It’s been a busy couple of weeks here at Wolf and Mare, with much time spent traveling to client locations for various assignments. To pass the time I typically listen to a few podcasts, one of which is Carmudgeon. It’s hosted by Jason Cammisa and Derek Tam-Scott, and in this episode Tam-Scott shared his experience driving in the California Mille. Only one pre-war car participated in the event, perhaps owing to their open-topped and somewhat temperamental nature. I wondered — what pre-war cars might be fun candidates for the California Mille and not break the bank? In today’s Market Monday, I’m featuring 5 Affordable (and Cool) Pre-War Cars.

Pre-war collector cars encompass automobiles manufactured prior to World War II, generally ranging from the late 1890s through 1941. This category includes a diverse array of vehicles, from brass-era motorcars to interwar luxury models and early sports cars. Prominent examples include the Duesenberg Model J, Bugatti Type 35, Rolls-Royce Phantom I, and the Ford Model A, each representing distinct milestones in early automotive design and engineering.

The market for pre-war automobiles remains specialized, sustained primarily by experienced collectors, historic preservationists, and concours-level enthusiasts. While demand for more commonplace models has softened, exceptional examples—particularly those with notable provenance, low production numbers, or custom coachwork—continue to achieve strong results in both private transactions and premier auctions. Although generational shifts have tempered mainstream interest, the pre-war segment retains enduring appeal within the upper tiers of the collector car world.

The finest pre-war cars can be six figure investments or more, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find more affordable examples. The list below isn’t exhaustive by any means, nor are these vehicles necessarily the best of the breed, but they are some of my personal favorites and cars I would consider acquiring for my own collection.

The Ford Model T revolutionized the automobile, but the Model A — its successor — rolled out of the factory in 1927 and was a better car in almost every way. The Model A is larger, with a higher horsepower engine, quicker top speed, an electric starter, standard drum brakes and conventional controls. A sedan is a bit pedestrian, so I’d opt for a Roadster body, which is popular with collectors. Weather protection on the sides utilized canvas curtains, but at least it’s something. RM Sotheby’s is offering a lovely 1930 Model A Roadster at its Hershey auction in October, and it’s estimated at an affordable $30,000-$40,000.

Salmson, along with Amilcar, are considered a “poor man’s Bugatti” and in that they do not refer to something like the Type 35 but rather something like the Bugatti Brescia. Salmson started as an aeronautical company, but later produced brilliant cyclecars that were capable of competition. This car’s bodywork was rebuilt to represent a Grand Sport model and looks appropriately racey. This car is priced at $52,000, but I’ve seen it listed elsewhere for $38,000. You’ll have to get creative when it comes to hauling luggage, but what a cool little entrant into the California Mille this would be.

I do not have nearly the room necessary to cover the extensive history of Riley motorcars, but suffice to say I love this marque and feel it’s underrated. These are among the most interesting and affordable British pre-war cars available. Riley sports specials were raced extensively with such cars as the Brooklands and Imp being some of the most successful works racers in the 20s and 30s. This particular car has a racing history in New Zealand. While this car’s price is available only on application, you can find Riley specials for under $50,000.

When most people think of the Fiat 500, they think of the 60’s model or the modern reinterpretation. The original “Topolino” was launched in 1936 and featured an aerodynamic sloped grill and an engine mounted in the front. It’s top speed was just 53 mph, meaning you’re not going to set any speed records in the California Mille, but you’ll certainly be the most charming car on the road. The Transformabile is, of course, the convertible model with a folding ragtop not unlike those on later 500s. This lovely Topolino sold at last year’s Broad Arrow Monterey auction for just $17.920 making it perhaps the most affordable car on this list.

The T-Type MG midget, starting with the TA model, replaced the PB in 1936. The TA was wider and longer than the PB, affording precious more interior space (as its predecessor was quite cramped). Amazingly, and of interest for a rally, is that the T-Type could reach speeds of 80mph, though it took you half a minute to get there. If more power is your jam, look for a TB Midget powered by a tuned XPAG engine. The average price of an MG TA is around $32,000, making this nut and bolt restored example an attractive proposition at $38,000. It’s a small car, but it has some provision for luggage and carries its own tool kit under the bonnet.

While not my absolute favorite pre-war cars (except maybe for the Riley), these vehicles are attractive and usable with excellent histories. Parts may be an issue, but their relatively low cost at least leaves some room to build a spares inventory and roadside repairs are certainly easier than a more modern car.

While the best of the best pre-war cars will always have a market, what about more affordable cars like these? Well, all may not be lost. As younger buyers (relatively) look for analog cars that are DIY maintainable and stand out at Cars and Coffee, pre-war vehicles may become a more popular choice.

Did I miss any affordable pre-war cars? What pre-1941 vehicle would you take on the California Mille? Let me know in the comments below!

Wolf and Mare provides appraisal services for sellers and buyers of collector European cars. If you’re interested in acquiring a professional appraisal, give us a call or drop a line!
The opinions shared above do not represent financial or investment advice.