Classic cars stand out with their timeless appeal and raw power. Their excellent engineering has stood the test of time, offering a refined driving expense that modern cars cannot provide. While some vintage cars have skyrocketed in value and secured millions in auctions, others remain surprisingly affordable. Here are 25 such classic cars:
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 1990-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has become quite affordable recently. Both the NA and NB trims are known for their lightweight nature and engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics. The current rates range between $5,000 and $12,000, making them one of the most affordable classic cars ever.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
One of the biggest pioneers of the hatchback segment, the 1980 – 1992 Volkswagen Golf GTI offers thrilling performance. Powered by a 1.6L or 1.8L inline-four engine, the MK1 variant delivers immense power. Well-maintained MK1 and MK2 models start at $6,000 and can reach up to $15,000, making them a great bargain.
Ford Mustang
Perhaps the greatest muscle car in history, the Ford Mustang is a cult classic. The 1979 – 1993 models are a collector’s dream and are surprisingly quite affordable. The Fox Body model featured a rear-wheel drive and was available as a coupe, convertible, or hatchback. The prices remain between $7,000 and $16,000, bound to increase.
Ford Mustang SN95
Another variant of the Ford Mustang, the SN95, offers excellent performance for a bargain. They sell at $5,000-$12,000, allowing drivers to enjoy the thrill of the V8 engine in a budget-friendly way. Powered by either a 5.0L V8 engine or a 4.6L V8 engine, this vehicle produces up to 320 horsepower.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124)
The 1990 – 1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124) has been a popular nameplate in terms of reliability and performance. This classic car was powered by a range of incline four, V8, and even diesel options. Available at an affordable price of $6,000-$15,000, it is one of the best ways to experience German luxury.
Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z
Named after the International Race of Champions, the 1985-1991 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z delivered in all aspects. Powered by a 5.0L or 5.7L V8, it generated up to 245 horsepower and was paired with a sport-tuned suspension. This vehicle is currently available for $8,000-$18,000, making it a steal.
BMW 5 Series (E39)
A reliable and durable vehicle, the 1997-2003 BMW 5 Series (E39) goes down for its excellent engineering. A standout aspect of this vehicle was its driver-focused cockpit and premium interior. Powered by a 4.4L V8 engine in the 540i model, it produced around 282 horsepower. It is surprisingly affordable and emerges as a budget-friendly, hidden gem at a price starting at $5,000.
Nissan 240SX (S13 & S14)
The Nissan 240SX (S13 & S14) is in the hall of fame primarily due to its agile nature. Produced from 1989-1998, this vehicle featured a rear-wheel-drive layout and lightweight chassis. Sold for $6,000-$15,000, the demands for this vehicle continue to rise. The S14 variant embraced a sleeker design, though.
Infiniti G35
Available as both a coupe and sedan, the Infiniti G35 has become surprisingly affordable. It offers impressive performance, powered by a 3.5L VQ35DE V6 engine that produces up to 306 horsepower in later models. The 2003-2007 models are sold for a price up to $10,000, a hidden sports car that ensures a refined ride.
Chevrolet El Camino
The 1978-1987 Chevrolet El Camino is a muscle car that blends utility with extreme performance. Featuring a rear wheel drive alongside the classic long hood design, it allows it to stand out. Powered by a range of V6 and V8 engines, the 5.0L V8 engine produces up to 190 horsepower. A collector’s item, it is quite affordable and sells at a price between $7,000-$14,000.
Honda Civic (EF & EG)
The fourth generation of the Honda Civic (EF & EG) is a timeless icon of efficiency. These reliable vehicles are ideal for the urban commute and remain surprisingly affordable at $4,000-$10,000. The double wishbone suspension and fuel economy are unmatched, powered by a B16A VTEC engine that produces up to 160 horsepower.
Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX
A hidden gem among the classics, the second generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX leads with its intelligent all-wheel drive. Powered by a 2.0L 4G63T turbocharged inline-four engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, it produces 210 horsepower. It has featured in the ‘Fast and Furious Franchise’ and is currently being sold for $7,000-$15,000.
