Feature article
Most sought after classic cars in NZ
It’s a tricky question to answer definitively; what is the most sought after classic car in New Zealand?
It’s a tricky question to answer definitively; what is the most sought after classic car in New Zealand? While you might dream of a Datsun, others will have Ferrari fantasies or a hankering for a Holden. Some might hold a vehicle's prestige and price point in high regard, while others might seek a more mundane car from their past, trying to re-kidle the spirit of their youth. So yeah, a tricky one to nail without causing arguments. But here are five examples of what many would deem to be a sought after classic car in NZ.
1965 Ford Mustang Fastback
Ford had an instant hit with its Mustang, selling over 600,000 of them in its first two years of production. The original Mustang is sought after for its timeless design, especially the Fastback model with its racy coupe styling, although the convertible is equally appealing with its top down. While most Mustangs of the era were powered by a six-cylinder, the V8 engine options are more sought after now, especially with the matching four-on-the-floor manual transmission. Some are more valuable than others, especially if they have the name Shelby attached to them. In fact, the first 1965 Ford Shelby GT350 Competition, which Shelby American built for racing, was sold in the US in 2022 for $US4,070,000, making it the most valuable Mustang ever.
1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS
The 911 has been a desirable machine since its debut in 1964. The 911’s shape has remained largely unchanged over the years, well at least until the late 90s, making it instantly recognisable.Its unconventional rear-engine layout contributes to its distinct driving characteristics, but its precise steering and immersive, connected feel make it appealing to enthusiasts. And there’s that flat six engine that delivers an evocative sound. The 911 has helped forge a winning legacy in motorsport at all levels for Porsche.
While the German manufacturer has made many desirable and sought after 911s over the decades, the standout is the Carrera RS 2.7. Built with racing in mind, the marketing department didn’t think they could sell such a model in sufficient numbers to meet the homologation requirements. Thankfully, Porsche persisted, and it was a success. With just over 1500 made, they are a rarity and top examples can fetch more than $NZ1 million, while the special lightweight Sport model can fetch twice as much.
Read more - driving the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 Carrera RS
1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III
Old Fords and Holdens are popular classic cars in New Zealand, but the most sought after is the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III, Australia’s Muscle Car King. When it was released, it was hailed as the fastest four-door production car in the world, able to top 225km/h.
The GT-HO Phase III has genuine racing pedigree, built to win at Mount Panorama. And it did, winning the 1971 Hardie-Ferodo 500 endurance classic with Allan Moffat at the wheel.
Powered by a special version of the 351-cubic-inch Cleveland V8, it was rumoured to put out close to 400hp, although Ford only rated it at 300hp officially. It was expensive when new, four times the price of a base model XY Falcon, and only 300 Phase III models were made.
Prices for the surviving cars rocketed up in the early 2000s, when some sold for over $AU1 million, and prices remain solidly high now.
Read more - New Zealand’s great Ford Falcon GT collection
1964 Volkswagen Type 2
Nothing gets people smiling more than a 1964 Volkswagen Type 2, better known as the Kombi. The early split-window Kombi is possibly one of the most charming vehicles ever. It just looks happy. It’s a family friendly classic with plenty of space onboard for everyone, especially the Wetfalia camper vans. They aren’t complex, having a humble air-cooled flat four in the back, but the appeal isn’t in the performance, rather it’s the feel good vibe when you are behind the wheel.
While many thousands were made, rust has eaten many of them over the years, being popular with surfer dudes and dudettes. That makes the survivors valuable, especially as many will have had lots of panel work to keep them alive over the years. Good ones command over $100,000 while rare 21- and 23-window versions ask a lot more.
Read more - driving the 1964 VW Kombi Westfalia
1971 Nissan Skyline GT-R
For those that like Japanese cars, one of the most sought after is the Nissan Skyline GT-R. There have been five generations of Skyline GT-R, the R32 from 1989 being a popular model in New Zealand, and tidy ones still fetch over $100k. But with some 43,000 R32 GT-Rs made, it’s not as rare and desirable as the original. The first Skyline GT-R came out in Japan in 1969. This four door saloon had racing in mind and was equipped with a 2.0-litre straight six engine. Rare for the time was the inclusion of a five-speed manual and limited slip diff. Later, in 1970, the two-door coupe, with chassis code KPGC10 was introduced. It had a shorter wheelbase for improved handling and was lighter, making it a successful basis for racing. With just over 1100 made, it’s now a rarity and commands prices of $NZ500k and more.
Author
Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.
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