impact of modern muscle cars on the old car market

Back when the first clones appeared, I first noticed them as selling at BJ, (never been there in person) I asked myself WHY!!!????? This was way back in what late 90's?? Back then I could find a complete 383 4 speed 68-70 Runner, or Bee project, for $1000-1500. OK so that was Missouri not the high $ part of the US! BUTtttt, So why would anyone build a clone to obviously flip at BJ back then !?????