396: Inside Today's Collector Car Market with Dave Kinney
About this episode
Dave Kinney joins the podcast to discuss the current state of the collector car market, highlighting valuation trends and generational shifts in buyer interests. Kinney notes that while older cars are still being sold, there's a surprising resilience in the market, with younger enthusiasts gravitating towards vintage models, including brass-era cars. The conversation also touches on specific vehicles like the Plymouth Duster and the impact of television on car values. Kinney shares insights on the fluctuating values of classic SUVs and the appeal of right-hand drive cars, as well as predictions for future collector trends.
In this episode of The Collector Car Podcast, I sit down with noted appraiser and Hagerty Price Guide founder Dave Kinney to unpack what's really happening in today's collector car market. We dig into the latest valuation trends across classics, muscle cars, modern exotics, and emerging "next-gen" collectibles—and why some segments are softening while others are catching fire.
Dave and I talk about how interest rates, global events, and shifting demographics are shaping prices, plus the surprising rise of younger enthusiasts chasing everything from JDM icons to early Brass Era cars. We also discuss where auction results align (or don't) with private sale realities, how to read past the headlines, and what smart buyers and sellers should be paying attention to right now.
Whether you're managing a serious collection, thinking about selling a car, or just trying to understand where the market is headed, this conversation with Dave offers grounded, data-driven insight you can actually use the next time you're browsing listings—or raising your hand at an auction.
#CollectorCarMarket #DaveKinney #Hagerty #CarValues #ClassicCars #MarketTrends #CollectorCars #MuscleCars #ModernExotics #JDM #NextGenCollectibles #CarPodcast #AutomotivePodcast #CarInvesting #AuctionMarket #TheCollectorCarPodcast
Do you need help buying or selling your collector car? Contact Greg directly at [email protected] or [email protected].
A special thank you to our new sponsor, Discover Once, curators of one-of-a-kind automotive adventures you'll never experience twice. Learn more at discoveronce.com/muscle.
And as always, huge thanks to RM Sotheby's for their continual support and for making so many of these automotive dreams possible.
Listen to the "Octane FM: Shift, Rev, Repeat" album on Spotify!
Stay connected with The Collector Car Podcast—find us on our Website, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, or reach out to Greg directly via email.
Join RM Sotheby's Car Specialist Greg Stanley as he brings over 25 years of experience and keen market analysis to the world of collector cars. Each week, Greg dives into market trends, interviews industry experts, and shares insights—with a little fun along the way. New episodes drop every Thursday and are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more at www.TheCollectorCarPodcast.com or email Greg at [email protected].
Interested in consigning a car at an RM Sotheby's auction? Contact Greg directly at [email protected].
Chevrolet Corvette
"...the guy whose dream car was a 57 Corvette, he's selling that 57 Corvette, or his widow is selling that 57 Corvette."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car that has been around for many years. The 1957 version is especially popular among car collectors because of its unique design and speed.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car that has been in production since 1953. The 1957 model is particularly iconic, known for its classic styling and performance, and is often sought after by collectors.
RM Sotheby's
"RM Sotheby's is the world's largest collector car auction house by Total Sales. They are the preeminent market maker of high quality collector cars and collections, regardless of size or complexity."
RM Sotheby's is a company that sells rare and valuable cars at auctions, making it a key player in the collector car market.
RM Sotheby's is the world's largest collector car auction house, known for its high-quality auctions and extensive network across the globe.
brass era cars
"Of course, we'll go back a long time and we'll say what's going to happen. This was in the 1970s and 80s. What's going to happen to those vintage cars from the brass era, literally the time before 1915, and who the hell's going to want them?"
The brass era cars are very old cars made between the late 1800s and 1915. They are called 'brass era' because many parts of these cars were made of brass, which was a popular material at the time.
The brass era refers to a period in automotive history from the late 1890s to about 1915, characterized by the use of brass fittings and trim on cars. These vehicles are often considered vintage and collectible due to their historical significance and unique engineering.
BMW E39
"Take E39 BMWs, for example. I don't think the next generation has any stigma against the four-door car..."
The E39 is a model of BMW's 5 Series cars made between 1995 and 2003. It's popular for its good driving experience and performance.
The E39 is the fourth generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1995 to 2003. It is known for its balanced handling and strong performance, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.
BMW E36
"...and I think they'd even sprinkle into the E36 with that four-door, but let's not talk about that now."
The E36 is a version of BMW's 3 Series cars made from 1990 to 1999. It is known for being fun to drive and having different engine choices.
The E36 is the third generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1990 to 1999. It is well-regarded for its sporty handling and variety of engine options.
four-door muscle car
"...there will be a four-door muscle car episode at some point or something like that. Well, I thought you would say we're going to have a four-door muscle car quiz because I'll..."
