The classic muscle car market has skyrocketed, with some models now worth millions of dollars. Rare and highly desirable vehicles, like the 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 or the 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6, are out of reach for most enthusiasts. As these iconic cars climb in value, collectors are seeking alternative classics that remain undervalued but are expected to appreciate significantly. The demand for muscle cars is stronger than ever, and certain models that are relatively affordable today could become highly sought-after investments in the near future.
This article explores a list of muscle cars, both recent and classic, that are poised to increase in value. Using data from trusted sources like Hagerty, Mecum, and Classic.com, these vehicles range from the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 to the 1968 Dodge Dart GTS. Each car has unique attributes and is poised for a surge in demand as collectors recognize their potential.
1. 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
The 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 marks the end of an era for this iconic pony car. As the last year for the Camaro, this model carries significant collector value. With a 650-horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, the ZL1 is a powerhouse of performance. Additionally, a six-speed manual transmission and convertible options make it even more desirable. Limited special editions, like the ZL1 Special Edition and Garage 56 Edition, add rarity to its appeal. As production ends, demand for this final Camaro model is expected to rise, making it a solid investment for future buyers.
The ZL1’s value is expected to increase due to its limited availability and historical significance. With only 350 units of the Special Edition and 56 units of the Garage 56 Edition, these models are bound to become highly collectible. Even the standard ZL1 will likely see a jump in value as enthusiasts look to own a piece of Camaro history. This final release is poised to become a cherished icon for muscle car lovers, and it may soon be considered one of the great classics.
2. 2023 Last Call Dodge Challenger and Charger
Dodge’s 2023 “Last Call” series represents the final V8-powered Challenger and Charger models, making them a unique collector’s item. With the brand shifting toward electric vehicles, these “Last Call” cars commemorate the end of an era for Mopar muscle. Limited production models, such as the Challenger Shakedown and Charger Super Bee, feature powerful 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engines, while the Challenger SRT Demon 170 offers a jaw-dropping 1,025 horsepower. These vehicles are already fetching high prices, and their value is expected to increase as collectors seek the last of the traditional muscle cars.
The rarity of these models is also a contributing factor to their anticipated rise in value. With limited production runs—some as low as 300 units—these vehicles are highly sought after by collectors. As time passes and fewer remain in pristine condition, the demand for the 2023 Challenger and Charger will only grow. These cars, which represent the pinnacle of muscle car performance, are sure to become some of the most valuable Mopar models in history.
3. 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
The 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is one of the most powerful and fastest Mustangs ever produced, yet it remains relatively undervalued in the classic muscle car market. Equipped with a 662-horsepower 5.8-liter supercharged V8, the GT500 can reach 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Despite its incredible performance, prices for this rare muscle car are still low, with some examples selling for as little as $35,000. Given its impressive specs and relatively low production numbers—only 4,885 units—this model is expected to appreciate significantly as collectors recognize its true worth.
This underappreciation presents an opportunity for buyers to acquire a powerful piece of Ford’s history before prices escalate. As the demand for classic Mustangs increases and fewer original GT500s remain in top condition, the value of these vehicles will likely surge. The 2013 Shelby GT500 is a high-performance muscle car that is still flying under the radar, making it an excellent candidate for future investment.
4. 1989 Pontiac Trans Am 20th Anniversary
The 1989 Pontiac Trans Am 20th Anniversary edition is another muscle car that is currently undervalued despite its high-performance pedigree. This limited-edition model features a turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 engine, capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Despite its impressive specs, this Trans Am is often overlooked in favor of V8-powered models, making it an excellent candidate for future value appreciation. With only 1,555 units produced, the Trans Am 20th Anniversary is a rare gem that is poised to increase in value as collectors recognize its performance and rarity.
The 1989 Trans Am represents a unique combination of performance and rarity, making it a sleeper car in the muscle car world. As the market for classic Pontiac models grows, especially for rare editions like this one, the value of the 20th Anniversary Trans Am will likely rise. Its turbocharged V6 engine offers a distinctive driving experience, and with time, it will likely become a sought-after collector’s item.
5. 1970 Chevrolet Nova SS
The 1970 Chevrolet Nova SS is often overshadowed by other muscle cars from the era, like the Chevrolet Chevelle SS, but it is just as aggressive and capable. Equipped with a 396ci V8 engine, the Nova SS produced 375 horsepower and could complete a quarter-mile in just 14.2 seconds. Its compact size and powerful engine make it an underappreciated classic, and prices for well-maintained models remain relatively affordable compared to other muscle cars from the same period. This makes it a prime candidate for price appreciation as collectors begin to recognize its value.
The Nova SS’s performance, rarity, and growing popularity among restorers make it a sleeper investment. With prices ranging from $11,000 to $75,000, this muscle car offers great value compared to other high-performance classics. As demand for these underrated classics increases, the 1970 Chevrolet Nova SS is likely to become a sought-after vehicle, and prices will follow suit.
