Wonder what sort of collector cars people have been purchasing during the coronavirus pandemic? Hagerty has compiled just such a list, based on the number of inquiries it has received regarding requests for insurance rates and other factors.
“Why these cars?” Hagerty suggests. “Most of these cars are fun to drive and are generally affordable.
“They’re reasonably modern too, which means they are not likely to require specialty maintenance, nor are they likely to require a lot of calls to a tow truck.
“However, these vehicles are not too modern, so it is still an authentic driving experience.”
And, Hagerty adds, “These cars are pretty common, so buyers can likely find one in close proximity.”
So, what are people buying of late? Here’s Hagerty’s list and a comment about each:
1990-1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Gen-X and Millennials represent 56 percent of all quotes.
1997-2004 Porsche Boxster: Boomers represent 51 percent of quotes followed by 33 percent from Gen-X.
1970-1974 MG MGB: Quotes for the MBG rebounded in 2020 by 18 percent after a dip in 2019.
1948-1952 Ford F-Series: The average value of the 1948-1952 Ford F-Series is $39,200, which is up 11.8 percent from a year ago.
1984-1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: 65 percent of all quotes for the SUV are from Gen-X and Millennials.
2005-2013 Chevrolet Corvette C6: Quotes for the C6 Corvette increased by 15 percent on average since 2018.
1963-1967 Mercedes-Benz 230SL: The average value for the 230SL is $68,700, which is up 12.3 percent from a year ago.
1984-1991 Ferrari Testarossa: The average value for the Testarossa is $149,300, which is up 52.5 percent from a year ago.
1993-2002 Pontiac Firebird: 63 percent of quotes are from Gen-X and Millennials.
1970-1973 Datsun 240Z: The average value for the 240Z is $54,500, which is up 41.9 percent from a year ago.
2000-2006 BMW M3 (E46): 78 percent of quotes are from Gen-X and Millennials.
For more information, visit the Hagerty website.
As a Gen-X’er myself; honestly I’ve never understood the attraction that others of my generation feel for BMW’s. They’re quite costly to own as far as maintenance needs. And that’s one vehicle that is best left to a trained BMW mechanic to service. I’ve driven and ridden in some other German cars, and have come away wondering what all the hype is about.
Of the vehicles mentioned on this list I would spring for the Mazda Miata, the MGB, or the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. The Jeep Grand Wagoneer can get expensive quick depending on condition. Collectors latched onto this model some time ago and started driving up prices. If you’re on a tighter budget, look for a Wranger TJ or YJ.
Another alternative not mentioned here is the SN-95 generation of the Ford Mustang GT from 1994-2004. Powered by either the last of the old 5.0’s or the 4.6 it’s durable, capable, and often overlooked.
Just bought a 2003 T bird for 14K 53K miles. Good move?