24 Cool Classic Cars That Are Perfect for a Collector on a Budget

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

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. Here's one up for grabs on eBay now.

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. This Mark 2 model is listed on eBay right now for under $11,000.

The GTV-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.

The original 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 between, but worth the effort.

You really can't go wrong with a 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. Here's one up for bidding right now at $3550.

The original 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.

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. Here's a 318i model up for grabs now.

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.

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. This green one is on eBay Motors right now.

The GTI has been around since the 1980s, and the earliest models remain the coolest. Lightweight, simple, and agile, the Mark 1 and Mark 2 GTIs have classic boxy looks and great driving dynamics that any enthusiast will love.

We know it's hard to believe, but the first Miata is already nearly 30 years old. It 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. This one has just under 80,000 miles on the clock, and it's listed for sale for under $9000.

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. Here's one up for sale on eBay right now.

It may have borrowed a bit from 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.

Yeah, you can buy a new 124 Spider, but spending your money on a classic is more of an adventure. Besides, the old 124s have so much style and class. Bonus: you'll have plenty of opportunity for tinkering. Here's a superclean example listed for sale right now.

Everybody loves a classic truck on the road, even if you're not a "truck person." If you can find an old Ford F-100 in good condition, you should absolutely pick it up (pun intended). Just look at those fenders.

CJs are always great, but if you're going to buy a classic Jeep, why not get something a little different? Skip the go-to models and get yourself a two-tone Jeepster to stand out from the crowd. This one's currently up for bidding.

There's an inherent coolness that comes with driving an old Mercedes, but if you want to avoid looking like a baller on a budget, you have to reach back a little further than the W124. That's where something like a 220D comes in. Such a classic look.