Classic Cars $50,000 and Up

Investment-grade and rare classics, bought for appreciation as much as for driving.

Cars in this range are typically concours-quality restorations or genuinely rare, desirable factory-optioned examples. At this level, a purchase is closer to acquiring a collectible investment than buying a car to drive daily, and the diligence involved should reflect that — professional appraisal, documented authenticity, and appropriate insurance coverage all matter more than at any other tier.

Buying Tips

• 1.Get a professional appraisal before buying — at this price point, the cost of an independent appraisal is small relative to the risk of overpaying or missing an issue.
• 2.Verify authenticity of rare factory options through documentation like broadcast sheets or factory build records, not just the seller's description.
• 3.Consider agreed-value insurance coverage rather than standard auto insurance, which typically undervalues collector cars in this range.
• 4.Factor in the cost of specialized enclosed transport and proper climate-controlled storage as part of the real cost of ownership at this level.

Listings $50,000 and Up (696)

1998 Land Rover Defender 130

125,775 mi·2.5L 300 TDI Turbocharged Diesel 4 Cylinder·4-Spd

Grand Rapids, MI

$55,900SUV

1994 Land Rover Defender 110

111,846 mi·2.5L 200 TDI 4-Cylinder·4-Spd

Grand Rapids, MI

$59,900SUV

2009 AM General Hummer Humvee M1165A1

126 mi·6.5L Turbo Diesel V8·Auto

Grand Rapids, MI

$82,900