15 Collector Cars With Limited Time Features People Pay Extra For

Certain cars are made even more desirable when they feature unique elements available for only one year. These one-year-only features often become key selling points for collectors looking for something rare and special. From special editions to limited design changes, these cars offer something that can’t be found again. As a result, prices for these vehicles tend to rise, reflecting their limited availability. Here’s a look at some of the cars that collectors are willing to pay extra for because of these exclusive features.

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1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6

The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6 is often considered one of the most iconic muscle cars of its era. Released with a high-performance 454-cubic-inch V8 engine, this one-year-only feature offered a staggering 450 horsepower. It became an instant collector’s dream, with its bold design and raw power. The LS6 engine, specifically, is highly sought after for its rarity and performance capabilities. Today, this car can fetch around $75,000 to $100,000, depending on condition and original features.

In addition to the powerful engine, the 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 came with unique badging and performance upgrades that set it apart from other muscle cars of the time. It remains one of the most valuable Chevelles, with enthusiasts paying extra for its status as a limited release. The car’s combination of power and rarity makes it a top choice for collectors looking for a muscle car with a unique edge. Its clean lines and wide stance continue to attract attention at car shows and auctions. The car’s performance and collectible status only increase with time, keeping its value strong.

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429

The 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 stands out as a true rarity among Mustang fans. It featured a one-year-only 429-cubic-inch engine that was specifically built for NASCAR, making it a unique entry in the Mustang lineup. The Boss 429 was designed for racing, yet it found its way into the hands of collectors due to its massive engine and unique design. The car has a reputation for being one of the most powerful Mustangs, with only 859 units produced. The market value for a well-maintained Boss 429 ranges between $150,000 to $200,000.

Aside from its powerful engine, the Boss 429 featured special body modifications to accommodate the larger engine, including a larger hood and special badging. The car’s combination of performance and rarity has made it one of the most coveted Mustangs among collectors. Its status as a limited production model drives up its value, with prices increasing as fewer original models are found. The 1969 Boss 429 continues to be a highlight at classic car auctions, where it regularly commands premium prices. Collectors prize it not only for its speed but also for its historical significance in Ford’s performance history.

1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda

The 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda is one of the most coveted muscle cars, especially for its one-year-only features. This model is powered by the legendary 426 HEMI engine, which was only available in the ‘Cuda for that year. With its aggressive styling and powerful engine, the Hemi ‘Cuda became an instant classic. Only a small number were produced, making it an incredibly rare find today. Current market values for a well-maintained example can range from $200,000 to $300,000, depending on originality and condition.

What makes the 1971 Hemi ‘Cuda so special is not only its engine but also its striking design and limited availability. The car’s unique body styling and color options further elevate its appeal. The 426 HEMI engine, known for its incredible power, is a key reason why collectors are willing to pay a premium for this model. It’s a prime example of what makes certain classic cars so valuable: a combination of rarity, power, and iconic status. With such a limited production, this car is sure to continue increasing in value over time.

1971 Dodge Challenger R-T 426 HEMI

The 1971 Dodge Challenger R-T 426 HEMI stands as a milestone in the history of muscle cars. With only a few hundred units produced, this model is one of the rarest and most powerful Challengers ever made. Powered by the 426 HEMI engine, the car was designed for serious performance. The 1971 Challenger R-T offered a combination of speed and handling that made it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts. Prices for these cars can range anywhere from $175,000 to $250,000 depending on condition and originality.

In addition to the impressive engine, the 1971 Challenger R-T had a more aggressive look, with a sleek and menacing front end. The limited production numbers make it a highly sought-after collector’s item, as fewer and fewer models remain in original condition. Collectors value the car not only for its performance but also for its unique place in muscle car history. The car’s rarity and high-performance engine make it a standout in the world of vintage cars. As more time passes, the demand for this classic continues to drive its value higher.

1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88

The 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88 is a highly sought-after model for serious collectors. Only 20 L88 Corvettes were produced in 1967, making it one of the rarest Corvette models ever made. Featuring a 427-cubic-inch V8 engine, it produced over 430 horsepower, which made it one of the most powerful cars of its time. Due to its limited production and racing pedigree, the L88 model commands prices ranging from $800,000 to over $1 million at auction.

