Let’s be honest, everyone, at some point, has gazed longingly at a classic car. There’s an undeniable allure, a visceral connection to a bygone era of pure, unadulterated driving pleasure. Whether it’s the sleek lines of a muscle car or the quirky charm of a European microcar, these machines capture our imagination like few modern vehicles can. They’re more than just transportation; they’re investments, bucket list fulfillments, and rolling pieces of history.
However, the dream of classic car ownership often comes with a chilling whisper: “costly maintenance.” It’s the spectre that haunts many an aspiring classic owner, conjuring images of rare, unobtainable parts and mechanic bills that could fund a small space program. But what if we told you that the classic car market is undergoing a seismic shift in tastes, and what was once just an old car is now a coveted collectible, with many requiring significantly less fuss than you’d imagine? We’re talking about models that are, dare we say, four times easier to maintain than their complex, computer-laden modern counterparts.
Indeed, while many might be turned away by the thought of fewer spare parts or specialized knowledge, thankfully, not all classic cars are cut from the same cloth. In fact, a surprising number of vintage beauties are incredibly simple to look after, thanks to an abundance of spare parts, straightforward engineering, and the sheer number of them that have survived the test of time. So, buckle up, because we’re about to take a deep dive into some of the coolest, most maintainable classics out there, proving that classic ownership doesn’t have to be a nightmare of wrenches and despair.
1. Plymouth Fury
When you think of iconic muscle cars, the Plymouth Fury might not be the first name that leaps to mind, and that, frankly, is a shame. This often-overlooked icon deserves far more credit than it gets for being a genuinely fun-to-drive and remarkably easy-to-maintain machine. It was a heavyweight in its time, a true American legend that, for various reasons, faded from the collective consciousness a little too quickly.
But let’s not forget its pedigree. The Fury wasn’t just another pretty face; it came with the optional Hemi V8 engine that etched Chrysler’s name into automotive history. Imagine that kind of power at your disposal, paired with lightweight driving characteristics that, at the time, few other sports cars could even hope to match. It was a potent combination of raw grunt and nimble handling, a recipe for pure driving exhilaration.
Despite Chrysler’s financial troubles eventually leading to its discontinuation, the Plymouth Fury remains one of the most iconic muscle cars you seldom hear about today. Its timeless design, coupled with its relatively simple mechanicals, made it a fantastic choice for anyone who desired something thrilling to drive but also straightforward to keep running. This blend of performance and practicality was, after all, a main component of the entire muscle car era, defining a movement towards new cars that delivered both excitement and reasonable upkeep.
Car Model Information: 1960 Plymouth Fury
Name: Plymouth Fury
Caption: 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury
Manufacturer: Plymouth (automobile)
Aka: Plymouth Sport Fury (1959, 1962–1971),Plymouth VIP (1966–1969)
Production: 1958–1978
ModelYears: 1959–1978
Assembly: bulleted list
Class: Full-size,Mid-size,Full-size,Mid-size,Full-size,Mid-size
Layout: FR layout
Predecessor: Plymouth Belvedere,Plymouth Plaza,Plymouth Savoy
Successor: Plymouth Gran Fury,Plymouth Gran Fury
Sp: us
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from December 2018, Articles with short description
Summary: The Plymouth Fury is a model of automobile that was produced by Plymouth from 1955 until 1989. It was introduced for the 1956 model year as a sub-series of the Plymouth Belvedere, becoming a separate series one level above the contemporary Belvedere for 1959. The Fury was a full-size car from 1959 until 1961, then a mid-size car from 1962 until 1964, again, a full-size car from 1965 through 1974, and again, a mid-size car from 1975 through 1978. From 1975 until 1977, the Fury was sold alongside the full-size Plymouth Gran Fury. In 1978, the B-body Fury was the largest Plymouth, and by 1979, there was no large Plymouth. This product gap was filled in 1980 with the R-body Gran Fury, followed by the M-body Fury in 1982. Production of the last V8, RWD Plymouth Fury ended at the Kenosha Main assembly plant in Kenosha, WI, on December 23, 1988. Unlike its sibling brand, Dodge, Plymouth would not live to see the resurgence of the large, V8/RWD sedan.
