luxury and reliability come with exorbitant costs.

While the automotive market is full of options that promise luxury but fall short on reliability, this curated list unveils a roster of ten vehicles that not only deliver on the promise of luxury but do so without draining your bank account with endless repairs. From timeless classics to underappreciated gems, each car on this list has earned its place through a combination of exceptional craftsmanship, durable engineering, and a commitment to providing a luxury driving experience at a low cost of ownership. Whether you’re a discerning enthusiast seeking affordable luxury or a pragmatic buyer in search of a reliable daily driver, these ten cars offer the perfect blend of prestige and peace of mind.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources. Each entry on this list has earned a spot due to its phenomenal second-hand price, and for the quality and reliability you can’t get anywhere else.

10 1988-1995 Toyota Cressida

Reason For Ranking: Quiet Luxury With Toyota Dependability

Starting out our list, the X80 generation Toyota Cressida is a very unsuspectingly nice vehicle. Housing a 3.0-liter straight-six 7M-GE engine, producing an impressive 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 185 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, the Cressida delivers a refined and smooth driving experience. Drawing inspiration from its sibling, the Supra, the Cressida incorporates modified versions of its mechanical components, notably featuring a new double-wishbone rear suspension, ensuring superior handling and ride comfort.

Standard features such as power windows and locks, cruise control, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel, and a four-speed automatic transmission elevate the driving experience, while optional amenities like anti-lock brakes, a power driver’s seat, leather upholstery, a power moonroof, and a CD player further enhance the luxury quotient.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Toyota)

Despite its impressive array of features and luxurious appointments, the 1988-1995 Toyota Cressida remains an accessible choice with clean examples often available for a surprisingly modest price range of $5,000 to $7,000. This affordability shows the Cressida’s true value, offering buyers an opportunity to indulge in luxury motoring without breaking the bank.

Moreover, the Cressida’s reputation for Toyota dependability ensures that even at this price point, owners know they’re investing in a vehicle renowned for its reliability and longevity. With its combination of refined comfort, robust performance, and unbeatable value, the Toyota Cressida emerges as a standout choice for those seeking luxury on a budget.

Pros

• Smooth 3.0-liter six-cylinder
• Comfortable interior and suspension
• Loads of space throughout interior

Cons

• Head gasket failure
• Aging interior for hotter climates
• Automatic transmission failure on long trips

9 1980-2000 Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit

Reason For Ranking: It Is More Reliable Than You Would Expect

The Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit, spanning from 1980 to 2000, defies conventional wisdom by offering a level of reliability that exceeds expectations for a luxury vehicle of its era. The Silver Spirit II and Silver Spur II, introduced in 1989, marked a refinement of the original models, showcasing advancements such as the introduction of “Automatic Ride Control,” a groundbreaking system that automatically adjusted dampers on all four wheels in real-time for optimal ride quality.

The introduction of a General Motors four-speed transmission in 1991, alongside other mechanical improvements such as an increased petrol tank size, further solidified the Silver Spirit’s reputation for reliability, ensuring a smooth and refined driving experience that exceeded expectations.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Rolls-Royce)

Despite the perception of Rolls-Royce vehicles as temperamental luxury cars, the Silver Spirit series proved to be a beacon of dependability throughout its production. Even as the model evolved with the introduction of the Silver Spirit III and Silver Spur III in 1993, featuring engine enhancements and cosmetic updates, Rolls-Royce maintained a focus on engineering excellence and durability.

Although not as abundant as others on this list, some models of Silver Spirit can be found well under $10,000, making it a phenomenal choice for budget luxury. The decision to end Silver Spirit production in 1997, with final vehicles rolling off the assembly line through the year 2000, speaks to Rolls-Royce’s commitment as the chassis survived production for 20 years and will continue to roam the streets for many more.

Pros

• Massive 6.75-liter V8
• GM 4L80E automatic is used by many drag racers for durability
• Rolls-Royce luxury for a fraction of newer luxury vehicles

Cons

• Air-ride suspension may need to be replaced
• Limited production due to high MSRP
• Rare to find for sale as many hold on to their Spurs

8 1989-2002 Mercedes-Benz SL

Reason For Ranking: Convertible Luxury Without A Headache

The Mercedes-Benz SL, spanning from 1989 to 2002 with the R129 generation, epitomizes convertible luxury without the headaches typically associated with open-top motoring. Upon its introduction in 1989, the R129 made waves as the first Mercedes to feature a fully automatic, hydraulically operated fabric convertible top, providing effortless roof operation and a seamless transition from open-air driving to enclosed comfort.

