Car enthusiasts and savvy collectors are increasingly turning their attention to affordable used cars as the next wave of collectible classics.
With prices of traditional classics soaring, a new generation of vehicles—many still priced under $10,000—are gaining attention for their unique blend of style, performance, and nostalgia.
These overlooked gems offer the thrill of ownership, the potential for appreciation, and the joy of the open road, all without breaking the bank.
As more drivers seek cars that evoke memories and stand out from the crowd, the hunt for tomorrow’s collectibles has never been more exciting.
The overlanding movement has exploded in recent years, as outdoor enthusiasts and weekend warriors alike seek vehicles capable of handling both daily life and rugged backcountry trips. No longer is serious off-road adventure limited to custom builds or expensive modifications. Automakers have responded to this demand by offering pickups that come factory-prepped with features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and sophisticated suspension systems. These trucks are ready for adventure straight off the lot, making it easier than ever to hit the road—or the trail—at a moment’s notice.
In an age where automatic transmissions and electric vehicles dominate showrooms, the traditional manual gearbox is rapidly becoming an endangered species. Yet, for enthusiasts, the tactile joy of rowing through gears remains unmatched.
These rare, steadfast models represent more than just nostalgia—they embody a pure, connected driving experience that simply can’t be replicated by paddles or push-buttons.
As the automotive landscape shifts, these stick-shift survivors stand as a testament to driving passion, making them all the more noteworthy in today’s world.
Vintage cars have always sparked a sense of wonder and longing—a reminder of bold designs, chrome details, and simpler driving pleasures. Today, automakers are reviving classic looks by blending nostalgia with state-of-the-art engineering.
This modern retro trend delivers the best of both worlds: the soul and style of yesteryear with the safety, efficiency, and reliability of present-day technology.
For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, these new retro-styled cars promise all the charm without the rust, setting the perfect stage for a new era of timeless driving enjoyment.
The good news just keeps on coming! Just like Audi paring back its EV initiative, word has it that BMW appears to be steadfast in maintaining the manual transmission.
According to Car and Driver, Sylvia Neubauer, Vice President of Customer, Brand, and Sales for BMW’s M sub-brand, was chatting with BMW Blog and indicated its engineers will always try to offer manual transmissions in upcoming models. “I think BMW will always be very creative. We can always think about it [M car with a manual transmission]. BMW M is a rather entrepreneurial company of very passionate M guys. So if our engineers can make it happen, I think they will always try to do so.”
This echoes similar sentiments made previously by other Bimmer executives. However, if changing course with the direction of future electrification is any indication, then it would be safe to assume that no sentiment is cast in stone.
So, what if you (like some of us) want a manual transmission for more pedestrian models? Manual transmissions shouldn’t have to be a luxury item, after all! This point hasn’t been addressed, though Neubauer adds, “For the current model lineup, we always have ideas in mind to bring more manuals into certain markets in a certain quantity because we know that there are manual transmission lovers out there. Yes, we will keep you happy.”
When it comes to M cars, the M3 is the most famous and prolific. The next-gen version may offer both ICE and an electric equivalent (the latter without a manual available, no doubt).
These adorable little vehicles you see before you are currently listed for sale on AutoHunter or ClassicCars.com. They appear to be microcars from all over the world. Can you identify them?
Post your answers in the Comments section below. Bonus points if you can tell us the country of origin. When you are declared the winner, you can use those points to tell the whole Internet, and you can count on us to help you amplify it!
Click on a photo to reveal each car
The Classic Cars.com Journal presents a puzzle every Tuesday. Once you’re done with this game, you can play a previous one.
Featured on AutoHunter is this 1967 Cadillac DeVille Convertible, which was restored in 2022 and is powered by a rebuilt 429ci V8 connected to a Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic transmission. Finished in Sable Black with a black power convertible top over a reupholstered black vinyl interior, this Cadillac drop-top is now offered by the seller in Nevada with documentation and a clear title.
In 2000, the body of this DeVille was repainted in its original color of Sable Black. Exterior features include a chrome front bumper and matching trim, driver-side mirror, rear fender skirts, and single exhaust outlet. A power-operated black soft top covers the passenger compartment.
