Ford Mustang (1964-1973)
Originally envisioned as a sportier version of the Falcon, first-generation Mustangs debuted in 1964 and were produced until 1973. They’re an absolutely fantastic choice for restoration because not only are they relatively cheap to acquire (at least compared to other classic cars) but finding parts is also often surprisingly straightforward.
Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt (1964)
This limited-production car (only a hundred were ever created!) is a very valuable vintage car. A version of the traditional Ford Fairlane intended specifically for drag racing, this vehicle features a powerful V8 engine with dual 4-barrel Holley carburetors (which were originally designed to be used in the Ford Galaxie). Today, one of these is worth about half a million dollars when properly restored.
Chevy Camaro (1967-1969)
First-generation Camaros (built from 1967 through 1969) remain one of most popular classic cars on the market. Because of their tremendous popularity, restoring one of these cars is always going to be incredibly profitable, potentially netting you anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000.
Dodge Hemi Dart (1968)
Released only in 1968, the Hemi Dart was a special model of the Dodge Dart created specifically for use in drag racing. Since only eighty of them were made, these light-weight high-performance vehicles are tremendously valuable when properly restored.
Tri-Five Chevy (1955-1957)
Introduced first in 1955 and produced through 1957 (with slightly changed body styles across the three years), this car was revolutionary at the time for its overhead-valve 265ci V-8 engine and elegant body. These cars remain quite popular even today, and restoring one can net you a pretty penny if you find the right collector.
Plymouth Road Runner (1970)
This classic muscle car was named after the Road Runner made famous in the Wile E. Coyote cartoons. Indeed, Plymouth actually paid over $50,000 to Warner Bros to use the Road Runner imagery as well another $10,000 to create a car horn that emulated the iconic “meep meep” sound. Well-done restorations can net a high profit, thanks to this vehicle’s powerful performance and distinctive design.
Buick GSX (1970)
Built by a company known more for its luxury vehicles, the Buick GSX is nevertheless a beautifully-built muscle car. Based on the GS455, this car is inarguably one of the most valuable cars a person could ever restore and sell. Only a few hundred were ever built, making this car a high-ticket collector’s item.
Chevy Chevelle (1969-1972)
The Chevy Chevelle is another classic muscle car that’s incredibly popular. The mid-size A-body formula remained largely unchanged from its debut in 1969 until around 1972, meaning that there are a good number of them still kicking around. This makes them a great choice for restoration, since sourcing one shouldn’t be too difficult.
Chevy C10 “Action Line” Pickup (1967-1972)
These trucks are an excellent choice because (compared to other vehicles) they’re relatively inexpensive to restore. Thanks to this, these Action Line trucks (originally produced between 1967 and 1972) are actually one of the most popular classic vehicles out there!
Plymouth Barracuda (1970-1974)
Also affectionately called the ‘Cuda, this two-door pony-car is very much in a league of its own. The third-generation models in particular (produced between 1970 and 1974) were released at the same time as the Dodge Challenger yet still managed to stand out and catch a lot of attention. Because of this, they remain a popular car today for both collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Chevrolet Impala SS 427 (1967-1969)
Notable for their distinctive style as well as their powerful engines, these cars are rarer than certain other muscle cars of their era. Since Chevrolet discontinued the Impala Super Sport series after 1969, these cars have heightened value (especially when restored well).
Mercury Cougar Eliminator (1969–1970)
Known primarily for both its distinctive design and its immensely powerful engine options (with the 428 Cobra Jet, Super Cobra Jet, and Boss 302 options typically being the most sought after by collectors), this car is a true gem when restored properly.
1932 Ford
When it comes to vintage cars, nothing else out there is quite like the 1932 Ford. Also known as a Deuce, this historical model of car began life as a powerful vehicle that virtually anyone could afford. It later became (and remains) wildly popular among hot rodders. Thanks to its uniqueness and continuing popularity, this car is an excellent choice for a restoration project.
Oldsmobile 442 (1964-1987)
This car is an excellent choice for a profitable restoration project. At the intersection of luxury and power, this vehicle is highly sought after by collectors. With a powerful V8 engine and a distinctive design style, an Oldsmobile 442 car (especially one from the 60s) can turn a great profit if restored properly.
AMC AMX (1968-1970)
This two-seater is a classic and iconic muscle car made even more valuable than it otherwise would be due to it being the only other American-built two-seater other than the Corvette. While originally based on the Javelin, certain design changes turned this into a coupe rather than a more traditional hardtop. This sportier design combined with its marvelous performance makes it popular with both racecar enthusiasts and muscle car devotees.
Dodge Coronet Super Bee (1968-1971)
This mid-sized muscle car was originally based on the Dodge Coronet, but had no trouble breaking out of its predecessor’s shadow to stand on its own. Known for its excellent performance and distinctive design, this model is extremely popular thanks to its relative affordability. Because of its popularity, this car can fetch a great price when restored with care.
Pontiac GTO (1964-1972)
Many Pontiac cars have been forgotten over time, fading into obscurity as the car industry marches on. The Pontiac GTO, however, remains iconic. This car debuted in 1964 and in many ways its great qualities went on to define the muscle car genre. As such, this car is without a doubt one of the most profitable cars to restore.
Pontiac Firebird Trans Am (1969 Onward)
Pontiac Firebirds are fantastic cars already, but throw in the specialty Trans Am package that debuted in 1969 and you’ve got an iconic car with upgraded handling, suspension, and horsepower. Restored Trans Am vehicles are highly sought after by collectors, making this a very profitable car to fix up.
Classic Shelby GT500 (1965-1967)
The Shelby GT500 is indisputably an absolutely iconic vehicle. A high-performance car notable for its powerful 428 Police Interceptor engine, the Shelby GT500 remains incredibly popular for both its power and distinctive style.
Chevrolet Nova SS (1971)
Chevy Nova SuperSport cars are notable for being one of the smallest muscle cars. Despite their comparatively petite size, however, these vehicles pack a punch. A powerful V8 engine coupled with a heavy-duty suspension and classic muscle car appearance makes this car incredibly valuable when properly restored.