A four-door muscle car is a fast car that has four doors, making it easier for people to get in and out. It's a mix of speed and practicality, allowing families to enjoy performance cars.
A four-door muscle car refers to a performance-oriented vehicle that combines the characteristics of a traditional muscle car with the practicality of a four-door sedan. This concept has gained popularity as manufacturers seek to blend performance with everyday usability.
Dacia Duster
"...y still favorite from 2025 though is the Plymouth Duster. The Duster is driven all by the TV show Duster."
The Dacia Duster is an affordable SUV that many people find useful for everyday driving. It's not as famous as some other cars, but it's a good choice if you're looking for something practical.
The Dacia Duster is a budget-friendly SUV that has gained popularity for its practicality and value. While it may not be as well-known in some markets, its affordability and functionality make it a noteworthy option for those seeking an economical vehicle.
Plymouth Duster
"My still favorite from 2025 though is the Plymouth Duster."
The Plymouth Duster is a type of car that was made a long time ago, known for being sporty and fun to drive. It was popular in the 1970s and is still remembered by car enthusiasts today.
The Plymouth Duster is a compact car that was produced by Plymouth from 1970 to 1976. It is known for its sporty design and performance, particularly in the muscle car era.
Dodge Duster
"The Duster is driven all by the TV show Duster. Every Dodge Dart that was not a Duster has become a Duster with the addition of decals..."
The Dodge Duster is a car that was made in the 1970s. It was popular because it was cheaper than many other cars but still looked cool. Now, it's considered a classic and many people want to own one.
The Dodge Duster was a compact car produced by Dodge in the early 1970s, known for its affordability and sporty design. It has gained a cult following over the years, especially among enthusiasts of classic American cars.
Dodge Dart
"Every Dodge Dart that was not a Duster has become a Duster with the addition of decals because there's the hitness factor to having a TV show star."
The Dodge Dart is another car made by Dodge, which was popular in the 1960s and 1970s. It was known for being affordable and had different versions that people liked to drive.
The Dodge Dart was a compact car produced by Dodge from the early 1960s until the mid-1970s. It was known for its performance options and affordability, making it a popular choice among buyers during its production run.
DeLorean
"...and what happened when the back to the future came out and the values of DeLorean which are now valuable to an entire wide range of generation of car buyers."
The DeLorean is a unique car made in the early 1980s, famous for its shiny metal body and doors that open up like wings. It became really popular because it was featured in the movie 'Back to the Future.'
The DeLorean is a sports car that was produced by the DeLorean Motor Company in the early 1980s. It is best known for its distinctive stainless steel body and gull-wing doors, as well as its iconic role in the 'Back to the Future' film series, which significantly boosted its popularity and value among collectors.
Plymouth Roadrunner
"Road. Oh, I'm thinking Roadrunner. I'm thinking American car, so."
The Plymouth Roadrunner is a classic American car that is known for being fast and fun to drive. It's popular among car fans, especially those who love muscle cars.
The Plymouth Roadrunner is a classic muscle car known for its performance and distinctive cartoon-themed branding. Its place in automotive history makes it a topic of interest, especially among collectors and enthusiasts of American muscle cars.
Porsche Speedster
"Oh, I'm thinking Porsche's Speedster. Oh yeah, of course, yeah, exactly."
The Porsche Speedster is a type of sports car that is designed to be lightweight and simple. It has a sporty look and is known for being fun to drive.
The Porsche Speedster is a lightweight, minimalist version of the Porsche 356 and later the 911, known for its sporty design and performance. It typically features a lower windshield and a simplified interior for a more engaging driving experience.
Ford Broncos
"...ng. We've seen a decline in value of a lot of the Broncos that have been redone and an amateur level."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that people love for off-roading and adventure. Some restored models are losing value, which is important for anyone thinking about buying one.
The Ford Bronco is a classic American SUV known for its rugged off-road capabilities and iconic design. Recently, there has been a decline in the value of many Broncos that have been restored at an amateur level, which is significant for collectors and enthusiasts.
Toyota Land
"It happened with the Toyota Land Cruisers, not too terribly long ago. Everybody restored one of the FJ 40s, I guess everybody restored one."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a tough and reliable SUV that can handle rough terrains. It's known for being both luxurious and capable off-road.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and luxury features. It has a long history and is highly regarded for its durability and reliability.
Toyota FJ40
"Everybody restored one of the FJ 40s, I guess everybody restored one. And then, you know, a few of them came on the market."
The Toyota FJ40 is an older model of the Land Cruiser that is famous for its square shape and ability to drive off-road. Many people love restoring these classic vehicles.
