Classic cars are not just vintage cars, they’re relics of automotive history that still tell the story of how we used to design, make and drive cars in different times. For many enthusiasts, their appeal lies in their stylish looks, brute strength and clever engineering, and the nostalgia they bring for a different time. Whatever your view on their more streamlined appearances, muscle cars or their art of noise, classic cars provide a driving experience that modern cars find it hard to match, and many have been lovingly looked after by enthusiasts who dedicate considerable time and money to keeping them in prime mechanical shape and preserving their spirit. This dedication has enabled these unique cars to continue to be driven, showcased and enjoyed by future generations of enthusiasts for many years to come.

This is a real piece of car history we’re talking about; acquiring a classic car isn’t just that you own an antique but you also own a piece of engineering, craftsmanship and automotive history. That is the essence of the story every classic car has to tell; the decisions behind its design which gave it its unique personality, the era of culture that it exists within. Perhaps you’ll be focused upon a quintessential British sports car that exhibits a timeless look combined with engaging driver dynamics; or perhaps a more exciting option, such as a glorious Grand Tourer, a lush American muscle car or an exotic Italian.

1. 1961 Jaguar E-Type

1961 Jaguar E-Type 3.8 The Jaguar E-Type is considered one of the most remarkable sports cars ever built. Created in the early 1960s to rival Ferrari’s offerings and known for its stylish and elegant design, it was also perfectly proportioned, with a fastback body that sent power down to the rear wheels via an independent rear suspension. Its bonnet was lengthened to house a 3.8-litre inline six-cylinder engine and could reach speeds of 150mph thanks to the light design of the E-Type and its avant-garde aerodynamic body.

Jaguar E-Type Collector Appeal:

• 3.8-litre inline-six engine
• 150 mph top speed
• Sleek aerodynamic body
• Independent rear suspension
• Celebrated historical significance

Because the E-Type showed us how good engineering and aesthetic styling can be in one beautiful classic car. This, combined with its performance stats signalled it was an authentic sports car, while its stylish body shape brought it a timeless aesthetic that, unsurprisingly, left its mark in people’s minds. As a 1961 model, the E-Type is especially sought-after for collectors due to it having both a special technological and aesthetic pedigree, and this rare combination is attractive in its own right to enthusiasts you don’t buy a 1961 model E-type just because of its horsepower! This big cat is not just fast; it is a reminder of a special time in automotive history when manufacturers were creating cars that not only delivered good performance, but were also innovative design icons which is what makes these such a lasting proposition.

2. 1964 Aston Martin DB5

The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 became one of the world’s most recognisable classic cars thanks to its unique blend of style, elegance and cultural significance. An iconic vehicle due to its appearance in Goldfinger, it became forever linked to James Bond, while the aluminium body and disc brakes were state-of-the-art automotive features of the 60s. The DB5, then, was a thing of style and engineering, and a genuinely luxurious grand tourer, but one that could cover a lot of ground at 145 mph on the way a car that combined fine design with the capability of a high-end sports tourer. As well as its world-leading engineering, its value comes from a combination of its history and craftsmanship, but its cultural significance means it will forever be a high-profile feature of the great cars of this world.

Aston Martin DB5 Highlights:

• 4.0-litre inline-six engine
• 282 horsepower output
• 145 mph top speed
• Advanced aluminium bodywork
• Strong James Bond connection

What makes the DB5 so iconic is that it has so many things all combined into one car. It delivered that performance you’d expect from a more expensive GT and maintained the refined nature that was the Aston Martin way. Its construction and braking innovations keep to the 1960s style of luxury car, and thanks to its ties to James Bond its cultural reputation is strong, but it also has the refinement and mechanical characteristics to be appreciated for just what a car it is the quintessential luxury Grand Tourer, the ultimate combined luxury/performer/film making experience.

3. 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray

Corvette Sting Ray 1963 The start of Corvette’s onwards journey created the distinction of split rear window and concealed headlamps that really did the business on this V8 legend. Under the bonnet was a 327-inch cubic-inch V8 engine capable of up to 36o horsepower to give the car the performance of the expected American performance vehicle. The bold design and technical specification of the Sting Ray meant it was one of the most significant moments in the history of Corvette.

Corvette Sting Ray Key Features:

• 327-cubic-inch V8 engine
• Up to 360 horsepower
• Lightweight fibreglass body
• Independent rear suspension
• Distinctive split rear window

The appeal of the Sting Ray is more than just the engine. Its fibreglass body was lightweight and the independent rear suspension gave the car its classic handling dynamic. Those elements, in conjunction with the dynamic styling referenced in the source material give the Corvette a tech image that sits well with the aggressive design, appealing to collectors thanks to the unique styling. The split rear window and hideaway headlights serve to identify the 1963 model so it has a great link to that first model’s place in Corvette history, and the combination of well defined styling, technical innovations and American muscle music, remains a significant sports car.

