The collectible vehicle market exploded to $4.8 billion in 2025, marking a stunning 10% surge that caught industry analysts by surprise. Online sales alone jumped 12% as younger generations flooded into what was once considered a baby boomer hobby.
This unprecedented growth comes as genuine classic cars remain surprisingly affordable, with iconic models available under $25,000.
CEO Predicts Strong 2026 Performance
“We’re seeing considerable momentum in private sales across a wide variety of categories and eras,” declared McKeel Hagerty, CEO of collector car insurer Hagerty.
His company reports high expectations for 2026 as declining interest rates and robust stock market gains provide collectors with both capital and confidence to acquire vehicles.
$100 Trillion Wealth Transfer Reshapes Market
An impending generational wealth transfer—approximately $100 trillion projected by 2048—will fundamentally disrupt classic car ownership.
As baby boomers downsize collections and heirs inherit automotive assets, younger buyers are redirecting demand toward 1980s-2000s performance cars rather than traditional muscle cars. This demographic shift creates opportunities for entry-level collectors.
1. Japanese Icon: Mazda Miata Still Under $10,000
The first-generation Mazda Miata (1990-1997) represents extraordinary value, with clean driver-quality examples available for $4,000-$10,000.
This Japanese roadster revolutionized affordable sports car ownership by delivering reliability that temperamental British rivals couldn’t match. It starts every morning, keeps contents dry, and requires minimal maintenance beyond routine service.
2. British Roadster Heritage: MGB GT Offers Easy Entry
The MGB GT remains the quintessential beginner classic, with over 500,000 built ensuring comprehensive parts availability.
Solid examples cost £3,000-£15,000 ($3,900-$19,500), while virtually every component remains available through extensive aftermarket support. The 1.8-liter engine produces modest 97 horsepower but delivers undeniably classic British sports car character with manageable maintenance costs.
3. Game-Changer: Datsun 240Z Changed Japanese Reputation Forever
When the Datsun 240Z launched in 1970 at $3,500, Car and Driver declared “about twice as much thinking went into the Datsun” compared to competitors.
This groundbreaking sports car delivered 150-horsepower inline-six performance with unprecedented reliability, permanently altering perceptions of Japanese quality. Condition #2 examples now average $38,000 after significant appreciation since 2015.
4. American Icon: Ford Mustang Remains Surprisingly Accessible
Ford Mustang base models (1965-1973) offer iconic styling and simple mechanics for $15,000-$30,000 in driver condition.
Massive production volumes created extraordinary aftermarket support making parts cheap and plentiful. The overlooked 1971-1973 models—larger and heavier than early examples—provide bargain entry into Mustang ownership, with 302 V8-equipped Mach 1s available around $25,000.
5. German Excellence: Porsche 944 Delivers Engineering Value
The Porsche 944 (1982-1991) offers the most affordable Porsche ownership experience, with early base models costing $7,500-$12,000 for driver-quality examples. Unlike explosive air-cooled 911 appreciation, the 944 remains attainable despite steady value growth.
This balanced sports car delivers genuine Porsche DNA—excellent handling and build quality—without temperamental exotic maintenance nightmares.
6. Bavarian Classic: BMW E30 Models Break Records
Rare BMW E30 homologation models like the 325iS Evo2 and 333i now exceed R1 million ($55,000) at South African auctions. However, standard 318i and 325i variants remain accessible at £2,309-£43,890, with median prices around £7,188 ($9,350).
These rear-wheel-drive icons epitomize 1980s BMW driving dynamics with strong enthusiast community support.
7. People’s Car: Volkswagen Beetle Values Soar for Early Models
The Volkswagen Beetle—with over 21 million built—shows dramatic value divergence by vintage. First-year 1946 “1200” models in excellent condition now command $119,000, while any 1968-1979 model in good condition costs under $25,000.
Baby boomers account for 69% of Beetle valuation quotes, driving strong nostalgia-based demand.
8. Unique Utility: Chevrolet El Camino Offers Distinctive Appeal
The Chevrolet El Camino (1978-1987) combines muscle car aesthetics with practical utility in a distinctive coupé-utility configuration.
Values span $5,500 for projects to $50,000+ for pristine SS models, with solid drivers available in the $12,000-$30,000 range. This blend of style and functionality, paired with excellent parts availability from Chevrolet’s vast supply chain, makes it an intriguing alternative.
