Think a real collector car has to cost six figures? Not necessarily. We combed current classified listings on ClassicCars.com and Hemmings to round up eight genuinely interesting cars, from a one-of-one art car to a numbers-matching Corvette, all priced at $20,000 or less. Prices reflect current asking prices at the time of writing and are subject to change or negotiation.
1. 1957 Ford Thunderbird — Plainview, Texas
Dad bought this Thunderbird back in 1986, and the family has enjoyed it ever since. Somewhere along the way it picked up a 440ci Chrysler V8 backed by a four-speed manual, in place of its original small-block — an unusual but interesting swap for a first-generation “Baby Bird.” The seller reports no leaks, working gauges, and functional power windows, with the original hubcaps included in the trunk.
Asking price: $20,000 (OBO)
View the listing on ClassicCars.com
2. 1976 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray — Carsonville, Michigan
This numbers-matching C3 has been with two owners since new and remains remarkably original, right down to its factory radio and spare tire lock. The seller reports 101,000 miles, a leak-free engine and transmission, and minimal surface rust on the frame — a clean foundation whether you drive it as-is or use it as a base for a full restoration.
Asking price: $20,000
View the listing on ClassicCars.com
3. 1967 Pontiac Grand Prix Convertible — Vista, California
This Grand Prix convertible spent most of its life on the East Coast before making its way to California. It’s largely original, with a few tasteful upgrades including dual exhaust and electric ignition. There’s some damage to the convertible top from a fallen palm frond, but otherwise it presents as a solid, driver-quality example of GM’s personal luxury coupe.
Asking price: $20,000 (OBO)
View the listing on ClassicCars.com
4. 1963 Chevrolet C10 “Surf Truck” — Carlsbad, California
This yellow C10 has been a fixture at Southern California surf spots for decades, complete with a bamboo palapa rack over the bed. The seller says it’s appeared in films and magazines and served as the official truck of a local surf club. It’s got “surf soul” — a rebuilt 350 V8, a floor-mounted shifter, and just enough patina to prove it’s been driven and loved, not garaged.
Asking price: $20,000 (OBO)
View the listing on ClassicCars.com
5. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle “Psychedelic VW” Art Car — Fort Lauderdale, Florida
This is more than a car — it’s a rolling piece of art. The one-of-one wrap was created by Laurence Gartel, a pioneer of the digital art movement, and the car was featured at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. Mechanically it’s been refreshed with new push rods, valve springs, piston rings, brakes, and tires, with the original fuel injection swapped for a carburetor. It’s a genuine showstopper that’s easy to drive and impossible to miss.
Asking price: $20,000
View the listing on ClassicCars.com
Eve Nowell