Affordable Classic Cars
What can $15,000 get you in a car? There are plenty of exciting options in the collector car space to get the heart racing and turn your commute into a much-anticipated joyride. The classic car experts at Hagerty® recommend the following 15, all of which can be purchased for under $15,000.
1982-1991 Porsche 944
The Turbo and S-editions may be difficult to find in good condition for under $15K, but the standard 944 can be purchased for an average of $10,500.
1973-1987 Chevrolet C/K Series Pickup
Most classic pickups have gained popularity among collectors in recent years, but examples from the C/K Series can still be found for about $7,500.
1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX
85,080 examples sold in the U.S. and today you can purchase a base model for around $8,750.
1982-1986 Toyota Supra
According to the Hagerty Price Guide, the average value of sporty second-gen Supras is roughly $7,000.
1976-1996 Jaguar XJ-S
The XJ-S is Jaguar’s longest running model, and there are many pristine examples still on the road. Whether you are looking for better fuel economy or simply want to roast tires, with XJ-S values averaging around $10,000, now is a good time to buy.
1984-1993 Mercedes-Benz 190
Designed as a compact executive car, they are available as a carbureted 190 or the fuel-injected 190E, and they’re a steal at an average of $4,200. Be forewarned however that maintenance and repairs can be expensive as that reputation for prestige also carries a cost.
1972-1980 International Scout II
For those who prefer to take the road less traveled, the International Harvester Scout II was the last hurrah of the popular 4×4 that set many SUV benchmarks. The Scout just makes the list with a $14,000 average value.
1976-1986 Jeep CJ-7
The average value of these rugged vehicles is $7,600 according to Hagerty’s Price Guide.
1965-1970 Buick LaSabre
The LeSabre and other full-size Buicks were completely restyled for the 1965 model year, featuring marginally more rounded body lines with semi-fastback rooflines on the two-door hardtop coupes. According to Hagerty’s Price Guide, the average value for this generation is around $9,800.
1958-1959 Ford Fairlane
The 1958 Fairlane’s new style featured a long, wide and low look with a scalloped rear deck that outsold Chevrolet for the first time since 1935. These classy cars can be found for an average of $13,000.
1962-1967 Chevrolet Nova II
At an average value of $11,765, the first and second generations of Chevy Nova are increasingly in demand for entry-level enthusiasts and beyond who desire classic ‘60s styling in an affordable package.
1967-1973 Plymouth Valiant
In 1967, Plymouth introduced a new, rectangular body style that included two- and fourdoor sedans. The Valiant’s average value is $7,000, though you can expect to pay more for the higher-performance models.
1979-1985 Mazda RX-7
The Mazda RX-7’s 1.1-liter Wankel engine was an instant success, which revved to 7,000 rpm. The first-generation is incredibly affordable at right about $3,700.
1975-1978 Datsun 280Z
Considering the $7,500 average value and output up to 170-hp, this is the perfect way to get into a timeless sports car that resembles a Ferrari 275 GTB at a fraction of the price.
1961-1964 Oldsmobile 88
The fifth generation Oldsmobile 88 was a spot-on representation of the domestic market’s executive car class. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may find a roadworthy gem for around $13,000.
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1990-1996 Nissan 300ZX (courtesy Hagerty)
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