9. British Charm: Triumph Spitfire Delivers Style
The Triumph Spitfire (1962-1980) offers elegant Michelotti styling and engaging light-weight dynamics for £4,100-£26,000, with solid drivers around £8,000-£10,000 ($10,400-$13,000).
Simple mechanics and distinctive proportions deliver authentic British roadster appeal, though parts availability lags slightly behind the MGB’s ubiquity. Rust remains the primary inspection concern for sills, floors, and subframe mounting points.
10. Luxury Roadster: Mercedes R107 SL Surprises with Reliability
The Mercedes-Benz R107 SL (1971-1989) benefits from an 18-year production run creating ample supply that moderates values. The final-year 1989 560SL with 5.6-liter V8 can be acquired for approximately $24,200 in excellent condition.
Owners consistently report lower-than-expected maintenance costs despite German luxury credentials, praising the R107’s “never-say-die attitude” and durability.
11. Italian Passion: Alfa Romeo GTV Features Legendary Engine
The Alfa Romeo GTV Type 916 (1995-2005) delivers Italian coupe character for €8,500-€19,000 ($9,200-$20,500). V6-equipped models feature the legendary Busso V6—one of automotive history’s most melodious engines—delivering charisma turbocharged powertrains cannot replicate.
However, rarity creates practical challenges with expensive body panels and elevated maintenance costs requiring dedicated owner commitment.
12. Muscle Heritage: Chevrolet Camaro Stays Affordable
Chevrolet Camaro base models (1967-1981) provide American muscle appeal at accessible prices starting around $5,995, with decent examples in the $10,000-$25,000 range.
While Z28 and SS variants command premium valuations, base models with six-cylinder or small-block V8 engines offer iconic styling and performance. Strong parts availability from Chevrolet’s vast aftermarket network makes ownership practical and affordable.
Maintenance Costs Vary Dramatically by Origin
Annual maintenance expenses range from $600 for classic American Fords to $2,000 for Italian classics like Fiat. British classics fall between these extremes, with MGB ownership remarkably affordable due to comprehensive parts availability.
German marques command premium maintenance, with Porsche and Mercedes exclusive-level service reaching R3,900 ($215) for major service in South Africa.
Condition Trumps Project Car Savings
Industry consensus strongly favors acquiring the finest example affordable rather than budget-priced projects.
Professional restoration costs escalate rapidly: complete upholstery runs €2,000-€3,000, quality paint and bodywork another €2,000-€3,000, and rim repair €100-€200 per wheel. A solid driver in the £6,000-£10,000 range delivers immediate enjoyment while retaining value better than equivalent restoration investment.
Documentation Commands Premium Values
Comprehensive service history, matching numbers, and ownership documentation significantly enhance value and salability.
Cars with complete paperwork command premiums and attract serious buyers when resale time arrives. Classic cars’ unique chassis numbers and extensive provenance histories provide traceability distinguishing them from alternative investments like art.
Investment Strategy Favors Special Editions
Maximum investment potential targets turbo and special editions within affordable platforms: Porsche 944 Turbo S, BMW E30 325i Sport models, and Mazda Miata special editions command premiums while remaining accessible.
Original, unmodified vehicles with modest mileage increasingly attract collectors as modified examples proliferate. First-generation or landmark models—like the Datsun 240Z versus 260Z—deliver enduring collectability through historical importance.
Education and Patience Define Success
“It’s important to do research before buying any car,” advises industry experts who emphasize joining marque-specific clubs and building specialist relationships before purchasing.
True returns arrive through community, accomplishment, and adventure rather than pure profit after storage, insurance, and upkeep costs. The classic car market presents accessible 2026 entry points across diverse segments for collectors prioritizing driving enjoyment over speculation.
Sources:
“Classic-car market poised for strong 2026, says Hagerty CEO.” CNBC, December 2025.
“Datsun 240Z values show it’s getting the appreciation it deserves.” Hagerty Media, September 2018.
“Why You Should Buy a First-Gen NA Mazda Miata.” MotorTrend, November 2019.
“Five Classic Mustangs You Can Still Afford.” Hagerty Media, April 2014.
“1946–79 VW Beetle values are finding wings, but some still fly under the radar.” Hagerty Media, January 2025.
“Porsche 944 Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know.” StuttCars, January 2026.
“Best cheap classic cars for 2026.” Honest John Classics, February 2022.