Looking for a solid ride that doesn’t always get the fame it deserves? You’re in the right place. We’ve got an entire lineup of cars that deserve way more credit than they get. On the bright side, they won’t come with the hefty price tags their competitors tend to have. These aren’t your typical headline grabbers, but they’ve got guts, style, and some pretty cool features under the hood.
Alfa Romeo Montreal (1970-1977)
When the Alfa Romeo Montreal showed up, it turned some heads, especially after its debut at Montreal’s Expo 67. It had a smooth V8 that sounded as good as it looked, plus those standout C-pillars, making it a standout among Italian sports cars of its time. Despite its $80k classic tag, it’s been flying under the radar. Only recently have people started giving it the nod it deserves, putting it on par with legends like Ferrari and Lamborghini.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited (1998)
Back in the ’90s, the SUV scene was like the Wild West, with makers trying all sorts to catch buyers’ eyes. Jeep threw down the gauntlet with the Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited, packing a V8 that turned this family ride into a muscle truck overnight. Not just fast, it kept all the comfort you’d expect from a Jeep, making it pretty impressive for its time.
Lexus LC 500 (2018-2020)
The Lexus LC 500 is a grand tourer that packs a punch with its 471 horsepower V8. It’s heavy yet handles like a dream and wraps you in luxury. Despite its qualities and relatively low sales figures, it’s an excellent pick if you’re looking for something beyond the usual German luxury coupes. Plus, its depreciation makes it an even more attractive option for those in the know.
Mitsubishi 3000GT / Dodge Stealth (1990-1999)
The Mitsubishi 3000GT and its American cousin, the Dodge Stealth, were ahead of their time with features like a twin-turbo V6, all-wheel drive, active aero, and adjustable suspension. Despite looking and performing like they belong in today’s lineup, high maintenance costs have kept them from reaching cult status.
Datsun Roadster / Fairlady (1961-1970)
The Datsun Roadster, or Fairlady as it’s known in some parts, was a game-changer. It did European style better than the Europeans, without shedding parts on a fast drive. With the SRL311 model packing 150 horsepower from a 2.0-liter engine, it was no slouch. We prefer the look of the pre-1968 models, before safety changes altered its design.
Dodge D100 (1972-1980)
While Chevy’s square-body pickups and even late ’70s F-150s have found their fans, the Dodge D100 remains the wallflower at the classic truck dance. It’s a shame, really, because with a lineup that included everything from the “Adult Toys” series to the “Lil’ Red Express,” the D100 had personality and power in spades. These trucks are a bargain if you’re looking for something with some Mopar muscle without the typical collector price tag.
Studebaker Lark Daytona (1962-1963)
In the twilight of Studebaker’s existence, they threw everything they had at the Lark Daytona. It was a compact car available in coupe, convertible, and the Wagonaire (which came with a retractable roof). With a lineup of V8s and even supercharged options, it wasn’t lacking in the go-fast department either.
Honda Fit (2001-2008)
The first-gen Honda Fit punches above its weight with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine. Sure, it’s not the fastest off the line, but it’s a blast to push hard, especially with a six-speed manual that lets you wind up to 6,800 rpm. What it lacks in raw power, it makes up in agility, outmaneuvering many cars that look the part but can’t keep up on twisty roads.
Fiat X1/9 (1972-1982)
This little Italian marvel, the Fiat X1/9, brings the spirit of its more illustrious countrymen to a more accessible level. It’s got a mid-engine layout which makes it pretty fun to drive on curvier roads. While it won’t set any speed records, the X1/9’s charm lies in its driving experience and style, reminiscent of pricier exotics. And yes, while it might ask for a bit more TLC, but hey, sometimes it’s worth it.
Oldsmobile Toronado (1966-1967)
The Oldsmobile Toronado stands out for its groundbreaking front-wheel-drive layout, but that’s not its only claim to fame. This car’s design is a real head-turner, offering something different from anything else on the road then and now. It shares its underpinnings with the Buick Riviera, yet the Toronado remains a more budget-friendly option for anyone wanting to make a statement.
