It should come as no surprise that we here at TopSpeed are more than a little familiar with the over-the-top, superlative-laden language of high-end automotive press releases. Automakers like Bentley, Bugatti, and Rolls-Royce are the worst offenders of this, heaping on the self-praise with phrases like “exquisite,” “hand-crafted,” and “the ultimate.” Which got us thinking – why should six-figure luxury mobiles for the uber-rich be the only rides worthy of such flowery language? What about normal cars, or better yet, really crappy cars? You know, the kind you’d find on the umpteenth page of craigslist? And thus, Top-Shelf Rust Buckets was born.

Here’s our proposal, dear reader – you go out and find the best (worst?) rust bucket you can, then bring it here and post it in the comments section with a link. If we like it, we’ll spin it as a celebration of all things motoring, a four-wheeled tribute to the glory of the automobile.

Confused? Read on for a few choice examples of what we’re on about.

Continue reading for a fine selection of premium rust buckets.

1982 Honda Civic Wagon

For those looking to mix business with pleasure, the Honda Civic wagon offers the best of both worlds. Whether it’s turning heads on the gilded streets of Monaco or whisking the family off to a sunny vacation retreat, this quintessential motor vehicle is both elegant and endlessly competent. Bearing the unmistakable styling of an early ‘80s Japanese import, the well-wrought exterior lines of this particular example come complemented by a two-tone paint finish, with a hardy reddish brown above, and subtle charcoal underneath, lending a sense that the car is floating over the pavement as it moves. Further white detailing can be found atop the hood, with chrome trim adorning the fenders and front fascia. The interior continues the ruddy color scheme with premium upholstery throughout, and includes custom seating for the ultimate in comfort. With less than 240,000 miles on the odometer, this is a pristine example of an absolute classic.

Photo Credit: Craigslist

1973 Volkswagen “Convertable”

Style. Presence. Excitement. These are the things that make open-top motoring so pleasurable, and while there are many imitators, few automobiles can match the sheer exuberance of an early ‘70s Volkswagen Beetle. This particular example explores new heights of thrilling rear-engine performance via lightweight bodywork, with considerable mass removed around the wheel wells, offering enhanced agility during cornering. If desired, the future owner will have access to all of the vehicle’s original components, which are conveniently placed towards the rear for greater traction.

Photo Credit: Craigslist

Photo Credit: Craigslist0}

Clearly, this two-door sports coupe is not for the timid. No – this is pure, unadulterated track-bred performance for the street, a hardcore land-based four-wheeled shark with an appetite for velocity. Offering a bespoke exterior with silver racing graphics, custom taillight housings, and lightweight multi-spoke wheels, rivals will surely tremble at your approach, resonating with the low roar of the upgraded large-bore exhaust singing its song of speed. The interior is even equipped with an alloy muffin tin in the passenger foot well, making this machine an ideal choice for either car show competition, or domination at the bakery. It’s an utterly unique example of the last word in South Korean motorsport, and a rare opportunity to own a true one-off.

Photo Credit: Craigslist