classic car for a daily driver?

[Headtater]

This is a mostly hypothetical question. I have considered buying a classic car in the near future and using it as a daily driver or something like that (maybe not daily, but a regular driver). I am interested in getting something unique. The car would not have to be super economical but it does have to be practical. This means I am not interested in getting a Camaro, Beetle or something like that. Basically something relatively practical, somewhat affordable (as classic cars go) and kind of unique.

I want something 1960 or later but before the mid 1980s.
Although I would prefer American (GM and MOPAR specifically), nationality is not a major issue but I would avoid British sports cars.

Some of the cars I would consider would be the Chevy Nova, Dodge Monaco, AMC Pacer and Studebaker Lark.

Once again, this is mostly hypothetical. I may do this in the foreseeable future, but not the immediate future. Maybe within 10 years.
Let me make this clear. I have a good understanding of the costs and work associated with classic cars. I have a good understanding of the options and technologies. All I really want is the make, model and year (range or specific) of a car you would suggest. I am not opposed to, but would like to avoid cars like the Camaro and Mustang because it seems everyone has one.

I also must note that I am kinda partial to the so-called orphan cars like Studebaker and AMC.
Also, I can drive classic cars (manual trans, manual steering and brakes). I have no problem with this. I would also likely restomod the car if I were to go through with this plan. I would probably work on upgrading it in minor ways like power brakes and steering, electronic ignition and so on.

 

[Mad Jack]

Old cars are great. Lots of fun to own and drive. But there are a few things you need to know.

An old car will require a lot more maintenance than a newer car. You will need to do a tune-up every 20k to 30k miles. More often if it has a points style distributor.

They don't drive or ride as well. Have you ever driven a vehicle with 4 wheel hydraulic (not power) drum brakes? It is an adventure. You never really know which direction it will pull when you apply the brakes. And you will feel like you want to use both feet when you stop.

Have you ever driven a car without power steering. It takes a little muscle to turn the wheel while moving slowly. But I personally like the feel of manual steering once the vehicle is moving.

Power steering and power brakes were considered a luxury item in cars from the 60s and earlier. Even many late 60s and early 70s muscle cars didn't have them.

Also, don't expect a 50+ year old car to be reliable. Many of these old cars will require lots of TLC to keep them on the road.

Don't get me wrong, I love old cars. But you would want one of these for pleasure cruising, not your primary means of transportation.

With that said, if you are looking for something that is relatively economical look for something with either an in-line 6 or small V8. You could even get some of the old muscle cars like the Camaro, Mustang, Firebird, etc with an in-line 6. The 6 cylinder versions of these cars don't demand top dollar like the true matching numbers muscle car counterparts do.

Other cars that you haven't considered are the 60's Buick Skylark, Pontiac Tempest, Pontiac Le Mans, Plymouth Duster, Ford Mustang, etc. All of these could be had with an in-line 6 or small V8.