Powered by a number of different V8 and later V12 engines, the R129 delivered an exhilarating driving experience synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand. Safety innovations such as projector lens HID headlamps, introduced in 1995, and an automatic roll bar that self-deployed in rollover events made for even more peace of mind.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mercedes-Benz)

Furthermore, the availability of manual gearbox options, a rarity in the luxury convertible segment, offered enthusiasts a more engaging driving experience, solidifying the SL’s reputation as a driver’s car. Throughout its production, the R129 SL continued to evolve, introducing advancements such as optional V12 engines and official AMG variants, including the renowned SL 60 AMG and SL 73 AMG.

While some may require more repair than others, you can find a good example of an R129 for roughly $10,000. With its blend of luxury, performance, and innovative features, the Mercedes-Benz SL R129 remains a timeless icon, offering convertible enthusiasts a compelling package of style, comfort, and reliability.

Pros

• Stout V8 engine
• Convertible top or removable hard top
• Manual transmission option

Cons

• Leather seat cracking pre-1998
• Common head gasket leak from lack of maintenance
• Catalytic converters breaking up internal material

7 2005-2017 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Reason For Ranking: Supercar Performance On A Sports Car Budget

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage, spanning from 2005 to 2017, redefined the concept of a sports car by offering supercar performance at a fraction of the cost typically associated with exotic automobiles. As the leanest and most agile car in Aston Martin’s lineup, the V8 Vantage was designed to compete directly with revered sports cars like the Porsche 911 while maintaining the luxury and refinement for which Aston Martin is renowned.

Powered by a hand-built 4.7-liter V8 engine, producing an exhilarating 420 horsepower and 347 pound-feet of torque in its initial iteration, the V8 Vantage delivered blistering acceleration and a top speed of 175 miles per hour. While still holding up well in the second-hand market, keen eyes will find a V8 Vantage for $35-40,000. All things considered, you get a phenomenal car for that price.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Aston-Martin)

Aston Martin’s meticulous attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the V8 Vantage’s engineering, from its unique race-style dry-sump lubrication system to its front mid-mounted engine configuration, each decision was not only performance-oriented but reliably conscious.

The Aston Martin V8 Vantage garnered widespread acclaim for its performance capabilities and driver-focused design, becoming the most successful model in Aston Martin’s storied history. From its handcrafted engine components to its dynamic driving dynamics, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage offers luxury-conscious buyers a compelling alternative to traditional supercars at a surprisingly accessible price point.

Pros

• 400 horsepower V8 with instant torque
• Hand-crafted luxury inside and out
• Diabolical looks for a “cheap” luxury car

Cons

• One of the most expensive on our list
• Rare in the United States
• Manual transmission options are hard to find

6 2003-2010 Audi A8

Reason For Ranking: Long Wheelbase All-Wheel Drive

The Audi A8, spanning from 2003 to 2010, epitomizes luxury and performance with its long wheelbase and all-wheel-drive capabilities. Offering both standard and long-wheelbase variants, the A8 L provided an additional 4.7 inches of rear legroom, elevating passenger comfort to unparalleled levels.

With its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a sophisticated ZF 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, the A8 delivered exceptional traction and stability across a variety of road conditions, ensuring a confident and composed driving experience. Under the hood, the Audi A8 boasted a range of potent engine options, including the groundbreaking 4.2-liter Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) V8 engine, which produced a respectable 315 horsepower and 302 pound-feet of torque.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Audi)

The A8’s adaptive air suspension further enhanced its driving dynamics, offering adjustable ride height and damping characteristics to suit varying driving preferences and road conditions. While it may not seem like the most reliable choice, if you find one that has had regularly scheduled maintenance throughout its ownership, you will come up with one of the most luxurious yet reliable vehicles.

Meticulous examples will fetch around $15,000, given the performance aspect, we can’t complain about that price point. With its combination of luxurious appointments, advanced technology, and spirited performance, the Audi A8 emerged as a formidable contender in the luxury sedan segment, offering unparalleled comfort and versatility.

