Let’s say that money was no object and you could hit the town with any vehicle this Valentine’s Day; what would you pick to ensure your date night is one for the record books?
After much debate (and really dreaming about that money is no object idea), here are our top picks. If you have something else in mind, drop us a few candy hearts and let us know on social media.
#1: Aston Martin DB5
Arguably the most sophisticated classic car of all time, the 1963 Aston Martin DB5 is for the couple who wants to make a grand entrance this Valentine’s Day. Imagine being dressed to the nines and hitting the road in this beauty for an elegant dinner at the finest restaurant in the city.
The Aston Martin DB5 has 282 horsepower and tops out at around 140 mph, making it powerful and fast in addition to gorgeous. This car is first on the list because James Bond showed the world its beauty and mystique in the movie Goldfinger.
#2: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
Maybe you live in Southern California and want a classic car that lets you put the top down and drive the coast before your dinner reservations. Or maybe where you live in the Midwest, it’s going to be a usually warm Valentine’s Day this year.
No matter the case, the 1957 Chevy Bel Air will make for a memorable evening, especially if you are lucky enough to have the optional 283 cubic inch V8 with 283 horsepower. The product brochure of the 1957 Chevy Bel Air promoted the convertible’s new vinyl interior and foam rubber seats for a more comfortable drive.
With something like a Bel Air, you can even go for an American Graffiti-type nostalgia this Valentine’s Day. The convertible Bel Air also had a power-operated top, just in case you want to take in the stars with your date.
#3: 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
While you and your date may already have a need for speed, you can go a step further by adding in an element of rarity. For many, the most famous sports car that fits this definition is the Ferrari 250 GTO. This powerful Prancing Horse has a V12 engine and a top speed of 174 mph, and it’s one of the finest Ferraris to ever see the light of day.
The only problem is locating one. There were only 36 made between 1962 and 1964.
You will turn heads at every stop if you are fortunate enough to get your hands on one for Valentine’s Day. While the Ferrari 250 GTO was built for racing, as time has gone by, the lucky owners now keep them in pristine condition.
#4: Porsche 550 Spyder
If mixing that convertible top with sports car capability interests you and your date for Valentine’s Day, then the choice is clear.
The now classic Porsche 550 Spyder was first introduced at the 1953 Paris Salon. The word Spyder was added to signify it as an open and light two-seater. This beauty rides low and actually drove under closed railroad crossing gates in the 1954 Mille Miglia.
Porsche designed the 550 Spyder primarily as a race car. It won the Nürburgring Eifel Race in 1953, among many other races of the day (and Porsche continues to dominate the Nürburgring).
There were only 90 made, although 43 were non-race cars as public demand grew for its sleek design and sophistication. Famous designer Ralph Lauren owns the 61st Porsche 550 Spyder.
Imagine the look on everyone’s face when you and your date arrive in this widely-recognizable classic sports car. You would be forgiven if you skipped dinner and just continued to enjoy the ride together.
#5: 1965 Ford Mustang
The Mustang is for those who want to impress and afford their entire Valentine’s Day date! Given its near-universal appeal (unless your date is really, really into the Camaro!), the original pony car is the perfect choice for a night on the town.
If you cannot get your hands on a vintage Mustang, might we suggest the 2024 model, which will still make for a memorable Valentine’s Day. Although there are more electric cars these days, Ford is fully committed to gasoline engines, and the 2024 Mustang retains its powerful 5.0 V8.
After a romantic night out, if you and your date still want more Mustang feel-good vibes, we suggest watching A Faster Horse or playing a game of Mustang-themed Monopoly.
Most Romantic Classic Cars Conclusion
While these are our top five most romantic classic cars for Valentine’s Day, let’s be honest: any popular classic will make the day memorable. And even if you don’t own one of the classic cars on this list, you can still have a fun and romantic Valentine’s Day this year. Just don’t forget the flowers and chocolates!
Carl Anthony is the Managing Editor of Automoblog and the host of AutoVision News Radio and AutoSens Insights. As a respected automotive industry thought leader, Carl has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio shows, including Wrench Nation, Cars Yeah, The Car Doctor, and Brains Byte Back, in addition to appearing as a regular contributor on MotorMouth Radio on WHPC 90.3 FM. His work can also be seen and heard 24/7 on the Automoblog YouTube channel.