Affordable luxury leads September’s Hagerty Vehicle Rating

If there is a new theme emerging in the September Hagerty Vehicle Rating, it might be “affordable luxury”. Very few of the models in the top 25 exceed $50,000 for typical examples, and most can be found for less than $20,000.

Leading the way, the 1963-65 Buick Riviera took September’s top spot with a 96. Bill Mitchell’s timeless design is enjoying renewed interest after being forgotten for the past few years, and prices have risen as a result – especially for the higher-horsepower GS models. The long-ignored 1969-72 Pontiac Grand Prix shows how enthusiasts are recognizing that American luxury performance cars of the 1970s provide plenty of value compared to their pure muscle cousins. Mercedes-Benz S-Class W126 models and 190 sedans in particular demonstrate how strong the appeal of affordable European luxury is.

Affordable luxury aside, Modern Classics continue leading the market with three-fifths of the top 25 and six of the top ten rated vehicles being built after 1979. Pickups and SUVs are also well represented here, with the Dodge Power Wagon (up 44 points since July), the 1961-71 International Scout (up 40 points), and the 1973-1987 GMC C/K Series pickup all joining the top 25 this month.

Falling out of the top 25 for September are the Ferrari 355 (July’s highest rated car), Porsche 944 and 993, and 1982-86 Toyota Supra.

Here is a complete look at the 25 highest rated vehicles:

The Hagerty Vehicle Rating is a 0-100 score that tracks a car’s value change compared to the entire classic-car market. A car with a rating higher than 50 means it is appreciating faster than the overall market. A score below 50 means the car is lagging. While our rating algorithm uses Hagerty’s extensive valuation database and detailed market data—we go deep and include the number of recent insurance quotes and auction sell-through rates—the usual disclaimers apply: Use this score as a guide and not an indication of future results.