My first iPod was a green mini. The only drawbacks were that the HD was quite small - 4 gb - and that the battery needed replacement 3 times in 7 years. While I was replacing the battery the second time I also replaced the HD with a 16gb unit. When I got my first touch I gave the mini to someone who still uses it.
If you want a really cool vinate iPod, get the third gen classic. I don't recall them being cheaper than $28, but they're more amazing than the mini. Also, I just bought a 1st gen classic on eBay for $150! Whoo!
so an old corvette would be junk to you since its not apple? anyway, i wouldnt use it since i dont listen to music.