Pros

• Plethora of innovative features that still impress today
• V8 power and all-wheel drive
• Possible W12 engine if you can find one

Cons

• The Volkswagen Phaeton sister car can be had for cheaper if you find it
• Timing chain issues if maintenance was not kept up on
• Many optional extras can be missed for second-hand cars

5 2003-2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Reason For Ranking: Forgotten Generation Of Top Tier Luxury

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W211, spanning from 2003 to 2009, represents a forgotten generation of top-tier luxury that often goes overlooked in discussions of Mercedes-Benz’s illustrious lineup. Despite its larger dimensions, the 2003 E-Class offered less interior space, particularly in the estate version, than the W210 it replaced, yet it compensated with a wealth of advanced features and engineering innovations.

Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to efficiency was evident in the redesigned model, with claims of reduced fuel consumption compared to its predecessor, thanks in part to innovations like the electrohydraulic braking system marketed as Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC), which became standard equipment across the E-Class lineup.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mercedes)

While many would stray from an old luxury vehicle, the W211 gets a pass for the lower optioned models as they have stood the test of 200,000 miles across multiple examples. Options such as multi-contour front seats and the dual control air suspension system marketed as Airmatic DC further elevate the driving experience, but could cause issues in the now used cars.

Transmission options include five or seven-speed automatic or six-speed manual, while a range of engine choices, including V6, V8, inline-four, and supercharged inline-four variants, or even the brutal AMG versions catered to varying performance demands. While there are some things to stray from, grabbing a W211 E-Class for under $10,000 is hard to beat.

Pros

• Host of innovative features
• Sub $10,000 price point depending on options
• Available six-speed manual transmission in a luxury car

Cons

• Higher option features can fail
• Lower-option engines are slow
• Automatic transmissions don’t hold well past 200,000 miles

4 1994-2003 Jaguar XJ

Reason For Ranking: Value And Reliability

The Jaguar XJ, spanning from 1994 to 2003 with the X300 and X308 generations, stands out for its combination of value and reliability in the luxury sedan segment. The X300 model was a stylistic homage to the more curvaceous Series XJ models, featuring a redesigned front with four individual round headlamps that harkened back to Jaguar’s iconic design heritage.

Despite its connection to Ford’s ownership of Jaguar during this period, which influenced certain design elements and component sourcing, the X300 represented a successful evolution of the XJ lineage, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and reliability. Powered by either a refined inline-six engine or a potent V12, the X300 can now be had for sub $15,000, an absolute steal given the features and performance.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Jaguar)

The subsequent X308 generation, introduced in 1997, continued the XJ’s legacy of value and reliability while incorporating refinements to styling and technology. Retaining the distinctive design cues of its predecessor, including the rounded four-headlamp bonnet and sloping tail, the X308 featured updates such as rounded exterior lights and revised interior trim.

Mechanical improvements included the introduction of the new AJ-V8 engine, available in either 3.2-liter or 4.0-liter displacements and offering a supercharged variant with the XJ-R. With its reputation for reliability, refined driving dynamics, and timeless design, the Jaguar XJ of the X300 and X308 generations remains a standout choice for those seeking a luxurious and reliable sedan for under $9,000.

Pros

• The V12 engine option is as reliable as the inline-six
• Violently British luxury design that still holds up today
• Long wheelbase options to provide even more passenger room

Cons

• Electrical faults for certain climate situations
• Center console buttons can get gummy or sticky
• Leather seating in early models could be overly worn

3 2008-2014 Cadillac CTS

Reason For Ranking: Americanized Luxury Is Back

The Cadillac CTS, spanning from 2008 to 2014, marked a resurgence of Americanized luxury with its bold design, refined performance, and advanced technology. The second-generation CTS boasted a wider and longer profile than its predecessor, incorporating design cues such as a larger grille, slimmer headlights and taillights, and sleek side air extractor vents.

Under the hood, the CTS offered a choice of potent engines, including a 3.6-liter V6 with direct injection technology, delivering up to 304 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, providing exhilarating performance without putting stress on the engine. With features such as a Bose 5.1 surround sound system, GM’s Stabilitrak ESC system, and a navigation system with real-time traffic and weather data, the CTS was the full package and allowed for ease of ownership in terms of maintenance.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Cadillac)

Over the years, updates such as revised front grille designs and increased engine power contributed to the CTS’s ongoing appeal, reinforcing its position as a standout choice in the competitive luxury sedan market. With its combination of style, performance, and advanced features, the Cadillac CTS became a very popular vehicle among the more quiet luxury crowd.

