What is the ultimate winter sports car for 15,000 euros?

December 24, 2022

A little advance warning. Is an exotic, exclusive car offered for sale at a relatively favorable price? If you look at it soberly, you also know the risks of such a cheap exotic. Chances are then you will still have to dig deep to keep the car in good condition or return it to good condition.

Audi S6 (2008-2012)

A spacious Audi A6 station wagon, but equipped with a Lamborghini V10. 435 horsepower under the hood, permanent all-wheel drive and plenty of luggage space. As a potent S6, this Audi is barely distinguishable from the entry-level diesel in appearance. Isn’t this the perfect recipe for a quick sled for the winter vacation?

With any luck, the previous enthusiast has paid attention to maintenance and repairs; Italian engine technology in particular can be temperamental. If you hit a good one, you can be sure that you will actually reach the ski resort.

Mercedes R-Class (2005-2010)

A wondrous creation from the Germans: is it an MPV, station wagon or crossover? Either way, this Mercedes R-Class offers a sea of space, handy for the whole family, luggage ánd skis. This R-Class was available with potent six- and eight-cylinders with at least 270 horsepower. Smooth cruising down the Autobahn was rarely so comfortable.

For 15,000 euros, if you look carefully, you will find one with a comprehensive service history, four-wheel drive and a silky-smooth automatic transmission. Combine that with Mercedes’ solid reputation, what’s another reason not to put this car on your list?

Infiniti FX37 (2008-2012)

Who remembers Infiniti? In 2020, the brand withdrew from Europe. Sales didn’t want to go so smoothly. As a result, each one is a driving rarity. Under the skin, these cars share a lot of technology from parent company Nissan, no need to expect horror stories about that.

The FX was the SUV you wanted. Big, tough and, with fat V6 engines, certainly not underpowered. No Infiniti is sparsely equipped, but we found one with a sunroof, heated seats and a 360-degree camera for less than 15,000 euros. Now only to find what snow chains will fit around those 20-inch alloy wheels…..

BMW X5 M50d (2013-2018)

Those who do not want an estate car, but prefer to take it higher up: the BMW X5. Available with a choice of powerful gasoline engines, but a powerful 381-hp six-cylinder diesel suddenly puts winter sports within easy reach. At the apres-ski, you can say you are driving a BMW with not one or two, but three turbos.

The roominess in the X5 is spot on, and the all-wheel drive is handy on snowy mountain passes. Nice thought also is that this model was once new on the price lists for over 133,000 euros. Used ones change hands for 15,000 euros these days. With any luck, you’ll hit a version with a clean history and low mileage.

Opel Insignia Sports Tourer OPC (2009-2013)

When it comes to expensive German station wagons, not everyone thinks of Opel. Let’s forget that you can safely call their fat OPC version of their Insignia Sports Tourer a spacious and powerful all-rounder. Its all-wheel drive makes it the ideal travel car, even around your favorite ski resort.

For those in a hurry, a 2.8-liter V6 turbocharged gasoline engine with 325 horsepower ensures that this Opel can compete with the best German superstation cars. Brakes from Brembo, thick leather sport seats from Recaro and 20-inch wheels complete the picture. Who wants another Audi?