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Brand: Plymouth Model: Fury
Price: $75,000 Mileage: 44,509 mi.
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2. First-Generation Ford Mustang
If there’s one car that defines the American muscle car era, it’s arguably the first-generation Ford Mustang. It’s not just incredibly popular and sought after; it’s a bona fide legend, instantly recognizable with its long hood and short deck profile. From its debut, it captured the hearts of a generation and continues to be a poster child for classic American automotive cool.
But beyond its undeniable charisma, the first-generation Mustang harbors a secret that might surprise you: it’s much easier to maintain than its legendary status might suggest. This isn’t some rare, finicky beast; it’s a workhorse that benefited from Ford’s mass production prowess. Thanks to the sheer number of them produced and still around today, spare parts are not just available, they are aplenty. You’d be hard-pressed to find a classic with better parts support.
Furthermore, the Mustang’s mechanicals are, for the most part, quite simple. Under that iconic hood, you’ll find the Ford V8 engines that powered countless other vehicles, meaning established mechanics and a wealth of DIY knowledge exist for these powerplants. There really is nothing quite like a first-generation Mustang – a testament to accessible performance and straightforward, enjoyable ownership.
Car Model Information: 2014 Ford Mustang V6
Name: Ford Mustang
Caption: 2018 Ford Mustang GT 5.0
Aka: Ford T5 (Germany)
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: March 1964 – present
ModelYears: 1965–present
Class: Unbulleted list
BodyStyle: Unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Ford Mustang is an American automobile manufactured and marketed by Ford since 1964, as Ford’s longest nameplate in continuous production. Currently in its seventh generation, it is the fifth-best selling Ford car nameplate. The namesake of the “pony car” automobile segment, the Mustang was developed as a highly styled line of sporty coupes and convertibles derived from existing model lines, initially distinguished by its pronounced “long hood, short deck” proportions.
Originally predicted to sell 100,000 vehicles yearly, the 1965 Mustang became the most successful vehicle launch since the 1927 Model A. Introduced on April 17, 1964 (16 days after the Plymouth Barracuda), over 400,000 units were sold in its first year; the one-millionth Mustang was sold within two years of its launch. In August 2018, Ford produced the 10-millionth Mustang; matching the first 1965 Mustang, the vehicle was a 2019 Wimbledon White convertible with a V8 engine.
The success of the Mustang launch led to multiple competitors from other American manufacturers, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1967), AMC Javelin (1968), and Dodge Challenger (1970). It also competed with the Plymouth Barracuda, which was launched around the same time. The Mustang also had an effect on designs of coupes worldwide, leading to the marketing of the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri in the United States (the latter, by Lincoln-Mercury). The Mercury Cougar was launched in 1967 as a unique-bodied higher-trim alternative to the Mustang; during the 1970s, it included more features and was marketed as a personal luxury car.
From 1965 until 2004, the Mustang shared chassis commonality with other Ford model lines, staying rear-wheel-drive throughout its production. From 1965 to 1973, the Mustang was derived from the 1960 Ford Falcon compact. From 1974 until 1978, the Mustang (denoted Mustang II) was a longer-wheelbase version of the Ford Pinto. From 1979 until 2004, the Mustang shared its Fox platform chassis with 14 other Ford vehicles (becoming the final one to use the Fox architecture). Since 2005, the Mustang has used the D2C platform, unique to the Mustang.
Through its production, multiple nameplates have been associated with the Ford Mustang series, including GT, Mach 1, Boss 302/429, Cobra (separate from Shelby Cobra), and Bullitt, along with “5.0” fender badging (denoting 4.9 L OHV or 5.0 L DOHC V8 engines).
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Brand: Ford Model: Mustang
Price: $13,500 Mileage: 64,323 mi.
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3. Citroen 2CV
From the roaring V8s of America, we pivot sharply to the charming simplicity of France, to the little Citroen 2CV. This isn’t just one of the most iconic cars of the 20th century; it was a cultural phenomenon, a machine born out of necessity that changed the lives of millions. It might not boast brute force or sleek aerodynamics, but its impact on motoring was profound.