4. 1965 Ford Mustang

How the Mustang Changed America, the Pony-Car Way. In 1965, Ford caused something of a stir: They launched the first-ever pony car, the Mustang. While the model delivered sporty styling, a long hood and short deck, and an affordable price, the Mustang became an immediate market hit; rather than formulating performance as an activity for a small crowd of enthusiasts, it created a template that appealed to the everyday guy, who wanted a compelling look in a machine of this quality, at a price. Ford offered the vehicle with multiple choices of engine; one of the most popular choices was a 289-cubic-inch V8, which defined muscle-car heft in a package that anyone could buy. The marque remains extremely popular among the collector community for its value, styling, and character as a highly customizable muscle-car platform, and in influencing the American performance-car market.

Ford Mustang Collector Appeal:

• Pony car concept introduced
• Long bonnet styling
• Short rear deck
• 289-cubic-inch V8 option
• Accessible performance package

What the Mustang did was in fact, take the formula created by the market leader. Good-looking sporty styling, but at an accessible cost, so that regular drivers could get a taste of performance once only available in specialist sports cars. Offering a choice of engine sizes further increased its appeal with the general public. Its influence is felt far beyond just the years of its original release: the 1965 Mustang is still highly prized and collected for both its looks and cultural significance, while its easy customisation also makes it instantly recognisable as a shining example of US automotive heritage, one that would last long beyond the original release.

5. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing

The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is unquestionably one of the most recognizable sports cars of the middle decades of the 20th century. From its distinctive gullwing doors that open upward, to the shape of the 300 SL’s final aerodynamic shape, from the details of its specification, the history and engineering quality that the model is known for can be seen in the Gullwing. The 300 SL used race-derived thinking along with innovative design principles to produce one of the most technically advanced production cars of the period.

300 SL Gullwing Highlights:

• 3.0-litre inline-six engine
• Innovative direct fuel injection
• 160 mph top speed
• Distinctive gullwing doors
• Racing-derived heritage

Gullwing appeal The appeal of the 300 SL is partly connected to the engineering. The innovative fuel injection system in the 3.0-litre engine enabled it to be capable of achieving a top speed of 160 mph and the shape of the structure made it clear it was a technologically-advanced sports car. Its unconventional doors ensured it would be instantly recognisable for years to come. For collectors, it is one of the finest examples of German craftsmanship of the period and, apart from it being rare, the fact it is equally as much of a eye-catching race car as it is a luxury car is what continues to make the 300 SL appealing.

6. 1968 Pontiac GTO

The 1968 Pontiac GTO is a popular and sought-after classic muscle car that is an important part of American automotive history. The Pontiac GTO was one of the most significant muscle cars of the 1960s and featured stunning styling with ram-air bonnet scoops and bumper guards that matched the bodywork, and which added an air of aggression to the existing style. The muscle car’s guts came in the form of a 400-cubic-inch V8 that was the epitome of street performance. Combining all of this performance and style meant that the Pontiac GTO was an instant hit with street racers and car fans and, today, is still revered by classic car owners and collectors.

Pontiac GTO Performance Appeal:

• 400-cubic-inch V8 engine
• Aggressive bonnet scoops
• Endura front bumper
• Strong street-performance reputation
• Muscle-car historical importance

What makes the GTO so important is the image it projects. With a 400ci V8, the GTO came with all the performance of a late-’60s street performance, but all the styling of such a performance machine, as well. Bonnet vents and the Endura bumper created defining features that set it apart from a lesser automobile and its larger size made it appear more aggressive and muscular. The GTO is a significant part of American automotive history, which makes it something of a favorite among collectors, and this is one car that represents the muscle-car movement and the American obsession with large engines and, largely, over-the-top styling.

7. 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO

The 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO is arguably the most desirable and iconic dream car of the late 20th century, considered the holy grail for all car enthusiasts and car collectors alike thanks to its combination of racing dominance and stunning automotive beauty. The 250 GTO was designed for maximum race performance, boasting a flowing aluminium body with flowing lines and curves that still look as attractive as the day it was built. Its race chassis and mechanicals made for a very unique marriage of race car and sports car, with a 3.0-litre V12 engine to deliver 300 horsepower and a love of high-revving performance able to perform at high levels both on the road or the endurance race tracks of the world. Only 36 of these masterpieces were ever produced, making it an extremely rare car and rare car collector item.

