2026 is almost here, and spring time is approaching. We here at www.streetset.com community wants to know, what classic/vintage cars in the open market would be a great buy, and can hold its value? Below is what I have come up with. Let us know if you agree or not, and comment below.
1967 - 1970 Datsun Roadster 2000 (Fairlady)
The Datsun 2000 Roadster has been out of the radar for many collectors for a long time, especially because it is a Japanese car. But recently, Japanese cars have been up and coming, catching the eyes of many collectors and enthusiasts who wants a light weight, drop top, with good handling and easy to maintain. Predecessor of the iconic 240z, the Roadster, with its 2.0 liter engine is one peppy little car. Like any Japenese cars in this era, rust has always been a problem - but do not let that stop you from considering this fun car, and you can not go wrong with an eye-catching convertible that gets plenty of looks in the summer.
Estimated Price: $14,000 - $21,500
1972 - 1974 Dodge Charger SE
The muscle car era of the 1960's has brought a more colorful era of muscle cars in the 1970's, and the 72-74 Dodge Charger is definitely colorful. It looks long and mean, with its snarling snout, long hood, the Dodge Charger just looks bad-ass, especially if you can get one in quadruple black (black exterior, black interior, black vinyl roof, black wheels). The SE (Special Edition) version is preferred over the base, it comes with a V8 360ci small block, or a 400ci big block, producing 245-275 HP respectively. It may not be as popular as its predecessor, but it is definitely a muscle car with a lot of attitude.
Estimated Price: $12,900 - $17,000
1969 - 1972 Volvo 1800E
The Volvo P1800 is an iconic sports car in the 1960's. A very attractive and handsome car, with its subtle tail fins, high belt line, and low swooping roof line, it is a car that is as pretty as any Ferrari or Maserati during that time, because it was designed by Frua. Unfortunately, it is not as sporty as its Italian competitors, or even its British competitors, but it is still a car that any owner would be proud to own. This 1800E version, with its fuel-injected engine is easier to maintain than the carburated 1800S, and the interior dash in the E isn't as pretty as the retro dash from the S. That is why you can get the 1800E for a lot less. But it is still a very sexy looking car, and we all know that sex sells - ask Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo.
Estimated Price: $16,700 - $21,200
1969 - 1974 Triumph TR6
Another drop top that is very attractive, but unlike the Datsun 2000 Roadster mentioned earlier, the Triumph TR6 is a British brute. This is a man's car, a hairy-chested man's convertible back in the 1970's. It has a tractor engine straight six, simple and basic. Driving it is an experience, because it loves to rumble through canyons while you feel the vibrations of its exhaust note. With its straight belt line meeting the high wheel-wells, the TR6 gives you a more muscular look than its competitors from MG, Alfa Romeo, and Fiat. It amazes me why the TR6 values in Hagerty has not risen at all during the past few years. Grab one while the prices are still affordable. It is definitely a car to be driven and enjoyed.
Estimated Price: $18,500 to $25,000
1972 - 1973 Volvo 1800ES
Yes, I know, I should include this with the Volvo 1800E mentioned earlier, but to me, this is a totally different model, a totally different car. If you like European sport wagons, the Volvo 1800ES is the founding father. It is a sleek looking shooting-brake, with unique design ques that makes the car very attractive and eye-catching. Easy to maintain, very reliable, and has plenty of space to bring the whole family on long road trips, the 1800ES is meant to be driven. Prices for these wagons have been skyrocketing lately. 3 years ago, a prestine low-mileage 1800ES went for $92,000. It is a Swedish-Italian designed sports wagon. I wouldn't be surprised if this car breaks the 6 figure mark eventually in the near future. Fortunately, fair to good condition 1800ES can still be had for relatively affordable prices. There is a reason why there is such a cult following for these cars.
Estimated Price: $18,000 - $33,000
){kind=link}
