Classic Car Values
People in the US still fantasize possessing a vintage car, and from time to time many classic car lovers keep on overhauling and customizing their prized possession to enhance the value of the car. But, which cars are entitled to be known as classic cars? Here's an account - the automobile industry in US began in about 1900 and propelled the US automobile industry in to a kind of revolution in the 1920s. US auto history has been divided in to various eras. The classic car era is considered to have begun in 1946, immediately after the 2nd world war, and lasted till the mid 1970s. But, the era actually reached peak in the 1960s, around the time of Cuban missile crisis.
The 1960s is considered the time when auto barons in Detroit, the Mecca of auto-makers in US, got their act together. As imported cars proved to be the improved breeds, with more efficient and compact designs, American car makers reacted by dropping their trademark features and buyers easily accepted local brands like GM's all new Corvair, Fords' Falcon and Chryslers' Valiant. Along with these, many more classic cars were all set to burn the road. Here's a collection of most sought after models and the tentative classic car prices. All these cars are still cherished by many who are ready to pay a fortune to own one of these. Take a look.
Plymouth Barracuda
The Barracuda is a double door, twin seater coupe, that was manufactured by the Plymouth division of Chrysler. Launched in 1964, it caught the imaginations of many car lovers till 1974. The first-generation Barracuda, based on the Plymouth Valiant, was a fastback A-body coupe. The car was featured with a wraparound back glass and was on sale from 1964 to 1966. From 1967 to 1969, it was the time for the 2nd-generation Barracuda. It was again Valiant-based but was substantially redesigned. The Barracuda is the ultimate automobile in terms of classic car values.
Selling Price Range: US $25,000 to 250,000*
Chevrolet Bel Air
This is a classic beauty and one of the best that Chevy had rolled out in that era. The Bel Air is simply a treat for the eyes as it is driven past. The massive V8 engine fitted in this masterpiece gives immense power and if you happen to find a well preserved or overhauled model, do not think twice before you ink the deal.
Selling Price Range: US $10,000 to 140,000*
First Generation Ford Mustang
Derived from the highly successful Ford Falcon and Ford Fairlane, the first generation Mustang (1964 - 1973) was loaded with a muscular V8 289 cu in engine. This is another typical two-seater high ground clearance car fitted with broad based alloys. The first series of Mustangs is still in high demand and gives the still being produced 5th generation a run for its money.
Selling Price Range: US $35,000 to 250,000*
Chevrolet Chevelle
The Chevrolet Chevelle was a medium-sized automobile which made its debut in 1964. Produced from 1964 to 1977, the Cheville was one of General Motors' critically appreciated and highly successful cars. Chevelle models were easily redesigned from more efficient family cars to convertibles. Two variants of Cheville were available - a four door hard top sedan and a two door station wagon.
Selling Price Range: US $5,000 to 150,000*
Pontiac Catalina
The Catalina was the mainstay of Pontiac's automobile lineup. This name was earlier used only for hardtop body styles of Pontiac. The Catalina became a separate entity in 1959, and was the basic full-size Pontiac car. The full flagship series of Catalina included sedans, coupe cars, convertibles and station wagons. In 1961 Pontiacs were extensively restyled with a highly squared-off body line and an all-new Torque-Box. A new perimeter frame was introduced which not only provided more impact protection than the earlier X design but also enhanced the interior room.
Selling Price Range: US $5,000 to 50,000*
Chevrolet Camaro
The Camaro was another fabled automobile from General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Classified as a pony car and some versions also as a muscle car, the Camaro first went on sale on September 29, 1966, the model for which was known as the 1967 model. It was chiefly designed in order to compete the Ford Mustang. Camaro's platform and major components were derived from the Pontiac Firebird, which was introduced in 1967 as well.
Selling Price Range: US $5,000 to 200,000*
Shelby Cobra/GT500
The famous Cobra series of Shelby is another sought after coupe and has a high classic car value. The Cobra, along with the GT500 variant has a high standard rotisserie restoration and the rare Britany Blue Shelby Mustang is the car that most car lovers dream to own.
Selling Price Range: US $12,000 to 180,000*
These are the seven most sought after automobiles of the '60s and '70s. All these cars have very high values. So, what are you waiting for? Just take your pick and drive away!
*All selling price ranges quoted may differ on various parameters like location of seller, condition of the vehicle and its antiquity.