Originally designed with the singular purpose of mobilizing French farmers across the countryside, the 2CV delivered affordable motoring to the masses. And as you might expect from a car designed for such a practical, no-nonsense role, it was incredibly simple. Under the hood sat simple air-cooled H2 engines – a testament to its uncomplicated engineering philosophy. Its construction was basic, yes, but crucially, it was rugged, built to withstand the rigors of rural life.
The 2CV’s longevity is another key factor in its maintainability. Citroen built this utilitarian masterpiece from 1948 all the way to 1990, churning out more than 3.8 million units during its epic production run. This extensive production means a vast knowledge base, an established network of parts, and a community of enthusiasts who truly understand and cherish its straightforward design, making it an absolute joy to keep on the road.
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4. Original Fiat 500
While the modern BMW-built Mini Cooper certainly has its place in today’s automotive landscape, for many, the true spirit of the Mini lies in its predecessor, the original Moris Mini-Minor. Debuting in 1959, this car isn’t just an icon; it’s considered a definitive symbol of 1960s British pop culture, alongside The Beatles and Twiggy. It encapsulated an era of ingenuity and accessible fun.
Much like its European cousins, the Fiat 500 and Citroen 2CV, the original Mini is remarkably easy to look after. Its engineering was not just simple; it was genuinely innovative, featuring a space-saving transverse engine and front-wheel drive layout. This revolutionary configuration influenced manufacturers for years to come, setting a new standard for compact car design and efficiency. It was a little car with big ideas.
Affordability was also key to its widespread appeal. The original Mini was designed to be within reach of the average family, a compact marvel that provided practical, enjoyable transport without breaking the bank. Its mechanical straightforwardness, combined with its enduring popularity and significant production numbers, ensures that finding parts and expertise remains a relatively stress-free endeavor for enthusiasts.
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5. Original Moris Mini-Minor
While the current BMW-built Mini Cooper certainly has a place in the automotive world, for purists, the original Fiat 500 holds a special, almost mythical status. This supermini isn’t just a car; it’s one of the most recognizable vehicles of the 20th century, a tiny titan that made a monumental impact on urban mobility. When people talk about ‘the 500’, this is the one they mean.
Fiat produced the original 500 from 1957 to 1975, with an incredible output of over 3.8 million units. This sheer volume of production is a testament to its genius design and widespread appeal. Its compact size and inherent simplicity made it the perfect machine for navigating the narrow streets and bustling thoroughfares of European cities, towns, and villages. It was the quintessential city car, but with a personality all its own.
Practical enough for many families, incredibly cheap to run, and crucially, easy to maintain – the original Fiat 500 ticked all the boxes. Its inline-two engines, small but perfectly formed, provided just enough zip for urban adventures and looked fantastic doing it. This combination of charming aesthetics, mechanical straightforwardness, and plentiful availability makes it a true unsung hero for anyone seeking an easy-to-love and easy-to-live-with classic.
Car Model Information: 2013 FIAT 500 Abarth
Name: Fiat 500
Caption: 1970 Fiat 500 L
Aka: Puch 500
Manufacturer: Fiat Automobiles
Production: 1957–1975,3,893,294 units
Assembly: Turin,Desio
Designer: Dante Giacosa
Class: City car
BodyStyle: ubl
Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Doors: Suicide door,Car door#Conventional
Related: Autobianchi Bianchina,NSU/Fiat Weinsberg 500,Vignale Gamine,Autobianchi Giardiniera
Engine: Cubic centimetre,499 cc I2,594 cc I2
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: {{convert,1840,mm,in,1,abbr=on
Abbr: on
Length: 2970 mm
Width: 1320 mm
Height: 1320 mm
Weight: 499 kg
Predecessor: Fiat 500 “Topolino”
Successor: Fiat 126,Fiat 500 (2007)
Sp: uk
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Italian-language text
Summary: The Fiat 500 (Italian: Cinquecento, pronounced [ˌtʃiŋkweˈtʃɛnto]) is an economy / city car that was manufactured and marketed by Fiat Automobiles from 1957 until 1975. It was sold as a two-door semi-convertible or saloon car and as a three-door panel van or estate car.
Launched as the Nuova (new) 500 in July 1957, as a successor to the 500 “Topolino”, it was an inexpensive and practical small car. Measuring 2.97 metres (9 feet 9 inches) long, and originally powered by a rear-mounted 479 cc two-cylinder, air-cooled engine, the 500 was 24.5 centimetres (9.6 inches) smaller than Fiat’s 600, launched two years earlier, and is considered one of the first purpose-designed city cars.
