Some people invest in stocks and real estate – others invest in cars. While investing is a risky
business, by choosing the right model, you can win in the long run. Usually, cars that grow in
value the most are rare, exclusive, and well-preserved. carVertical automotive experts made a
list of cars whose value should go up in the future and bring their owners profit.
Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201)
The Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201) was an extremely popular model at some point, and its value
is steadily growing. In the ‘70s, Mercedes-Benz dedicated 10 times more budget for new car
manufacturing than its rivals, as a result, its older models are called undestroyable. The most
powerful 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II version now costs hundreds of thousands of dollars.
However, you still have a chance of cheaply purchasing a standard version with 2.3, 2.5, or 2.6
liter engines.
Toyota MR2 (Mk1)
Cars in the MR2 series have everything a true driving enthusiast could wish for – rear wheel
drive, an engine in the middle of a car, sharp handling, and a manual gearbox. The first
generation MR2, which barely weighs a ton, was manufactured with a compressor and could
accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds. It’s a unique, classic sports car with 2 seats and
pop-up headlamps.
Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA)
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is a serious rival of the Toyota MR2. The first
generation MX-5 was manufactured between 1989-1997 and received a lot of attention. This car
is known for its smooth handling and has reliable 4-cylinder engines, achieving 133 HP. If you’re
looking for a safe investment and have some spare space in your garage – the MX-5 is one of
the best options.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV
Introduced in 1996, the Lancer Evolution IV is one of the most desired yet less expensive
models built for the Japanese domestic market. Starting from $12,000-15,000, the 4th
generation Lancer Evolution has a compact 4-cylinder engine, achieving 276 HP.
In 2015, Mitsubishi discontinued production of the Lancer Evolution to concentrate on hybrid
and electric cars. This fact has also affected its value.
BMW M5 E34
Many drivers think that the BMW M series is a rarity, which they will never be able to purchase.
However, some cheaper models can also be found on the used vehicle market, with the BMW
M5 E34 being one of the most interesting examples.
First introduced in 1988, this powerful business-class sedan has an inline 6-cylinder 3.8-liter
engine, achieving 335 HP. The starting price for this classic BMW M5 is around $15,000.
However, its value is growing fast.
Honda S2000
If you want to buy a sports car, you won’t find anything more charming than the Honda S2000.
While the Mazda MX-5 and Toyota MR2 are nice cars with minor flaws, the S2000 is a much
more sound choice. It has a simple yet reliable engine construction, smooth handling, rear
wheel drive, attractive design, and an atmospheric 2.2-liter engine, achieving 237 HP. First
introduced in 1999, this roadster is now sold for $10,000-15,000, and it won’t see a decline
anytime soon.
Volkswagen Phaeton
Introduced in 2002, Volkswagen’s flagman Phaeton failed to find its place in the German
manufacturer’s fleet. It had a hard time competing with models that already had a big name on
the market, such as the Audi A8, BMW 7 series, and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. As a result,
its production was canceled in 2016.
You can now purchase the earliest version of the Phaeton for only $3,000-4,000. However, the
price of a well-preserved model will most likely grow. Phaeton is a unique and solid attempt to
enter the luxury car market – this model was built on a Bentley base and has an exceptionally
long equipment list.
Land Rover Discovery (Mk1)
Land Rover SUVs are known for their off-road capabilities and comfort, but not for reliability.
Compared with newer models, the 1st generation Land Rover Discovery is a relatively solid,
simple, and reliable car, which has grown in popularity among off-road enthusiasts.
Later, the number of Discovery SUVs on the roads shrank, raising the costs of a well-preserved
model. This is especially true for the one with the Rover V8 engine under the hood.
Ford Puma
Do you still remember this unconventionally looking compact Ford model? Its demand was
never high, therefore it was produced only for 5 years. 20 years later, Puma’s name was taken
over by a compact crossover. Car collectors and enthusiasts like unusual models from the ‘80s,
so this Puma has a lot of potential.
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG V8
Many car manufacturers release new models with smaller engines, gradually moving towards
electric versions. The Mercedes-Benz AMG series is one of the most devastating examples.
Extremely powerful and roaring AMG models provide everything car enthusiasts may desire.
However, in 2015, the production of the legendary C63 AMG model was discontinued – it was
the last model with the atmospheric 6.2-liter V8 engine. Since you won’t be able to buy a new
Mercedes-Benz AMG, it's time to start valuing older models with powerful combustion engines.
Investing in cars requires knowledge about their history and the desires of the market. If you
want to go down this road, avoid making impulsive and emotion-based decisions. Pick the right
model, arm yourself with patience, and later, you will be able to sell your car at a much higher
price.