Infiniti FX45 (2003-2007)
Enter the Infiniti FX45, a crossover that gives the aggression of a sports car with the practicality of an SUV. Known affectionately as the “Bionic Cheetah,” its design and powerful 320 horsepower V8 engine made it a standout. Sharing underpinnings with the likes of the Nissan 370Z and Infiniti G35 meant it didn’t just look fast; it handled its business on the road, too. Despite some gripes about ride quality and dated tech, a well-kept FX45 is a great choice for anyone looking for performance and presence in a single package.
Honda Prelude (1997-2001)
The fifth-gen Honda Prelude is usually overshadowed by its siblings, but it’s actually pretty cool. Offering up to 200 horsepower and four-wheel drive, it was ahead of its time. While everyone’s chasing after the S2000, the Prelude is a more practical option. It’s aged like fine wine, maintaining its appeal in an era when many of its competitors have faded into the background.
Cadillac Seville (1975)
In ’75, while other cars were getting bigger and bulkier, the Cadillac Seville went the other way. It kept things tight and right, with a great design and a nice build. Under the hood, it packed a fuel-injected 350 engine that was almost as gutsy as the bigger 500 Cadillac was known for. This ride brought something new to the table, proving luxury didn’t have to mean driving a boat.
Mercury Cougar (1967-1970)
The first-gen Mercury Cougar had the unenviable job of stepping out from the Mustang’s shadow. It took the same platform but went for a classier, more luxurious vibe. Despite getting props for its road-racing chops, thanks to Dan Gurney’s turns on the track, it’s stayed under the radar. Today, it’s your ticket to Mustang-like muscle without the Mustang price tag. It’s a sleeper hit for anyone looking to ride with a bit of class without breaking the bank.
Shelby Charger (1985-1987)
The mid-80s Shelby Charger didn’t have an easy act to follow, given the legacy of its ’69 predecessor. Yet, it brought something fresh to the table with a turbocharged 2.2-liter engine that cranked out nearly 150 horsepower. This set the stage for the turbo FWD sports cars that would become all the rage. With the looks to rival a Fox-body Mustang and performance to match, the Shelby Charger was proof that you could have some serious fun without the rear-wheel drive.
Volkswagen Thing (1968-1983)
The Volkswagen Thing is a study in contradictions: slow, not the most reliable, a bit on the dangerous side, and not exactly comfortable. But somehow, it’s impossible not to love. Its weird, boxy design stands out from the crowd, giving a convertible experience that’s anything but ordinary. Sharing its bones with the early VW Microbus, the Thing never quite hit the same level of love.
Pontiac Turbo Trans Am (1989)
In ’89, Pontiac decided to cahnge things up with the Turbo Trans Am (TTA). With every engine option in the third-gen F-body lineup leaving enthusiasts wanting more, Pontiac played its ace: a turbo V6 from the legendary GNX that could give you 245 horsepower. This made the TTA a lighter, nimbler version of a classic, and it didn’t hurt that it came at a lower cost. Decked out in stealthy white, it was a sleeper hit that could give any IROC a run for its money, combining better handling with serious turbocharged power.
Chrysler Crossfire (2004-2008)
The Chrysler Crossfire, especially the hardtop version, is like a fine wine that’s gotten better with age. It’s a mystery why it isn’t more sought after, especially when you consider the SRT-6 models. These came supercharged with a V6 engine, pushing out a solid 330 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. There were plenty sold, making it a steal for anyone looking for a modern classic sports car without breaking the bank.
Gurgel Motores (1969-1994)
Gurgel Motores carved out its niche with a lineup that ranged from rugged off-roaders to van-like vehicles straight out of a sci-fi movie scene, all powered by simple, reliable air-cooled VW mechanics. This Brazilian automaker rolled out around 16 different models, including an early attempt at an electric car, various SUVs, and a slew of city cars.
Mazda RX-7 (1978-1985)
The early Mazda RX-7 models, spanning from the SA22C to the FB generation, offer a pure driving experience with their lightweight design and high-revving rotary engines. These cars, complete with pop-up headlights, deliver some fun that far outweighs their simple mechanics (rotary engine quirks aside). While later RX-7 models have caught the eye of collectors, these early versions are a steal.
