15 Classic GM Cars Still Commanding Value in Today’s Market
General Motors played a crucial part in the growth of the American automobile industry, and it’s interesting to note that some of their earlier models still have great value today. This is a list of classic GM cars that are highly sought after by collectors and their current estimated value. Please note that these vintage models are at least 25 years old.
1967 Chevy Corvette L88 Coupe
Excellent Condition: $162,000
It’s appropriate to start with one of GM’s rarest and most expensive vehicles, which many regard as the “Holy Grail” of all Corvettes. The 1967 Chevy Corvette L88S Coupe sold for $3.85 million at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction in 2014. Likewise, two other convertibles went for over $3 million each. You can’t expect any less with their monstrous 427 cubic inch V8 engines generating 430 HP on paper and up to 560 HP at third-party testing.
1971 Chevy Chevelle SS
Excellent Condition: $57,000
When the Super Sport (SS) trim first appeared in 1965, it made such a blast that Chevy gave it its line the following year, lasting until 1973. While earlier Chevelles had a 283 CID V8 producing a supposedly weak 220 HP, the SS used a mighty L79 350hp V8, making it a legend in that era and one of the few muscle cars with big block engines.
1964 Pontiac GTO
Excellent Condition: $58,000
Technically, the 1964 GTO wasn’t a standalone model but an optional upgrade on the Pontiac Tempest LeMans. Its powerful 389 cubic inch V8 engine set the stage for a new era of high-performance cars with an optional Tri-Power V8 (with 348 HP). The Pontiac made this list because of special GTO badges, dual hood scoops, a distinct grille, and bucket seats for drivers wanting power and style.
1957 Chevy Bel Air
Excellent Condition: About $100,000
When the Bel Air appeared as a two-door hardtop and convertible model in the Deluxe line, many used them to represent the American dream. Besides looks, this ’57 Chevy had an optional two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission and several engine options, including a 250 HP V8. The designers succeeded in creating an unusual combination of style and power, making celebrities and superstars rush to get a Bel Air.
1967 Chevy Camaro
Excellent Condition: $61,470
GM released the legendary Chevrolet Camaro in 1967 to compete with the Ford Mustang, building it from parts and pieces of Chevy II and Chevelle models. It had a sporty design with a long hood, a short deck, and a comfortable 2+2 seating arrangement. Buyers could customize the car with various paint colors, interiors, engines, and performance upgrades based on their preferences. Models like the Z/28, a two-time Trans-Am champion, are rarer classic Camaros that could cost more.
1966 Pontiac GTO
Excellent Condition: $66,500
While the 1964 and 1965 models were optional packages on the Pontiac Lemans, the GTO became separate from 1966 to 1971. Many automobile analysts believe its arrival started the “muscle car wars” between American automakers. The competition to beat its 389 cu-in V8 engine rated with 360 HP reportedly inspired a new era of cars designed for horsepower.
1969 Pontiac Tempest Custom S
Excellent Condition: $22,300
Although the 1969 Tempest Custom S was a unique one-year wonder in Pontiac’s lineup, it successfully bridged the gap between the budget-oriented Tempest and the upscale LeMans. It achieved classic status because it had features that allowed Americans to enjoy luxury without shelling out big bucks. Its short production run makes it rare and valuable for car collectors today.
1971 Chevrolet El Camino SS
Excellent Condition: $30,100
Despite the aggressive speed of the compact Nova SS 396, it was nothing like this half-breed vehicle. The 1971 Chevrolet El Camino SS was a powerful machine that combined the coupe’s style with a pickup truck’s function and a muscle car’s performance. Its 454 cubic inch V8 engine could handle weekend getaways, everyday errands, and off-road adventures.
1971 Chevrolet Kingswood
Excellent Condition: $15,100
The 1970s were a golden age for station wagons, and the Kingswood was a prime example. It had enough cargo space behind the rear seats for families or people who enjoyed road trips and outdoor adventures. Besides the base trim, Chevrolet added the mid-range Kingswood Custom and the luxurious Kingswood Estate to serve a broader market. Also, buyers could choose economical V6s or powerful V8s, depending on their needs.
1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme
Excellent Condition: $30,000
The Cutlass Supreme was the premium model in the Oldsmobile Cutlass lineup. It had a distinct design with a longer hood and a more formal roofline than its base counterpart; it also had a 455 cubic inch V8 engine to complement its elegant look. Thanks to its chrome accents, luxurious grille, and upscale badging, it is considered a vintage classic today.
1972 Holden HQ Monaro GTS 350
Excellent Condition: $100,000
Since Holden was one of GM’s brands in Australia, it was less common in America; however, it has designed several powerful muscle cars over the decades. Unlike earlier Monaros with Holden engines, the GTS 350 broke tradition with an insane 275 JP Chevrolet 350 cubic inch V8 engine. It also has a performance-tuned suspension and four-speed manual transmission with heavy-duty brakes for precise control on winding roads.
1973 Chevrolet Chevelle Laguna
Excellent Condition: $11,400
Chevy had high hopes for the 1973 Chevrolet Chevelle Laguna and would’ve made huge sales if they released it at a different time. It emerged during the Malaise Era, from the early 70s to the mid-80s, when attempts to adopt fuel efficiency based on demands caused a general unease in the auto industry. Although this model was the final production year of this iconic nameplate, it maintained its style and became a classic.
1975 Buick LeSabre Custom Convertible
Excellent Condition: $24,500
By 1975, American car designs were starting to shrink due to the oil crisis of the early 70s. However, the LeSabre Custom Convertible retained a sense of grandeur compared to other smaller cars. It looked sophisticated with the distinctive Buick design and convertible top, especially when the top was down. It had various engine options, including the 205 HP Buick 455 cubic inch V8 for those who wanted more power.
1988 Pontiac Fiero GT
Excellent Condition: $19,600
The 1988 Pontiac Fiero GT was the last of a unique sports car line. It marked the end of Fiero’s run but also went out with a bang. Unlike most American vehicles, the Fiero GT placed its engine in the middle, behind the driver and passenger seats. The designers chose this style for balanced weight distribution and improved handling. It had a decent 2.8-liter V6 engine with 135 HP at 4,500 rp and an optional five-speed manual transmission.
1996 Chevrolet Impala SS
Excellent Condition: $27,500
In 1967, Chevrolet revived the legendary nameplate by putting the muscle car spirit in a full-sized sedan. Despite its large frame, its powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine pumped out 260 HP, surprising unsuspecting competitors on the road. Thankfully, the carmaker added four-wheel disc brakes to match the car’s acceleration.