Where to Find Classic Cars in Michigan

It’s easy to find a classic car in the state that shaped the global automotive industry.  From the Ford Model T, to the Dodge Viper, to the Ford Mustang, Michigan and the Motor City gave birth to many of the classics.

And you can bet on seeing those classics roll through the Pontiac Public Auto Auction lot. 🚘

Auto auctions, that aren’t specifically classic car auctions, might easily be passed over by the classic car seeker, but don’t pass up our Pontiac auction lot. You might just miss a hidden gem. 💎

What is a Classic Car?

While the list of classic cars is growing, it is still a revered and exclusive list among the billions of vehicles manufactured over the more than a century of history.

To be designated a classic, we need to look at age, design, historical impact, and rarity.

1. Age

At this point in time, a 1930 chassi has a much higher chance than a 2005 model at being a classic. Even “instant classics” need to withstand the test of time.

But a car need not be ancient to be classic. It may make a car antique or vintage, but classics transcend those labels.

A 1997 Lincoln Town Car, 2003 Mini Cooper, and 2003 Pontiac Aztek are classics in their own right, and all on the lot at the time of this blog. 

But, usually, classics are usually at least 25 years old. There are many underappreciated classic cars that mean more to one person than another. But no matter the manufacturing year, the classic car has cemented its place in auto history.

Here in Michigan, we have roots in standards of quality, and we firmly believe that the term “classic” continue to be reserved to cars that have aged well.

2. Design

We also believe that the best of classic cars are well-designed, not just mechanically, but aesthetically. Not every classic car is a “looker” but a lot of lookers make the list. 

The Ferrari F40, Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, Dodge Charger, but also the 1970 Chevy El Camino SS, and Volkswagen Beetle. 🏎️

But a classic is not only the 60-year-old Bentley, Cadillac, Lincoln, Packard, Buick, or Studebaker sitting in Jay Leno’s garage.

Newer models like the Ford-150 Raptor, Nissan GT-R, Honda S2000, Dodge Challenger, Cadillac CTS-V Wagon, Mitsubishi Lancer, and more, are cementing their place in design trends and history. 

While a supercar, or luxury classic might not be within reach, a hidden gem car might be waiting for you! Browse the inventory.

3. Historical Significance

When you think of a classic car, you have to think about the car’s impact on the industry. Michigan is familiar with that having produced some of those classics, like the Ford F-Series, Ford GT40, and even the Checkered Taxi Cab. 🚖

A classic often has had a big impact on design trends. Think of the early hot rods, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, Jaguar XK120, Austin-Healey 100, Mini Cooper, BMW 2002, Honda Civic, and Mazda Miata.

It’s a first of its kind like the Prius. Or it changes the industry, like the Tesla.

4. Rarity

Any car that was beloved, but limited in production, is bound to become a classic. Think of the Lancia Stratos, AC Cobra, Datsun 240Z, Chevrolet Corvette 1963, Aston Martin DB5, or the Ferrari 250 GTO.

If it’s rare, it’s probably a classic. What about lemons though that appeared and recalled in the same year? 🤣Well, even those cars can build following and be called “classic lemons”. 🍋

Where are Classic Cars Sold?

Did we mention you can find them right here at Pontiac Public Auto Auction? We probably did. You can sell your classic car here too.

Our auctions are every 1st and 3rd Saturday at 10am, with viewings of inventory before the auction on Fridays between noon and 4pm.

Classic car shows are a “classic” (sorry, bad pun) way of finding these beloved vehicles. You can also search for classic car dealerships specifically.

Whether for a project, a collection, or just to enjoying driving a famous car, part of the thrill of auctions is finally finding that hidden gem.

Just picture yourself in that classic car and make it happen!