For new cars being over optioned it has alot to do with profit. Profits are usually a percentage of the cost so if you own a lot and you have 100 spots to park cars do you park 50 that will net you 5k profit and 50 that will net you 10k profit or 100 that will net you 10k profit and tell the buyer if you want cheaper its a special order.

As for the old stuff I think inflation took hold. I bought my first car in 1980 for $650. It was a 73 400 magnum charger rally with a spare 71 440 hp in the trunk. It needed a timing chain but that was a normal price for a 7 year old non running car then.

My sons were paying 500 to 1000 for similar in the early 2000's.
Now its about $1500 for a decent car that needs work to run.

Could just be my view though.

The old stuff is crazy wild prices. One guy wants 1,500 for something someone else wants 15,000 for.
I think there are a lot of dreamers looking for a quick buck mixed with old school prices.