The Corvette L88 was designed primarily for racing, which is why its production was so limited. The engine was one of the most advanced for its time, designed to deliver extreme power and performance. This model was not meant for the average consumer, which is why it’s such a prized possession today. The L88’s combination of engineering excellence and rarity has made it a centerpiece in Corvette history. As one of the most collectible Corvettes, its value continues to rise as more collectors seek to own a piece of automotive history.

1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

The 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 is a performance car that collectors continue to cherish. This model featured the new LT1 350 V8 engine, which was a one-year-only feature for the Camaro. The Z28’s reputation as a performance car was solidified with its powerful engine and sporty styling, which set it apart from other Camaros. The car’s appeal lies in its combination of performance and the limited availability of the LT1 engine. Prices for well-maintained Z28s can range from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on the vehicle’s condition and originality.

The Z28 model for 1970 also boasted a unique look, with a more aggressive stance and wider wheel arches. The use of high-performance parts made the car a favorite among enthusiasts, while its rarity makes it even more desirable today. Only a small number of these vehicles were built with the LT1 engine, making them highly collectible. Collectors appreciate the car’s performance heritage and the fact that it remains one of the best-looking muscle cars of the era. As time goes on, the Z28 continues to be a top choice for Camaro collectors.

1970 Pontiac GTO Judge Ram Air IV

The 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge Ram Air IV is one of the most iconic muscle cars from the era. The Ram Air IV engine, which was only available in 1970, pushed the boundaries of performance with 370 horsepower. As a high-performance package, it became a standout in Pontiac’s lineup, and the Judge nameplate only added to its appeal. Only 72 units were produced with the Ram Air IV engine, making it incredibly rare today. A pristine model can fetch anywhere between $150,000 and $200,000 in today’s market.

The 1970 Judge stands out not only for its power but also for its bold styling, which included unique graphics and color options. The Ram Air IV engine was specifically designed to boost performance, and it did so with impressive results. Collectors pay top dollar for the Judge because of its limited production and its legendary status in the muscle car world. The GTO Judge remains one of the most sought-after muscle cars from the 1970s. Its combination of performance and rarity makes it a top contender in any collector’s garage.

1966 Shelby GT350

The 1966 Shelby GT350 is one of the most recognizable Mustangs, with its one-year-only features and racing heritage. It was built as a high-performance version of the Ford Mustang, with a 271-horsepower 289 V8 engine. Only 2,380 units were produced in 1966, making it a rare find for collectors. The GT350 is highly regarded for its handling and performance on the road, with prices ranging from $300,000 to $500,000 depending on the car’s condition.

The 1966 Shelby GT350 stands out because of its direct connection to racing, with Carroll Shelby overseeing its design. Its aggressive stance, racing stripes, and distinct badging make it one of the most desirable Mustangs for collectors. The car’s limited production and the fame of Shelby American only increase its appeal. Today, the GT350 is a true icon, with collectors eager to own a piece of American muscle car history. Its combination of rarity, power, and styling make it a top contender in the world of collectible cars.

1968 Dodge Charger 500

The 1968 Dodge Charger 500 was released with a one-year-only feature that set it apart from other muscle cars of its time. The car was designed to compete in NASCAR, and its aerodynamic modifications made it faster than the standard Charger. The 500 was equipped with a 440-cubic-inch V8 engine, delivering impressive performance. It is estimated that only around 500 units were produced, making it a rare and highly valued collector’s item today, with prices ranging from $75,000 to $120,000.

The most notable feature of the Charger 500 was its modified grille and rear window, designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and improve stability at high speeds. These changes made the car a strong contender on the race track while maintaining its status as a muscle car icon. Its limited production and racing history make the Charger 500 a must-have for collectors. The car continues to command attention at classic car auctions, with its value steadily increasing over time. As one of the rarest muscle cars, the Charger 500 remains a favorite among Dodge enthusiasts.

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split-Window

The 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split-Window is one of the most collectible Corvettes due to its iconic design and rarity. Featuring the unique split rear window, this model was only available in 1963 before it was discontinued. The car was powered by a 327-cubic-inch V8 engine, which provided exceptional performance. Today, the 1963 Corvette can fetch between $60,000 and $100,000, depending on the condition and features.

What makes the 1963 Sting Ray so special is its distinctive styling and the rarity of the split-window design. The car’s sharp, aggressive lines, along with the unique rear window, make it stand out from other Corvettes. Its blend of style, performance, and rarity makes it a prime target for collectors. The 1963 Corvette Sting Ray is one of the most revered models in Corvette history, often found at the top of collector wish lists. Its market value continues to climb, driven by demand for this highly prized model.

