10 Classic Cars That Won’t Drain Your Wallet

If you're in the market for a new car, have you considered picking up something classic?

It’s possible to own a classic car and still keep more cash in your wallet , especially if you are willing to take on a car with high mileage or are OK with making a few repairs.

Check out some of these options that can be great for cruising or showing off at weekend car shows. If you're a smart shopper, you can buy one of these cars without blowing a hole in your budget.

1. 1973 Datsun 240Z

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The Datsun 240Z was an affordable alternative in the early 1970s for drivers who wanted a sports car at an affordable price.

You can find a 1973 Datsun 240Z for around $20,000 that still looks good for a night cruising around, although it may require a little extra work.

2. 1989 Ford Mustang

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The Ford Mustang has the famous prancing horse on the front grill. The cost of this car can vary widely depending on factors such as the model year, mileage, or condition of the vehicle.

One option you might want to consider is a late-1980s model such as a 1989 Ford Mustang, which can be more affordable than older options. You can find a 1989 model for between $15,000 and $25,000.

3. 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata

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The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small, sporty, modern classic car with unique headlights and a rounded body that gives it a look that is special to the Miata.

Check out one of the early versions of the Miata. You might even find a 1990 model that can turn heads at a cost of less than $10,000. This can be a great starter classic car without a huge price tag.

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4. 1960 Volkswagen Beetle

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The Volkswagen Beetle is known for being easy to maintain and repair, making it a good option if you want to save money by doing restoration work, repairs, and maintenance on your own.

Pick up a 1960 Volkswagen Beetle for less than $17,000.

5. 1979 Pontiac Firebird

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The Pontiac Firebird is a classic American muscle car. Models from the 1970s stand out for their distinct paint jobs and the well-known firebird art on the hood.

You can get a 1979 Pontiac Firebird for around $20,000 to $30,000 for a typical model.

6. 1991 BMW 318i

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You can get a wide variety of BMWs from the company’s 3-Series for varying costs. But a great balance between classic and cost might be the 1991 BMW 318i.

The 1991 model of this 3-Series features the classic stylish front grill of a BMW that’s recognized by car enthusiasts. At the same time, it offers a low cost for a classic car.

Pick one up for less than $10,000, although you might pay double that amount for a model that requires a little maintenance to bring it up to speed.

7. 1983 Porsche 944

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You may recognize the cherry-red 1983 Porsche 944 from a classic 1980s movie such as “Sixteen Candles.” Now, you can have that same car in your driveway.

Get a Porsche 944 with 50,000 miles for around $22,000.

8. 1971 Chevrolet El Camino

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The muscle-car craze of the 1970s brought forward some truly classic fast cars that collectors still flock to. One option from that era is the 1971 Chevrolet El Camino.

It’s a classic that features a unique flatbed in the back, giving it a pickup truck look in a sedan.

You can pick one up starting around $20,000 to $30,000.

9. 2000 Acura Integra Type R

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Sometimes, you have to look for a modern classic to get something affordable.

Check out the 2000 Acura Integra Type R, which retails for around $10,000 to $20,000. Prices might be higher depending on the model year or additional desirable features.

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10. 1971 AMC Javelin

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A classic car continues to exist even when the company that makes it disappears. That is the case with the 1971 AMC Javelin that drivers can find for between $10,000 to $20,000 for a typical model.

The Javelin was made from 1968 to 1974 by the now-gone American Motors Corp. Chrysler acquired AMC in 1987.

Bottom line

A classic car can be a fun option to have in your garage, but you also have to consider the cost of purchase, as well as maintenance and repair.

One way to cut costs is to shop around so you can save money on car insurance .

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).