13 Best Pony Cars for First-Time Collectors

If you’re stepping into the world of classic cars, pony cars are a fantastic choice for first-time collectors. They offer a blend of style, performance, and a rich automotive history that makes them appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts.

These vehicles, known for their sporty design and affordable performance, can be the perfect entry point into classic car ownership. With so many options available, you might find it helpful to explore the top picks that stand out for their popularity and collectibility.

1967 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

Vintage green muscle car with white racing stripes, parked on grass. Classic American sports car design with chrome details, showcasing a pristine restoration or well-maintained condition at what appears to be a car show or exhibition — Image Credit: Sicnag, CC BY 2.0/Wikimedia Commons.

The 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 stands out as a classic pony car. With a powerful 302 cubic-inch V8 engine, it produced around 290 horsepower. This car was designed for road racing, delivering impressive handling and performance.

You’ll appreciate its sleek design and the option for a distinctive racing stripe. Weighing about 3,000 pounds, it was agile and fun to drive.

Limited production makes the Z28 a sought-after model among collectors. If you’re looking for a piece of automotive history, the 1967 Camaro Z28 is a fantastic choice.

1967 Ford Mustang GT

Dark green vintage Ford Mustang GT parked at a classic car show, with chrome details and polished wheels. Other classic cars and event attendees visible in the background on a sunny day — Image Credit: Jeremy- CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1967 Ford Mustang GT is a classic that every collector should consider. With its muscular design and powerful V8 engine options, it offers both style and performance.

This model features a 289 cubic inch (4.7L) engine, producing around 271 horsepower. You’ll appreciate the sporty feel and alluring lines that have made it an icon.

Prices for well-maintained examples can start around $30,000 and can go much higher based on condition and options. It’s a solid choice for first-time collectors looking for a piece of automotive history.

1969 Pontiac Trans Am

Classic white muscle car with blue racing stripes, featuring a distinctive front grille and powerful stance. Photographed in a parking lot or display area with a clear sky in the background — Image Credit: Matt Morgan, CC BY-SA 2.0/Wikimedia Commons.

The 1969 Pontiac Trans Am is a legendary pony car, known for its unique design and performance. It features a 400-cubic inch V8 engine, capable of producing 335 horsepower.

With its iconic twin hood scoops and bold styling, it stands out on the road. Prices for a good condition model can range from $70,600 to $449,000, depending on the specifics.

This car has a rich history tied to racing, making it a great pick for first-time collectors. Plus, it’s a classic that appreciates well over time.

1970 AAR Plymouth ‘Cuda

Bright red vintage muscle car, likely a Plymouth Barracuda, parked under architectural overhang. Sleek automotive design with chrome details and performance-oriented styling, showcasing classic American muscle car aesthetics — Image Credit: Bring a Trailer.

The 1970 AAR Plymouth ‘Cuda is a standout in the muscle car world. It features a 340 cubic inch V8 engine, producing up to 290 horsepower.

With its distinctive fiberglass hood and strobe stripes, it looks as aggressive as it performs. The side-exit exhaust adds a unique touch to its appearance and sound.

Only about 2,724 units were made, making it a rare gem. Collectors appreciate its combination of style and performance, marking it as a must-have for any pony car enthusiast. If you’re looking for a classic that turns heads, the AAR ‘Cuda is definitely worth considering.

1969 Mercury Cougar

Classic blue Mercury Cougar muscle car parked on green grass. Sleek automotive design with chrome details, hood scoop, and polished wheels. Background features a white building and trees — Image Credit: Greg Gjerdingen, CC by 2.0/Wikimedia Commons.

The 1969 Mercury Cougar is a classic you’ll want to consider for your collection. It features a sleek design with a long hood and short deck, making it stand out among pony cars.

Under the hood, the Cougar offered various engine options, including a powerful 351 cubic inch V8. This engine produced up to 290 horsepower, providing a thrilling driving experience.

You’ll appreciate the comfortable interior with sporty accents. Plus, its solid build makes it a reliable choice for anyone new to collecting classic cars. The Cougar truly combines style and performance, making it a fantastic addition to your lineup.

1968 Chevrolet Camaro

Classic blue Chevrolet Camaro SS with white racing stripes, parked in an urban parking lot. Vintage muscle car with gleaming paint, chrome details, and performance-oriented design surrounded by modern vehicles — Image Credit:Jeremy – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1968 Chevrolet Camaro is a standout choice for any first-time collector. With its classic muscle car design, it captures that mid-century Americana spirit.

Equipped with a variety of engine options, you could choose anything from the 250 cubic inch inline-six to the powerful 302 cubic inch V8. The Z28 version, known for its performance, features a high-revving engine and a Muncie 4-speed transmission.

What makes it special is its balance of style and power, all wrapped in a sleek body. Plus, the aftermarket support for parts and upgrades makes it easy to maintain or enhance your ride.

