Although we would all like to be able to afford the million Mercedes W 196 model car of 1954, which was “utilised for racing by some of the world’s finest vehicle drivers” and holds the title of “world’s most high-priced classic auto in the world” according to VintageDriving.com, but we may possibly have to settle for something a little less costly – unless of course you hold the title for the world’s richest person.

All classic cars have their own history and have a selection of stories to tell, and in the case of the 1954, Mercedes, the story is focused around it becoming “the holy grail of racing cars”, reports Ask.Men.com – which is no surprise genuinely with the sport of racing having a normally male focus.

In the end, you can weigh the distinctiveness of the parts, history and lore, but the value still resides in the eye of the beholder. A blend of sentiment and passion for classic automobiles is how most men and women determine on that perfect vintage motor, and with some of the cost tags out there you can see why a lot of men and women take their time over the decision to get a piece of historic memorabilia.

It is a reality that everybody likes a bargain, and nobody likes a high price tag, which is why if you dig around you can discover a lot of classic models for under £5,000. A vintage Triumph GT6 is one of the cars highlighted as a bargain acquire on the Telegraph.co.uk, and boasts “a lovely sleek fastback body, with a six-cylinder engine – providing an obvious power bulge”, according to UniqueCarsandParts.com.

“Rather like Physician Who’s tardis, the Morris Minor travels by way of time fairly well”, according to the Independent.co.uk internet site, and also comes in under the £5,000 price range. With inexpensive and plentiful parts, the Morris Minor is an obvious ubiquitous choice for numerous enthusiasts who “thrive on the battle” to maintain their classic cars alive, according to the Independent.co.uk website.

With a 5.3 litre V12 engine, ClassicCarsForSale.co.uk reports that the Jaguar XJS had enough power in its day to be able to “hold its own against such out-and-out sports cars as Lamborghinis and Ferraris”. This may no longer be the case, but classic car enthusiasts do not invest in a vintage motor to race it round winding roads instead they treat it as their pride and joy, and in most instances will only venture out in them on a sunny summers day.

Jaguar Motor Sports