Classic cars continue to play an important part in the automotive industry. It appears that the enthusiasm for antique vehicles has been handed on to the next generation of automotive enthusiasts. Although some legendary cars have sold for a fortune and are now in the hands of affluent collectors, certain models are still within reach. Even though vintage automotive prices have skyrocketed in recent years, some reasonable models are still available.Surprisingly, a far larger and more diverse range of inexpensive historic automobiles is available for under $15,000 than you may assume. It turns out that just because an automobile is uncommon or historic doesn't mean it's as costly as most people believe. Aspiring collectors may still locate rare classics that look excellent and function well without having to go too far into their wallets. We compiled a list of 10 cars in this category that you can get for under $10,000 that you can buy in 2021, but you'll want to move fast since some of these rare classic cars are quickly increasing in value.Some of these antiquities are unquestionably underappreciated, while others were mass-produced in large numbers... Whatever the case may be, these amazing relic motorcars are unquestionably inexpensive. Enjoy the ten coolest yet affordable relic rides available right now!
10 Porsche 944 - $9,000
In the 1970s, Porsche experimented with more conventional designs after three decades of primarily manufacturing rear-engined vehicles. The Porsche 944 Turbo is widely considered to be one of the best-handling sports cars of the 1980s. In 1976, Porsche introduced the 924, quickly followed by the 928 in 1978 and the 944 in 1982. The Porsche 944 was the sportiest of the lot, with a sporty 2500cc engine producing 187 hp.
The Porsche 944 Turbo (also known as the 951) is undoubtedly the pinnacle of 1980s sports cars. The classic interior, the iconic wedge shape style, and, of course, the omnipresent flip-up headlights are all evocative of the 1980s. It was rated the "Best Handling Production Car in America" by Car and Driver, and you can get your hands on one for about $9,000.
9 1960 Studebaker Lark Regal Hardtop Coupe - $9,000
A Studebaker Lark was the car of choice for people searching for a small car without sacrificing flair in the early 1960s. The Lark was a good-looking vehicle with some distinguishing features from 1950s cars, such as the curving chrome profile on the sides and the unique design of the rear lights.
The Lark had that lower body profile that so many Americans adored. The front grille of the "Regal" trim was larger and had more chrome, giving the car a more refined appearance. The Lark had a 259 cubic inch (4.2L) V8 engine with 180 horsepower, making quite a thrilling automobile to drive. You can get one of these for dirt cheap, considering a good-condition Lark can be found for less than $10,000.
8 1990-1994 Volkswagen Corrado
The name Corrado is a Spanish-derived word meaning “To Run.” This classic was one of Volkswagen’s first true sports car by world standards. During its tenure, it was reliable and had very few flaws. The first models of these arrived in the U.S in 1990.
It’s based on the Golf and features a front-wheel-drive system. Its motorized rear spoiler produced substantial downforce for the rear. It was loaded with a supercharger that pushed 10 pounds of boost into the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Performance is still decent, as it can thrust from 0-60 in about 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 140 mph. For about $5,000, this car is quite a steal.
7 1985 Maza RX-7 GSL - $5000
According to Motortrend, the first series of the RX-7 arrived on the scene with instant success and surpassed most coupes that came before it. The second-generation RX-7 (GSL) could generate 100 hp and 105 lb-ft of torque sufficient to accelerate the lightweight car from 0-60 in less than 10 seconds. The engine was very light and produced a smooth ride as it spun to a limit of 7000 rpm.
Even by today’s standards, the car has great handling, very precise steering, and is fun to drive, making it a truly underrated classic coupe given its pricing of about $5000.
6 1975 Dodge Charger - $7,500
The 1975 Dodge Charger is a two-door hardtop coupe with a starting price of $7,500. Although it looks nothing like the model before, it is still powered by a V8 engine that outputs 150 hp. The Charger has a peak speed of 109 mph. It features a 3-speed automatic transmission and an average fuel economy of 13.6 miles per gallon. A modified 1975 Dodge Charger is featured prominently in the Fast & Furious film franchise.
The Dodge Charger is the star of the show, even though the brand is recognized for exhibiting a wide range of vehicles. Since its debut in 2001, the 1975 Dodge Charger R/T has been amusing fans of the franchise as a character in its own right.
5 1962 Ford Thunderbird - $10,000
The 1962 Ford Thunderbird is a handsome two-door coupe or convertible that can be had for as low as $8,000. The Ford Thunderbird has a powerful V8 engine that produces 300 hp and 427 lb/ft. The Thunderbird has a peak speed of 129 mph. Expect to pay about $10,000 for this beauty.
Considering that its so old, it's now more suited to cruising than sporty driving. The Ford Thunderbird was featured in a well-known film. It first appeared in the popular series of 007 films about the secret spy in the service of Her Majesty James Bond, most notably in Guy Hamilton's 1964 blockbuster Goldfinger.
4 1988 Chevrolet Corvette - $7,500
The 1988 Chevrolet Corvette is a three-door coupe with a starting price of $7,500, making it a performance vehicle value. Even if it hasn't aged well, it's still a cool used corvette that's worth buying. The engine of the 'Vette is a V8 that produces 245 hp. The C4 Corvette has a peak speed of 160 mph and takes 5.7 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. It features a 5-speed manual transmission and average fuel consumption of 19 miles per gallon.
Chevy constructed 47 'Vettes with serial numbers beginning with 1983, but none made it to a dealership. The Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, has the final known '83.
3 Datsun 260Z - $ 8,000
The Datsun 240Z is often more sought after than its predecessors, the 260Z, and the 280Z. That makes the 260Z less expensive, and it can go for as low as $8,0000. Due to emission regulations, the 240Z wasn't as great as the 1973 version. However, the Japanese manufacturer would bolster performance through direct fuel injection in the 260Z.
The 260Z is an affordable classic that looks great and renaissance of its era. It's easy to maintain and drives nicely. Since it's well sought after by enthusiasts, be sure to attract great attention from onlookers.
2 1972 Buick Riviera - $8,500
If you're looking for the most car for your money, the fourth-generation Riviera is hard to match. The Riviera, based on GM's C-body chassis, has greater interior space than almost any other vehicle on the road. The 455-CID V-8 engine is practically indestructible, and the automobiles came with a plethora of luxury choices.
For $7000-8000, you may own a 1972 Buick Riviera, which isn't terrible for such a stunning classic. It has a naturally aspirated V8 engine with 225 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. The Riviera has a peak speed of 117 mph. It features a 3-speed automatic transmission and average fuel consumption of 10 miles per gallon.
1 1967 Ford Galaxie - $7,500
The 1967 Ford Galaxie was available in various body configurations, including a convertible, a 2-door coupe, and a 4-door sedan, and it could be yours for as little as $7,500. This collector's jewel has a 345-horsepower 7-liter V8 and a slew of other unique amenities, making it easily the coolest Galaxie on the secondhand market.
The 1967 Ford Galaxie has a peak speed of 100 mph and takes 13.3 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph. It gets 16 miles per gallon on average and comes with a three-speed manual gearbox.