12 Classic Sports Cars That Are Suspiciously Cheap

A low price tag might seem like a steal, right? Only sometimes. We don’t sweat buying used furniture or last year’s clothes – you might even score a great deal. But with cars, primarily classic sports cars, it is a different story. 

A cheap price with timeless beauties is a strong red flag that something might be wrong. We will uncover 12 such supposedly “cheap” classic sports cars that are likely hiding big problems—problems that could turn your dream ride into a money pit.

C4 Corvette ZR-1

Despite being the most expensive Corvette ever at the time, you can now find a C4 ZR1 for as low as $12000. The reason may be that the car design looks very similar to the base version. Unless you’re a Corvette enthusiast, it’s hard to tell the difference between the two. 

Another reason is the introduction of the LT-1 engine in the base Corvettes around the same time. While not quite as powerful as the ZR-1, it offered significant performance improvements at a much lower price point, making the already expensive ZR-1 a tough sell. 

BMW M3 (E30)

These BMWs from the 1980s and 90s were famous for their sharp handling and thrilling performance. However, unlike some classics that skyrocket in price, the E30 remains relatively cheap. 

This sounds strange, considering its iconic status and stellar performance, but the expensive maintenance and non-exclusivity make it suspiciously affordable. 

Keeping E30 running can cost a fortune, with some repairs being tricky and parts hard to find. Besides, BMW built a ton of these cars, meaning there are more out there to go around. 

MG MGB

MGB is an undeniably charming classic sports car with an average price of $21,000. However, this seemingly affordable beauty comes with a gamble. These British sports cars were built when rust-proofing wasn’t a high priority, making MGBs prone to rust and corrosion. 

It means you need to factor in the cost of rust repair or replacement panels when considering an MGB’s price tag. Moreover, these sleek sports cars are often associated with quirky electrical issues, which can range from minor annoyances to leaving you stranded on the road waiting for a towing facility. 

Alfa Romeo Spider

Romeo Spiders are known for their sporty performance and gorgeous Italian design. They were produced for over three decades, from 1966 to 1994, which means there are many of them. This abundance can drive the price down compared to other vintage sports cars. 

However, the actual reason they might be so cheap, with an average price of $17,800, is that they are demanding. Alfa Romeos have a reputation for requiring more maintenance and repairs compared to some other cars of their class and era. So, while you may get a great deal upfront, you’ll be spending more on keeping it running smoothly.

Aston Martin DB7

The Aston Martin DB7 might look like a dream come true with its stunning curves and Italian-inspired interior, all for an affordable price tag of around $47,000 (on average). 

However, there’s a reason it seems too good to be true. The DB7 is notorious for its high maintenance costs, which may be due to the fact that the company borrowed body parts from Ford and Mazda during production. 

These cost-cutting measures resulted in a car that may not handle as impressively as expected and comes with a laundry list of problems. Over the years, many owners have reported issues with steering, leaks, vibrations, and frequent trips to mechanics, and you’ll be no exception. 

Maserati Biturbo 

The Biturbo might tempt you with its Italian pedigree, twin-turbo performance, and average price of around $12,000. But you have to beware. It is notoriously popular for being a money pit, with potential issues including electrical gremlins, rust, and a thirst for gas. 

Sure, parts are easily available, but they come with a hefty price tag. Mechanics have labeled it one of “the least reliable cars ever made” and “the worst cars of all time.” So, while owning a classic Maserati Biturbo may sound like a deal, the potential repairs could cost you an arm and a leg. 

Triumph TR7

This budget-friendly ($8,000 average price) sports car suffers from a rough past. Built during the company’s financial woes, the TR7’s development was cut short, leading to a weak engine and poor build quality. 

While the sleek looks might catch your eye, the sluggish performance and potential repair headaches will leave you wishing you would pay for a more reliable Triumph like the TR6 or even the pricier V8-powered TR8. 

Ferrari Mondial 

This Ferrari is considered a dud when compared to its siblings. The reason is its not-so-powerful V8 engine. The Mondial’s engine had Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, which resulted in sluggish performance. 

Then there’s a build quality. The sports car has been criticized for its clunky bumpers, which do not reflect true Ferrari elegance. But the worst part might be the reliability. 

Ferrari Mondial is known for needing constant upkeep, from electrical shortcomings to transmission issues and even engine fires. So, the dollars you’d shell out for these repairs could get you a much better Ferrari, such as Daytona or the even-popular Testarossa. 

Jensen Healey

The Jensen Healey is a true British sports car. Enthusiasts loved its agile handling, aerodynamic body, and exhilarating performance on various racetracks. But it’s still on our list. 

While you can get a hands-on Healey for just $11,000 on average, you may have to spend double or triple that on mechanic shops. These cars are notorious for rusting everywhere. 

Furthermore, the Lotus engine, while desirable, is finicky. It requires frequent oil changes and can be at risk of major repairs if a belt breaks. 

The electrical system is another weak spot. So, while the Jensen Healey looks excellent and has a fun driving experience at a fraction of the cost, the associated potential repair bills make it a risky purchase.

Porsche 968 Cabriolet

The Porsche 968, particularly the Cabriolet version, tempts enthusiasts with a drop-top driving experience wrapped in classic Porsche style. But unlike its siblings, the 968’s price tag seems too good to be true. 

It’s because the 968 features a front-mounted four-cylinder engine, repelling some traditionalists who are used to seeing rear-engine Porsches. Besides the engine layout, the Cabriolet is overshadowed by its more practical counterpart, the “coupe,” and thus lacks the appeal of its family members, such as the legendary 911. However, it does give you a chance to own a slice of Porsche prestige for less. 

Lotus Elan M100

Launched in the late ’80s, the Elan M100 was designed by the same guy who brought us the iconic McLaren F1. It featured a lightweight body, an impressive JDM engine (both naturally aspirated and turbocharged), and a responsive driving experience for a front-wheel-drive car.

Moreover, it’s a convertible, letting you enjoy the cool breeze while cruising down the highway on summer nights. So, what’s the catch? Why is this beauty so cheap today, with a price tag of $17,000 or less for a well-maintained model?

Well, we’ll blame the design. A scaling error resulted in misaligned wheels and an awkward stance – not exactly a head-turner. Then there’s the interior. While boasting modern features, the cabin was clad in cheap plastic, a far cry from the luxurious feel of its siblings. 

Jaguar XJS V12

This British sports tourer boasts a powerful V12 engine and a luxurious interior, all for a fraction of the price of its competitors. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, there’s a risk (or two or three). 

With an average price of $14,000, this classic ownership is a gamble. It whispers a luxury ride, but under the hood lies a hub of electrical problems and overheating issues. The infamous “Meralli failure” can literally torch your car. Moreover, these Jaguars are rust magnets. The pristine examples are rare, and repairs can bankrupt you, making this drop-dead Jaguar a nightmare.