1957 Ford Thunderbird E-Code

The 1957 Ford Thunderbird E-Code is a classic example of American automotive engineering. Featuring a 312-cubic-inch V8 engine with dual carburetors, this one-year-only feature made the Thunderbird more powerful and refined. The E-Code was equipped with 245 horsepower, offering impressive speed and handling for its time. With only a limited number of units produced, this model remains one of the most sought-after among collectors, with current prices ranging from $65,000 to $95,000.

In addition to its performance, the 1957 Thunderbird featured a sleek, stylish design that appealed to car buyers looking for both elegance and power. Its unique engine option, known as the E-Code, was a major selling point, offering a significant performance upgrade. The 1957 Thunderbird remains one of the best examples of mid-1950s luxury cars, combining power, style, and exclusivity. Collectors love its classic lines and its limited production, making it a prized possession in the vintage car world. The Thunderbird E-Code continues to be a standout in any collection.

1964 Ford Mustang 271 V8

The 1964 Ford Mustang 271 V8 is one of the early Mustang models that set the tone for future performance models. It featured the 271-horsepower 289 V8 engine, a one-year-only feature that gave the car extra power and speed. The 1964 Mustang 271 is highly desirable due to its rarity, with fewer than 4,000 units built with this engine. Prices for a well-maintained example can range from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on condition.

The 1964 Mustang marked the beginning of the pony car era, and the 271 V8 model stands out for its added performance features. This model came with a more powerful engine and a sportier feel than the standard Mustang, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. Its status as one of the early high-performance Mustangs makes it a collectible item. Collectors often pay a premium for this particular version of the Mustang because of its limited production. The 1964 Mustang 271 continues to hold strong value in the classic car market.

1971 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12

The 1971 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12 is a standout in Jaguar’s long history, featuring a one-year-only V12 engine. This engine provided a significant power boost, making it the most powerful E-Type ever produced. Released in limited quantities, this car is highly valued by collectors, with prices ranging from $70,000 to $110,000 depending on condition. Its combination of luxury, performance, and rarity makes it a sought-after model.

The 1971 E-Type’s sleek, aerodynamic design and the new V12 engine made it one of the most advanced cars of its time. Jaguar’s decision to upgrade the engine helped elevate the E-Type into a new class of performance car, and the V12 became one of its defining features. The Series 3 V12 is especially appealing to collectors due to its rarity and the fact that it was the last model in the E-Type series. As fewer models are found in original condition, its value has continued to rise in the collector car market. The 1971 Jaguar E-Type V12 remains a cherished piece of automotive history.

1970 Buick GSX Stage 1

The 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 is a rare muscle car that featured a one-year-only 455-cubic-inch engine. Known for its exceptional torque and power, the Stage 1 was a standout in the muscle car scene. Only 678 units were produced, making it one of the most collectible Buicks of its era. The current value for a GSX Stage 1 ranges from $90,000 to $150,000, depending on condition.

This Buick is famous for its impressive performance, with the 455 V8 engine producing 510 lb-ft of torque, one of the highest of any muscle car at the time. The 1970 GSX Stage 1 also featured unique styling, including special badging and an exclusive color palette. Its rarity and power make it a highly sought-after collector’s item. The GSX Stage 1 continues to fetch top dollar at auctions, with enthusiasts eager to own a piece of Buick history. Its limited production ensures that it remains a prized find for collectors.

1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7

The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is one of the most celebrated Porsche models ever produced. This car featured a 2.7-liter flat-six engine that delivered 210 horsepower, offering exceptional speed and handling. Only 1,580 units were built, and the RS 2.7 remains one of the most sought-after Porsches for collectors today. Prices can range from $400,000 to $500,000, depending on condition and provenance.

The Carrera RS 2.7 was built for both road and track, offering a lightweight design and aggressive styling. Its performance and limited production make it a rare find in the classic car market. The car is highly regarded for its combination of driving experience and its iconic status in Porsche history. With its distinctive ducktail spoiler and racing heritage, the 1973 911 Carrera RS 2.7 continues to draw the attention of collectors and Porsche fans alike. It is one of the most valuable classic Porsches on the market today.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.