Ferrari 250 GTO Collector Appeal:

• 3.0-litre V12 engine
• 300 horsepower output
• Aerodynamic aluminium body
• Only 36 examples produced
• GT racing heritage

The 250 GTO also shows how a car built for racing competition can also be an automotive art piece. As a competition car, its aerodynamics aluminium body shell was manufactured with its purpose in mind, and the car’s 3.0 litre V12 assured it would deliver the necessary mechanical engine character to successfully take on tough competitions. With its ability to race on both road and endurance circuit, the 250 GTO became yet more attractive to collectors. Ferrari’s numbers for this classic were limited with just 36 cars made and that rarity helps make the model particularly appealing to collectors. With it’s motorsport nous, eye-catching aesthetics and mechanical brilliance, the 250 GTO is still one of the most highly sought-after collector cars in the history of motoring.

8. 1968 Lamborghini Miura

Widely regarded as the original supercar, the 1968 Lamborghini Miura has been described as ‘the quintessential exotic’. The car’s range-shattering Bertone-designed profile stunned the automotive universe with its dramatic lines and futuristic appearance. Its visual essence was provocative enough to make it immediately identifiable as something not like other ‘performance’ cars and its technical design was just as significant the mid-mounted engine compartment was home to a 3.9-litre V12 engine mounted transversely, which was capable of producing 350 horsepower. Not only did the Miura offer remarkable performance and agile handling, the car also set the blue-print for mid-engine supercars that still exists today and its status as an emblem of the exotic-cars movement has left it in the ranks of rare collector cars.

Lamborghini Miura Highlights:

• 3.9-litre V12 engine
• 350 horsepower output
• Transverse mid-engine layout
• Bertone-sculpted body
• Supercar design blueprint

It’s significance is driven by how the Miura was able to get a lasting synergy of design and engineering. Its innovative low silhouette made the Miura a truly sexy-looking car, but it was the transverse mid-engine V12 architecture that made the Miura one of the true legendary exotic performance car icons. With 350hp on tap, the Miura’s engine provided the performance of a high-end exotic supercar, but its influence would last far beyond the period of production of the Miura. It created a design language and formula that would be followed for modern exotic supercars, giving the Miura an important role in the emerging performance car dialogue, and making the car as desirable today as it was when it was introduced.

9. 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III

1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III was the very height of British flair and finesse in 1965, with a noble-looking body shape that was easily recognisable from all sides. The Silver Cloud’s long bonnet, flowing lines and prominent radiator grille delivered a commanding sense of road presence, a marque signature of decades gone by. This is a refined and executive drive, with comfort, quality and style over outright aggressive sportiness, and the understated wheels and bodywork confirm this impression, whilst under the bonnet is a 6.2 litre V8 engine built to meet high standards of daily use. The attention to detail in this Silver Cloud’s interior and its durability mean owning one can be very rewarding indeed, and offer a real taste of an illustrious golden age of motoring.

Silver Cloud III Luxury Appeal:

• 6.2-litre V8 engine
• Smooth effortless power
• Iconic Rolls-Royce grille
• Graceful flowing lines
• Refined interior craftsmanship

The Silver Cloud III might also be considered to have a very different view of what constitutes a desirable classic. There’s an emphasis on luxury, refinement and craftsmanship rather than brute power, although these are qualities amplified in the Silver Cloud III’s style. This aristocratic attitude is reinforced by the Silver Cloud III’s proportions, with its elongated bonnet, imposing grille and sweeping exterior lines giving it the sort of visual presence on the road that befits a quality British car. It’s mechanical character lends itself to that lifestyle, too; the 6.2-litre V8 engine was designed to be a cultured, quiet and docile performer, contributing to a richly comfortable driving experience.

10. 1969 Dodge Charger

A 1969 Dodge Charger is all about extremes of American muscle-car attitude, and one of the longest-lived, most-recognised stereotypes of pop-culture comes thanks to Chargers like the 1969 model, the most high-profile and aggressive of all American muscle cars, sporting a sinister split grille and massive Coke-bottle sidelines. The Charger has just the right combination of spectacular (almost negative) styling mixed with an aggressive performance pedigree to make it one of the most ubiquitous and popular American muscle cars of the period. Some of that perception is due to iconic cars such as the R/T model, with its murdered-out 440ci V8 configuration developing near 500hp. The 1969 model year also is one of the most collectible, as it combined unreasonably high performance with film/TV fame, making it one of the most desirable muscle cars ever built.

Dodge Charger Collector Appeal:

• 440-cubic-inch V8 engine
• R/T performance variant
• Sinister split grille
• Distinctive Coke-bottle profile
• Strong cinematic heritage

The challenge for the Charger is its uncompromising approach to American muscle car performance. The Charger had an aggressive body shape that made it stand out, while the R/T had a 440-cubic-inch V8 that delivered the explosive performance that Muscle Cars are known for. The result was a car that not only looked powerful, but sounded it as well. The Charger’s appearance in the Dukes of Hazzard movies and TV shows have endeared it to audiences around the world, and has made it one of the most popular cars in the collector world.