Investing in cars can be just as lucrative as stocks or real estate, but it is one of those things you only get into if you really love cars. You should also know enough about the automotive industry to know which cars are the ones to buy. These future (and current) classics can be a smart investment if you have the money and the passion. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a solid investment, these 12 cars are worth considering.
12. Dodge Viper (Gen 5)
Dodge has created some of the biggest names in American muscle cars. The Viper (Gen 5) is already considered a collector’s item. It has a huge V10 engine and aggressive style. Not to mention, the Viper is produced in limited numbers, which is something you’ll find is common among cars that you might want to invest in. The Gen 5 Viper truly represents the last of an era for raw, powerful, analog sports cars, making it a future classic.
11. Tesla Roadster (1st Generation)
The first-generation Tesla Roadster has become a hot commodity. It’s more than just an electric car, it has become a piece of car history. It was Tesla’s first production vehicle and it paved the way for the EV revolution we are seeing today. It had limited production numbers, due to the growing interest in EVs, the original Tesla Roadster has become highly sought after by car collectors and investors. As EVs grow more popular and the technology evolves, these cars are expected to continue to increase in value.
10. Lotus Elise
The Lotus Elise is cool car for any collector, but it is has become somewhat of a hidden gem in the automotive world. Lotus took a minimalist approach to the design of this car and, now that production has ended, the Elise is becoming a more desirable car for collectors and investors. Its rarity and reputation for delivering an unparalleled driving experience make it a great long-term investment.
9. Alfa Romeo 4C
Production numbers for the Alfa Romeo 4C were limited, making this Italian car a good investment. The company has discontinued the model too, which has contributed to its popularity among car enthusiasts and collectors. The 4C’s value is expected to continue to rise, especially as people seek out rare cars that have a connection to Alfa’s racing heritage.
8. Nissan GT-R (R35)
The Nissan GT-R is known as “Godzilla” to some car enthusiasts. This car is truly a technological marvel and it has a bit of a cult following. The GT-R is equipped with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel-drive system, and it is quick! Again, limited production numbers are what drive the value of these cars up. Enthusiasts and collectors both scramble to buy when they see a well-maintained GT-R come up on the market.
7. Honda S2000
Honda is well-known for creating some really reliable cars and, in some cases, they’re pretty cool too. The S2000 offers a pure driving experience that is often hard to find in more modern vehicles. As clean, lower mileage examples of the S2000 are becoming harder to find, their value has gone up. If you want a car that will appreciate while also delivering driving thrills, the Honda S2000 should be on your radar.
6. Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (C6)
If you want supercar performance without the price tag, the Corvette Z06 is a great option. It’s equipped with a naturally aspirated 7.0-liter V8 engine. This model had relatively low production numbers, which means that it will continue to appreciate in value, making the Z06 a smart buy.
5. BMW M3 (E46)
While I’m not typically a fan of BMWs, the M3 E46 is often regarded as one of the best-driving sports cars of its time. It’s hard to come across clean, unmodified versions of this car, which makes it somewhat desirable to collectors. Not to mention, it had relatively limited production numbers. This has set it up to be a high-dollar classic.
4. Mazda RX-7 (FD)
Having owned an RX-7 at one point in my life, I can tell you this is a seriously cool car. When I was driving it, people would stop and ask me to buy the car all the time. There aren’t many of these that are still in good condition, which has driven up its value greatly. If you can find one, it is always a good buy because the price continues to climb as time goes on.
3. Ford GT (2005-2006)
The 2005-2006 Frod GT is a highly sought-after vehicle. It had a retro style that was a callback to its 1960s predecessor and very few of these hit the production line. Since hitting the market, the Ford GT (2005-2006) has made significant gains in value and it’s only expected to rise in the years to come.
2. Toyota Supra (A80)
The Toyota Supra MK4 is already considered a modern classic. It is a legendary car in the world of JDM (Japanese Domestic Market), especially after it appeared in the Fast & Furious franchise. The Supra is a car enthusiast’s dream, but it is becoming harder to find them in good condition. So, if you find one, remember that it will only continue to appreciate in value.
1. Porsche 911 (993 Generation)
As a former Porsche technician, I can tell you that Porsche owners are very peculiar people. The 993 generation is one of the most iconic sports cars ever made and it’s incredibly fun to drive. Prices for Porsches are already high, but the 993 is among those I’d be willing to pay. There is a ton of potential for your Porsche purchase to continue to appreciate for years, and even decades, down the road.
Invest in Future Classics Now
These 12 cars would make great investments for collectors and enthusiasts. Remember, if you are considering investing in vehicles, it is a good idea to do your research. Make sure you’ll like the car and you know what kind of maintenance it will need long-term. From the Porsche 911 to the Dodge Viper, you really can’t go wrong with any of these future classics.