Welcome to our second issue. There have been many forces, mostly economic, effecting our hobby. With the "Big Three" on the verge of bankruptcy, and an economic climate that can be described as less than euphoric, we have seen changes in the prices of both new cars and existing classic collector cars.

While prices of early muscle cars ('64-'67), down about 20% from their peak in 2006, and later muscle cars ('67-'72) down about 30% over the same period, interestingly, certain collector cars are holding their value, such as 50's cars, or postwar cars ('49-'54). Others, such as Hemi Mopars are almost in lockstep with the stock market, down about 45%.

Certain sectors of the hobby are seeing a resurgence in the abscence of quality cars being offered for "firesale" prices. 70's cars (post-'72) are increasingly being recognized as collector cars, such as post-'72 Corvettes and Camaros that were routinely ignored, and rarely restored. One must wonder if the 80s cars, which are selling for "used car" money, can be that far behind.

I wonder if we will soon start seeing '86 Monte Carlo SS and Buick Grand Nationals right along with '92 Firebird Formulas on the auction blocks.

Like with the new car manufacturers, time will tell...

By Car Chat Guy

Car Chat Guy is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of Car Chat Club Magazine. He has been a lifelong fan of cars, particulary Mustangs and Shelbys.

More Featured Articles