order_242 / Wikimedia Commons
Commitment to our readers
The editorial team at GOBankingRates is committed to providing you with unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and methodology for reviewing our products and services.
20 years
Helping you live richer
Trusted
Millions of readers
In the world of vintage cars, rarity and desirability often go hand in hand… but not always.
There are many old cars that fail to capture the hearts (or wallets) of car enthusiasts. Low demand means that even dedicated fans can purchase these models Without breaking the bank.
Here is a list of six vehicles that are best avoided if you are collecting old cars in hopes of appreciating their value.
1976 to 1987 Chevrolet Chevette
The Chevrolet Chevette was designed to compete with imported cars, and sold well during its production period. However, its basic design and lack of features mean it has little appeal to collectors.
The stripped-down scooter version can actually be purchased without a back seat. While it may evoke nostalgia for some, it does not command high prices in the collector’s market.
according to Driving.ca estimatesThe value of this car ranges from 500 to 2000 dollars only.
1982 to 1988 Cadillac Cimarron
The Cadillac Cimarron was an attempt by General Motors to downsize and compete with European luxury small cars from Audi and BMW.
Unfortunately, it was essentially a rebadged Chevrolet Cavalier, and buyers saw through the facade. Despite its initial sales success, the Cimarron never lived up to the Cadillac name.
Its four-cylinder engine and lackluster performance make it one of the least desirable Cadillacs for collectors, and it is valued at about $1,200 to $2,000 today.
1981 to 1989 Plymouth Reliant and Dodge Aries
These “K-Cars” saved Chrysler from financial ruin, thanks to their front-wheel drive and spacious interiors.
Although they accounted for nearly half of the company’s sales in 1982, there is very little collector interest in these models today.
Station wagons and Dodge 400 convertibles are priced a little better, but the Reliant and Aires sell for only $500 to $5,000.
1978 to 1983 AMC Concorde
AMC’s Concorde was an upscale alternative to the Hornet, available in different body styles and even offering a V8 engine. Despite its initial sales success, the Concorde never gained a strong following.
Its main claim to fame is that it served as the basis for the AMC Eagle, the first crossover to hit the market.
Overshadowed by its more famous successor, the Concorde itself remains a forgotten model worth only $1,500 to $7,000.
1971 to 1977 Chevrolet Vega
The Chevrolet Vega was designed to compete with smaller, lower-priced cars like the Volkswagen Beetle. However, it suffered from rust problems, with some cars reportedly rusting on the showroom floor.
The Vega engine also had problems with overheating and oil consumption. While GM fixed many of these issues in later models, and went on to sell over two million Vegas cars, they are not a favorite among collectors today.
the 1975 to 1976 Cosworth Vegaa lightweight version with a 110-horsepower engine, is the exception, but other Vega models from this time period sold for only $2,000 to $10,000.
1971 to 1980 Ford Pinto
The Ford Pinto is notorious for safety issues, particularly a poorly designed fuel tank that can catch fire in rear-end collisions. Despite Ford’s modifications and updates, the Pinto’s reputation was damaged beyond repair.
Nearly three million units were produced, but many have since succumbed to rust. If the Pinto is attractive to you, you can buy one for $5,000 to $10,000.