The year 2020 has been a scary rollercoaster. Because of job insecurity, it makes sense for people to be more cost cautious when purchasing a vehicle. This is especially true when it comes to a classic car where some vehicles now go for upwards of six figures, way more than their original price.
There are a good number of makes and models to choose from, but we've narrowed them down to these 10 vehicles. There are sports cars, luxury ones, and even an estate! An older vehicle may require a bit more maintenance but for a car lover that's not an issue. This selection of cars is great for anyone new to the classic vehicle scene or someone who just wants to dip their toes in.
10 Jaguar XJS
The Jaguar XJ-S was first introduced in 1976 as a replacement for the classic E-type. Thought to be a sports car, it's more of a touring car. Owners have shared how smooth the driving feels like, making the XJ-S a perfect car for long journeys.
Drivers have praised the braking system, giving them confidence that they can stop even when they are pushing the car to its limit. We suggest finding a model after 1981 as Jaguar relaunched an improved version of the XJS!
9 Mercedes-Benz 300 SD/SDL (W126)
The Mercedes-Benz W126 is the company's internal name for its second generation of S-class vehicles, unveiled in September 1979. Over its production period, it became one of the most commonly registered premium-class vehicles worldwide. It was designed not only for comfort but also for longevity.
The 300 SD and SDL models were manufactured for the US and Canada only and that's why they are much easier to find in America.
8 Volkswagen Beetle
With one of the most recognized car designs of the past century, the Beetle is a two-door, rear-engine economy car and an icon of the postwar Baby Boom generation. Perfectly suited for city driving, the car was developed in the 1930s and discontinued only last year in 2019.
With many models from the '70s still around, finding a bargain shouldn't be a problem! Volkswagen produced a more comfortable Super Beetle model which had a slightly longer body. It accommodated a bigger trunk and an improved front suspension.
7 Mazda RX-7
The lovely front/mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, rotary engine-powered sports car hit the road in 1978 and was discontinued in 2002. The car has made Car & Driver magazine's Ten Best list five times and there were over 800, 000 units manufactured over its lifetime.
The RX-7 can be a little fussy when it comes to engine maintenance. Still, as long it's well looked after the owner gets a high revving engine with a beautiful roar and one of the smoothest power delivery systems in any car.
6 Volvo 240
The 240 series first hit the production line in 1974 and were discontinued in 1993. The 240 estate comes with a boxy design but it features a humongous trunk. With the rear seat folded the cargo area is over 6ft long with around 2,000 liters of load space.
Volvo clearly had the American market in mind, as they built the 240 to comply with US safety and insurance regulations. As a whole, this model was one of the safest cars of its time, perfect for a family getaway!
5 Porsche 944
This sports car was manufactured from 1982 to 1991 and with over 163,000 units produced, it was one of the most successful sports cars in Porsche's history. There are so many 944s out there, parts tend to be cheap and easily available. Maintenance is a piece of cake.
Despite not having that much power according to today's standards, the 944 is one of the best budget-friendly Porsche cars to buy. It provides a fun driving experience. Most importantly it is a perfect gateway car for someone who wants to get themselves into car culture!
4 MG Midget
This two-door roadster was produced from 1961 to 1979 by MG. The Mk1 had only a 948cc engine but by the time of the latest generation, it got upgraded to a more beefy 1493cc one.
Being so tiny has made this classic British car a joy to drive around. Rover set up a British Motor Heritage in the late 1980s. As a result, MG owners have quick and cheap access to parts and body panels, making the Midget an affordable car to maintain.
3 Triumph Spitfire
Another small British two-seat sports car is the Triumph Spitfire, which was manufactured between 1962 and 1980. The model's name was in honor of the British World War II fighter plane. Compared to the MG, the Triumph offered more space and refinement. Interestingly far more Spitfires were sold in the US than in the UK (80%).
Despite the car being on the small side, it offers a fairly comfortable ride, especially on a sunny day with the top off.
2 BMW 3 Series (E3o)
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been manufactured since 1975. This also is BMW's best-selling model, bringing in about a 3rd of their annual total sales. The E21 is succeeded by the E30, and both are great options.
We recommend finding a bargain on 325i as that will be a real driver's delight. The 325e is a slower, less powerful, but more affordable option for limited budgets.
1 Lincoln Continental
The Continental has been around for nearly 9 decades, bringing a luxurious driving experience with a hint of European styling elements. The market is full of classic Lincolns. This includes quite a few affordable options from the '70s, including the Town Car body styles.
As a whole, the '70s Continentals (fifth generation) are one of the longest and most luxurious cars Ford Motor Company has ever produced. They are ideal for someone looking for an American classic!