Five sub-$15K classic cars you can buy right now

Classic cars are a guessing game at the best of times, but when it comes to cars that will prove to be a sound investment, it’s possible to narrow the odds by choosing wisely.

As a general rule of thumb, the more fun, iconic, quirky or rare the car is the better.  If you can also find one that was produced in low numbers or is generally thought to be underappreciated and in good condition, then you may be onto a winner.

With that in mind, we’ve picked out five affordable classics that are ready for your driveway. And the best part is you’ll be able to enjoy them on the road while they appreciate in value.

We’ve done all the heavy lifting for you – now all you need to do is figure out what best suits your style, needs and budget. If you don’t find what you’re looking for in this list, we encourage you to look at hundreds of other classics listed in this range on the carsales network.

1985 Toyota MR2

The Toyota MR2 was MotorTrend's Import Car of the Year for 1985 and was famously launched with a cover story comparing it to a Ferrari 308.

Aside from that quirky fact, the 4AGE is a solid little engine that can go for a very long time with next to no issues. These cars screamed ’80s in their aesthetic and were mid-engined, so you know they’re going to be fun!

Provided rust hasn’t taken hold of this one, we challenge you to find a cooler two-seater on a budget.

1981 Saab 900 Turbo

Do you know Magnus Walker? The automotive YouTube influencer who is synonymous for driving around his fleet of air-cooled Porsches in Los Angeles? A lesser known fact is that the second car he ever owned was a Saab 900 turbo and he recently called them the 'next big thing'.

They might not be James Dean or Steve McQueen cool, but we’re inclined to agree with the bearded guy. The early Saab turbos delivered power, safety and loads of practicality thanks to their hatchback layout. 

We found a ‘one-owner’ example listed for close to $10K that has been well used but given its ownership history, excellent build quality and over-engineered four-cylinder engine, should be OK for many more years to come.

1982 Holden Commodore

Holden closed its doors on December 31, 2020. This day represented the end of an era for Aussie manufacturing that began in the early 1900s. Ironically, the prices of these classics are proving to be a fruitful investment for any enthusiast who still owns one. 

We found a low-kilometre 1982 VH Commodore SLX for $14,990. Although this isn’t a V8, it opens the door to classic Holden ownership.

Values have been skyrocketing lately with the very last Holden to roll off the Australian factory floor, a Holden VF Series II SSV Redline, fetching a whopping $750,000 at auction and Peter Brock's personal VK HDT Group A Commodore selling for $1.057 million.

1964 Fiat 500

In Italy it is quite common to find an old, well-used Fiat Cinquecento (500) because it was Italy’s ‘People’s Car’ – a family car, a race car, police car, delivery van and a vehicle that filled many roles for many people despite its small structure and humble performance.  

It’s said that the best things come in small packages, and in the case of the Fiat 500, we are inclined to agree. Easy to park, economical, overflowing with character and great fun to drive despite a distinct lack of power, the bambino Fiat is an absolute blast.

So if you want a small car with character that’s affordable and easy to work on, there’s really no need to look anywhere else.

1981 BMW 323i

Much like the earlier 2002 and later E30, the BMW E21 was always destined to be a cult classic from the start.

Despite being 40 years old, many still fulfill daily-driver duties which means they are getting harder to find in good condition. The cost of entry for this example is tempting for those interested in a vintage BMW and the honest description gives clues to the areas you can improve on over time.