Top 10 classic cars under $10,000 that are hot right now

Still built on the redesigned version of the fourth generation F-series’ platform (1961-66, redesigned in 1965), this sixth-gen carried significant improvements including front disc brakes, a roomier cab, double-walled bed, and relocated gas tank. They’re still relative bargains with median prices at $6300. In spite of increased galvanized steel use, rust remained an issue. Make sure you inspect any potential purchase thoroughly.

Not surprisingly, the Ford pickup’s arch nemesis has also seen a spike in popularity. While Chevy’s third generation light truck soldiered on for eight more years than Ford’s, there was a mid-cycle refresh in 1981. Earlier third-gens are pricier though, and if you’re interested in one of these American working heroes, find the cleanest one you can. Median values are $7400 for clean, solid drivers and both quotes and auction activity has increased recently.

Chevy’s new light truck that launched the C/K series debuted in 1960.  The C denotes a two-wheel drive pickup and a K denotes four-wheel drive. We’ve seen private sales activity increase strongly on these venerable pickups obviously indicating that people are interested. Additionally, quotes and auction sales have ticked up too. While they are more expensive than the 1973-87 Chevy trucks, they’re still available for less than $10K.

In case you couldn’t tell, classic Chevy trucks are hot and so are fully enclosed models based on them. The Blazer was an SUV before the acronym existed and the second generation is currently lighting up our phone lines via people asking for quotes and insuring their new purchase. With a median value of $8400, it’s easy to understand why there popularity is rising.

Based on the Jeep that helped the U.S. and its allies win WWII, the CJ-2A was a no-frills civilian work vehicle. A center-mounted rear view mirror was optional. Over 214,000 of these recognizable American icons were built and their popularity clearly endures. Like the Chevy Blazer, policies and quotes are increasing on this classic workhorse.

If it’s got a truck bed, it’s a truck, right? But what if the vehicle is based on a Chevy Malibu? Whatever you consider the El Camino, its fifth generation is notching increases in quoting, auction, and private sales activity. It was popular in our last round of “10 under 10,” but it seems that the GM G-body truck’s attractiveness has accelerated since. If this trend continues, finding one in decent condition under $10,000 may become difficult soon, but their median value currently sits at $8200.

Styled under Bill Mitchell and offered with a 455-cid V-8, 1974-76 Electras also had optional driver and passenger airbags. Considering the C-body’s presence, it’s amazing that these are the cheapest cars, right now, on this 10 under 10 list. Just $5900 should buy you a solid #3 condition Electra.

The sixth generation Olds 88 featured more organic styling than the previous generation, mirroring the rest of GM’s line. It also included GM’s Comfortron Air Conditioning that was previously exclusive to the Cadillac line. Comfortron was essentially climate control—you set a temperature and the car automatically maintains your setting, year round. But if power is what interests you then rest easy: The 88’s base engine was a 330-cid V-8 with options all the way up to the “Rocket 455”–a 455-cid V-8.

Although it was the F-series’ third generation, this was Ford’s first “modern” pickup truck. Following GM and Chrysler’s lead, Ford designers integrated the fenders into the cab. They went a step further though, by integrating the hood as well. In 1959, Ford brought the four-wheel drive model in-house (it was previously outsourced to Marmon-Herrington). This truck barely cracks into this list as its media valuation is $9900.

If you remember Dodge’s “Li’l Red Express” pickup then you’re familiar with this generation. Other special editions include the “Warlock,” the “Macho Power Wagon Top Hand,” and the “Midnite Express,” which was only available in 1978. While special editions are obviously more expensive, these pickups are still relatively cheap. And they are Dodge’s first pickup with an independent front suspension. Want a big-block? In 1974, you could select a 440-cid V-8, but beware that these were post-oil embargo 440 engines, which made only 255 hp net.