Affordable Hot Rods: Unique Rides That Cost Less Than $30K
To demonstrate that you don't need a six-figure budget to own something daring, quick, and unique, we've compiled a list of 35 hot rods and custom automobiles. All of them are ready to go and cost less than $30,000.
1976 Mans Style Dune Buggy - $8,900
Here is an excellent 1976 Manx-style dune buggy with a brand-new engine that was restored in '24. The gas tank needs to be cleaned or replaced, but if you're interested, an external one is available. And those new tires on the back? They're all set to go.
1991 Chevrolet Camaro RS Coupe - $7,500
This timeless, sleek, and ready-to-roll vintage Camaro is a true head-turner. It starts up immediately after turning the key. The owners understand the unique nature of this treasure, so they have kept it in perfect condition, both inside and out.
1986 Chevrolet El Camino V8 - $21,500
With only 68,000 miles on it, this wonderfully restored 1986 Chevy El Camino is showroom-ready. It features an Accel computer, dual exhaust, roller cam, tweaked injection, and a roaring ZR3 Corvette V8.
1933 Factory Five Hot Rod - $20,990
The owners had a great time creating their own Factory Five '33 Hot Rod. The Stage 1 kit costs $9,990, while the whole package costs $20,990. Hot Rod Magazine, SEMA, and PowerNation have all covered it, and it comes with everything you need to customize it.
1965 Chevrolet Malibu Coupe - $26,000
With 11.5:1 pistons, a dual-purpose cam, and 620 horsepower at 6000 rpm, this 350 V8 small-block is all muscle. You stay grounded thanks to the Detroit Locker rear end with 3.73 gears and the B&M 3-speed racing transmission; it's designed to roar!
1923 Ford Model T-Replica - $18,000
With only 200 miles on it, this old hot rod is still in terrific condition and ready for enjoyment. The 8-cylinder engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive make every drive an exciting experience, and the distinctive white exterior complements the blue interior nicely.
1930 Willys Custom - $26,000
A 1930 Willys Knight street rod is up for sale, featuring an all-steel body and fenders, and a powerful 350 Chevy engine with less than 1,000 miles on it. It comes with a louvered hood and is ready to use.
1957 Chevrolet Bel Air - $20,000
Turn the key, and this two-door Handyman Wagon is ready to go. It is mechanically sound and well-built, featuring a new chassis, a 400 small block engine, and a turbo automatic transmission. You can even choose the paint and interior because all the accessories and replacement parts are available.
1937 Plymouth Custom - $23,900
This Rat Rod has a rebuilt 350ci V8 with two Edelbrock carbs, a Camaro subframe, and a bagged suspension. It has a lot of attitude, is loud, and is chopped. It is prepared for cruising or showing, with suicide doors and personalized accents all over.
1950 Ford Custom - $19,500
This car was fully disassembled and reworked. The engine was removed, the fuel tank cleaned, the cooling system cleansed, and new brakes installed; the owners really took care of this vehicle. It has now been revived with a new interior, four coats of paint, rechromed bumpers, and other replacement parts.
1949 Mercury Custom - $30,000
This 1949 model 74 sedan has a minimally upgraded original engine and transmission. It also features matching numbers for the factory carburetor, aluminum oil pan headers, disc brakes, and a front-engine vehicle registered as insured. Press the button to bring up the Life Flathead V8.
1934 Chevrolet Pickup - $20,990
Introducing a brand-new, custom hot rod that is elegant both inside and out, finished in gel-coat black. It is designed for performance, featuring a strong 8-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive.
1934 Ford Custom - $22,500
This 1934 Ford Rat Rod is a gorgeous, custom-built vehicle that is all about having fun! It has the ideal balance of vintage charm and modern performance thanks to its stock 289 Ford engine, seamless 2-speed automatic transmission, and Jaguar rear end.
2011 GMC Savannah - $22,900
With its 5.3L AWD flex-fuel engine, bespoke leather interior, heated seats, and lighting throughout, this 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the epitome of luxury. It has double doors, 20-inch rims, a push-button bed, a backup camera, a TV, and a sunroof. It's not a camper; it's a high-top vehicle.
1975 Chevrolet Custom - $26,495
This 1975 Chevy Custom Deluxe is in showroom condition! It drives like a dream thanks to its potent 454 engine, aluminum heads, and brand-new flatbed. Everything is brand new, including the paint, the amazing Bluetooth stereo, and the digital gauges.
1951 Ford Custom - $21,000
Here we have a custom Ford with a newly rebuilt alternator, sharp pinstriping for style, and Vintage Air A/C to keep us cool. You will cruise smoothly thanks to an 8.8 Ford Ranger axle with 2.75:1 gears out back and power disc brakes up front.
1995 Chevrolet Custom - $11,900
This 350-powered automatic is traveling in luxury, the AC and heat are operating flawlessly, and the brakes have been replaced. The radio keeps us occupied, the paint is spotless, and there is no evidence of rust.
