HERE are seven top-selling Japanese cars from the Noughties that you can buy for less than £10,000 – including an iconic Honda and a “rare” convertible.
It’s not always easy finding a reliable and long-lasting car, but Japanese manufacturers have produced some classics over the years.
A 2008 black Mitsubishi Lancer – one of many models you can still find for less than £10,000Alamy
Built to last and renowned for their dependable performance, Japanese vehicles are designed with reliability in mind.
From Mazda to Honda to Nissan, we’ve listed some of the most popular models that you can buy at an affordable price.
Nissan 370Z
GettyThe Nissan 370Z is one of the more luxurious models on the list[/caption]
A sporty coupe that provides an old-school feel, the Nissan 37OZ is one of the best Japanese motors you can nab for less than £10,000.
One of the sportier models on the list, those muscular, aggressive looks mean it stands out from more understated alternatives.
But it is certainly possible to find a 3.7-litre V6-powered Nissan 370Z – the most powerful unmodified car on this list – within budget.
Honda S2000
GettyA yellow 1997 Honda S2000[/caption]
Next up is the Honda S2000, one of Japan’s most iconic performance vehicles.
However, with numbers dwindling, Honda’s high-revving hero is unlikely to remain within the £10,000 limit for much longer.
You can still just about find one’s for £500 below budget, so it’s technically a bargain, but it’s definitely best to act sooner rather than later if you want one.
Mazda RX-8
GettyA 2003 Mazda RX 8 sports coupe is perfect for country roads[/caption]
The Mazda RX-8 is a unique experience that’s worth investing time and money in – mostly because it’s reliable, and will be fun.
Surprisingly practical, they are more than capable of driving on remote, rural roads.
They may have a bad reputation in the used car market, but the Mazda RX-8 is definitely worth the gamble.
Lexus IS C
AlamyThe white version of a Lexus IS C[/caption]
Just sneaking into the Noughties and breaking up the sporty goodness in this gallery is a convertible Lexus IS 250.
The smooth system retracts in just 21 seconds, making it one of the fastest metal roofs on any car, while the rest of the model is superbly built and refined.
Despite claims that it lacks that “fun” factor you’d expect to find in any convertible, you can’t argue with the price.
Mitsubishi Lancer X
AlamyYou won’t find many Evo’s for less than £10,000[/caption]
Finding a top of the range Evo for less than £10,000 will be a struggle but a modest Sportback will certainly do the job.
With a bigger turbo, new dump valves and lower springs, among many other modifications, you’ve got yourself a 300bhp sleeper.
The Mitsubishi Evo X might have grown up, but the undeniable brilliance of traction, power and practicality remain.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI
GettyA blue Subaru Impreza WRX STI could be yours for less than £10,000[/caption]
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is famed for its rallying success but the family friendly performance car can be snapped up for less than £10,000.
One such model found online is complemented by a 296bhp four-pot, meaning 0-62mph in just over five seconds.
If you’re still looking for a bit of a thrill, then buying yourself one of these could be the best way forward.
Mazda 3 MPS
AlamyThe Mazda 3 MPS still does the job[/caption]
Propping up the list is the Mazda3 MPS, the most powerful production front-drive car in the world.
Boasting a 256bhp hot hatch, it also comes with a long list of standard kit, including sat-nav, a Bose stereo, rear parking sensors, part-leather heated seats and more.
It might not be quite as nice to look at as some other models on this list, but this competitively priced vehicle isn’t going to get any cheaper.
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