Which Classic Cars Are the Best to Own?
If you own a classic car today, it’s like being part of a celebration of automotive history and craftsmanship. For enthusiasts and collectors, these cars have always been more than just a mode of transportation—they are a personal passion.
Classic cars often represent an era of design and engineering that modern vehicles simply can’t replicate. From their unique curves and chrome accents to the roar of their engines, these vintage vehicles effortlessly evoke nostalgia. Having one is like having a tangible link to the past.
Many enthusiasts take pride and joy in restoring and maintaining these cars. To them, it’s a rewarding hobby that lets them express their creativity, technical skill, and a love of history. As for some other aficionados, classic cars can even be considered a smart investment.
Unlike their contemporary counterparts, which depreciate over time, many classic cars hold or even increase in value. Their rarity and cultural significance often make them incredibly desirable assets—this is why they are sought after by collectors.
Owning a classic car is like holding a piece of history—that doubles as a worthwhile investment—right in your garage. Beyond financial reasons, it can even be a social experience since you can participate in car shows, rallies, and clubs.
Regardless of your reasons for wanting to own a classic car, you may want some recommendations on the best ones to own today. This is what we’re going to cover below. Let’s take a closer look.
What Makes a Classic Car "Best to Own"?
Classic cars are considered classic because of their legendary status in the automotive industry. They are not just old cars; they are rolling works of art. But with so many classic cars out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to own.
Factors like reliability, maintenance costs, availability of parts, and driving experience play a big role in determining the best classic cars to own. Here are some of the qualities that make a classic car a good choice for ownership:
Reliability
Reliability is a key factor when choosing a classic car to own. While many older cars require frequent maintenance due to their age, certain models have stood the test of time and are renowned for their dependability.
Cars with straightforward mechanical systems, fewer electronics, and a proven track record of longevity are especially prized. Reliable classics not only reduce the stress of unexpected breakdowns but also allow owners to focus on enjoying their vehicle rather than constantly repairing it.
Availability of Parts
Because of their age, some classic car parts may no longer be in production, making it a nightmare to find replacements. Therefore the availability of replacement parts is crucial when it comes to choosing your own vehicle.
Some models benefit from an abundance of aftermarket support or reproduction parts, making repairs both affordable and straightforward. Cars with a strong legacy, such as popular muscle cars or European classics, often have dedicated suppliers, ensuring that owners don’t have to scour junkyards or pay exorbitant prices for rare components.
Driving Experience
The joy of owning a classic car lies in the experience it provides. From the unique design elements to the character-filled handling, a good classic car should excite its driver every time they get behind the wheel.
Some classics are revered for their performance and driving dynamics, while others captivate with their charm and vintage appeal. A car that blends aesthetics and driving pleasure becomes more than a vehicle—it’s an experience.
Value Retention
As we mentioned earlier, classic cars can be an incredible addition to your investment portfolio. While not every old car becomes a collector’s item, certain models with historical significance, limited production runs, or iconic status often increase in value over time. Choosing a car that maintains or grows its worth ensures that the passion for classic car ownership can also be financially justifiable.
Community and Support
Finally, the community surrounding a classic car can enhance the ownership experience significantly. Clubs, online forums, and events give you the opportunity to connect with other classic car enthusiasts.
Being part of this community makes it easier to overcome restoration challenges, get some new ideas, and fully immerse yourself in the joy of classic car ownership. This shared love for a specific model or brand often becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of owning a classic car.
With these factors in mind, here are some recommendations for the best classic cars to own today:
Ford Mustang (1964-1973)
Owning a classic Ford Mustang from the first generation (1964–1973) is a dream for many car enthusiasts, and for good reason.
These Mustangs represent an iconic era in automotive history, blending style, performance, and affordability. The 1964 Mustang, for example, marked the beginning of the "pony car" class, offering a compact and sporty alternative to larger muscle cars.
Models like the 1965 GT350, developed in collaboration with Carroll Shelby, are highly prized for their racing pedigree and aggressive styling. The 1969-1970 Boss 302 and Boss 429 models are also standout options, designed for both street and track performance with powerful engines and striking designs.
These Mustangs not only deliver on nostalgia but also offer solid investment potential, especially models that are well-maintained.
From a practical standpoint, early Mustangs are relatively easy to own and restore due to their simple mechanical designs. They also enjoy an abundance of aftermarket parts. They cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, with options spanning from affordable six-cylinder models to high-performance V8 variants.
Meanwhile, the 1971–1973 Mustangs—while larger and more influenced by the muscle car trends of the era—provide a more luxurious driving experience and remain popular among collectors.
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless lines of the 1967-1968 Fastbacks or the open-road appeal of the convertibles, these cars offer a unique combination of historical significance and driving pleasure that continues to captivate car enthusiasts worldwide.
If we have to include one potential drawback, the popularity of the Mustang means you won’t stand out as much at car shows, but its charm more than makes up for it.
Chevrolet Camaro (1967-1969)
The Camaro was Chevrolet’s answer to the Mustang, and it didn’t disappoint. In fact, it remains a favorite among enthusiasts and collectors today. These first-generation Camaros are prized for their timeless design, powerful performance, and historical significance.