1932 Ford Pickup - $30,000
With a L46 Vette engine, an Edelbrock tunnel ram, QF 450 carbs, and Sanderson zoomies with wrapped baffles, this beast was built from the ground up over the course of four years. It's an absolute delight, boasting over 350 horsepower, a TH400 transmission, a .411 spooler gear, LED lights, a GPS speedometer, and ample power for everything.
2005 GMC Custom - $12,500
A reliable 8-cylinder engine powers this sturdy hot rod van, which has 300,000 miles on it yet is still in good condition. It features two doors, has lots of character, and is in good general condition. This one has been lived, loved, and is prepared for new experiences.
1968 Chevrolet Custom - $30,000
A 1968 body is mounted on a 2004 Silverado chassis with a 5.3 LS engine and only 58,900 miles, making it a true one-of-a-kind. The shortbed, 21" rims, unique tank, backup camera, and current, fresh AC and heat inside make it a memorable vehicle.
1941 Ford Custom - $16,000
The 302 engine and 4C transmission keep this vehicle running smoothly, and the bespoke doors, hood, trunk, and grille give it a bold appearance. Although there is a lot more going on beneath the surface, the fun you can have while driving is what really counts.
1933 Plymouth Custom - $14,000
This 1933 Plymouth custom has a smooth 3.4L Chevy V6 and a sturdy steel body. It runs and drives exceptionally well, features new tires, and boasts a rebuilt 700R4 transmission. It’s used virtually every day since it is dependable, timeless, and always ready to go.
1938 Plymouth Coupe - $17,000
This 1938 5-window coupe has an electric fan-cooled 600cfm Edelbrock carb and a powerful 350 aluminum intake. The stereo rocks, the A/C blows cold, and all the lights and gauges function perfectly!
1940 Ford Custom - $28,000
This 1940 Ford Custom, which combines classic appeal with contemporary performance, is a remarkable standout. While the sleek black interior creates a classic contrast, the striking orange exterior draws attention.
1997 Volkswagen Custom Sand Rail - $11,000
Featuring a 2.5L Subaru boxer engine and a complete ECU, this is a street-legal system that is ready for driving. With a flywheel and Kennedy adaptor, this four-speed Volkswagen gearbox provides a dependable, smooth performance with an enjoyable manual feel.
1970 Buick Skylark Custom - $25,995
This 1970 Buick Skylark Custom has undergone one respray; although it has some flaws, these imperfections add to its allure. This classic feels even more precious because the interior is intact and still contains a substantial amount of original paperwork.
1932 American Bantam Custom - $16,500
With a unique chassis, a 350 Chevy engine that has been dressed up, and a roots blower coupled with a smooth 3-speed automatic, our 1932 Bantam custom hot rod is sure to turn heads.
1954 Ford Custom - $9,995
This vehicle is a special 1954/'92 Ford pickup with a smooth 700R automatic transmission and a powerful 307 Chevy engine. Turnkey and ready to go, it sits on an S-10 frame with 4-wheel disc brakes!
1931 Ford Custom Rat Rod Hemi - $17,895
This 1931 Ford Custom Rat Rod isn't your typical build! It boasts considerable power thanks to a 1956 Dodge 330 Hemi engine and a 727 automatic transmission. It is bold, raw, and built to make every drive unforgettable.
1936 Chevrolet Master - $24,000
This 1936 Chevy Master, equipped with a 350ci V8 engine, a matching transmission, and a Mustang II front suspension featuring disc brakes, is absolutely cruising. The chrome and aluminum motor make it shine, and the hot rod black paint and full flame job draw attention.
1977 GMC Log Truck - $8,900
This 1977 GMC log truck has been a dependable workhorse, featuring a clean cab, a rebuilt 5-speed transmission with a 2-speed rear end that operates smoothly, and an easy-to-drive interface. It has been carrying loads between 3,500 and 4,500 lb logs with the self-loading boom system for years, but it requires a new cable.
1948 Plymouth Custom - $6,195
There’s a 1948 Plymouth custom coupe painted a striking purple, imperfect but still fantastic, up for grabs! Ground effects, Corvette tail lights, and fender work are just a few examples of its unique style. It has a clean title and is a rear-wheel-drive automatic in good shape.
1938 Chevrolet Master Deluxe - $25,000
With leather seats, sport features, and cool air conditioning, this vehicle is stylish and comfortable for travelling. For a complete retro look, there is power for everything from locks to mirrors, as well as a CD changer, cassette player, and DVD player.
1933 Ford Vickey - $18,500
With a fiberglass body and a powerful 454 Big Block engine under the hood, supported by a Turbo 400 transmission, this car is in top form. It boasts substantial power and excellent handling, which features an IFS front end and Corvette IRS.
1958 Morris Minor 1000 - $19,700
This car began with a little 1958 948cc engine that produced only 37 horsepower, but now it has a lot of muscle. A 350 LT1 from the middle of the 1960s with a Crane cam, hydraulic lifters, double roller timing chain, and Edelbrock high-rise intake is supported by a specially made drag frame.
