Cheap Classic Cars for Collectors on a Budget in 2023

Because Ford built so many original Mustangs, prices remain low. They're sub-zero cool, simple to work on, and plenty affordable. Best of all, there's still plenty of aftermarket support, meaning parts are cheap and easy to find.

We drove the most perfect GT350R variant

Despite its wild looks and legendary history, first-gen Dodge Vipers are still relatively affordable. Under the hood sits a massive V-10 engine making 400 horsepower. Sub-$40,000 models are becoming harder and harder to find, but they're out there if you know where to look.

Read our full buyer's guide

If you're looking for an affordable classic that'll likely go up in value, consider something JDM. The Autozam AZ-1 is a great candidate, with its mid-engine layout and gullwing doors.

Check out our review right here

The R107-generation Mercedes SL was produced for 18 years, meaning there are a lot of them around. Prices are still reasonable, though demand for unmolested examples has begun to increase.

Watch to see how versatile the R107 can be

The last-gen Toyota Supra may have become an unobtainable collector's item, but the earlier versions are still well within reach. No, you won't get the same performance (or Fast & Furious crowd attention), but they're still lovely cars.

Read our buyer's guide for every generation of Supra

The Alfa Romeo TV-6 had big shoes to fill following the lovely Alfetta and before that, the wonderful GTV. Equipped with that magnificent-sounding V-6 and a rear-mounted transaxle, it's a joy to drive.

Here's our test of the Callaway twin-turbo version

The original Honda CRX of the 1980s was light, simple, fun, and affordable. It remains that way to this day—if you can find an unmolested example, that is. They're few and far in between, but worth the effort.

Read our retrospective on the CRX Si

You really can't go wrong with a Volkswagen Beetle. It has a huge fan base, tons of support for parts and DIY maintenance, and iconic style. And because VW sold so many, prices remain low.

This lucky owner got hers restored for free

The Toyota MR2 is now over 30 years old, and makes for one fun piece of machinery. Some say the first-gen cars are a bit twitchy through corners, but treat it with respect (as you should with all classics), and you'll have plenty of fun behind the wheel. The second-gen cars are even cooler, and quicker, too.

Toyota once built an AWD version to go rallying

Older BMW 3-Series models, especially E30-generation cars, have become hot items in the collector car world. M3 models have grown beyond reach for most people, but normal models like the 325i and 318i can still be found for cheap.

Following along with our E30 project

Need something with a bit more space? The E28-generation 5-Series is another gem from BMW that you don't have to empty your bank account to purchase. As with the 3-Series, the M version of the E28 is well out or reach, but other trims are still reasonably priced.

You'd be surprised just how good visibility can be in the E28

People often hate on the Porsche 924, 944, and 968 line because of its Volkswagen roots, but there's really no need. The 944 handles wonderfully, and looks great doing it. Just because the engine's in the front doesn't mean it's automatically a bad car.

Just be sure to budget for maintenance costs

Unlike the first-gen M3, its successor, the E36, hasn't skyrocketed in value. That's thanks to the engine—BMW gave North American M3s less power, effectively neutering them from the factory, when compared to their European counterparts. But they're still fun to drive, and because not as many people are fans, they can be found for reasonable money.

We love how the E36 drives

The Datsun Z is considered one of the prettiest Japanese vehicles ever built. A sleek two-door shape with a long nose and short overhangs compliments a fantastic rear-wheel drive layout and wonderful chassis, paired to a straight-six engine. Prices are going up, but there are still deals to be found if you act fast—and don't mind a little tinkering.

Check out our full buyer's guide

The Volkswagen Golf GTI has been around since the 1980s, and the earliest models remain the coolest. Lightweight, simple, and agile, the Mk1 and Mk2 GTIs both classic boxy looks and great driving dynamics that any enthusiast will love.

This six-figure restomod might be our favorite example

We know it's hard to believe, but the first Miata is over 30 years old. It first debuted in 1989 as a 1990 model year car, making it a certified classic. It's still one of the best cars you can buy, and since Mazda made so many, prices tend to stay low.

Here's our full buyer's guide

While the third-generation RX-7 seems to get a lot of praise, people tend to overlook the earlier versions of Mazda's rotary sports car. Despite their timeless looks and unique drivetrain, first-gen FBs and second-gen FCs can still be had in good condition for under $10,000.

We love how the Group B version sounds

We were supposed to see a modern El Camino revival with the Pontiac G8 ST, but thanks to the economic meltdown, that didn't happen. Still, a classic El Camino is always going to be cool, and you can easily find them for decent prices.

This custom Grand National variant might be our favorite

It may have borrowed a bit from the European sedans at the time, but the Datsun 510 is more than a knockoff BMW. It's a fun little car in its own right. And thanks to Datsun's big-time involvement in racing at the time, this car has a ton of motorsports history.

Check out this widebody version built for SEMA

Hot-blooded Integra Type Rs are well out of reach for most normal people, but the lesser Integras are still a good buy. You get VTEC sounds, Nineties Honda handling, and a great shifter, all for not that much money.

You don't have to buy a Type R to have a fun Integra