Instead of allocating $20,000 or less toward a winter-ready SUV or a convertible for summer fun, consider opting for one of the luxury sedans listed below.
These former flagship models offer a guaranteed dose of nostalgia—from their retro exterior aesthetics to their comfort-centric interiors, complete with thick carpeting and once top-tier features like a built-in telephone.
A well-maintained older luxury sedan can still deliver an exceptional driving experience, offering months or even years of smooth, nostalgic motoring.
These often-overlooked luxury vehicles were trailblazers in their time, introducing features that have since become standard in modern high-end cars.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and see how much these classic luxury sedans cost today, after weathering decades of depreciation.
Specifications, performance details, and related information are provided by the manufacturers.
10. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Years Produced: 1992–1999
Average Value: $21,100 (1994 Mercedes-Benz S500)
Offered as both a sedan and a coupe, the W140-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents a peak in the brand’s reputation for durability and refinement.
While the mid-range W124 became widely known for its reliability—often serving as taxis in various countries and enduring hundreds of thousands of miles—the W140, built during the later years of the W124’s production, was positioned at a higher tier.
As an S-Class, it came loaded with more features—though that also meant more things that could potentially go wrong. Still, the W140 compensates with its serene ride quality and high level of comfort.
When fully operational, the W140 offers a suite of nostalgic luxury features: dual-zone climate control, 12-way power/heated/memory seats, acoustic glass, heated mirrors, soft-close doors, and even an early version of adaptive suspension.
A variety of engines were offered with this rear-wheel-drive platform, starting from a 2.8-liter inline-six and topping out with a 6.0-liter V12 that produced up to 402 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. Other available options included multiple V8s and, in some markets, turbodiesel engines.
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9. Cadillac Seville
Years Produced: 1992–1997
Average Value: $4,500 (1992 model)
Cadillac’s fourth-generation Seville launched for the 1992 model year with a full redesign, offering both a luxury-oriented SLS trim and a performance-focused STS “touring” trim.
Initially, both variants were powered by Cadillac’s 4.9-liter V8, but they soon adopted the 4.6-liter Northstar V8, which delivered up to 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque depending on the year and version.
Despite its front-wheel-drive layout and four-speed automatic transmission, the Seville remained a large, weighty sedan focused on comfort and high-end features.
The STS model stood out with its active suspension and perforated leather upholstery. Both trims came well-equipped, offering conveniences such as climate control, automatic headlights, cruise control, and memory settings for the seats.
8. Volkswagen Phaeton
Dates Produced: 2004–2006
Average Value: $14,700 (2004–2006)
The Volkswagen Phaeton was developed with a clear mission: to go head-to-head with the likes of Mercedes-Benz and BMW in the high-end luxury sedan market.
A bold attempt to elevate the Volkswagen brand into more premium territory, its design—though visually similar to the more common Passat—was the result of meticulous planning. Underneath, it shared a modified Bentley platform, giving it serious luxury credentials.
The Phaeton offered a wide array of powertrains, from V6 and V8 options to an imposing 6.0-liter W12 engine. Despite the engine’s unusual configuration and cylinder count, it produced up to 444 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque.
All Phaetons came with all-wheel drive and boasted forward-thinking features such as adaptive air suspension, four-zone climate control, and adaptive cruise control.
While the model was available globally from 2003 to 2016, it was only sold in the U.S. market between 2004 and 2006.
Today, depreciation has hit the Phaeton hard—especially the W12 models—largely due to the perception (and reality) of potentially high maintenance and repair costs.
While these practical four-door sports cars may have fallen out of favor in the age of electrification, no enthusiast can ignore the rumble of a V-8.
7. BMW 6 Series
Dates Produced: 1977–1989
Average Value: $20,300 (BMW 635CSi)
The E24 was the first generation of the BMW 6 Series, debuting in 1977. Today, it stands as a symbol of classic BMW design, with a distinctive exterior featuring a forward-slanting kidney grille and an elongated hood.
Sold exclusively as a two-door coupe, the E24 was available with a variety of inline six-cylinder engines and offered in both manual and automatic configurations, all sending power to the rear wheels.
In the U.S., the 6 Series initially launched as the 3.0-liter 630CSi, which was soon replaced by the 3.2-liter 633CSi. Later came the 635CSi, powered by a 3.4-liter engine delivering up to 208 horsepower.
Among the standout versions was the U.S.-spec M6, equipped with a 3.5-liter S38 engine that pushed out 256 horsepower. In other markets, the more potent M635CSi produced a robust 286 horsepower.
Regardless of the version, the E24 remains a head-turner to this day—legendary actor Sean Connery even owned one. Performance-wise, the E24 BMW M6 could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds, which is still impressive by modern standards.
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6. Cadillac Fleetwood
Dates Produced: 1993–1996
Average Value: $6,600 (1993)
The Fleetwood name has historically been associated with Cadillac’s highest trim levels, and this D-Body generation sedan is a true luxury cruiser worthy of the badge.
Despite its low average value at auction, the Fleetwood represents a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking for a smooth, comfortable ride that delivers a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of American motoring.
Many units of this long, traditional three-box sedan were even stretched into limousines. While its predecessor utilized front-wheel drive, this generation returned to classic rear-wheel drive architecture.
Power comes from a straightforward 5.7-liter V8 producing around 185 horsepower. With its extended body and partially skirted rear wheels, the Fleetwood makes a strong visual statement—though maneuvering it in tight parking lots can be a challenge.
