It's often presumed that for something to be considered a classic car it has to be expensive and come from an elite manufacturer with a history of producing a number of classics in the past. However, this list contains some hidden gems that may be overlooked in the current market and most are sure to become future classics... if they aren't already.
10 Volvo P1800
One car that is almost certainly overlooked is the Volvo P1800. Volvo has a reputation for building some of the sturdiest and most reliable cars on the road and yet the P1800 looks like nothing else in their lineup.
The less traditional P1800 has the looks for sure and still in typical Volvo fashion is reasonably priced and extremely reliable. One owner has seen their P1800 surpass 3 million miles, which is an astounding feat especially considering that these cars can be found for under $10,000. A P1800 in good condition shouldn't cost over $15,000 making it a great option for those looking for a classic car without having to break the bank.
9 Porsche 944
From one dependable car brand to another, the Porsche 944 is already considered a classic by car enthusiasts around the world, and it's not too hard to see why. It definitely looks the part and Porsche's history of German reliability shines throughout with this example.
The 944 is one of the most successful cars Porsche has ever produced. This is especially impressive considering some of the iconic cars in this manufacturer's past. There are some great examples of the 944 for as little as $12,000. Anyone looking to invest in a classic Porsche should consider the 944 for sure.
8 TVR Chimaera
Some of the best examples of affordable classic cars come from Britain. TVR may not be the most popular brand in British classic car history, however, the TVR Chimaera is certainly a car to consider for someone looking to purchase a potential future classic.
All models came with a V8 and some could even reach speeds surpassing 175 mph. It's easy to see why this is a good option as an affordable classic and better yet, they are available for as little as $30,000 in great condition, but some should appear for even less than that.
7 Mini Mayfair
The Mini is one of the most obvious choices as a classic car. It's world-famous due to its history and iconic styling. The popularity of these cars means they should be easily available for a fair price and in a variety of models.
The example shown here (The Mini Mayfair) is just one of many great examples of this great car manufacturer. The price is impressive too as the Mayfair is easily available for below $10,000. There is no doubting the reputation of the Mini as a classic and this makes it a great option especially at this price point.
6 Ferrari 308 GTB
Ferrari is possibly the most famous car brand in the world. They have a huge reputation for creating some of the most iconic cars of all time and the 308 is no exception. Looks alone make the 308 a classic as well as being a mid-engined V8 sports car.
The 308 is the most expensive car on this list by far, however, it deserves a mention as it is one of the cheaper Ferraris, available for less than $80,000, and if any car from this list is going to rocket in price it has to be this one. This is considered by Ferrari enthusiasts as the most entry-level car Ferrari has produced and given that it costs the same as some average German sedans, it has to be an honorable mention for the wealthier among us at the very least.
5 Peugeot 205 GTi
One of the coolest hot hatches France has ever produced has to be the 205 GTi. Its almost timeless style is comparable to the Golf GTi. However, the Peugeot is slightly underrated and may be overlooked when looking for a classic.
It's very possible to secure a 205 GTi for under $7,000 and at this price, the car is a steal. Many people even consider the 250 GTi an even better car than the Golf as it is lighter and slightly more powerful. No one can debate the quality of the GTi but for those who want an equivalent for a much lower price, the 205 GTi is a must-buy.
4 Land Rover Defender
Classics don't always have to be small hatchbacks or two-seater sports cars. The Land Rover Defender proves this as it is still very popular to this day. Perhaps not as underrated as other cars on the list, it is still worth a mention nonetheless.
Land Rovers have had a history of being dependable since their inception. The British have used them in past wars given their reliability and this has made them iconic classics. The Defender is a cheaper alternative to some more modern SUVs, and its versatility has made it a classic for years to come. Defenders are available for under $20,000 making it a bargain by modern standards.
3 Saab 900 Turbo
A much less obvious, but equally interesting option for a classic, is the Saab 900 Turbo. This car has a timeless look, and its unique styling certainly makes it stand out among its competitors.
Models vary in price depending on year and condition, but these prices can vary from anywhere between $2,500 to over $20,000. This means there are plenty of options available with some even being convertibles. The Saab has to be one of the more underrated cars on this list.
2 BMW Z3M Coupe
Possibly the most interesting-looking car on the list is the BMW Z3M Coupe. The less known but much more desired version of the BMW Z3M roadster. There are few cars on the market with looks this striking and this adds to the value of the car.
The car is currently much more expensive than the Z3M roadster. However, at around $25,000 it is still priced reasonably with the value increasing even more. For those who perhaps want a more outlandish classic, this may be a great option.
1 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow
Possibly saving the best for last, the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow is probably the most luxurious car on this list. Rolls-Royce is one of the most exclusive car brands of all time and this is a great and reasonably priced example of what they can produce.
It's hard to believe that a car of this stature costs less than $12,000 and to be able to own a classic piece of British manufacturing heritage for this price is incredible. The sheer presence of this car may be worth the price tag alone, and it is guaranteed to turn heads despite its low cost.