Hottest collectible cars you can still afford

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A common fantasy among auto enthusiasts to come across a rare “barn find” of a vintage vehicle that has been stored for decades and is now worth several hundred thousand dollars. But that’s a pipe dream at best. You don’t necessarily need to stumble over a long-forgotten ride, or be filthy rich for that matter, to get into the collectible car game.

According to the experts at classic-car insurer, Hagerty, in Traverse City, Michigan, if you know what to look for, you can get in on the proverbial ground floor where you can buy low and (hopefully) sell high down the road.

To that end, Hagerty has issued its annual “Bull Market” list of 10 vintage vehicles that are rising the fastest in value and popularity. According to Hagerty Magazine editor-in-chief Larry Webster, this year’s assortment is made up of models now coveted by those who attended high school back in the 1990s.

“The high school graduates of the late ‘90s are now in their late thirties, and like every generation before them, they are investing in the cars of their youth,” says Webster. “The difference is they love imports, SUVs and cars that are more modern, affordable and fun to drive than conventional classics.” Here are Hagerty’s best bets:

• 1997-2001 Acura Integra Type R.

The Type R was the hottest version of Acura’s coveted compact car. Unfortunately, examples in top shape are both rare and pricey, with an example from 2000 valued at $40,700-$51,200.

• 1998-2002 BMW M Roadster.

A latter-day take on classic European open-top two-seaters from the 1960s, Hagerty says this rendition of BMW’s Z3 is a rising star, with a 1999 example valued at $21,000-$27,200.

• 1996-2002 Dodge Viper GTS.

One of the most outrageous domestic sports cars ever built, the Dodge Viper packed a rip-roaring 10-cylinder engine. Hagerty says you can grab a 1997 version for $47,800-$55,900.

• 1999-2005 Ferrari 360 Spider.

Styled by Pininfarina, Hagerty says this gorgeous Ferrari is now earning more of a reputation as a vintage collectible than a used exotic. A 2002 model is estimated at $82,200-$89,600, which is about half of what it originally cost.

• 1988-91 Honda CRX Si.

The quick and nimble Si was the liveliest version of what was otherwise a small frontdrive car. Younger collectors are showing great interest in the Si, with 1989 models listing for $11,200-$15,300.

• 1971-80 International Harvester Scout.

The boxy

Scout SUV is beginning to gain traction among Gen Xers, though they’re hard to find outside of auto graveyards. A 1979 model in good condition that went for around $7,000 when new now sells in the $25,500-$32,500 range.

• 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee.

That’s right; your parents’ old SUV is becoming collectible. It’s both plentiful and affordable in the resale market, with a 2000 example estimated to go for $7,600-$10,400.

• 1970-95 Land Rover Range Rover.

Hagerty says the original Range Rover appeals to millennials and Gen Xers for its classic styling

and upscale amenities. A 1995 model in good condition would be listed for $20,500-$30,300.

• 1970-76 Porsche 914.

Older Porsches are typically popular among collectors, and Hagerty says the Volkswagen-derived 914 is the cheapest way to get behind the wheel of a vintage model. A 1976 model is valued at $32,900-$50,500.

• 1990-95 Volkswagen Corrado.

The Corrado was a peppier and more stylish alternative to the Golf hatchback upon which it was based. Pricey when new, Hagerty says a 1990 Corrado in good shape can be found for around $5,700-$8,000.