Peugeot 205 GTI, Lancia Delta Integrale, BMW M3 E30 … the craze for “youngtimers” has raised the odds of many models from the 1970s to 2000. But it is fortunately still possible to have fun for less than 10 000 €: L’argus reveals some good choices.
Recent used cars do not seem exciting to you and vintage vehicles seem too restrictive? There is a whole world between these two extremes: that of youngtimers. Now fashionable, this Anglicism brings together a wide variety of models, born between the end of the 1970s and the beginning of the 2000s. Their common denominator? No matter their power or bodywork, all must have a minimum of historical interest and be able to arouse nostalgia. Their current buyers have often dreamed of them in their youth. One of the emblems of this phenomenon is undoubtedly the Peugeot 205 GTI. But by returning to the spotlight, the little Sochaux has seen its rating soar in recent years. Today, difficult to find a copy under 10,000 €, unless it is very tired.
<<< Our slideshow of 30 youngtimers at less than 10,000 € >>>
GTI, limousine, convertible … it’s up to you!
Other particularly media models are found in the same case, sometimes in an even more spectacular way: the original Audi Quattro, BMW M3 E30 or E36, Lancia Delta Integrale, Renault 5 GT Turbo… Fortunately, the world of youngtimers is vast. If your budget is limited to € 10,000 or even less, there are still dozens of possibilities. From the Citroën AX Sport to the Jaguar XJ8, from the Peugeot 406 Coupé to the Renault Avantime “coupéspace”, from the BMW 323 Ti to the Mercedes SLK 230K, our slide show already reveals around thirty possibilities that are both endearing and still affordable. Without however claiming to be exhaustive: do not hesitate to suggest alternatives in the comments!
No discount to fear … in theory
Although it has always remained in the shadow of the 205, the 309 GTI already exceeds 10,000 € in its 16-valve version, more and more coveted. But the 8-valve 130 hp variant often remains below this bar … even if nothing says that it will last!
Today’s youngtimers are tomorrow’s collectors. In most cases, these are therefore models that no longer discount, or even begin to rise. With a little luck, your “investment” could therefore sell for more than you paid in a few years. But this is still a risky bet, so be careful not to let this criterion alone guide your choice. Especially since the proliferation of low emission zones (ZFE) will drive many of these models out of large French cities. Only those who have a collection registration card, therefore aged at least thirty, can now escape banishment.
TO READ. ZFE: the thorny question of youngtimers
A few tips before you crack
Do not forget, either, that we are talking about old cars here, the maintenance of which has not always been scrupulous. So please make a careful inspection before you buy, while watching out for the presence of rust, one of the most widespread ailments and the most difficult to eradicate. Also ask to do a test or at least a ride as a passenger, to verify that everything seems to be going well. Do not hesitate to contact clubs specializing in the brand or model you want. They will be able to guide you and inform you about the availability of spare parts or the best addresses to carry out maintenance. Finally, if you are not afraid to get your hands dirty, it’s even better: youngtimers are not yet overwhelmed by electronics, and many operations are therefore within the reach of handymen with a minimum of patience and passionate. For some, this is even part of the charm of these models, as well as the flavors of driving today forgotten.
TO READ. Used cars: how to buy without getting ripped off
