I watch too many petrolicious videos. I'm in love with classic italian cars ala 250 gto, maserati 250f, alfa tipo 33, alfa giulia tz2, etc. Is there something classic, powerful (relative to it's time), and beautifully curvaceous like this within my price range? What do you think is the most beautiful classic italian car under 150,000 USD? Most of them have climbed out of this range in recent years. If I'm honest, I'd probably be better off looking at 80's ferraris through maybe the f430. I just have this unending love for these 60s and back models. The style is phenomenal.
The jaguar E type is still an option. Outstanding car with drop dead gorgeous looks, but not quite Italian.
The E-Type is indeed a great option. Italian; The elegant but less flamboyant Lancia Aurealia B20, and not that long but now out of your price range (although I don't know the US market), the beautiful and somewhat overlooked Lancia Flaminia (Super) Sport Zagato's. Less exotic but still curvaceous and sporty: Alfa GTV, Alfa Junior Gt (gta/m recreation), 2600 Sprint.
Actually a short search on Hemmings shows three Aurelias B20 for sale at that price range. And what about Alfa Romeo Montreal?
I'm biased - I have a Ferrari 308 and a Jaguar E-Type FHC, so I've got it covered! I have to say, for the price you are suggesting, the DeTomaso Pantera is a can't miss. Super power, looks fantastic, it's classic, and it's Italian (ok, half Italian). Some have told me it's an Italian GT40, and I get it. I especially like the unmolested models (e.g., before the GT5 type flares, wings, etc), and you can get one probably for $75-80K in very good / great shape. I'll second the Alfa recommendation - the GTV / GT / Giulia cars are really sweet, but nowhere near as powerful as a Pantera. Maybe 10 years ago, an Iso Grifo would have been in your wheelhouse. I met a guy that had one for sale, right when Ford introduced the Ford GT (so around 2005 / 2006) - he was selling it to buy the GT, which maybe retrospectively wasn't a great idea - not a bad idea, but I think the Grifos have appreciated more. Anyway, that car was HOT. I think they are pushing $400K now... My vote - Pantera!
Maserati Merak. The most impressive design of the greatest car designer of the 1970s (and of course beyond that too...)... and still a steal at less than 100K USD in perfect condition.
If you want something with a Ferrari motor that is dirt cheap and do not mind it being newer look for a low mile 6 speed manual non paddle shifter Maserati 4200. P.S. I think the 4200 spyder looks much better than the coupe and has a shorter 2400 mm wheelbase just like the classic Ferrari's.
Fiat Dino Coupe? Good looks and performance, Ferrari engine... Fiat 2300S Coupe? Great looks, ok performance... But, of course, both are Fiats so prepare for stupid jokes...
Maybe for $150K, the Fiat Dino Spider would be a better option. The Dino Coupe is nice, but the Spider is a great looking car IMHO.
Intermecannica Italia's are a cool consideration. There is an exceptional thread on these here with some 'sick' examples. Rarity and beauty here. Suggestions have been brilliant from everyone. Petrolicious videos are awesome. Phil T. here and his Stratos...for example. Love them loud on the big screen.
The Apollo is right on at the top of the price list, it's a stunning car that is inexpensive to own and operate.