6. 1971 Pontiac Lemans GT-37
The 1971 Pontiac Lemans GT-37 is often overshadowed by its more famous sibling, the GTO, but it offers similar performance at a more affordable price. Equipped with the 455ci V8 engine, the GT-37 produced impressive power and was marketed as an affordable performance car for younger buyers. With only 1,000 units produced, this rare muscle car is an excellent candidate for future value growth. The GT-37 is often overlooked by collectors, but as demand for classic muscle cars increases, this model’s rarity and performance will make it a sought-after investment.
The GT-37 shares much of its mechanical components with the GTO, but its lower price tag has kept it relatively affordable in the market. With production numbers so low, the GT-37 is poised to become a collectible model as more people recognize its value. As classic muscle car prices rise, the 1971 Pontiac Lemans GT-37 will undoubtedly see its value increase, making it an excellent option for collectors looking for an affordable entry into the world of classic muscle.
7. 1970 AMC Javelin SST
The 1970 AMC Javelin SST often gets overshadowed by more famous muscle cars from Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge. Yet, this model stands out with its bold styling and powerful 390ci V8 engine delivering 325 horsepower, making it a fierce competitor in the muscle car market. Despite its strong performance and rarity, the Javelin SST remains relatively affordable, presenting an opportunity for savvy collectors. With only 26,866 Javelins built in 1970, the SST is a rare find that has the potential for significant appreciation in the future.
The Javelin SST’s rarity, combined with its high-performance engine and striking design, makes it an ideal candidate for future value growth. As collectors begin to recognize its potential, the price of this undervalued muscle car is likely to rise. Those who secure a well-maintained 1970 Javelin SST today could see a significant return on their investment in the future.
8. 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator
The 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator is often overshadowed by its more famous cousin, the Ford Mustang, but it was every bit as capable and stylish. Equipped with the 428 Cobra-Jet V8 engine, the Cougar Eliminator was a true muscle car that could go toe-to-toe with the Mustang. Despite its performance, the Cougar Eliminator has not received the same level of attention from collectors, making it an affordable yet rare option for those looking to invest in classic muscle cars. With only 2,250 units produced, this model is poised to become a highly collectible vehicle in the future.
The rarity of the Cougar Eliminator, along with its remarkable performance and distinctive styling, makes it a hidden treasure among classic muscle cars. As more collectors recognize its value, the prices for this model are likely to increase substantially. The 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator is a promising investment, and those who acquire one now may see a substantial return in the future.
9. 1969 Plymouth Barracuda
The 1969 Plymouth Barracuda is often overlooked in favor of the more famous Hemi-powered models from the same era, but it is an outstanding muscle car in its own right. Equipped with the 440ci V8 engine, the Barracuda could compete with the best of them in terms of performance. Despite its impressive specs, the 1969 Barracuda remains relatively affordable compared to other muscle cars from the same era, making it a hidden gem in the classic car market. As collectors begin to realize the value of this vehicle, prices are expected to increase significantly.
The second-generation Barracuda (1967-1969) represents an excellent value for collectors looking to invest in classic muscle cars. The 440-equipped models are particularly undervalued, and their performance is on par with the more famous Hemi-powered cars. With fewer examples remaining in top condition, the 1969 Plymouth Barracuda is likely to see a significant rise in value in the coming years, making it an excellent investment opportunity for muscle car enthusiasts.
10. 1968 Dodge Dart GTS
The 1968 Dodge Dart GTS is a smaller, more affordable alternative to the larger and more expensive Mopar muscle cars like the Dodge Charger. Equipped with a 440ci V8 engine, the Dart GTS offers impressive performance at a fraction of the price of its larger counterparts. With aggressive styling and a high-performance engine, the Dart GTS is a hidden gem in the Mopar lineup. As the demand for classic muscle cars increases, the value of the 1968 Dart GTS is expected to rise, making it a great investment for collectors.
The 1968 Dart GTS combines the performance and style of a classic muscle car with the affordability of a smaller model. As Mopar muscle cars continue to grow in value, the Dart GTS will likely see its price increase as well. Collectors looking for a performance-packed, affordable entry into the world of muscle cars should consider the 1968 Dodge Dart GTS, as it is an undervalued classic with a bright future.
The classic muscle car market is evolving rapidly, with certain models poised to see significant increases in value. While some iconic cars like the 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 and 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6 are already out of reach for many, there are still hidden gems that offer great investment potential. Models like the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, and 1968 Dodge Dart GTS are all poised to appreciate in value as collectors take notice of their rarity and performance. By investing in these undervalued classics, enthusiasts can secure a piece of automotive history before prices soar.
