The Most Popular Antique Car, Ranked

Choose the antique car you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:29
In the realm of antique car enthusiasts, preferences can vary as much as the models themselves. By establishing a collective ranking of favorite antique cars, we can gauge not only the aesthetic appeal but also the historical significance each model holds within the community. This provides a snapshot of what captivates the interests of classic car lovers and helps to highlight the enduring charm and engineering marvel of these vehicles. When you participate by casting your vote, you help shape this ongoing tally, lending your voice to a larger community of aficionados. This dynamic ranking evolves with each new vote, reflecting the current trends and favorites in the antique car scene. Your engagement not only enriches the data but also deepens the sense of connection with fellow enthusiasts around the globe.

What Is the Most Popular Antique Car?

  1. 1
    63
    votes
    Ford Model T
    Jon Sullivan · Public domain

    Ford Model T

    Henry Ford
    The Ford Model T is considered the most popular antique car due to its affordability, durability, and mass-production. It was produced from 1908 to 1927, and over 15 million units were sold.
    The Ford Model T was a highly influential car that revolutionized the automotive industry. It was the first affordable automobile produced on a moving assembly line, making it accessible to the masses. With its durable design and reliable performance, the Model T became the most popular car of its time.
    • Production Years: 1908-1927
    • Engine: Inline 4-cylinder
    • Horsepower: 20 hp
    • Top Speed: 40-45 mph
    • Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 25 mpg
    Ford Model T in other rankings
  2. 2
    42
    votes
    Chevrolet Bel Air
    Chevrolet pre-1978 · Public domain

    Chevrolet Bel Air

    Harley Earl
    The Chevrolet Bel Air was produced from 1950 to 1975 and is one of the most recognizable vintage cars due to its distinctive style and design. It was also featured in numerous movies and TV shows.
    The Chevrolet Bel Air is an iconic American automobile that was produced by Chevrolet from 1950 to 1975. It is considered one of the most popular antique cars due to its timeless design and significant impact on automotive history.
    • Engine: Various V8 engines
    • Transmission: 3-speed manual, 2-speed Powerglide automatic
    • Body Style: 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible, 4-door sedan, 4-door station wagon
    • Horsepower: 120-225 hp
    • Top Speed: Around 100 mph (160 km/h)
  3. 3
    32
    votes
    Volkswagen Beetle
    Palauenc05 · CC BY-SA 4.0
    The Volkswagen Beetle, also known as the "Bug," was produced from 1938 to 2003, and over 21 million units were sold worldwide. Its unique design, affordability, and popularity in the counterculture movement made it a cultural icon.
    The Volkswagen Beetle, also known as the VW Bug, is an iconic compact car that has captured the hearts of many car enthusiasts around the world. It is a small, rounded, and charming vehicle that exudes a unique retro appeal. The Beetle has become a symbol of automotive history and is adored for its distinct design and playful personality.
    • Engine: Air-cooled, rear-mounted
    • Power: Ranges from 25 to 150 horsepower, depending on the model
    • Transmission: 4-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
    • Fuel Economy: Varies between 21 to 33 MPG (city) and 29 to 40 MPG (highway), depending on the model and engine type
    • Seating Capacity: Typically accommodates four passengers
    Volkswagen Beetle in other rankings
  4. 4
    12
    votes
    Plymouth Barracuda
    Bull-Doser · Public domain
    The Plymouth Barracuda was produced from 1964 to 1974 and is considered one of the most iconic muscle cars of the 1960s. Its sleek design and powerful engine made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
    The Plymouth Barracuda is a classic American muscle car that was produced by the Plymouth division of Chrysler Corporation from 1964 to 1974. It is widely recognized as one of the most popular and iconic antique cars in automotive history.
    • Production Years: 1964-1974
    • Body Style: 2-door coupe or convertible
    • Engine Options: Various V8 engine options ranging from 273 cubic inches to 440 cubic inches
    • Horsepower: Up to 425 horsepower
    • Transmission: 3-speed manual or automatic
    Plymouth Barracuda in other rankings
  5. 5
    19
    votes
    Jaguar E-Type
    Tedmek · Public domain
    The Jaguar E-Type, also known as the "XK-E," was produced from 1961 to 1975 and is considered one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Its sleek design, powerful engine, and racing heritage made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
    The Jaguar E-Type is a legendary British sports car known for its sleek and elegant design. It encapsulates the essence of British automotive excellence and is hailed as one of the most beautiful cars ever created.
    • Engine: 3.8L inline-six-cylinder engine
    • Top Speed: 150 mph (241 km/h)
    • Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds
    • Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
    • Body Style: 2-seater coupe or convertible
    Jaguar E-Type in other rankings
  6. 6
    8
    votes
    Ford Mustang
    W. Bulach · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Ford Mustang

    Ford Motor Company
    The Ford Mustang was produced from 1964 to present and is one of the most iconic American muscle cars. Its aggressive design, powerful engine, and popularity in movies and TV shows made it a cultural icon.
    The Ford Mustang is a classic and iconic American sports car that has gained popularity worldwide, including in Australia. It is a two-door coupe or convertible that exudes style and power. The Mustang is known for its aggressive and muscular design, offering an exhilarating driving experience.
    • Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 or 5.0L V8
    • Power Output: 310 horsepower to 450 horsepower
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
    • Acceleration (0-100 km/h): Under 5.0 seconds
    • Top Speed: Limited to 250 km/h
    Ford Mustang in other rankings
  7. 7
    9
    votes
    Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost
    Alexander Migl · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost

