I've always had a cursory interest in cars, but when I compare what interests me as opposed to what interests most people, it always seems drastically different, as my priorities are different. When it comes to cars, even classics, they are meant to be driven and I do not want things that I am afraid to drive. It then occurred to me that the fine people here would probably have somewhat of a different opinion than most as well. So I'm interested in what people would collect if they could.
If I could, this is what I would want:
Citroen DS- Incredibly revolutionary, and mind you safe car with fantastic ride quality and interesting and ahead of it's time tech. A lot of what is in this car makes it almost modern standard.
Any classic with a slant 6- An incredibly reliable engine, so much so that they still make parts for it. In fact, these vehicles are usually inexpensive and I believe that is partly due to the engine being so bulletproof, not allowing for there to be a thinning of the herd. A late 60s to 70s Dodge dart or Plymouth Valiant can be had with updated brakes and a lot of other goodies for less than 10k.
Volvo P1800- Aside from having the distinction of being the coolest Volvo ever made, this is as far as I understand another car that is bulletproof. The car with the record for highest mileage ever is a Volvo P1800, and that is saying something. I think it was 3 million miles? Could be wrong though.
Nissan Figaro- A classic almost not classic. Just turning 25 this year, the fig is a modern car that looks like an old car, with a fascinating production story. It was designed to look like a classic Italian car but was built on, I believe, the Nissan Micra platform of the time. Thus parts are still very readily available, it has all the conveniences and features of a new car, and there likely isn't anything more unique on the road.
I could probably have all 4 of these cars, in good working order for less than 50 k, less than many spend on 1 luxury car that looses almost all of its value. Mind boggling.
I would love to hear yours!