Ten of the best classic cars - invest in a stylish motor from under £1,000

Classic cars have a huge fan base in the UK as they offer an alternative to the common modern-day motors that populate our roads, and for many they hold a prestigious and nostalgic value. 

When it comes to purchasing a classic car, many believe that it will be out of their price range. However, owning a vintage motor doesn’t have to break the bank.

Classic cars are worth a second look, especially if you keep your annual mileage low.
They can also make a great investment with values of some cars appreciating over time, depending on the condition and functions of the car.

And surprisingly, as editor Andrew Oxlade revealed in a blog last year, owning a classic model can save you money on your insurance.

Recent research by Silverstone Classic revealed that the UK’s favourite classic car is the Jaguar E-Type – and this features on our list.

This is Money and car specialist Motors.co.uk round up ten classic cars that cater for all budgets – five bargain classic cars and five that push the boat out.

Five classic car bargains

Saab 900
The Saab 900 is one of the UK’s favourite classic cars. Introduced in 1979, this car has now gained somewhat of a cult following, due to its unique styling, reliability, performance and long life.


This is Money verdict: The angular eighties styling and low closed cabin mean that climb into the cockpit of this and you'll feel like you are about to fly a plane - no surprise with Saab's aeronautic heritage.
Prices start at £995.

Saab 900
Mercedes 190
One of Mercedes’ first ever compact models really does make a great deal of sense as an addition to the classic car lover’s collection. 

If you were under the impression that a Mercedes was a little large and a touch expensive for your modest needs, then a used 190 provides the perfect solution.
For the same money as a second-hand contemporary Mondeo, you can have a compact yet classy car that will make the neighbours green with envy. 

This is Money verdict: Fear not, they are available without the massive spoiler.
You can snap up your very own for as little as £995.

Mercedes 190
Porsche 944
A motorist’s dream car, the Porsche 944 stood for two very important things: style and high speed. 

This stunning example of machinery incited motor heads to rush out and purchase in droves.

Not many similarly priced classic cars will give you so much style for your money, and you could be the proud owner for as little as £1,495.

This is Money verdict: Yes, it's not a 911, but it is a Porsche for less than two grand.

Porsche 944
Triumph Spitfire
One of the best examples of British engineering excellence, the Triumph Spitfire goes back to an age of small affordable British sports cars that were fun to drive, and good to look at. 

The car is still effortlessly stylish among its modern counterparts. You can own a piece of British engineering triumph from £2,500.

This is Money verdict: A British design classic that will leave you smiling despite all the little things that will probably go wrong.

Triumph Spitfire

MGB GT
Back in 1965, the launch of the MGB GT fixed head coupe version of the car had sports car fans drooling, and it still does. With its fold down occasional rear seats and opening tailgate, this model balanced flash with functionality.

Needless to say, the motor has retained its position on the must have list, and you can make your friends jealous for as little as at £2,295.

This is Money verdict: Relive the swinging sixties and possible even look as cool as the couple in the publicity shot below.

MGB GT
 
Five classic cars that blow the budget

Jaguar E-Type
When you think of luxury sports cars there are few more instantly recognisable cars than Jaguar's sensational E-Type. 

The styling looks and designs of the car look as great today as it did at the popular cars launch back in 1961, with the added bonus that it’s fast enough to embarrass many modern sports cars in the fast lane.
You can treat yourself from £30,000.

This is Money verdict: The quintessential British sports car, stunning and if you had bought one ten or twenty years ago it would have proved a great investment.

Jaguar E-Type

Lotus Esprit
The iconic supercar was made famous when it appeared in the James Bond film 'The Spy Who Loved Me' (1977) and has since been on the wish list of many classic car enthusiasts. 

With smooth driving and speed on the top of the list with this class car, how could you resist?
Prices start from £6,695.

This is Money verdict: Britain's answer to a Ferrari still turns heads but you'll have to pay handsomely for a good example and unlike James Bond's, yours won't drive underwater.

Lotus Esprit
Morgan 4/4
The Morgan 4/4 has the longest production run of any car in history, back to 1936 with a few short breaks, yet is probably one of the fewest in production numbers.

The memorable 4/4 has an unmissable style of its own and is as handsome as many of its modern equivalents.
You can become an owner of this classic car for £16,000.

This is Money verdict: Guaranteed to stand out from the crowd, get the driving goggles and gloves ready.

Morgan 4 4
Bentley Brooklands
No classic car list would be complete without a Bentley. This car could well be the most exclusive, decadent and bespoke luxury cars ever.
Still a favourite amongst classic car enthusiasts, this car definitely turns a few heads on the road.
Be the envy of your friends from around £10,995.

This is Money verdict: The 1990s Bentley is big, luxurious and fast - but can you afford the petrol?

Bentley Brooklands
Rolls-Royce Phantom
If you’re looking for premium and luxury models, the classic Rolls Royce Phantom Saloon could be the ideal option.
Sleek, sublime and sophisticated, the Rolls Royce Phantom Saloon is a comfortable high end vehicle which boasts excellent handling and a high-end feel.
Be prepared to fork out a whopping £89,500, though to drive one of the most famous cars in history.

This is Money verdict: Enjoy looking down the long bonnet as the road unfurls, or get someone to drive you and feel like royalty.

Rolls-Royce Phantom

Buying a classic: How to dodge the lemons

Don’t forget when looking to buy a classic car, give it all the checks you would if you were buying a ‘standard’ car. This includes:
- Looking at all paperwork and documentation.
- Taking it for a road test to check for any faults, especially in the engine.
- Checking essentials such as lights, tyres and suspension is up to scratch.
- Importantly for a classic car is looking for signs of rust and other wear and tear around the bodywork.
- Investigating how much insurance would be for the car, to make sure you are not quoted sky-high prices which would make the motor uneconomical for you to drive.

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