by The art of collecting classic cars has existed for as long as automobiles have existed. Throughout history there are a few cars that have represented the best of their generation; even fewer still stand out as cars that have stood the test of time and remain true classics. Those who chose to collect and maintain these cars are not only indulging themselves but preserving history.
However, entering into this hobby can be expensive. Rare and limited-run cars are not cheap, their value only climbs as the years go on, but only if the community at large decide that the car is worth preserving. We think that there are a huge number of golden gems which have gone under the radar and still remain cheap to buy.
This list exhibits what we believe are 10 of the greatest classic cars which have not yet seen their value inflate to ridiculous proportions. These sports car legends are great for anyone looking to start their collection without spending absurd amounts of cash.
Data on the performance of each car was sourced from manufacturer press releases. Information regarding the average price of each model was sourced from auction patterns on Bring A Trailer.
10 1991 Subaru SVX
Average Price: $9,000Side shot of the 1991 Subaru SVXBefore Subaru had made its name in the world of performance cars with the Impreza WRX STi, Subaru had already tried their hands at developing a sports car twice. The SVX was their second attempt and it was a brilliant sports coupe. The only reason it didn’t catch on is that it was too expensive for Subaru’s reputation at the time.
PerformanceThe SVX was a high-performance coupe with numbers that were impressive and a driving experience that was even better. At the time, Subaru was only known for developing small, reliable passenger cars so their sports car didn’t quite catch on. However, this unique piece of Subaru history is an excellent car to own.
9 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Average Price: $13,500Front 3/4 shot of a parked 1990 Mazda MX-5There are few cars that have gained popularity the way the Mazda MX-5 Miata has over the last three decades. As the 1990s dawned, so the legend began. Mazda decided that creating a true enthusiast sports car for the people who couldn’t afford Porsches or Ferraris was their mission; without a doubt, they succeeded.
PerformanceThe Miata has never claimed to be fast, but it is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding sports cars to drive. The NA generation is where it all began and owning one of these roadsters will definitely mean you hold a piece of history. Prices are also still fairly low and there are tons still on the market, this will no doubt change though.
8 1962 Triumph Spitfire
Average Price: $13,500Front right shot of a 1970 Triumph SpitfireThe world of British cars was booming in the 60s with cars such as the Jaguar E-Type and Aston Martin DBS making waves. The Triumph Spitfire is one such legend. It was designed by Giovanni Michelotti, who had designed cars for Ferrari, Maserati, and Lancia, and it was one of the finest looking roadsters money could buy.
PerformanceThe Mark 1 Triumph Spitfire is a supreme piece of British history and one of the finest sports cars to come out of the country. It was an inexpensive sports car made for the everyman and it was a ton of fun to drive.
7 1974 Volkswagen Scirocco
Average Price: $15,000Front 3/4 shot of the 1974 Volkswagen SciroccoVolkswagen has long been thought of as an automaker that focuses on sensible reliability, with a few exceptions over the years. Many think that the dawn of anything exciting for the brand was the Golf, however, it was another sleeker car built on the same platform that managed to convince people that a Volkswagen could be cool, the Scirocco.
PerformanceThese cars are fairly rare in the United States and picking one up isn’t easy. However, when first-generation Sciroccos do pop up for auction they often go for anywhere between $7,000 and $16,000. They represent one of the finest moments in Volkswagen’s history and managing to get your hands on one will solidify you as a preserver of history.
6 1996 BMW Z3
Average Price: $17,500Rear shot of a 1996 BMW Z3The BMW Z roadsters have always done well to compete in their segment and earned themselves a cult following. The Z3 features the best that BMW had to offer in the late nineties all wrapped up in a cool drop-top body. Not only does this car perform excellently, but it is one of the nicest-looking convertibles that you can own.
PerformanceThe BMW Z3 is slowly moving towards collectible status. Most examples available on auction were available for just under $10,000 dollars up until 2019 when the value started to shoot up. There are also rarer limited-run editions that sell incredibly well. An M model of the Z3 even sold for nearly $40,000 last year. We’d suggest grabbing this car now before its value skyrockets.
5 1976 Lancia Montecarlo/Scorpion
Average Price: $17,500Front 3/4 of the 1976 Lancia Beta MontecarloLancia is a name that has not been around for a while. The Italian sports car manufacturer made their name building world-class rally cars but has since disappeared everywhere outside of Italy. The Montecarlo is one of the greatest Lancias ever made and makes a great piece of automotive history.
PerformanceThe Lancia Montecarlo, and its convertible twin the Scorpion, is a huge part of Lancia’s legacy. It achieved excellent results in both sports car racing and in rallying. Getting this car is not easy as it doesn’t come on sale often, however, its cheap entry price makes it a great pick up for those looking to own an Italian legend.
4 1969 Fiat 124 Spider
Average Price: $17,500Side shot of the 1969 Fiat 124 Sport SpiderItaly and classic sports cars go hand in hand like wine and cheese. The Fiat 124 features a refined wood finish on the interior, classic gauges, and leather seats. On the outside, it looks just as cultured as it does on the inside. Sitting in the driver seat of this classic cabriolet will have you feeling quite sophisticated.
PerformanceThe Fiat 124 Spider is a great entry into the world of classic cars. An old Italian sports car will be praised by any enthusiast. The 124 Spider is also extremely easy to work on and due to how available the parts are, you won’t spend a ton fixing it up either.
3 1976 Porsche 924
Average Price: $17,500Front 3/4 of the 1980 Porsche 924 Le Mans EditionPorches from this era often get criticized for their heavy ties to Volkswagen. The 924 was the first Porsche to have a front-mounted engine and was intended to be a replacement for the 914 as Porsche’s entry-level sports car. Despite nay-sayers, the 924 is an excellent sports car and an excellent slice of Porsche history.
PerformanceThe 924s are still affordable and are incredibly easy to work on as far as Porsches go due to their front-mounted engine. Keeping a look out for Carrera S or Turbo badged 924s is definitely recommended as they offer drastically increased performance and their value will rise much more than the base trim.
2 1988 Toyota MR2
Average Price: $20,000Front 3/4 shot of a parked 1988 Toyota MR2Heading into the 1980s the sports car market was slowly dwindling. Hot hatches were around and they offered thrills and more practicality. There were virtually no mid-engine coupes left. Few thought that it would be Toyota who would come up with something new and exciting to rejuvenate the market.
PerformanceThe first-generation Toyota MR2 is not only an icon in terms of JDM cars, but an icon in the world of mid-engine sports cars as a whole. It has rapidly been rising in value and it is starting to see some popularity. Many go for newer generations of the MR2, however, the older generation is just as exciting historically.
1 1968 Chevrolet Corvette C3
Average Price $30,000Red 1980 C3 Chevrolet CorvetteCorvettes have always garnered high regard among car enthusiasts. Their high performance, incredible looks, and affordable price range have helped gain them the huge following they have. The C3 is easily one of the best-looking Corvettes on the market and its value is rapidly rising.
PerformanceWith its sleek body and its sonorous V-8, you’re sure to stand out behind the wheel of this beautiful classic. They’re affordable entry point has only gotten more affordable over the years and the huge market for parts on this car makes it a relatively easy project
