12 Bargain '90s Cars Still Worth Buying Today

In this economy, everyone is looking for an affordable and reliable used vehicle. But the truth is, many are struggling to find something that won't break their bank but isn't boring either.

Fortunately for budget-conscious consumers, there are plenty of reliable cars from the '90s that are just as practical as they are sporty. All it takes to find one of these retro gems is a bit of research, just like drivers do to compare auto insurance rates, and we've gone ahead and done the work for you.

Here are 12 classic '90s vehicles that offer a combination of durability, performance, and style. They're the kind of vehicles that shoppers searching for a bargain and car enthusiasts alike dream of.

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Average price: $2,022

The 1998 Buick Riviera has been praised by reviewers like Edmunds for its attractive styling and potent V6 engine. Owners have also praised the Riviera for its elegant, classic styling, as well as its durability.

Plus, one Riviera owner told Edmunds that their 1998 Buick Riviera was still reliable and running, even after 240,000 miles. That makes it a steal for consumers who can get their hands on one.

Average price: $1,570

The 1997 Oldsmobile LSS features Euro-chic styling and an interior that's equally aesthetically pleasing as it is ergonomic.

It's also a reliable vehicle. One 1997 Oldsmobile LSS owner called this car the "ultimate sleeper" for its incredible combination of speed, comfort, and features, despite its unsuspecting appearance.

Average price: $3,070

The 1993 Volkswagen Corrado has been casting a sublime automotive spell on automotive enthusiasts since the '90s, and many consider the Corrado to be a working man's Porsche.

Additionally, according to Edmunds, this beautifully boxy coupe's excellent build quality means that, even at high mileage, owners experience very few mechanical issues beyond normal wear and tear.

That makes it a gorgeous, sporty car for budget-conscious consumers looking for a retro vehicle bursting with bold personality.

Average price: $2,472

Owners of the 1999 Toyota Celica love this vehicle for its smooth, unique style, reliability, and fun driving experience.

Many of them note that this sly coupe continues to run smoothly, even after its odometer has racked up some serious mileage. Some have even described the Celica's excellent build quality as "bulletproof."

Average price: $4,836

The 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a car lover's dream come true. According to Edmunds, this is thanks to its zippy engine, phenomenal steering, suspension, and weight distribution, which culminate in a heavenly (and thrilling) driving experience.

Owners have praised this iconic, sporty coupe for its effortless charm. They also lauded its better-than-expected fuel economy, which typically ranges between 25 and 30 miles per gallon.

Average price: $1,181

The 1992 Mercury Cougar is beloved by drivers for its spaciousness and reliability, as well as its muscular 5.0-liter V8 engine.

These large sedans are also paragons of durability. According to Edmunds, many of these vehicles will rack up more than 200,000 miles and still run like a Swiss watch.

Average price: $1,889

The 1997 BMW 3 Series is another excellent option for buyers seeking a vehicle that oozes retro charm while delivering an exhilarating driving experience.

According to Edmunds, owners especially admire this vehicle's driving dynamics, highlighted by its superb handling, balanced steering, and responsive throttle that make daily commutes and leisurely drives equally exciting. It also features a timeless design, which has only grown more classic with age.

Average price: $1,064

Bargain hunters looking for a practical, uncomplicated vehicle will likely take to the 1994 Ford Escort. According to Edmunds, owners cherish this workhorse of a daily driver for its low ownership costs and top-notch reliability.

Drivers report this '90s vehicle surpassing 150,000 to 200,000 miles while requiring only minimal, significant repairs and maintenance to keep it going. Additionally, owners have noted its heating and air conditioning perform well, making it an ideal daily driver for a variety of climates.

Average price: $5,867

Shoppers on a budget looking for a blast from the past that can still turn heads should consider the 1998 Jaguar XK-Series. It offers all the comfort of an elegant, luxury vehicle.

Owners have praised the 1998 Jaguar XK-Series design, remarking that this luxury coupe's curvy elegance is the perfect blend of the classic Jaguar aesthetic and modern flair. It's ageless beauty on wheels.

Average price: $1,314

The 1998 Dodge Avenger is a smart choice for consumers who want a stylish yet practical daily driver.

According to Edmunds, owners love this sporty American vehicle for its sleek, attention-grabbing design and spacious interior that's comfortable enough even for longer trips.

Average price: $1,836

Drivers are drawn to the 1997 Ford Thunderbird for its 4.6-liter V8 engine, which numerous owners have reported lasting for hundreds of thousands of miles, according to Edmunds.

Many families even choose to pass Thunderbirds down from one generation to the next because of their long-lasting appeal and everyday practicality.

Average price: $7,980

Whether you're looking for a bargain or cashing in on a windfall pay day, pretty much every consumer respects a Porsche, regardless of its age or price range; the 1997 Porsche Boxster is no exception.

According to Edmunds, owners admire this German dream machine for its gorgeous design and second-to-none driving dynamics. Plus, this German icon is the envy of every brand on the planet. Not to mention, it's both an exciting sports car and a practical daily driver, making it one of the most singular vehicles in automotive history.

From timeless beauty and top-notch performance to surprising durability and comfort, these '90s classics are smart money moves for car owners because of the untapped value they offer in today's turbulent marketplace.

Considering that the average used-car price recently hit $25,730 in the United States, any of the vehicles on this list represent killer deals for what they offer at just a fraction of that price.