# Hidden-Gem Classic Cars for Budget Buyers

> Affordable classic cars that collectors can actually afford.
- Title: Hidden-Gem Classic Cars for Budget Buyers · Road & Track
- Summary: Affordable classic cars that collectors can actually afford. Classic cars like the 1965, 1973 Ford Mustang and 1990, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata are affordable for…
- Keywords: ford mustang, mazda mx-5 miata, acura integra, volvo 122, mercedes benz w108, chevrolet el camino, volkswagen beetle, fiat x1/9, bmw 3-series, dodge viper, autozam az-1, mercedes benz sl
- Source: Road & Track — https://roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/g6712/cheap-classic-cars
- Author: Fred Smith
- Published: 2026-10-09T16:41:11+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: ford mustang, mazda mx-5 miata, acura integra, volvo 122, mercedes benz w108, chevrolet el camino, volkswagen beetle, fiat x1/9, bmw 3-series, dodge viper, autozam az-1, mercedes benz sl
## 1965, 1973 Ford Mustang
Ford built so many original Mustangs that prices remain low. They're sub-zero cool, simple to work on, and affordable with plenty of aftermarket support.
## 1990, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The first-generation Miata is one of the greatest sports cars ever made. It's still relatively affordable compared to other roadsters.
## 1985, 2001 Acura Integra
Lesser Integras offer VTEC sounds, '90s Honda handling, and a great shifter without the high cost of Type Rs.
## 1956, 1970 Volvo 122
The Volvo 122 is affordable with style and safety features including the first three-point seatbelt as standard in 1959.
## 1965, 1972 Mercedes-Benz W108/W109
The W108 and W109 are iconic Mercedes models available for under $20,000 in basic versions.
## 1959, 1987 Chevrolet El Camino
The El Camino is an iconic vehicle with decades of bed-equipped classics available at reasonable prices.
## 1972, 1989 Fiat X1/9
The four-cylinder X1/9 is a humble but affordable alternative to wedge-shaped supercars from the 1970s and 1980s.
## 1982, 1994 BMW 3-Series (E30)
E30-generation 3-series models are worth considering at today's going rate despite being hot commodities since 2020.
## 1991, 2002 Dodge Viper
First-gen Dodge Vipers are relatively affordable with SR I models under $40,000 despite their legendary history.
## 1992, 1994 Autozam AZ-1
The Autozam AZ-1 is a mid-engined Kei car with gullwing doors available for around $40,000.
## 1971, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
The R107-generation Mercedes SL is an iconic cruiser with great examples becoming rarer over time.
## 1978, 1986 Toyota Supra
Earlier generations of Toyota Supra are still affordable despite becoming unobtainable collector's items.
## 1980, 1986 Alfa Romeo GTV-6
The Alfa Romeo GTV-6 is a joy to drive with a V-6 and rear-mounted transaxle, though reliability is a question.
## 1984, 1991 Honda CRX
The original 1980s Honda CRX is light, simple, fun, and affordable with relatively few clean examples available.
## Key takeaway

Classic cars like the 1965, 1973 Ford Mustang and 1990, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata are affordable for collectors on a budget.