4 Classic Cars for the Middle Class To Buy for Hobby and Investment
Have you ever dreamed of pulling into your driveway in your brand new (to you!) classic car but always thought it was financially out of reach? Well, the truth is it’s not, especially when you put in the time and effort to research and investing in your new dream vehicle.
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Because investing in classic cars is no longer just for the ultra-wealthy. In fact, several options are available for middle-class enthusiasts who want to combine their passion for vintage automobiles with the potential for financial gain.
Here are four classic cars for the middle class to buy for hobby and investment:
Volkswagen Beetle
It doesn’t get any more iconic than the Volkswagen Beetle. Entire movies have been written around this timeless, quirky and adorable car! It was originally conceived as an affordable “people’s car” in the 1930s, and the Beetle has since grown into a cultural icon and a beloved collector’s item.
“German Engineering at its finest,” said Jamie Mitri, manager of Cumberland Hill Auto Sales and Service, of the Beetle. “You can get these for a good price, fix them up, and they will last you for years.”
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And while early models from the 1940s and 1950s can be very pricey, later variants from the 1960s and 1970s are surprisingly affordable. Not only are they cute – they’re also a delightful driving experience, have ample parts availability and a passionate community of enthusiasts dedicated to preserving their legacy. It’s an excellent choice for the middle class hobby investor.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang, especially models from the 1960s and early 1970s, is the quintessential American car. Often called the original “pony car,” these Mustangs are sleek, pack a powerful performance, and are — surprisingly! — not that expensive.
“You can purchase a classic for a good price, get parts at a good, valued price, and it will last for a good amount of time,” said Mitri.
While some rare Mustangs are super expensive, more modest models, such as the inline-six cylinder or small-block V8 versions, are a perfect (and inexpensive!) way to drive into classic Mustang ownership.
Jeep Wagoneer
Ah, the Jeep Wagoneer. What could be cooler? Made from 1963 to 1991, this pioneering SUV is pure off-road prowess combined with pure luxury. It’s one of a kind!
“These are beautiful and you can buy them for an inexpensive amount,” said Mitri.
While early models from the 1960s can cost an arm and a leg, later examples from the 1970s and 1980s are surprisingly affordable, making them the perfect choice for the middle class to jump into classic cars with. And if you fix one up, it can only go up in value — after all, their distinctive wooden body paneling and inline-six or V8 engines mean they’re a unique (and, many collectors say, irresistible) blend of vintage charm and practical utility.
Moreover, the Wagoneer’s status as a trailblazer in the SUV segment has garnered a devoted following among collectors, who appreciate its historical significance and ongoing influence on modern SUV design. As the demand for classic SUVs continues to grow, well-preserved Wagoneers could potentially appreciate, making them a wise investment for those seeking a versatile and iconic addition to their collection.
Mercedes-Benz
Many of our childhoods were spent believing it didn’t get more cinematic than a Mercedes-Benz. After all, Hugh Grant drives one to pick up Renee Zellweger in ‘Bridget Jones Diary‘ and Ashton Kutcher and Seann William Scott somehow manage to drive around in a black Mercedes SL500 convertible in ‘Dude Where’s My Car!’ With that level of cool, you honestly can’t touch a Mercedes-Benz.
And while the brand’s most coveted models – we’re looking at the snazzy 300SL Gullwing or the stately 600 limousine – may be out of reach for many middle-class enthusiasts, there are still plenty of affordable Benzs around.
“You can buy an older version that just increases in value with time,” said Mitri. “These are beautiful cars with such great history.”
Even better – if you’re into refurbishing these cars, you can take a dud and turn it into a real stunner. One option is the Mercedes-Benz W123 series, made from 1976 to 1985. They’re sturdy sedans, coupes, wagons and classic Mercedes-Benz — high-quality, safe and durable.
Of course, cars already in excellent condition might command a higher price tag, but more modest W123s can still be found at reasonable costs, particularly those from later in its run. If you give the car a little love, you can really make it shine – and raise in value.
Another excellent option is the Mercedes-Benz R107 series, which includes the gorgeous SL roadsters produced from 1971 to 1989. They’re sleek and stylish convertibles that blend performance, comfort and timeless good looks making them a favorite among collectors. Early versions of the R107s can be pricy, but ones from the 1980s are the perfect accessible entry point into Mercedes ownership.
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