It’s not uncommon for a car model to be discontinued, but it’s not always a bad thing. In fact, some discontinued cars have become highly sought-after treasures in the world of automobile collectors. And why wouldn’t they?
With their unique design, rarity, and the nostalgia they bring, these vehicles are more than just machines – they are pieces of history. The following list comprises 13 such discontinued cars that have now become collector gold.
1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split Window
The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split Window is an embodiment of timeless beauty. The split window design was a one-year-only feature that gave the vehicle a distinctive look and has since become an iconic symbol in the world of classic cars. This was also the first year that the Corvette was offered in a coupe, making it a trailblazer in its own right.
Despite the initial criticism about the split window obstructing the rear view, it’s this very feature that has made this model a hot commodity among car collectors today. Its unique design coupled with its powerful 327 cubic-inch V8 engine makes it a perfect combination of style and performance. If you happen to come across one in good condition, don’t hesitate to add it to your collection.
1969 Dodge Charger Daytona & 1970 Plymouth Superbird
The ’69 Daytona and ’70 Superbird, with their unique winged design, were built for one purpose – to dominate NASCAR. The vehicles’ aerodynamic design, including the nosecone and massive rear wing, set them apart from anything else on the road. The Daytona was based on the Dodge Charger, and the Superbird was a modified version of the Plymouth Road Runner. Both were made in limited numbers, which adds to their appeal today.
The most sought-after variant is the one with the 426 Hemi engine, which was offered as an option. Owning such a unique and rare piece of automotive history is a dream for many car collectors, pushing its value up in the collector car market.
2002 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6
The 2002 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am WS6 was the last hurrah for Pontiac’s classic muscle car. This model was the most potent Firebird ever built and was loaded with performance features. With its aggressive styling, including a unique hood with dual air intakes, it’s a true representation of American muscle.
The WS6 package added a Ram Air induction system, which boosted the engine’s output to 325 horsepower. It also included a distinctive handling package, giving it a remarkable performance on the road. As the final year model of the Firebird, it holds a special place in the heart of collectors, making it a must-have in any muscle car collection.
1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6
The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6 is a legend in the muscle car world. The LS6 package included a 454 cubic-inch V8 engine that produced an astonishing 450 horsepower, making it the most powerful production car of its time.
Packed with power, the Chevelle SS 454 LS6 offered exceptional performance. Its aggressive design and powerful engine make it a favorite among car collectors. It’s a perfect example of the American muscle cars of the 1970s, making it a valuable addition to any car collection.
1966 Alfa Romeo Spider Duetto
The 1966 Alfa Romeo Spider Duetto is a classic Italian roadster that has captured the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Its sleek design and sporty performance make it a favorite among collectors.
The Duetto was powered by a 1.6-liter twin-cam engine that provided a lively performance. Its distinctive “boat tail” design, which was only produced for a short time, makes it especially desirable among collectors. This little Italian roadster is a perfect example of a classic European sports car and a great addition to any classic car collection.
1965 Shelby GT350
The 1965 Shelby GT350 is a high-performance variant of the Ford Mustang that was built by Shelby American. It was a track-focused car that was also street-legal, making it uniquely desirable.
The GT350 was powered by a modified version of Ford’s 289 cubic-inch V8 engine, producing 306 horsepower. Its distinctive white with blue stripes paint scheme has become iconic, making it easily recognizable. As the first model year of the GT350, it’s highly sought after by collectors.
1969 Boss 429 Mustang
The 1969 Boss 429 Mustang is one of the rarest and most valuable Mustangs ever built. It was created to homologate the 429 cubic-inch “Semi-Hemi” engine for NASCAR.
The Boss 429 engine was rated at 375 horsepower, but many believe it was significantly underrated. With only 859 units built for the 1969 model year, it’s a rare find. Its combination of rarity, power, and classic Mustang style make it highly desirable among collectors.
1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing
The 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is a classic European sports car that’s famous for its distinctive gullwing doors. It was the fastest production car of its time, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The 300SL was powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced 215 horsepower. Its unique design and impressive performance make it a standout in any collection. It’s a symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s rich racing heritage and a true collector’s gem.
1987 Buick Grand National GNX
The 1987 Buick Grand National GNX is a high-performance variant of the Buick Regal. It was the fastest production sedan of its time, making it a legend in the car world.
The GNX was powered by a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine that produced 276 horsepower. With only 547 units ever produced, it’s a rare find. Its combination of performance, style, and rarity make it a must-have for any car collector.
1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible
The 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible is one of the most sought after muscle cars in the world. Its aggressive design and powerful Hemi engine make it a classic American muscle car.
The Hemi ‘Cuda was powered by a 426 cubic-inch Hemi V8 engine that produced 425 horsepower. With only 11 units ever built, it’s incredibly rare. Its combination of power, style, and rarity make it a dream car for many collectors.
1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4
The 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 is a classic Italian sports car that’s highly desirable among collectors. Its beautiful design and high performance make it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The 275 GTB/4 was powered by a 3.3-liter V12 engine that produced 300 horsepower. Its combination of Italian style and performance make it a standout in any collection. It’s a symbol of Ferrari’s rich racing heritage and a true collector’s gem.
1955 Porsche 550 Spyder
The 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder is a classic European sports car that’s famous for its racing success. Its sleek design and high performance make it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The 550 Spyder was powered by a 1.5-liter flat-four engine that produced 110 horsepower. Its unique design and impressive performance make it a standout in any collection. It’s a symbol of Porsche’s rich racing heritage and a true collector’s gem.
2005 Ford GT
The 2005 Ford GT is a modern classic that’s highly desirable among collectors. It was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Ford GT40’s victory at Le Mans.
The GT was powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine that produced 550 horsepower. Its combination of modern performance and classic GT40 styling make it a standout in any collection. As a limited production car, it’s also quite rare, making it a great investment for any car collector.