1970 Dodge Challenger

Bright orange Dodge Challenger with black hood stripe, parked on grass at a classic car show. Vintage muscle car with distinctive design, chrome details, and performance styling among other classic vehicles — Image Credit:MrWalkr – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1970 Dodge Challenger stands out as a classic in the pony car scene. With a sleek design and powerful engine options, it’s a true icon.

You can find models with a 426 Hemi engine that produce around 425 horsepower. This makes it a thrilling choice for collectors.

Prices for pristine examples typically range from $50,000 to $150,000, depending on the condition and specifications.

This car is not just a collector’s item; it’s a piece of American muscle history that enthusiasts love. Whether you’re looking for a restoration project or a showpiece, the Challenger is a solid pick.

1972 Chevrolet Camaro

Metallic green vintage Chevrolet Camaro with dark racing stripes, parked at a car show. Crowd of people in winter clothing surrounds the classic muscle car in a parking lot setting — Image Credit: GPS 56 – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1972 Chevrolet Camaro is a classic that combines style with performance. You can find it with various engine options, including the 250 cubic inch inline-six, or more powerful V8s like the 350 cubic inch engine.

This model year introduced some design changes, such as the larger bumpers for safety regulations. With a weight of around 3,200 pounds, it strikes a balance between agility and stability.

Collectors appreciate the ’72 Camaro for its iconic muscle car look and solid engineering. Plus, it was part of the second-generation lineup that ran from 1970 to 1981, making it a significant piece of automotive history.

1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302

Yellow vintage racing car with number 15, marked with sponsor logos. Appears to be a classic sports car positioned at a racing event or exhibition, showcasing motorsport heritage — Image Credit: Ford Motor Company, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons.

The 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302 is a classic American muscle car that stands out in the pony car market. With a robust 302 cubic inch V8 engine, it delivers around 290 horsepower, providing an exhilarating driving experience.

You’ll find its sleek design catches the eye, especially with its unique performance upgrades. It was built for racing, going head-to-head with the Chevy Camaro Z/28 in the Trans Am Series.

When considering a purchase, expect models to sell between $60,000 and $90,000, depending on condition and options. This iconic car not only embodies speed but also holds significant value for collectors.

1968 Mercury Cougar

Dark green Mercury Cougar classic car parked on residential street. Vintage two-door coupe with distinctive chrome grille, elegant body lines, and period-correct wheel design, set against suburban backdrop — Image Credit:IFCAR – Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

The 1968 Mercury Cougar is a classic pony car that offers a blend of style and performance. With its sleek lines and luxurious interior, it stands out among its peers.

You can choose from several engine options, including the powerful 427cid V8, which delivers up to 390 horsepower. This makes the Cougar not just a beauty, but also a beast on the road.

The Cougar comes equipped with features like hidden headlights and an independent suspension, contributing to a smooth drive. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to get into the classic car scene.

1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350

White Ford Mustang GT350 with bold blue racing stripes, parked at a car show. Distinctive rear view showcasing classic muscle car design, red interior visible through rear window — Image Credit:Jeremy – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 is a classic in the muscle car world. With its 289 cubic inch V8 engine, it delivers about 306 horsepower.

This car was designed for performance, boasting a lightweight body and sporty suspension. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just under 7 seconds.

As a first-time collector, owning one of the 1,000 produced makes for a great investment. Plus, its iconic design and racing heritage make it a standout in any garage.

The Shelby GT350 is not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history. It’s a must-have for any serious pony car enthusiast.

1985 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

White Chevrolet Camaro parked on grassy ground under trees. Hood is open. Rear view shows distinctive 1980s-90s design with angular lines, red-orange taillights. Other cars and people visible in background at what seems to be a car show — Image Credit:Zytonits – CC BY-SA 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1985 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 is a standout in the pony car scene. With a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, it delivers 190 horsepower, making it a thrilling ride.

Its sleek design and sporty features, like the IROC-Z package, give it that classic 80s appeal. You might appreciate its handling on the road, thanks to a well-tuned suspension.

Collector’s interest is on the rise. Models with low mileage, such as one with just 11 miles, have sold for impressive amounts, sometimes reaching up to $100,000. If you’re considering a classic car, this one deserves your attention.

1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

Golden-yellow vintage muscle car, likely a Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, with distinctive pop-up headlights and aggressive front design. Parked in what appears to be a display or show setting with other vehicles in background — Image Credit:MrWalkr – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a classic muscle car that stands out with its distinctive styling. With a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, it delivers around 200 horsepower, coupling power with an iconic look.

You’ll find features like T-tops and striking graphics that make this model a favorite. It’s known for its performance and has a solid fan base, making it a great choice for first-time collectors.

With just over 13,000 miles on some examples, you can find models that haven’t been heavily driven. Prices can vary, but they remain relatively accessible, especially considering their popularity in the collector market.

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