In the 1980s, the car was more than a means of transport: it was a symbol of status, freedom and achievement. Today, while new vehicles are quickly depreciating in value, classics from that era are following the opposite path: they are becoming more valuable and gaining more space in the garages of collectors and enthusiasts.
This appreciation has an explanation that goes beyond mechanics. “The main reason for buying one is the affective memory”, explains Fábio Pagotto, engineer and specialist in classic vehicles. “That car that marked your childhood, the model your grandfather drove, the car your neighbor had and you dreamed of having. These are good memories that come back, and that’s what moves the collector”, he says.
A market that only grows
While new cars lose value as soon as they leave the dealership, old ones gain prestige and become worth more every year, as long as they are well maintained. According to Pagotto, vehicles over 30 years old automatically enter the category and become subject to appreciation.
“A car that is 25 or 30 years old is a great option to buy. It is still a vehicle with affordable maintenance, which can be used safely, but which will soon be considered a collector’s item. Appreciation is almost certain”, says the expert.
According to Pagoto, the movement is global. In the United States and Europe, cars from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s have stood out as good investments, following the increased interest in analogue models in an increasingly digital and automated world. In Brazil, the scenario is similar: the search for classics has grown, and prices have followed this trend.
The national classics from the 80s that are still worth the investment
Those from the 1980s have their own charm. They were produced at a time when the country was experiencing the peak of creativity among national automakers, with solid designs, simple mechanics and a striking personality. For those who want to invest or just relive the past, Pagotto lists the models that continue to be good options for purchase and use:
- Volkswagen
“square” (GTS and GTI) – Sports cars are icons of the time, known for their durability and ease of maintenance. “These are cars that are easy to maintain, with lots of parts available and mechanics known to any good professional,” says Pagotto. - Chevrolet
Chevette and Monza – The GM line mixes comfort and reliability. “The Opala is an absolute classic, but the Monza is also an excellent purchase. Many still have air conditioning and comfort that still impresses today”, comments the expert. - Ford
Corcel, Del Rey, Verona, Apollo and Versailles – Recognized for their comfort and sober style. These are ideal models for those looking for a smooth-running classic. “These cars represented elegance in the 80s and are still a pleasure to drive today,” adds Pagotto. - Chrysler / Dodge
Models like Polara and reissued versions of the Dodge 1800 are rarer, but they attract attention at vintage car meetings and are well received among collectors.
Imported with charm and challenges
If the national ones already win the hearts of Brazilians, the imported ones from the 80s are objects of desire. However, they require extra attention. “The American ones are the easiest to maintain, because there is a lot of parts and labor available. The European and Japanese ones are a little more complicated, but nothing impossible”, explains Pagotto.
He recommends that interested parties participate in specialized groups and forums, as each model has its own particularities and knowing the right community can make all the difference when purchasing and maintaining.
What to evaluate before buying
More than passion, it takes planning. “First of all, inform yourself”, advises Pagotto. “Get into groups, talk to those who already have the car you want. Each model has a weak point, it could be an area that rusts more, a steering gear that is problematic, or an electrical part that is difficult to find.”
Among the expert’s main recommendations:
- Research and talk to owners of the same model before closing a deal;
- Evaluate critical wear points and calculate the cost of possible replacements;
- Invest in conservation and periodic maintenance, which guarantees appreciation;
- Avoid leaving the car stationary or exposed to the weather, to preserve paintwork and structure.
Ancient vs modern: what has changed
For those who think that classics technically rival today’s cars, Pagotto makes a clear distinction. “The engines are much more efficient from an energy point of view. A 1.0 engine today delivers the power that a 2.0 had in the 80s. There are also enormous advances in safety: airbags, ABS, stability control, pre-tensioned belts, side protection bars… all of this has saved many lives”, he highlights
Still, he points out that there is something that the new ones don’t offer: soul. “An old car has a personality, it has a history. It demands attention, responds differently, has a smell, texture, sound. It involves you. It’s an emotional relationship, not just a functional one”, defines the expert.
