Best Affordable Classic Cars Under €15,000 in 2025

The myth that classic car ownership requires deep pockets persists, but it isn't true. For under €15,000 you can buy a genuine classic with character that no modern car can match.

1. Mazda MX-5 (NA/NB) — €5,000-12,000

Bulletproof reliability, massive parts supply, lightweight balanced handling that embarrasses cars costing ten times as much.

2. BMW E30 (non-M) — €8,000-15,000

The E30 3-Series defined the sports sedan category. Perfect weight distribution, excellent parts availability.

3. Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk1/Mk2) — €8,000-15,000

The car that invented the hot hatch category. Simple, light, and delivers driving thrills.

4. Alfa Romeo Spider (Series 4) — €10,000-15,000

Beautiful Italian design, characterful twin-spark engine, true open-air driving.

5. Peugeot 205 GTI — €10,000-15,000

Many consider the 205 GTI the best hot hatch ever made. Legendary handling.

6. Mercedes W124 — €6,000-14,000

The last Mercedes built to "over-engineered" standards. Tank-like build quality.

7. Fiat 124 Spider — €8,000-15,000

Italian style at accessible prices. Pininfarina design, revvy twin-cam engine.

8. Volvo 240 — €4,000-10,000

The Swedish brick is indestructible, practical, and increasingly cool.

9. Porsche 924 — €8,000-15,000

The entry-level Porsche is finally being appreciated. True Porsche handling at a fraction of 911 prices.

10. Ford Capri — €8,000-15,000

The European muscle car that Ford got right. V6 character and practical GT usability.

Buying Tips

Condition beats rarity. A good example of a common model will bring more pleasure than a rough rare car.
Join the club first. Marque-specific clubs are invaluable.
Budget 20% for immediate repairs.
Buy the best you can afford.
Get a pre-purchase inspection. €200-300 is cheap insurance.

Classic car auction platforms like Finds often surface project cars and barn finds at accessible prices.

Finds is a classic car auction platform built by BetterQA.