    Rolls-Royce Limited
    The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was produced from 1906 to 1926 and is considered one of the most luxurious and prestigious cars of all time. Its elegant design, powerful engine, and attention to detail made it a popular choice among royalty and wealthy individuals.
    The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is considered one of the most iconic and popular antique cars. It was a luxury automobile produced by the British company Rolls-Royce from 1906 to 1925. The Silver Ghost gained a reputation for its exceptional engineering, enduring performance, and elegant design. It was often referred to as the 'best car in the world' during its time.
    • Production Years: 1906-1925
    • Engine: 7.0 L inline-six
    • Horsepower: 48-80 hp
    • Top Speed: 65-70 mph
    • Transmission: 4-speed manual
  8. 8
    10
    votes
    The Cadillac Eldorado was produced from 1952 to 2002 and is considered one of the most luxurious American cars. Its distinctive design, powerful engine, and popularity among celebrities and wealthy individuals made it a cultural icon.
    The Cadillac Eldorado is a classic luxury car that was produced by Cadillac from 1953 to 2002. It is widely regarded as one of the most popular antique cars due to its iconic design, high-end features, and powerful performance. The Eldorado was known for its luxurious interiors, advanced technologies, and smooth driving experience.
    • Year of Introduction: 1953
    • Engine Options: V8 engines with different capacities
    • Transmission Options: Automatic transmissions
    • Body Style: 2-door convertible or coupe
    • Top Speed: Around 120 MPH
  9. 9
    3
    votes
    Porsche 911
    Abehn · Public domain

    Porsche 911

    Ferdinand Porsche
    The Porsche 911 was first introduced in 1963 and is one of the most iconic sports cars of all time. Its distinctive design, powerful engine, and racing heritage made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
    The Porsche 911 is a iconic sports car known for its thrilling driving experience. It has a timeless design and precision engineering that make it a joy to drive. The Porsche 911 offers a combination of speed, agility, and handling that is hard to match. With its rear-engine layout and excellent power-to-weight ratio, it delivers exceptional performance and responsiveness.
    • Engine: 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-six
    • Horsepower: 420-700 hp
    • Torque: 406-553 lb-ft
    • Top Speed: 183-205 mph
    • 0-60 mph: 3.0-4.2 seconds
    Porsche 911 in other rankings
  10. 10
    4
    votes
    Mercedes-Benz 300SL
    Zefke · CC BY-SA 3.0

    Mercedes-Benz 300SL

    Mercedes-Benz
    The Mercedes-Benz 300SL was produced from 1954 to 1963 and is considered one of the most beautiful and desirable cars ever made. Its distinctive gull-wing doors, powerful engine, and racing heritage made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
    The Mercedes-Benz 300SL, also known as the Mercedes-Benz Gullwing, is a legendary antique car that was produced from 1954 to 1963. It is highly regarded for its distinctive gull-wing doors and timeless design. The 300SL was the first production car to feature fuel injection, making it a true pioneer in automotive engineering. It was created by Mercedes-Benz, a renowned German automobile manufacturer with a rich history of producing luxury vehicles.
    • Engine: 3.0L Inline-6
    • Power: 215 horsepower
    • Top Speed: 160 mph
    • 0-60 mph: 7 seconds
    • Fuel Injection: Bosch mechanical direct fuel injection

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Ranking factors for popular antique car

  1. Rarity
    The number of existing models plays a vital role in determining a car's popularity. Limited edition or scarce models tend to be more desirable among collectors.
  2. Historical significance
    Cars with an interesting backstory or those that played a pivotal role in automotive history often stand out among collectors.
  3. Design and aesthetic appeal
    A visually striking car with unique design features tends to be more sought after.
  4. Originality and authenticity
    Cars that still possess their original parts or have accurate, high-quality restorations hold a higher value among enthusiasts.
  5. Brand recognition and reputation
    Well-regarded automakers such as Ford, Chevrolet, and Rolls-Royce are always popular among collectors.
  6. Performance and engineering
    Cars with impressive performance, handling, and engineering capabilities are more desirable.
  7. Provenance
    The ownership history of a vehicle, including famous past owners or significant events attached to the car, can boost its popularity.
  8. Awards and recognition
    Cars that have won prestigious awards or been recognized for their quality and design in the industry are more desirable.
  9. Cultural impact
    Vehicles that have transcended their original purpose and become pop culture icons, such as the Ford Mustang or Volkswagen Beetle, can influence popularity.
  10. Market demand and value
    The current market trends, demand for specific models, and the appreciation potential of a car contribute to its popularity among collectors.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular antique car. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or antique car is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1284 views
  • 203 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each antique car once every 24 hours. The rank of each antique car is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular antique car

Antique cars are beloved by many for their classic designs, unique features, and rich history. These vintage vehicles are typically defined as cars that were manufactured between the early 1900s and the late 1970s, and have since been preserved or restored to their original condition. When it comes to determining the most popular antique car, it can be difficult to narrow down the choices. However, some of the most well-known and highly sought-after models include the Ford Model T, the Chevrolet Bel Air, the Cadillac Eldorado, and the Porsche 356. Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or simply appreciate the beauty of antique cars, there's no denying the timeless appeal of these stunning vehicles. With their unique designs and rich history, antique cars continue to captivate and inspire generations of car lovers around the world.

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