Coolest Classic American Luxury Cars For Collectors On A Budget

10 1987 Cadillac Allante

Average Used Price: $7,223

The Cadillac Allante was indeed an ambitious and rather expensive project for the American brand, featuring a unique and somewhat unconventional design. Its distinctive design can be attributed to the fact that it was designed by the Italian firm Pininfarina. Interestingly, the Allante models were shipped from Italy to Detroit to complete the assembly, which turned out to be a challenging endeavor.

This initiative was Cadillac’s attempt to compete with Mercedes-Benz in the luxury car market. However, the V8 engine options in the Allante failed to make a significant impression on customers. The steep price tag, starting at a staggering $54,000 in 1987, was a major deterrent for potential buyers. Consequently, throughout its seven-year production run, the Allante only managed to sell around 21,000 units.

Today, you can find these cars at remarkably affordable prices, as they have become budget-friendly options for collectors and enthusiasts. Despite its challenges during its production years, the Cadillac Allante remains an interesting and unique piece of automotive history.

9 1998 Lincoln Town Car

Average Used Price: $8,990

The Lincoln Town Car holds a unique distinction as one of the longest mass-produced sedans in the Western hemisphere. Over the years, Lincoln was able to refine and improve its reliability through continuous tweaks and upgrades. Given its common use as a limousine, it’s no surprise that the Town Car earned a reputation for being incredibly dependable.

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Interestingly, the Lincoln Town Car often flies under the radar, even though many were produced over the years. It doesn’t always receive the attention it deserves. However, this relative obscurity can have its advantages, as it helps keep prices down. While luxury standards have evolved in recent years, the Town Car still offers a compelling package with comfort, power, excellent reliability, and a touch of luxury. It remains a solid choice for those who appreciate these qualities.

8 Chrysler Imperial 1981

Average Used Price: $9,350

In response to the Lincoln Continental’s move to front-wheel drive (FWD), Chrysler also decided to bring back the ‘Imperial’ nameplate, using their Y-body platform. The final Imperial model set the stage for the LH platform, offering unexpected luxuries like air conditioning, ABS, cruise control, and even keyless entry!

The Chrysler Imperial initially came with a 3.3-liter V6 engine, later upgraded to a 3.8-liter, producing 150 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Just like Ford did with the Lincoln Continental a couple of years earlier, Chrysler also adopted a front-wheel drive (FWD) setup, hinting at the direction of the industry. This seventh-generation Imperial was a significant moment for Chrysler in the luxury sedan market, reviving a legendary name from the past. During its limited production run, around 41,276 Imperials found their way to customers.

7 1978 Lincoln Continental Mark V

Average Used Price: $11,900

The Mark V rolled off the production line at the Ford plant in Wixom, Michigan, where other notable vehicles like the Lincoln Continentals, Ford GT 40, and the revived 2005 and 2006 Ford GTs were also made. It was in pretty good company there.

To keep it simple, there were two engine options for the Mark V. One was a 335 series 400 cubic inch (6.6-liter) V8, and later, there was a 385 Lima series 460 cubic inch (7.5-liter) V8. Both engines were absolutely massive, but their power was significantly reduced by early and restrictive catalytic converters. This resulted in the Mark V being slow, not very fuel-efficient, and struggling to handle its substantial weight. It’s still a classic American timepiece that’s worth the salt if fuel economy isn’t a concern for you.

6 1971 Cadillac Coupe DeVille

Average Used Price: $12,600

The classic Cadillac DeVille, especially the fourth-generation models from 1971 to 1976, holds a strong reputation. In 1971, Cadillac undertook a complete redesign of the DeVille, making it substantially larger. In fact, it held a record for interior width that would last well into the 1990s. The DeVille was available in two primary styles: the Sedan DeVille and the Coupe DeVille.

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While not considered fast by today’s standards, the fourth-generation Cadillac DeVille still offered impressive performance. The 1971 Cadillac DeVille boasted a 7.7-liter V8 engine with a maximum output of 345 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and a torque of 500 ft-lb at 2,800 rpm. This rear-wheel-drive vehicle was paired with a 3-speed turbo hydramatic transmission from General Motors.

5 1981 Lincoln Mark VI

Average Used Price: $15,924

The sixth-generation Lincoln Continental, available only in 1980 and 1981, was the go-to choice for those seeking a luxurious driving experience. This Continental introduced a fresh exterior design, featuring concealed halogen headlights and, in some models, luxury wheel covers. One standout feature was the adoption of the new Panther platform, marking a significant change for the Continental.

Inside, it boasted an LED display and an onboard computer, providing ample space for up to five occupants. This short-lived 1980-1981 Lincoln Mark VI Continental was priced at $16,291 during its brief production run.

4 1988 Lincoln Mark VII LSC

Average Used Price: $16,800

The Lincoln Mark series, known for its enduring presence in the world of full-sized American luxury vehicles, aimed to step up its game when it introduced the Mark VII in 1984. In an attempt to compete more effectively with European luxury sedans, the Mark VII was priced reasonably and incorporated new technologies, including 4-channel anti-lock brakes and a fully digital dashboard.

However, the distinctive hump over the spare tire in the rear didn’t sit well with many drivers seeking a sleek and sophisticated European-inspired design. Consequently, the Mark VII didn’t achieve remarkable success in the history of Lincoln’s Mark series.

Nevertheless, the LSC (Luxury Sport Coupe) variation within the Mark VII lineup is often hailed as the “hot rod” of Lincoln luxury cars and continues to have a dedicated following to this day.

3 1973 Buick Riviera

Average Used Price: $18,200

Buick might not have the best reputation among today’s youth, often seen as a brand for older generations. A glance at their current lineup might reinforce that perception, but let’s take a trip back in time to appreciate the stunning Buick Riviera.

Over the years, Buick produced several iterations of the Riviera, with varying levels of aesthetics. However, the pinnacle of the Riviera has to be the third generation. It was equipped with a 455 cubic-inch V8 engine, delivering up to 330 horsepower. Surprisingly, despite its hefty 4,250-pound curb weight, the Riviera felt quite agile.

While the cost of Rivieras has gone up over time, with some fetching just under $20,000, they still exude more character and charm than a budget-friendly electric car that might end up costing you a fortune in maintenance and repairs.

2 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado

Average Used Price: $20,200

The Oldsmobile Toronado stepped into the limelight back in 1966 as a luxury coupe and aimed to take on the competition which consisted of the Ford Thunderbird and the Buick Riviera. And it was a hit from the get-go. The car garnered numerous Car of the Year accolades. Combining American muscle with luxury appeal, the Oldsmobile Toronado was powered by a Rocket V8 that produced a staggering 385 hp.

It was one of the fastest luxury coupes of its generation, managing to hit 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds. However, the iconic Toronado was discontinued in 1992 owing to a few safety problems. Dubbed an overlooked muscle car bargain, you can still pick one up for pretty cheap at around $20,000.

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1 1957 Ford Thunderbird

Average Used Price: $29,200

In 1957, the Ford Thunderbird was overhauled with a revamped bumper, stylish tail fins, and a chromed-out grille. This new look appealed to the masses. Paired with its open-top nature, the Ford Thunderbird sold like hotcakes and Ford started to outrank its competitors. But what lies under the hood of this 2-seater open-top classic?

Moving into the engine bay, you get a 3.9-liter V8 with 2 valves per cylinder and an overhead valve fear. Its beefy V8 produced a punchy 206 hp with 297 lb-ft of twist. The result was a car that blasted off at a top speed of 124 mph. It was safe to say that Ford really won over the American market and honed the title of America’s first sports car before the Corvette claimed the title later in 1958.