The Toyota FJ40 is a classic off-road vehicle that was produced from the 1960s to the early 1980s. It's known for its boxy design and exceptional off-road performance, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Willys Jeep
"...s tremendously different. So the first one is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Now, we all know those were reall..."
Jeep Grand
"...s tremendously different. So the first one is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Now, we all know those were really hot ..."
Jeep Wagoneer
"So the first one is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Now, we all know those were really hot there for a while."
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a large SUV that was popular in the past, especially in the 1980s. People are interested in it again because of its unique style and features.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a full-size SUV known for its luxury features and off-road capability. It was particularly popular in the 1980s and has seen a resurgence in interest among collectors and enthusiasts.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
"Now, the second one is the 1979 to 1972 Mercedes Benz G-Class is up 68 percent. So my theory on that one is we all know the G wagons are still going strong."
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagon, is a fancy SUV that started being made in 1979. It's popular for its tough look and ability to drive off-road, and many people see it as a sign of wealth.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also known as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV that has been in production since 1979. It is known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, while also being a status symbol in the luxury vehicle market.
AMC Grand Wagoneer
"Well, I'm going to give you the perspective as the original owner of a grand wagon here. I bought one in 1989. And I have to tell you, it was a tremendously disappointing automobile."
The AMC Grand Wagoneer is a large SUV that was made by AMC. It was popular for its comfort and off-road ability but had some problems with reliability, especially in the engines.
The AMC Grand Wagoneer is a full-size SUV produced by American Motors Corporation (AMC) from 1963 to 1991. It is known for its luxury features and off-road capabilities, but it also has a reputation for reliability issues, particularly in its later years.
crankshaft
"...we had to replace the engine at 4,000 miles. The crankshaft on the 360 motor, which was an AMC sourced motor, the crankshaft snapped."
The crankshaft is a part of the engine that helps turn the motion of the pistons into movement for the car. If it breaks, it can cause big problems for the engine.
The crankshaft is a crucial component of an engine that converts the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion, which ultimately powers the vehicle. A failure of the crankshaft can lead to severe engine damage and failure.
360 motor
"...the crankshaft on the 360 motor, which was an AMC sourced motor, the crankshaft snapped."
The 360 motor is a type of engine made by AMC that was used in their cars. It's a V8 engine, which means it has eight cylinders and is known for being powerful, but it had some problems with reliability.
The 360 motor refers to a 5.9-liter V8 engine produced by AMC, known for its use in various AMC vehicles, including the Grand Wagoneer. It was designed to provide a balance of power and torque, but it has been criticized for reliability issues.
replacement block
"...there's probably somebody wondering why they have a replacement block in their in their 89 grand wagon here. And they're going, oh, my gosh, it's not worth as much because it's got a replacement block."
A replacement block is a new part that replaces a broken engine part in a car. If a car has this, some people think it might not be worth as much because it has been repaired.
A replacement block refers to a new engine block that has been installed in a vehicle to replace a damaged or worn-out one. This can affect the car's value, as buyers may be concerned about the history and reliability of the replacement part.
miles per gallon
"...it also got somewhere between six and eight miles per gallon."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. A higher number means the car is more fuel-efficient and will save you money on gas.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It is an important metric for understanding fuel efficiency and operating costs.
tinworm
"...they were, you know, quite susceptible to the tinworm, aka rust..."
Tinworm is just a funny way of saying rust, which can eat away at metal parts of cars. It's important to fix rust to keep a car safe and strong.
'Tinworm' is a colloquial term used to describe rust, particularly in vehicles. It refers to the corrosion that affects metal parts, which can lead to structural damage if not addressed.
Land Rover
"...the old Land Rover's people just absolutely love them..."
Land Rover is a brand that makes fancy SUVs which are great for off-roading. Many people love them and enjoy fixing up older models.
Land Rover is a brand known for its luxury SUVs that are capable of off-road driving. They have a strong enthusiast community and are often restored or modified for various uses.
Honda Crx
"... about. This one, here's my opinion, 1985 to 1991 Honda CRX, up 50% number two condition."
The Honda CRX is a small, sporty car that many people liked in the 80s and 90s. It's becoming more valuable now, especially the older models, because people still love its style and efficiency.
The Honda CRX is a compact car that gained popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s for its sporty design and fuel efficiency. Its resurgence in value, particularly models from 1985 to 1991, highlights its enduring appeal among car enthusiasts.
BMW M3
"is not really a car guy. He's always wanted a BMW M3. And so I've been helping him recently"
The BMW M3 is a fast and sporty car that many people dream of owning. It's known for being fun to drive and has a strong following among car lovers.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, celebrated for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It's often sought after by car enthusiasts and is a popular choice for those looking to experience a thrilling driving experience.