In 1959, Dante Giacosa received a Compasso d’Oro industrial design prize for the Fiat 500. This marked the first time a Compasso d’Oro was awarded to an automotive manufacturer.
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Brand: FIAT Model: 500
Price: $11,995 Mileage: 35,182 mi.
6. MG MGB
If your heart yearns for a simple, easy-to-maintain, and quintessentially British sports car, then allow us to point you directly towards the magnificent MG MGB. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a nod to the golden age of open-top motoring, and a machine that embodies the very spirit of British roadsters. It’s gorgeous, engaging, and delightfully unfussy.
The MGB is, in every sense, a beautiful little sports car. Early versions, in particular, stand out with their gleaming chrome trimmings and bumpers, exuding an air of understated elegance and classic charm. It’s the kind of car that makes you want to don a scarf, put on some driving gloves, and hit the winding country roads, regardless of the destination. It’s about the journey, not just the arrival.
Under the bonnet, a dependable 1.8-liter B-Series inline-four engine provided more than enough grunt for the MGB, especially considering its featherlight construction. This engine is well-understood, widely supported, and famously robust, contributing significantly to the car’s ease of maintenance. Few cars can rival the MGB when it comes to delivering a pure, unadulterated fun factor for the money, making it an enduring favorite for enthusiasts who value driving pleasure and sensible upkeep.
Car Model Information: 1977 MG MGB Roadster
Name: MGB
Caption: 1969 MGB roadster – rollover bar non-standard
Layout: FR layout
Manufacturer: British Motor Corporation,British Leyland,Rover Group
Production: 1962–1980 (original),1992–1995 (MG RV8)
Predecessor: MG MGA
Successor: MG F / MG TF
Class: Sports car
Assembly: Abingdon, Oxfordshire,Enfield, New South Wales,Cowley, Oxford
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles lacking reliable references
Summary: The MGB is a two-door sports car manufactured and marketed from 1962 until 1980 by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), later the Austin-Morris division of British Leyland, as a four-cylinder, soft-top sports car sold under the MG marque. It was announced and its details first published on 19 September 1962. Variants include the MGB GT three-door 2+2 coupé (1965–1980), the six-cylinder sports car and coupé MGC (1967–1969), and the eight-cylinder 2+2 coupé, the MGB GT V8 (1973–1976).
Replacing the MGA in 1962, production of the MGB and its variants continued until 1980, though fixed roof GT models ceased export to the US in 1974. Sales for the MGB, MGC and MGB GT V8 combined totaled 523,836 cars. After a 12-year hiatus, the MGB re-entered production as the heavily modified MG RV8 with a limited run of 2,000 cars before its final replacement in 1995 by the MG F.
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Brand: MG Model: MGB
Price: $14,999 Mileage: 70,789 mi.
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7. Fiat Multipla
Now, calling the Fiat Multipla a ‘classic’ might, at first glance, feel like a bit of a stretch for some purists. Its undeniably unique, almost polarizing, design saw it come in for its fair share of criticism in the early 2000s. But automotive history has a funny way of elevating the quirky and the unconventional, and the Multipla is undoubtedly on its way to becoming a cherished classic, thanks to its distinctive aesthetics and truly spacious interior.
Beneath that unconventional exterior lies an excellent machine, a marvel of packaging and practicality. The Multipla famously features two rows of three seats, comfortably accommodating six people – a feat of interior design that few vehicles can match, especially in its class. The expansive windows flood the cabin with natural light, ensuring the interior feels light, airy, and anything but claustrophobic, despite its compact footprint.
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Crucially for our discussion, the various inline-four engines – both naturally aspirated petrol and diesel options – were known for their economy and robust nature. While the context doesn’t explicitly state it’s ‘easy to maintain’ in the same breath as some others, its inherent simplicity, practical design, and the established nature of its powertrains within Fiat’s broader lineup strongly imply a straightforward ownership experience, especially as it garners more classic appeal. It’s a classic for those who dare to be different, and who appreciate clever engineering over conventional beauty.
