Most people purchase a vehicle knowing one thing: it's probably going to lose value. The moment you drive a new car off the dealership lot, depreciation becomes part of the ownership experience.
But what if your next vehicle purchase could be different?
Welcome to the exciting world of classic and collector cars, where automotive history, nostalgia, and potential long-term appreciation come together!
At Thiel Motor Sales Inc., we've been buying and selling automobiles since 1972. As a third-generation, family-owned dealership, we've witnessed firsthand how the right classic cars can become increasingly desirable as the years go by.
Why Classic Cars Can Be Smart Purchases
Unlike most everyday vehicles, which generally depreciate over time, certain classic and collector cars have demonstrated the ability to maintain or increase their value.
Why? It's simple: They aren't making any more of them!
As the years pass, well-preserved examples become harder to find. Meanwhile, enthusiasts continue searching for the vehicles they remember from their childhood, the cars their parents drove, and the muscle cars they dreamed of owning.
That combination of limited supply and collector demand can create opportunities for long-term appreciation.
Consider these popular categories:
1960s & 1970s Muscle Cars: Ford Mustangs, Chevrolet Camaros, Dodge Challengers, and other American performance legends.
Classic Pickup Trucks: Chevrolet C10s, Ford F-Series, vintage Broncos, and desirable short-bed trucks.
1950s American Classics: Chevrolet Bel Airs, Ford Thunderbirds, and iconic two-door hardtops.
1980s & 1990s Collectibles: Fox Body Mustangs, Buick Turbo Regals, Chevrolet Corvettes, and increasingly desirable modern classics.
Not every classic car will increase in value, but exceptional examples with desirable equipment, solid documentation, and strong collector appeal can stand apart from ordinary used vehicles.
The Collector Car Market Continues to Evolve
Today's collector car market isn't limited to wealthy investors buying million-dollar Ferraris.
Enthusiasts across the country are discovering affordable classics that offer both driving enjoyment and potential future value.
According to Hagerty's 2026 Bull Market List, collector interest continues to expand across multiple generations of vehicles, particularly desirable performance cars from the 1990s and 2000s.
The market remains selective, however. Some segments are experiencing appreciation while others are holding steady or declining. That makes choosing the right vehicle at the right price especially important.
Buy Something You Love — With Your Eyes on the Future!
Here's what we love most about classic cars: You don't have to park your investment in a vault!
You can take your Mustang to a weekend cruise-in, drive your vintage Chevrolet pickup for ice cream, or enjoy a Sunday afternoon behind the wheel of an American muscle car.
Unlike stocks, bonds, or other traditional investments, a classic automobile offers something special: the experience of ownership.
And if your vehicle happens to appreciate over the next five, ten, or fifteen years? That's an added bonus!
Of course, classic cars have ongoing expenses, including maintenance, insurance, storage, and repairs. Appreciation is never guaranteed, and those costs should always be considered before purchasing.
The Secret? Buy Quality, Buy Desirability & Buy at the Right Price!
At Thiel Motor Sales, we believe purchasing the right collector car starts with understanding what makes it special.
Originality, desirable engines and transmissions, condition, documented history, and production numbers can all influence long-term value.
Just as important is the initial purchase price.
Buying a quality classic at a competitive price can position an enthusiast for enjoyable ownership and potential future appreciation.
It's a philosophy we've embraced for generations.
Why Buy from Thiel Motor Sales?
Since 1972, our family has built a business around helping customers find automobiles they're excited to own.
Today, we specialize in Classic, Collector, Muscle & Unique Vehicles, offering an ever-changing selection of desirable automobiles from multiple generations.
Whether you're buying your very first classic or adding another vehicle to an established collection, we're here to help make the experience enjoyable.
We offer:
A hand-selected inventory of classic, collector, muscle, and unique vehicles.
Competitive pricing informed by collector car market values.
Nationwide financing options for qualified buyers.
Worldwide shipping assistance.
Over 50 years of family-owned automotive experience.
Your Next Classic Could Be Waiting!
Maybe you've always dreamed of owning a 1969 Camaro, a classic Ford Mustang, a vintage Chevrolet pickup, or that special car you drove in high school.
Whatever your dream vehicle might be, there's something truly rewarding about owning a piece of automotive history.
Don't just buy another vehicle. Buy something you'll be proud to own, excited to drive, and happy to preserve for the next generation!
Explore our current inventory today at www.ThielMotors.com.
THIEL MOTOR SALES INC.
Family Owned & Operated Since 1972
?? 1-and-ONLY Location: 911 Westwood Dr., DeWitt, Iowa 52742
?? 563-659-9309
?? www.ThielMotors.com
?? Classic • Collector • Muscle • Unique
Disclaimer: Collector vehicle values fluctuate. Past appreciation does not guarantee future returns. Classic automobiles should be purchased with consideration for maintenance, insurance, storage, market conditions, and personal enjoyment.