Chevrolet Impala SS (1994-1996)
In 1994, the Chevrolet Impala SS brought life back to the B-body Caprice, transforming it from an outdated sedan into something truly special. By slotting in a Corvette’s 5.7L V8 and tweaking the suspension and tires, Chevy created a sleeper hit: a comfortable, full-size car with serious performance chops. With the right modifications, like adding a T56 manual transmission, this can become a covert powerhouse on the road
Mitsubishi Starion and Chrysler Conquest (1982-1989)
The Mitsubishi Starion and Chrysler Conquest twins are the sleepers of the ’80s sports car world. With turbocharged engines producing up to 188 horsepower and 234 lb-ft of torque, these cars should have collectors lining up. For those in the know, seeking out an ’86 or later wide-body version of the Starion TSI or Conquest ESI is the move for maximum curb appeal and best driving experience.
Tesla Roadster (2008-2012)
When Tesla decided to take a Lotus Elise and turn it electric, they weren’t messing around. The Tesla Roadster, rolling out between 2008 and 2012, was insane to drive and showed the world that electric cars could do more than just save on gas. With fewer than 2,500 made, it’s a bit rare, yet it’s still flying under the radar for collectors.
Toyota Celica Supra (1982-1986)
The Toyota Celica Supra, hitting the scene from 1982 to 1986, leaned into the grand touring vibe with its wide stance and flared fenders. Under the hood, it packed a straight-six that dished out between 145 and 161 horsepower, wrapped up in an interior that was the height of ’80s cool. Despite its creds, the lack of a turbo has kept it off most collectors’ radars, which means there are great deals out there for those in the know.
Honda CRX (1984-1991)
The Honda CRX, available from 1984 to 1991, was basically a Civic in a sportier, two-seat hatchback package. The Si model, particularly post-1988 with its 108 horsepower, is the one to look for if you’re into a mix of fun and efficiency. It’s a small car with a big personality, offering a great driving experience that’s still overlooked by most.
AMC Hornet SC/360 (1971)
The AMC Hornet SC/360 from 1971 is a muscle car that might not have had the flashiest looks compared to some of its rivals, but it brought a lot to the table, like a lighter frame that gave it a nimble edge. With the Ram Air setup, it pumped out 285 horsepower, making it quick off the line and a standout in handling. This muscle car could hustle, so why aren’t there more people giving it the appreciation it deserves?
Lincoln Mark VII LSC (1984-1992)
The Lincoln Mark VII LSC, produced between 1984 and 1992, broke the mold with its aerodynamic design and performance chops that could take on BMWs on winding roads. It’s got a 5.0-liter V8 that puts out 200 to 225 horsepower, all while packing in some luxury features that make it a pretty comfortable ride. What you might not know is that it was a pioneer in bringing back composite headlights to American cars, ending a decades-long “sealed beam tyranny.”
BMW E34 5 Series (1989-1995)
Forget dreaming about the rare M5 and take a look at the broader E34 5 Series lineup, which includes a mix of sedans and wagons that didn’t get as much love as the smaller E30. The smart choice? Go for the 525i introduced in ’91 with the updated M50 straight-six and a 5-speed, or the later 540i equipped with a 280 horsepower V8 and six-speed combo. Even the older 535i’s “big six” engine has its charm. Bottom line: you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 (1990-1995)
The ’90 Corvette ZR-1 was a game-changer, thanks to its Lotus-tuned, 32-valve LT5 V8 engine. With 375 horsepower, later bumped to 405, it turned the Corvette into a global powerhouse. Even though it had rave reviews, its market value doesn’t reflect its pedigree, especially compared to its contemporaries. It’s a bit of a mystery why this American legend isn’t fetching higher prices, making now a great time to snag one.
Suzuki X90 (1995-1997)
The Suzuki X90 might raise some eyebrows with its, um, different design. This two-seater came with either RWD or AWD, a targa top, and was notoriously slow and rough around the edges. Despite its shortcomings, it has a certain charm that makes it stand out. Part of a niche market segment that didn’t quite catch on, the X90 is a reminder of the automotive experiments of the ’90s that could be due for a second look from SUV enthusiasts looking for something out of the ordinary.