Porsche 944
With a perfect 50:50 bodyweight ratio and excellent engineering, the Porsche 944 can never die. The 1982-1991 model featured a rear-wheel-drive layout, pop-up headlights, and a 2.5L inline-four engine. The later models, such as the 944 S2 and turbo variant, continue to rise, but this remains surprisingly affordable for $6,000-$14,000.
Chrysler Crossfire
One of the most affordable classic cars in the industry, the Chrysler Crossfire offers a premium interior. It shares much of its interior with that of the Mercedes-Benz SLK320, making it a luxurious choice. Powered by a 3.2L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, it produces 215 horsepower. The 2004-2008 models are surprisingly affordable, with prices hovering around $5,000-$12,000.
Chevrolet Corvette (C4)
The fourth generation of the Chevrolet Corvette is available for prices between $7,000 and $15,000. The Grand Sport and ZR1 may be slightly higher, but they are worth it because of their impressive performance. The LT1 variant is powered by a 5.7L V8 engine that delivers over 300 horsepower. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in only 5 seconds, beating many cars even today.
Ford SVT Lightning
The Ford SVT Lightning is a powerful muscle truck powered by a 5.4L Triton V8 engine. The 2000-2004 model is available for $12,000-$18,000, depending on condition. The SVT Lightning is a future collectible for many, be it the sports-tuned suspension or the unique styling and extreme performance.
Toyota MR2 (SW20)
The second generation of the Toyota MR2 (SW20) stands out for its reliability. Powered by a 2.0L 3S-GTE engine that produces 200 horsepower, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds. The lightweight construction, distinctive T-top roof, and mid-engine layout enhance its appeal. It is currently sold for a reasonable price at $8,000-$15,000, appreciating day by day.
Subaru SVX
Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the 1990-1999 Subaru SVX is one of the most unique cars ever. It goes down in history for its “window-within-a-window” side glass and premium interior. Powered by a 3.3L flat-six engine paired with the legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive, it produces around 230 horsepower. Well-maintained vehicles are available for $5,000-$12,000, which is surprisingly affordable.
Acura RSX Type-S
Produced between 2002 and 2006, the Acura RSX Type-S is marked by its sleek exterior. Powered by a 2.0L K20A2 engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, it produces 200 horsepower. It is a reliable choice with an 8,000 RPM redline and limited slip differential in later models. The prices are currently reasonable, ranging from $6,000 to $12,000, but they will soon increase.
Buick Roadmaster
The Buick Roadmaster has stood the test of time for decades, a versatile and powerful sleeper. Available as both a sedan and a wagon, it features a well-appointed interior for its times. Powered by a 5.7L LT1 V8 engine borrowed from the Corvette, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds. Prices remain incredibly low, selling for $5,000-$10,000 at a bargain.
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
The 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 can still easily handle all terrain. It remains surprisingly affordable among the most powerful cars, available for $10,000-$18,000. Powered by a 6.1L HEMI V8 engine that produces around 420 horsepower, the Brembo brakes and all-wheel drive system enhance its appeal.
BMW 840Ci (E31)
The 1991-1999 BMW 840Ci (E31) was ahead of its time, with prices ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It was characterized by a sleek, wedge-shaped design and pop-up headlights. In terms of performance, this vehicle was powered by a 4.0L or 4.4L V8 engine that produced up to 282 horsepower.
Ford Mustang Cobra (SN95)
An absolute powerhouse, the Ford Mustang Cobra (SN95) pushes all performance limits. Produced between 1997 and 2004, the earlier models produced up to 305 horsepower, and later models pushed 390 horsepower. The 2004 Terminator models are rising in value, while the non-supercharged models remain affordable at $7,000-$14,000.
Nissan 300ZX (Z32)
The 1989-1994 Nissan 300ZX (Z32) was one of the most advanced sports cars the industry has ever witnessed. It is equipped with Nissan’s Super-HICAS four-wheel steering system and features cutting-edge technology. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, it produces 300 horsepower. The turbocharged versions are available for around $10,000-$18,000, while the non-turbocharged versions are available for less.
Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R129)
The 1994-1999 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R129) surpassed all expectations. It was powered by a 5.0L V8 engine and loaded with features such as electronically controlled adaptive suspension and a power-folding soft top. Well-maintained models can still be found for $7,000-$15,00, making them surprisingly affordable.
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