Inexpensive and affordable are often two distinctly different things, particularly when it comes to entry-level collector cars. While it can be tempting to plunk down $5,000 on a well-worn sports or luxury car, such transactions don’t always end well for the buyer. The cost of repairing (or even maintaining) exotic beasts can be daunting, which is why the smart money is on more “middle-class” classic cars.

Each of the five selections below represents a car that a middle-class family may have purchased new. They’re sensible choices that wouldn’t have required a second mortgage to acquire or to keep on the road. The same can be said today, since all are affordable to purchase and restore to weekend driver or show-and-shine status. A few appear to be driver-quality cars already, making them well-suited to those new to the hobby with limited mechanical or bodywork skills.

You get $5K and an afternoon to pick one of these five autos. Which do you pick?