Laguna Seca Blue
"And in my research, I found out like, I think it's called the Laguna Seca Blue. That's a $20,000 color, you know,"
Laguna Seca Blue is a unique color for some BMW cars that makes them stand out. Because it's rare, cars in this color can be worth a lot more money.
Laguna Seca Blue is a special color option for the BMW E46 M3, known for its vibrant and striking appearance. This color can significantly increase the car's value due to its rarity and desirability among collectors.
Subaru Wrx
"...ll that sort of stuff. But well, that's why I'm a Subaru WRX STI owner. So yeah, I mean, y'all, that's my numb..."
The Subaru WRX is a cool, sporty car that can handle tough roads and weather. It's loved by people who enjoy driving fast and want a car that performs well in all conditions.
The Subaru WRX is a performance-oriented compact car that has gained a reputation for its all-wheel-drive system and rally-inspired design. It's popular among driving enthusiasts for its agility and speed, especially in challenging weather conditions.
World Rally Blue
"And yes, it's World Rally Blue, and yes, it has the wing."
World Rally Blue is a bright blue color that Subaru cars are famous for, especially the sporty ones used in racing.
World Rally Blue is a specific paint color associated with Subaru, often seen on their performance models, particularly those involved in rally racing.
Toyota Fj
"...had unlimited funds, I'd buy up every low mileage Toyota FJ I could. Mine's daily, 2014 FJ,"
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a rugged SUV that looks cool and is great for off-roading. People really like it, especially the ones that haven't been driven much.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled SUV that combines off-road capability with modern features, making it a favorite among adventure seekers. Its limited production and unique design have led to a strong following and increasing interest in low-mileage models.
paint to sample
"Of course, that's, you know, in the Porsche market, you know, it's crazy there because, you know, that the paint to sample,"
'Paint to sample' means you can pick a special color for your car that isn't normally available. It's a way to make your car unique and can make it more valuable later on.
'Paint to sample' is a program offered by manufacturers like Porsche that allows customers to choose custom paint colors for their vehicles, often leading to unique and personalized finishes. This service can significantly increase the car's value and appeal to collectors.
Ford F150
"You know, my sister was looking for an F-150 and we went to a couple of dealers and everything was red, white, black, and silver."
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work or to carry things. It's well-liked and comes in many different versions.
The Ford F-150 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. It's often used for both work and personal purposes, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts.
Pebble Beach Edition
"The one that really caught my eye was Pebble Beach Edition, dark metallic brown."
The Pebble Beach Edition is a special version of a car that celebrates a famous car show. It usually has unique colors and extra features that make it stand out.
The Pebble Beach Edition is a special variant of a vehicle that is often produced to commemorate the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, a prestigious automotive event. These editions typically feature unique styling elements, colors, and additional luxury features.
Audi Tt
"...I'll tell you mine, it's an early Audi TT"
The Audi TT is a small sports car that looks great and is fun to drive. It's been around since the late 1990s and is known for its unique design.
The Audi TT is a compact sports car known for its distinctive design and engaging driving experience. It has been popular among car enthusiasts since its introduction in the late 1990s, offering a blend of style and performance.
right hand drive
"...driving right hand drive cars..."
Right hand drive means the steering wheel is on the right side of the car, which is how cars are set up in some countries like Japan.
Right hand drive (RHD) refers to vehicles designed to be driven on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right side of the vehicle, common in countries like Japan and the UK.
JDM
"...It's JDM, even for the non, you know, Nissan cars,..."
JDM means cars that are made for Japan and might have special features not found in cars sold elsewhere.
JDM stands for Japanese Domestic Market, referring to vehicles that are made specifically for the Japanese market and often have features or specifications that differ from those sold in other countries.
Nissan Skyline
"...t's JDM, even for the non, you know, Nissan cars, Skyline cars, do you see the right hand drive aspect even..."
The Nissan Skyline is a famous sports car from Japan that many people love for its speed and style. It's special because it has a unique driving setup and is popular among fans of Japanese cars.
The Nissan Skyline is a legendary sports car, particularly famous for its performance and tuning potential, especially in the Japanese market. Its right-hand drive configuration and status as a JDM icon make it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Pontiac GTO
"...erested to see what's gonna happen with the white GTO that's coming up. It's going to be the first time..."
The Pontiac GTO is a classic American muscle car that many people admire for its power and looks. It's a big deal in car culture, especially when rare models come up for sale.
The Pontiac GTO is often regarded as one of the original muscle cars, known for its powerful engine and classic styling. Its significance in automotive history makes it a popular topic among collectors and enthusiasts, especially with upcoming auctions.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.