Top 10 Affordable Classics to Buy at Auction in 2026
You don't need a seven-figure budget to buy a fantastic classic car at auction. The market is full of characterful, enjoyable, and potentially appreciating machines that can be had for sensible money. Here are our top picks for 2026.
1. Mazda MX-5 NA (1989-1997) — $8,000-$15,000
The first-generation Miata is a modern classic that delivers pure driving joy. Clean, low-mileage examples are becoming harder to find, making now the time to buy.
2. BMW E30 325i (1987-1991) — $12,000-$25,000
The E30 3 Series represents BMW's golden era. The 325i strikes the perfect balance between performance and daily usability.
3. Porsche 944 (1982-1991) — $10,000-$20,000
Long overshadowed by the 911, the 944 offers genuine Porsche engineering and driving dynamics at a fraction of the price. The turbocharged S2 variant offers serious performance.
4. Volvo P1800 (1961-1973) — $20,000-$40,000
Roger Moore drove one in The Saint, and the Italianate styling still turns heads. The P1800 is robust, practical, and uniquely beautiful.
5. Mercedes-Benz W123 (1976-1985) — $5,000-$18,000
The W123 is arguably the most well-built car Mercedes has ever produced. Diesel variants regularly exceed 500,000 miles.
6. Alfa Romeo Spider Series 3 (1982-1989) — $15,000-$25,000
Italian style, a lovely twin-cam engine, and open-air motoring. The later Series 3 cars offer improved reliability over earlier models.
7. Datsun 240Z (1970-1973) — $25,000-$45,000
Prices have risen sharply but the 240Z remains one of the best-value classic sports cars. Look for rust-free southwestern US examples.
8. Ford Bronco (1966-1977) — $25,000-$50,000
The first-generation Bronco is a lifestyle classic that's as much fun on the trail as it is parked outside a coffee shop.
9. Triumph TR6 (1968-1976) — $15,000-$30,000
Muscular styling by Karmann, a torquey inline-six, and a wonderful exhaust note. The TR6 is British motoring at its most characterful.
10. Chevrolet C10 Pickup (1967-1972) — $15,000-$35,000
The second-generation C10 is the quintessential American classic truck. Huge aftermarket support makes maintenance straightforward.