5 Most Affordable Vintage Convertibles

As soon as automakers started enclosing cars with fitted windshields, hardtops, and glass windows, they also introduced the convertible. 1927 had many cars on the market with retractable covers, and the convertible hasn’t gone out of style since, while classic convertibles from any decade remain a prized collectors’ item in the world of classic cars.

While there are some true dream convertibles out there - a 60s Corvette, the hard to find Chevy Bel Air, first generation Mustangs, or a head turning pre-war antique convertible - the right vintage convertible can make the perfect daily driver as well, and for not much more money than you would spend on a brand new car.

The 5 vintage convertibles are extremely affordable and relatively easy to find whether you want to buy a project car to fix or a restored vintage car ready to drive. In addition, we have also chosen cars with classic style, relatively simple maintenance, and enough power and speed to blow your hair back as you drive down the road.

1961 Lincoln Continental

Convertibles have always been sporty, but up until the 1960s, they could also be a comfortable car for the whole family. The Lincoln Continental offers 4 doors, including the stand out suicide doors in the back. This car measured almost 200 inches long, and continued to grow over the next 6 years while largely keeping the same design.

The Continental was a styling icon in its day with smooth slab sides and minimal detailing. It stood out after the flamboyant design of the 1950s, and several high end car designers quickly copied the look.

Additionally, the Continental was packed with new technology. It has a 300 hp V8 and a powered convertible top. Only 21,237 were made and around 15% of those remain, but these classic cars remain relatively affordable with average values a little above $30,000. It is worth noting, however, that the power top had a complex design and can be expensive to repair if it breaks.

1964 Pontiac Catalina

Pontiac embraced muscle cars in the 1960s. The Pontiac GTO from this same year is the defining muscle car, and in high demand with collectors. As a result, a project GTO can be $30,000, and restored cars go for over $80,000.

The more affordable option is the Pontiac Catalina. The Catalina convertible has similar styling to the GTO with a split front grille, dual headlights, long and low body, and slab sides. Its performance is similar as well with either a 389 cu or 421 cu V8 engine, durable suspension, and four-speed manual transmission.

You can find a 1964 Pontiac Catalina in running condition for as low as $16,000, making this a great way to get a classic convertible for your garage.

1964 Ford Galaxie

The Ford Galaxie had already been one of the best full sized cars, but alterations to the 1964 Galaxie body made this year one of the sportiest looks, ideal for a fun to drive convertible. It is a long car at 209 inches with a distinctive fastback, a design decision made to help the car be more aerodynamic for NASCAR. This Ford also has more chrome trim than other models of the time, giving it a more luxurious look than other convertibles.

While other Ford convertibles like the Thunderbird and Mustang are pricey, the Galaxie is more often overlooked. The Galaxie’s competition and design cousin is the Chevy Impala, but unlike in demand Impalas which now go for a high price, a vintage Ford Galaxie is only about $20,000 in good condition. Other Galaxie model years from 1960 to 1968 kept a similar look and are also relatively affordable.

1965 Chevrolet Corvair

A vintage Chevy Corvette is out of most people’s price range. As an alternative, consider the Chevy Corvair. It was not known for speed, but it had a simple, classic design, great handling, and all the features you needed for comfort - air-conditioning, a stereo radio, and power top.

These cars can be as cheap as $5,000 in decent condition, mostly because of their reputation. In 1965, Ralph Nader’s book Unsafe at Any Speed went in depth about supposed handling and safety issues with the 1960 through 1963 Corvairs. Although later studies showed the Corvair was no more dangerous than other cars at the time and Chevy had made improvements by 1965 (borrowed from the Corvette), the bad publicity killed the Corvair, and has kept its popularity low as a collector vehicle.

1966 International Scout

Not all convertibles are cars. If you want to take your convertible off-road, this early SUV with four wheel drive is your answer. The Scout was made by International Harvester who primarily made tractors, commercial trucks, and farm vehicles. They launched the Scout to compete with the Jeep CJ as a personal vehicle for everything from the farm to trips around town.

The 1966 model (and all model years until 1971) were available with either a soft top or hard top convertible. For power options, you can find:

• Four Cylinder Engines
• Six Cylinder Engines
• V8 Engines

Vintage International Scouts can start well below $10,000 if you want to do some restoration work yourself, while one in good condition goes for about $20,000. The Scout can even be a good investment if you buy it now since the value of these cars is rapidly increasing.

Restoring a Classic Convertible with Parts from Vintage Auto Garage

A vintage convertible is a staple in a classic car collection. It is fun to drive whether you are heading to work or cruising on a day with nice weather. Classic convertibles also capture people’s attention and many previously overlooked convertibles are now more in demand. Purchasing a more affordable convertible for your collection might be a good investment, in addition to giving you a great vintage car.

When you want an affordable way to restore or maintain your convertible, Vintage Auto Garage has all of the parts for vintage cars that you will need. Our parts fit Chevrolet, Ford, Pontiac, Lincoln, Cadillac, and other brands from the time, all offered at competitive prices. Check out our website or reach out to our team via phone to get one on one assistance with shopping for your vintage convertible. If you'd like to receive a personalized parts list for a 6-12 volt conversion for any vintage auto, contact us at this link and we'll get you a list of all the parts you need.