The collector car market continued its cycle of corrections and surprises in 2025, reflecting the shifting tastes and evolving demographics that shape the hobby. While overall conditions have been described as subdued or cautious over the last year, several individual models posted significant gains or declines, underscoring how unpredictable the landscape can be. Updated four times annually, Hagerty’s valuation data highlights which vehicles saw the most dramatic changes.
Among the biggest declines were early Ford F-Series trucks from 1948 to 1952. Once celebrated as the company’s first postwar redesign and the beginning of what became the brand’s signature pickup line, these models have faced increasing competition in a crowded classic-truck market. After doubling in value over the past decade, they have trended downward since early 2024. Their median price in excellent condition now stands at $31,800, a figure below its 2019 level even before adjusting for inflation.
Another notable slide came from the 1951–57 Hudson Hornet. Despite its “step-down” engineering and strong early NASCAR results, the model hasn’t held the cultural prominence of other midcentury American icons. Its current median value of $32,300 places it roughly where it stood three years ago in raw dollars, and significantly lower when adjusted for inflation.
Jeep’s 1984–91 Grand Wagoneer also cooled following its surge earlier in the decade. Once a symbol of upscale suburban life, the model saw peak prices during the feverish 2022 market. With values now settling at $45,900 for a top-condition example, inflation-adjusted numbers place it nearly even with 2020 levels.
On the other side of the spectrum, several vehicles posted healthy gains. Fiat’s 124 Spider and its Pininfarina Azzurra successor jumped 45 percent. Though not high-dollar collectibles, these convertibles have long been gateways to Italian motoring, and rising demand has lifted even the more affordable variants. Well-kept Azzurra models now sit around $33,000.
The 1985–91 Honda CRX continued its rapid appreciation, driven by renewed interest in clean, unmodified examples. Once prized for inexpensive fun, the car’s shrinking supply has pushed excellent-condition models as high as $45,500. Since 2020, its values have climbed 168 percent.
The largest percentage gain came from the early Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the W460. Originally a utilitarian off-roader rather than a luxury accessory, its rarity in the U.S. has helped spark significant increases. Depending on configuration, values range from under $40,000 for certain hardtop wagons to nearly $90,000 for desirable convertibles.
Together, these shifts paint a picture of a market that remains dynamic—even in a cooling phase—as collectors reassess what resonates most across eras, budgets and tastes heading into 2026.
Via Hagerty
