Vehicles That Tempt You, Yet Scare You to Buy

Owning a dream car comes with its share of challenges. Whether it’s sky-high repair bills, poor reliability, or even the fear of temptation, some cars intrigue us but also make us hesitate. Here's a list of iconic cars you might admire from afar but think twice before owning.

1. Jaguar F-Type

The Jaguar F-Type is a head-turner with stunning design and thrilling performance. But its history of questionable reliability and high upkeep costs can make potential buyers hesitate. For all the love it receives, owning one comes with financial risks.

2. E60 BMW M5

Who wouldn't want a sedan with a roaring V10 engine? The E60 M5 is an enthusiast's dream car—but maintaining BMW's complex engineering is a nightmare for most. Repairs are frequent, expensive, and beyond the scope of casual ownership.

3. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

This Italian sport sedan is a depreciation special and offers impressive performance and design. However, Alfa Romeo’s reputation for inconsistent reliability makes many potential buyers nervous about taking the plunge.

4. Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R

With immense horsepower and iconic American muscle, the GT350R tempts drivers. Yet, for some, the fear of racking up speeding tickets on backroads or the potential for high insurance costs keeps them from ownership.

5. Citroën SM

This vintage gem screams elegance and quirkiness. But between its hydropneumatic suspension and Maserati V6 engine, the SM is notorious for complicated repairs and rare parts, making it a car for only the most committed enthusiasts.

6. BMW M760i

A luxury V12-powered sedan like the BMW M760i represents peak automotive sophistication. However, its exorbitant maintenance costs and need for specialist work scare away even the most ardent admirers.

7. Polestar 2

The Polestar 2 is a stunning modern EV with a nod to Scandinavian design. But EV buyers without a home charger often worry about road trip charging anxiety, making ownership daunting despite its appeal.

8. Cadillac XLR

The XLR’s futuristic folding hardtop and luxurious cabin make it a fascinating choice. Yet, its Northstar engine’s infamous head gasket problems and rarity of parts are deal breakers for many.

9. Maserati Biturbo

Classic Maseratis ooze Italian flair, and the Biturbo is no exception. But older Maserati models are maintenance nightmares, leading to hefty repair bills and hours in the shop.

10. Lotus Evora/Emira (Manuals)

A lightweight Lotus with a manual transmission offers unmatched driving pleasure. However, potential owners fear the $12,000 clutch replacements more than they crave its driver-focused design.

11. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

As an EV bursting with performance, the Ioniq 5 N promises thrills. Yet, drivers who’ve experienced even mild charging anxieties are scared to fully commit to this tempting speedster.

12. Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan

A luxurious, tech-laden EV at a surprisingly low price on the used market. Still, first-generation EV glitches, coupled with Mercedes’ expensive maintenance costs, plant seeds of doubt.

Why Do These Cars Scare Us?

For many, fear stems from costly repairs, reduced reliability, and a lack of mechanical expertise. Others worry about the temptation to exploit their car’s performance, risking tickets or accidents. Ultimately, while these cars represent engineering marvels or emotional connections, the potential hurdles of ownership outweigh the excitement for most.

Are They Worth the Risk?

It depends. If you’re financially prepared to deal with maintenance quirks or willing to commit extra care to ownership, then take the leap. But for those on tighter budgets or less mechanically inclined, admiring these cars from a distance might be the better option.