Vintage 1980s Cars That Are Shockingly Dependable for the Money
Some cars are known for reliability, regardless of when they were made, and there are many used cars from the 1980s that are still surprisingly reliable.
If you're in the market for a vintage car, you'll want to weigh the pros and cons before committing to an older model. However, if an older car has been well taken care of, you've checked its history, had it inspected and taken it for a test drive, it might be the perfect purchase for you.
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Here are eight cars from the 1980s that are remarkably reliable if you can't find them for the right price:
1. Ford Taurus SHO
Debuting at the end of the 1980s, the SHO ("Super High Output") offered the American driver a high performance V-6 version of the Taurus and a model that has managed to remain reliable for over 30 years.
2. Jeep Cherokee XJ
Built for durability, the Cherokee off-roader has been dependable for decades. "The original Cherokee XJ has a huge following to this day and you can find everything from a bone-stock survivor to a hacked-and-modded trail runner without much effort," per MotorTrend.
3. Mercedes-Benz 300D
Mercedes-Benz is a luxury brand, but it's reputation has been built on quality, not flash. Part of the W123 family of Mercedes cars, the 300D (diesel) is one of the most unassuming, indestructible cars out there and daily drivers can still be seen throughout the U.S.
4. Chevrolet Camaro
The third generation Camaro was introduced in 1982 and featured a powerful engine cased in a sleeker, more aerodynamic body. This classic piece of American muscle may cost you more than you expect, but as far as 1980s models go, you'll not find many as reliable.
5. Saab 900 Turbo
Used 900 Turbos with less mileage generally command higher prices, so 1980s models should be more affordable and should be available -- even after 40 years -- because they were so well built. You'll have to keep an eye on maintenance costs with this model, but as HotCars noted, "The Saab 900 Turbo's engine can reach 400,000 miles without a major overhaul and around 300,000 miles for the gearbox."
6. Ford Crown Victoria
It's no coincidence that that Crown Victoria was once the chosen model for police cars and in high demand at police auctions. Models from the 1980s with high mileage are still sought after as first cars, or family beaters, despite their drain on gas.
7. Volvo 240
This Scandinavian brick was produced from 1975 to 1993 and is a pillar of reliability. Although it has surprisingly turned into a cult favorite over the years, with even 40-year-old models starting to show up in collector groups, you won't have a difficult time finding one. Over 2.8 million were built during its run, according to Hagerty.
8. Buick Skylark
All old models will have some sort of repair history, but as HotCars has pointed out, "You know you're onto something special when owners report little to no problems." Skylarks drive like tanks, and can go for hundreds of thousands of miles with regular, but not constant, maintenance.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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