Underrated 90s & 2000s coupés & convertibles for the thrill seeker
When it comes to affordable, engaging driving experiences, the 1990s and early 2000s offered a treasure trove of coupés and convertibles from mainstream manufacturers. While these models may not have achieved the same level of fame as more exotic offerings, they still pack plenty of character and driving pleasure.
Fiat barchetta
Launched in the 1990s, the Fiat Barchetta was a compact, two-seater roadster based on the Punto. Its sleek design, four-cylinder engine, and light weight made it a fun and attractive option. Though front-wheel drive limited its appeal, you can now find Barchettas for under €10,000 or even €5,000 in some cases.
Peugeot rcz
During the economic crisis, Peugeot created the RCZ, a coupé that stood out from its usual lineup. With a striking design, 2+2 seating, and diesel and gasoline engine options, the RCZ even had a high-performance RCZ-R variant. Though not a huge sales success, it's now available for around €9,000.
Peugeot 406 coupé
Before the RCZ, Peugeot had a history of producing coupés, including the 406 variant introduced in 1996. Designed by Pininfarina, it was nicknamed the 'Ferrari of the masses' due to its styling. With a choice of four-cylinder and V6 engines, the 406 Coupé is now a budget-friendly option, with prices starting from around €3,000.
Honda prelude
The Honda Prelude, revived as a hybrid coupé, may have disappointed some with its lack of sportiness and high price. However, it's an iconic model that has endured for decades. In the 1990s, it offered a sporty edge with up to 220 horsepower, although its front-wheel drive limited its performance credentials. Used Preludes can now be had for under €10,000, much less than the price of a modern rival.
Hyundai coupé/tiburon
Hyundai's Coupé, also known as the Tiburon in some markets, was designed by Pininfarina and aimed to provide affordable sports car appeal. While it didn't quite hit the mark for driving enthusiasts, its attractive styling and competitive pricing helped it stay in production for four generations until around 2009. Today, you can find Hyundai Coupés for under €2,000.
Ford probe
The second-generation Ford Probe, launched in 1993, offered an attractive American design with Japanese mechanicals. It featured Mazda-sourced engines, including a V6 producing 165 horsepower. While its front-wheel drive and grand touring nature limited its sportiness, the Probe has an undeniable charm. You can now acquire one for between €5,000 and €10,000, or its successor, the Ford Cougar, for less than €5,000.
These models may not be as highly sought after as some exotic sports cars, but they still offer a lot of driving pleasure and style at a fraction of the cost. Whether you're a fan of retro designs or just looking for an engaging alternative to the modern SUV craze, these underrated coupés and convertibles are definitely worth a closer look.