6 Cars Under $20K That Attract the Most Attention, According to Car Expert Doug DeMuro
Written by
Jennifer Taylor
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Jenna Klaverweiden
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Expensive cars tend to get noticed, but you don’t actually have to spend a fortune to get attention. If you’re on limited budget, getting a little creative with an unexpected car choice can turn plenty of heads.
Doug DeMuro, a car expert and founder of Cars & Bids, recently uploaded a video on his YouTube channel in which he highlighted six delightfully unusual cars that his company recently auctioned for under $20,000.
If you’re in the market for car that gets people talking, these makes and models should probably be on your radar. Keep reading to find out which six exotic, yet affordable, cars made DeMuro’s list.
Nissan Figaro
- Cars & Bids price: $18,000
DeMuro said a car enthusiast probably wouldn’t freak out about the Nissan Figaro, but the general public would. “It is just one of the craziest looking automobiles that you could possibly find,” he said.
He explained the Figaro is a great car itself and commands attention.
Humvee
- Cars & Bids price: $15,000
Widely used by the military, a Humvee isn’t something you see driving around each day. DeMuro said models designed for civilians are available but have a higher price tag.
The Humvee that recently sold for $15,000 on Cars & Bids was used by the military. He said most military Humvees tend to sell under $20,000, making them a reliably affordable choice.
Typically camo-colored, the military Humvee comes with no frills — i.e., standard canvas seats, no climate control, etc. — as their goal is to function, according to DeMuro. He said they also tend to be pretty well-worn, with many in use since the ’80s or ’90s.
It’s also worth noting that military Humvees are sold on a bill of sale, so some states won’t title them, according to DeMuro. If you’re interested in this unique vehicle and want to drive it around, make sure it can be titled in your state before buying.
Citroën 2CV
- Cars & Bids price: $15,000
If you have a need for attention but not for speed, the Citroën 2CV might be your car.
DeMuro said it has 27 horsepower, so don’t expect it to go fast. However, while it lacks in speed, it thrives in appearance.
“It looks like a Volkswagen Beetle, but weirder and longer,” he said.
2002 Bentley Arnage T
- Cars & Bids price: $18,000
That’s right, you can own a Bentley for less than $20,000.
DeMuro said pretty much any Bentley always attracts attention, but the flagship big body Arnage really turns heads. Despite the car’s low price tag, DeMuro said it might be a bit more expensive to keep running — at least if you provide proper maintenance.
In terms of being seen, DeMuro said the Arnage brings an “I’m going to fire your whole town” vibe that people will definitely notice.
V12 Toyota Century
- Cars & Bids price: $15,100
The V12 Toyota Century is popular in Japan with business executives, high-ranking government officials and even royalty, DeMuro said. Offering a smooth ride, most Toyota Centurys are in good shape and well-maintained but may have high mileage, according to DeMuro.
If you’re looking for attention from the general public, you probably won’t get it, DeMuro said. Despite describing the Century as a very unusual car, he said it looks just like a very large sedan.
However, this is something the car enthusiast community will notice, he said. Therefore, you just need to decide on your target audience before purchasing.
Maserati Quattroporte
- Cars & Bids price: $13,600
The Maserati Quattroporte offers a unique opportunity to own a car from this luxury brand for a fraction of its standard pricing. Specifically noting the model sold in the U.S. from around 2005 to 2013, DeMuro said this one will excite non-car enthusiasts, due to being part of the Maserati family.
He said the Quattroporte is a special exotic car that will turn a lot of heads while providing a fun driving experience.
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