The best part about owning a classic vehicle is that there is literally a car or truck for anyone’s individual taste from the quirky vehicles on the fringes to trendy vehicles. The more desirable a vehicle is, the better chances it has of maintaining or increasing its value, so to help you scour through all the classics out there, we looked at auction results from the Mecum and Barrett-Jackson that have taken place so far this year to determine which makes and models are the most sought-after going into the summer.
Here are the best vintage cars to buy in 2024.
Chevrolet/GMC C/K trucks
When it comes to popular vintage cars, trucks have actually become the hottest segment for collectors, and the Chevrolet and GMC trucks consistently rank among the top. From bone stock to heavily modified, these trucks (especially the Chevy C10) are popular vintage cars accounting for a large number of auction lots this year. The 1967-72 body style is in the highest demand with the 1973-87 Square Body truck gaining momentum each year, and the good news is that while these trucks are so popular, you can still get a C10 in great shape for reasonable prices.
Ford Bronco
Velocity 1974 Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is always one of the top vintage cars, and that seems to have intensified after the newest Bronco was announced. Prices for the early Broncos continue to skyrocket regardless of whether it’s a project or a complete build, and that has resulted in higher demand for the later Broncos including the short-lived second generation. The Velocity Ford Bronco is an example of a high-quality Bronco build having been fully restored and completely modernized.
Mercedes-Benz SL
Mercedes-Benz products are always on the list for top vintage cars, but it’s the SL that is the most consistent. While the Mercedes-Benz SL Gullwing might be one of the most desirable vintage cars of all time, the later SL models from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s are showing up at auctions in greater numbers. The older model years tend to command more price at auction, while the later examples are still generally available at attainable prices.
Ford Mustang
Velocity 1968 Ford Mustang
After 60 years of non-stop production, it’s no surprise that the Ford Mustang is one of the most popular vintage cars. These cars were produced in such large numbers that it isn’t hard to find a classic Mustang in great shape, and the variety of models and performance variants ensures these cars will always be collectible. The Velocity Ford Mustang exemplifies a classic Mustang restoration with its Roadster Shop chassis and Ford Gen III 5.0L Coyote V8 engine.
Toyota Land Cruiser
SUVs are another segment trending up as the best vintage cars to buy in 2024, and the classic Toyota Land Cruiser is one of the more popular examples. The FJ40s are commanding higher auction prices, and even the later FJ body styles are starting to creep up in price.
Chevrolet Camaro/Pontiac Firebird
While the Mustang rules the scene for ‘60s pony cars, the second generation (1970-1981) of the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird continue to trend upward at auctions. Black Trans Ams mimicking the Smokey and the Bandit hero car are obviously the most popular examples of these F-Body cars in auctions, but you really can’t go wrong with any second-gen Camaro or Firebird.
Dodge Charger
While you can’t go wrong buying any Mopar muscle car, the classic Dodge Charger is one of the top vintage cars. The 1968-1970 model years are always represented at auctions and the later Chargers (from ‘71 to ‘74) are now becoming more popular. The good news is that while the second-gen Chargers normally command six-figure prices, the third-gen models tend to sell for much less, meaning these are primed for appreciation.
Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is always popular at auctions, and while the C2 is, by far, the most common, C3s are still in that sweet spot with classic style and reasonable values. Values of the steel-bumpered C3s are climbing, but the later urethane-bumper cars are still selling for surprisingly low prices.
Land Rover Series I, II, and III
Another classic SUV that has had a strong showing at recent auctions is the early Land Rovers. As Defender prices are soaring, the Series I, II, and III models are auctioning for much less.
Restomods
Although not specific to any make or model, restomods are showing up in greater numbers at car auctions. Combining the vintage styling of a classic car with modern performance, comfort, and convenience, restomods might be the best vintage cars to buy in 2024 since they are more unique in terms of styling and are easier to drive and maintain. Velocity hand builds a variety of restomods including the Velocity Chevrolet K5 Blazer.