Even though it was introduced as a direct competitor to the Ford Mustang, it quickly established itself as a leader in the muscle car segment. Its aggressive styling, with long hoods and short rear decks, perfectly captured the essence of late 1960s American automotive design.
The availability of high-performance SS (Super Sport) and Z/28 models further boosted its appeal, offering robust V8 engines and enhanced handling.
From a collector's perspective, these early Camaros are a dream to own due to their enduring popularity and strong aftermarket support. Replacement parts and restoration resources are widely available, making maintenance and customization easier than with many other classic cars.
Models like the Z/28, which was designed for the Trans-Am racing series, are especially sought after for their rarity and performance pedigree.
The first-generation Camaro remains a standout choice for any classic car aficionado, whether the plan is to go on a weekend cruise or participate in classic car shows. Just keep in mind that original high-performance models can be expensive, so you may need to settle for a less powerful version if you’re on a budget.
Volkswagen Beetle (1938-2003)
The Volkswagen Beetle is a timeless classic known for its quirky design and legendary reliability. But it’s also a great choice for car enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering and performing maintenance themselves, thanks to its mechanical simplicity.
The Volkswagen Beetle, produced between 1938 and 2003, remains one of the most iconic and beloved classic cars in automotive history. It is known for its reliable engineering, cultural significance, and of course, its distinctive design.
The Beetle's charm and nostalgic appeal make it a standout at car shows and a joy to drive on sunny weekends. Their compact size and relatively good fuel efficiency for a vintage car make them practical for modern-day use, especially in urban settings. That said, this classic car is not a speed demon, so don’t expect it to be a high-performance ride.
One of the Beetle's greatest strengths is its versatility. Whether you enjoy the earliest "split-window" models from the 1940s or the vibrant colors and customizations of the 1970s models, there’s a Beetle to suit every taste.
Much like the other classics on this list, the Beetle has an active and enthusiastic community, making it easy to connect with other owners, attend events, and find support for restoration projects.
If you're looking for a classic car that combines personality, history, and ease of ownership, the Volkswagen Beetle is undoubtedly one of the best choices.
Porsche 911 (1964-1989)
Few cars boast the longevity and prestige of the Porsche 911. Revered for its timeless design and engineering brilliance, the Porsche 911 stands as an icon among classic cars.
Spanning several iterations from the original 901 to the G-Series, these air-cooled models have become highly desirable for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Some appreciate its distinctive silhouette while others love the unique sound of the flat-six engine.
But in addition to the engaging driving experience, the 911's engineering also makes it practical to own and maintain. If you go for this option, you will find that its parts are still readily available. There is also a robust community of experts that can offer their support.
Even from a financial perspective, these early Porsche 911s hold their value remarkably well, with certain rare models like the Carrera RS 2.7 fetching astronomical prices at auctions. However, even entry-level models, such as the 911T, offer an accessible way to experience the charm of this classic sports car.
Toyota Land Cruiser (FJ40: 1960-1984)
If you’re looking for a classic that can handle rough terrain as well as it handles admiration, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is a top pick. Its robust engineering, inspired by the Jeep of World War II, has made it a go-to vehicle for adventurers and collectors alike.
With a bulletproof inline six-cylinder engine and a durable body-on-frame construction, the FJ40 is built to handle the toughest terrains. Its legendary four-wheel-drive capabilities make it a versatile classic for both off-road enthusiasts and city dwellers. Even today, it is renowned for its ability to climb steep hills, traverse deserts, and navigate rugged trails with ease.
Beyond its mechanical prowess, the FJ40 is celebrated for its simplicity and charm. Its boxy design, round headlights, and minimalist interior evoke a sense of nostalgia while maintaining functional elegance.
Restoration projects are entirely feasible thanks to the model’s wide availability of spare parts. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for a capable classic or a collector drawn to its historical significance, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 remains one of the best classic cars to own today.
Work with Classic Car Deals to Find the Best Classic Cars for Sale
At the end of the day, the best classic car to own depends on your priorities, whether it's aesthetics, performance, ease of ownership, or investment potential. After all, owning a classic car isn’t just about the car itself—it’s about the stories, the craftsmanship, and the joy of driving something truly unique.
Regardless of your preferences, you can find a wide array of options that are available via consignment. And if you want to work with the world’s largest online consignment company, look no further than Classic Car Deals.
Located in Cadillac, Michigan, Classic Car Deals can help you find the classic car (or truck) of your dreams. You can visit their showroom to check out all the classic cars for sale that they personally have in stock at their headquarters. They also have a website where you can view all the available vehicles online.
Don’t worry if you don’t see your dream car right away: Classic Car Deals has consignment cars all over the country. Their team will work hard to help you find one that matches your exact preferences and needs.
Call Classic Car Deals once you’ve found your ideal classic car to double check on the location. They provide an easy and hassle-free way for you to shop classic cars for sale nationwide, offering the widest selection of vintage, exotic, and collectible cars and pickup trucks.
Your first step to buying your dream car is to contact one of their reps today. Visit their Consignment page today for more details.
*While every reasonable effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions contained on these pages. Please verify any information in question with Dealer.