The car came with an impressive list of features for its time, including speed-sensitive power steering, electronic level control, traction control, automatic climate control, heated and power-adjustable front seats, and more.
Beat the Monday morning traffic in absolute comfort, nestled inside your very own rolling time capsule.
5. Buick Park Avenue
Dates Produced: 1991–2005
Average Value: $8,900 (’91–’05)
Originally a trim level within the Electra lineup, the Park Avenue became a standalone model in 1991. It was a front-wheel-drive luxury sedan equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission and built on GM’s C-Body platform.
Serving as Buick’s flagship during its run, the Park Avenue featured the understated styling typical of the era but backed it up with solid performance.
To enhance driving dynamics, Buick offered a supercharged version of its 3.8-liter V6 engine, bumping output from approximately 170 horsepower to as much as 240 horsepower.
The Park Avenue went through two primary generations: the first from 1991 to 1996, and the second from 1997 to 2005.
Like many luxury vehicles of its time, it came outfitted with amenities such as memory seats and climate control. The sedan also earned praise for its smooth ride, thanks in part to its air suspension system and self-leveling technology.
While the Park Avenue may not have the flash of some of its European or Japanese contemporaries, it still holds value today as a budget-friendly, comfortable cruiser.
4. Chevrolet Caprice
Dates Produced: 1991–1996
Average Value: $7,900 (’91 sedan 305-ci)
Another large and budget-friendly GM sedan, the Chevrolet Caprice lasted through four generations before being discontinued in 1996.
The final generation was built on the rear-wheel-drive B-Body platform, which it shared with the Buick Roadmaster. A 4.3-liter V8 served as the base engine, with several other powertrain options available depending on trim and year.
The most enticing version came equipped with a detuned LT1 V8 borrowed from the Chevrolet Corvette C4, putting out around 260 horsepower—down from the 300 horsepower it made in the ‘Vette.
Caprices were also sold in station wagon form, and even those lacking the Corvette-sourced engine still offer generous interior space, a smooth ride, and plenty of comfort. Like many sedans from the 1990s, an automatic transmission was standard equipment.
Later, the Caprice nameplate was revived for law enforcement use in the form of the imported Caprice PPV (Police Pursuit Vehicle), which was based on the Australian Holden Caprice platform.
3. Ford Crown Victoria
Dates Produced: 1992–2012
Average Value: $12,000
The Ford Crown Victoria—better known as the “Crown Vic”—is another legendary full-size sedan, widely recognized as Ford’s largest sedan of the time.
It’s perhaps most famous for its years of service as a police cruiser and a yellow taxi, earning a reputation for durability and dependability.
But there’s more to appreciate about the Crown Vic, such as its cavernous cabin, reliable Ford modular V8 engine, and plush, comfortable ride.
The Crown Vic was produced across two main generations: from 1992 to 1997, and from 1998 until its production ceased in 2012.
Retail sales ended in 2008, but the car continued to serve in fleet roles for years after. It featured a traditional body-on-frame construction, rear-wheel drive, a four-speed automatic transmission, and a workhorse 4.6-liter V8 engine.
Available options included an automatic-dimming rearview mirror, automatic climate control, keyless entry, and one-touch power windows.
Beyond features, the Vic’s spacious trunk, soft suspension, and quintessential 1990s styling continue to make it a favorite among enthusiasts of classic American sedans.
2. Lincoln Town Car
Dates Produced: 1990–1997
Average Value: $5,400 (’94 Executive)
Sharing its Panther platform with the Ford Crown Victoria, the Lincoln Town Car stands tall as another iconic luxury sedan from the 1990s.
If it somehow needs an introduction, this second-generation model was produced between 1990 and 1997, before continuing into a final third generation that lasted until 2011.
Much like others in its segment, the Town Car proved popular as a limousine conversion, reinforcing its status as a go-to for comfort and prestige. After its initial model year, Lincoln updated the powertrain to include the modular V8, also found in the Crown Vic.
That engine produced up to 210 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. Slide into the cabin and you’re greeted with a classic wood grain dashboard and seats that feel more like armchairs than automotive fixtures.
The Town Car didn’t skimp on features either; options like heated mirrors, power-adjustable seating, automatic climate control, and speed-sensitive power steering ensured that drivers and passengers alike were treated to a refined ride.
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1. Audi A8
Dates Produced: 1997–2002
Average Value: $10,600
Audi’s flagship A8 sedan has seen four generations, with the first—known internally as the D2—making its debut in 1995.
However, the U.S. market officially got its first taste of the A8 in 1997. Built on an all-new platform, the A8 was engineered with a strong focus on weight reduction, featuring extensive use of aluminum in its construction.
Much like the Volkswagen Phaeton mentioned earlier, the A8 was offered with a selection of engines, including V6s, V8s, turbodiesels, and even a 6.0-liter W12.
Buyers could opt for a standard or long-wheelbase version, both of which were loaded with luxury features such as 14-way heated and powered seats, automatic climate control, and Audi’s renowned all-wheel drive system, making the A8 a formidable performer in all seasons.
But if you preferred to take the wheel rather than ride in the back, the S8 performance variant offered the best of both worlds. With its upgraded suspension and a 355-horsepower 4.2-liter V8, the S8 turned the big luxury barge into a genuine driver’s car.
Considering that the W12 version only made 414 horsepower, the S8 is a tempting choice—and Classic.com notes that its average auction price is only around $2,000 more.