On the other hand, you could spring for the “V” model for a screaming yet reliable V8 engine. Therefore, with used examples now coming across the market as those people upgrade, you can scoop up a well-cared-for example of the CTS for under $15,000 with decently low mileage. Being in the U.S. you are able to find a host of parts for them as well if anything were to go wrong. Not bad for a car that costs nearly six figures when new.

Pros

• Overbuilt V6 that can run for 200,000+ miles
• Recliner chair comfort throughout the interior
• The performance “V” model can be had for slightly more money

Cons

• Polarizing exterior design
• Not as many options as others on the list
• Somewhat slow in comparison to others

2 1998-2004 Porsche 911

Reason For Ranking: Surprisingly Cheap For An “Ugly” Generation

The Porsche 996 911, spanning from 1998 to 2004, introduced a new era for the iconic 911 model, incorporating a water-cooled engine and a more streamlined body design. Developed alongside the Porsche Boxster, the 996 shared components and platforms with its roadster counterpart, contributing to its cost-effective development.

Despite initial criticism of its unconventional “fried egg” shaped headlamps, the 996 had remarkable performance and handling, solidifying its status as a coveted luxury sports car. Powered by a 3.4-liter flat-6 engine, capable of delivering up to 300 horsepower, the 996 offered both coupe and cabriolet variants with rear-wheel drive initially, later expanding to include all-wheel drive options.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Porsche)

Despite the transition from air-cooled engines of past generations, the 996 maintained the driving dynamics and reliability characteristic of the 911 lineage. Despite its exceptional performance credentials, the base model 996 Carrera remains remarkably affordable in the pre-owned car market, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to experience Porsche’s legendary craftsmanship and reliability without the hefty price tag. With prices starting at $26,000 for a base model Carrera equipped with a manual transmission, the 996 presents an alluring option for drivers seeking the blend of luxury, performance, and reliability that defines the Porsche experience.

Pros

• Porsche build quality is nearly unrivaled
• Fast, fun, and reliable luxury sports car
• Costs less than a new Toyota Camry

Cons

• 1% of cars are affected by a bearing issue that is remedied whenever the clutch is replaced
• Some of the interior buttons peel with age
• Polarizing design compared to other 911’s

1 1990-2000 Lexus LS400

Reason For Ranking: Epitomy Of Cheap Reliable Luxury

The Lexus LS400, produced from 1990 to 2000, stands as a testament to meticulous engineering and uncompromising luxury. Born out of Toyota’s ambitious F1 project, the LS400 was crafted to surpass its American and European counterparts in every aspect. Using a groundbreaking 4.0-liter 1UZ-FE V8 engine, delivering 242 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the LS400 had power and refinement. Its innovative chassis, equipped with an independent double-wishbone suspension and optional passive air suspension, ensured a smooth and luxurious ride.

The LS400’s cabin was a sanctuary of opulence, adorned with California walnut and leather trim, power-adjustable seats, and cutting-edge technology like an automatic tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and electrochromic rearview mirror. With over 300 technological innovations, including fluid-damped cabin fixtures and vibration-insulating rubber mounts, the LS400 delivered a level of sophistication and tranquility unmatched by its rivals.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Lexus)

Beyond its luxurious amenities, the LS400 earned its reputation for its exceptional reliability and longevity. Automotive journalist Matt Farah famously drove a Lexus LS400 over the 1-million-mile mark, showcasing its unparalleled durability and longevity. Used examples of the LS400 can be found for as low as $3,000, making it an extraordinary value proposition in the luxury car market.

Even museum-quality examples command only up to $25,000, a testament to the LS400’s everlasting appeal and timeless design language. In essence, the Lexus LS400 represents the pinnacle of cheap, reliable luxury with a combination of quality, comfort, and longevity that is unmatched by any other luxury vehicle on the market.

Pros

• Unrivaled luxury vehicle longevity
• Modern technological advancements for a car that is 20 years old
• Abundance of models available

Cons

• Fuel efficiency leaves something to be desired
• No manual transmission option
• No interesting color options