This Cadillac’s big body floats down the road on a set of 15-inch wheels equipped with Cadillac wheel covers and 235/75 Nexen N’Priz AH5 whitewall tires.
Both rows of seats have been reupholstered with black vinyl. Features include power windows, tilt steering column with automatic shifter, power steering, aftermarket AM/FM/Bluetooth radio, and first-row center armrest.
Instrumentation consists of a 120-mph speedometer, clock, and gauges for the temperature and fuel level. The odometer shows 29,186 miles, but the title for this vehicle indicates it’s mileage-exempt.
At the factory, this DeVille’s four-barrel 429ci V8 was rated at 340 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque; in 2017, it was rebuilt. That big V8 channels its output to the road through a Turbo Hydra-Matic three-speed automatic transmission via the rear wheels.
An independent front suspension and a four-link rear end carry passengers down the road; power drum brakes bring them to a stop.
If you want to be the next owner of this 1967 Cadillac DeVille Convertible, step on the gas and bid on it now. The auction for this classic open-air cruiser ends on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 11:45 a.m. (PDT).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
One of my most vivid childhood automotive memories took place in my mom’s 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. The car had a unique glove box locking mechanism with a three-digit combination lock. I remember playing around with it and wondering what would happen if we ever lost or forgot the code. A wave of nostalgia came over me when I saw the same setup in a classified ad. It’s featured in photo number 23, if you want to take a look:
The Pick of the Day is a 1993 Pontiac Grand Prix SE Coupe listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Canton, Ohio.
“These early ’90s Pontiac Grand Prixs were popular when they came out,” the listing says. “Nothing has been altered or changed, and everything seems to work as it should.”
According to the window sticker, the car was originally delivered to Jack Shaw Pontiac in Lakewood, Ohio, following final assembly in Kansas City, Kansas. It is finished in Light Beige over Beige and came with a few options: Package 1SB included power windows, controlled-cycle windshield wipers, illuminated entry, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, rally gauges and an AM/FM cassette stereo. On top of that, the original owner opted for the four-speed automatic transmission (as opposed to the standard three-speed) and a rear window defogger. The total vehicle price, including destination, came out to $17,196.
The sixth-generation Grand Prix marked the first time the car was front-wheel drive. It went into production in October 1987 on the General Motors W-body platform and was built for model years 1988 through 1996 as a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan. One thing I found most interesting about this Grand Prix (besides its glove box, of course) is its seating arrangement. The car can seat six people! The front features a 45/55 split-bench, and the rear has three seat belts as well. It seems pretty uncommon (maybe even impossible) to find a two-door vehicle these days with seating capacity for six people.
Under the hood, power comes from a 3.1-liter V6 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. When new, Pontiac rated the powertrain at 140 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The listing says, “Just completely serviced and a new muffler installed. This would be a great candidate for an easy restoration or a great, reliable driver.”
The asking price for this 1993 Pontiac Grand Prix SE Coupe is $3,995, which includes an owner’s manual. As an added bonus, the car will also come with a cassette tape labeled “Pontiac Cares.” Looks like it’s still wrapped in the original plastic, too!
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
Once symbols of American power and freedom, muscle cars from the 1970s have experienced a remarkable renaissance. Their bold designs, roaring engines, and rebellious spirit captured the hearts of generations. Today, these icons are more than just machines; they’re coveted collectibles and savvy investments.
A surge in nostalgia and appreciation for authentic craftsmanship has sent values soaring. Auctions now see these legends fetching record prices, as enthusiasts and investors alike scramble for a piece of automotive history.
The muscle car’s journey from street legend to high-value treasure is a fascinating story of passion, culture, and economics.
Muscle cars have long captured the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Bold lines, roaring engines, and a rebellious spirit make these vehicles more than just transportation—they are a symbol of American culture.
As time passes, the rarity of original models, combined with their legendary status, has caused prices to soar.
Demand is fueled not only by nostalgia but also by the thrill of owning a piece of automotive history.
Factors like limited production numbers, provenance, and condition can send auction prices skyrocketing.
For many, the true cost of owning a classic muscle car is far greater than the price tag—it’s about passion and prestige.