2000-06 WHAT TO BUY: HONDA INSIGHT

The first-generation Honda Insight is the kind of modern collectible you can feel good about driving.

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While quirky enough to draw glances at a Cars & Coffee, it is nonetheless ludicrously thrifty to fuel and environmentally friendly. The teardrop styling and the spats over the rear wheels give it the look of a science experiment, but underneath, the driving experience is typical Honda-the Insight is reliable, light on its feet, and more engaging with a manual transmission. -Brendan McAleer

VALUE

Part of the Insight's appeal is its rarity, as global sales barely broke 17,000 over seven years. That means they come up for sale only sporadically. Condition is far more important than mileage, especially as Insight ownership is more about a unique driving experience than investment potential. Expect to pay above $10,000 for a manual-transmission version in good condition. CVT-equipped models sell for less; $7500 is enough money to buy a low-mileage example.