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The Best Classic Cars To Invest In

April 20, 2023
Advice, Automotive
Editorial

More than just vehicle, classic cars are works of art that capture the essence of a bygone era. Their iconic designs represent the pinnacle of automotive styling and they showcase craftmanship that lasts for decades.

The beauty of classic cars is not just in their appearance, they hark back to a time of wonder. When cars were marveled at, and engineering was complex.

More recently, classic cars have become magnets for investors. Why?

  • They are a sought-after commodity
  • They usually appreciate in value, unlike modern cars
  • They may be a more trustworthy investment than traditional stocks

Owning a classic car can also be an enjoyable experience. It gives the owner a chance to participate in car shows, rallies and other events devoted to these vehicles.

Research before you buy

As with any investment, it’s important to research before you buy a classic car. You need to consider:

  • The car’s condition
  • Car history
  • Authenticity
  • Rarity

It’s crucial to understand the common pitfalls associated with particular cars. You may need to order parts so learning if these are easily available is vital too.

In this article we will examine the most popular classic cars, and which make a prudent investment.

The best classic cars to consider

The best classic cars to invest in are those that are rare, desirable, and in good condition.

Choose a car with quality tires, unique interiors and a good engine. Speak to a good mechanic who specialises in classic cars and listen to their advice.

Some of the most popular classic cars to invest in include:

Mercedes Benz SL

Smooth, stylish and great for the open road, there are so many reasons this car is a winner. The name Mercedes is synonymous with luxury cars where innovation has always been valued.

The Sport Leicht range was first introduced in 1954 and it evolved over the years with different variations. It has even been seen on screen in TV shows and movies including:

  • The A-Team
  • The Sopranos
  • The Italian Job
  • The Hangover

The Mercedes Benz SL contains many features that were advanced at the time. Power windows, air conditioning, high-end sound systems and responsive suspension were all valuable additions.

Ferrari 308 GTB

The striking design by Pininfarina and a powerful V8 engine make this a showstopper. It roared onto the scene in 1975 and has seen a surge in popularity in recent years.

Its high-end specs still read like a dream automobile list today with quick acceleration and a top speed of 252 mph. You can expect to buy one of these from $43,000 – $200,000.

Jaguar XK120

A classic British sports car, only a limited number of these were produced between 1948 – 1961. They are widely regarded as the most beautiful and innovative sports cars of this time period.

The lightweight aluminium body, independent suspension and powerful inline-six engine were unusual for cars at this time. This is truly a historic car, which is why is it popular with collectors.

The average price they go for is over $104,000.

Porsche 911

Produced from 1963 – 1989, the Porsche 911 is an icon. It was the highest-selling classic Porsche in late 2021, and prices continue to rise.

The 911 has appreciated over time due to:

  • Limited production numbers
  • Engineering excellence
  • Performance

Choose the model carefully. For example, a 1980 Porsche 911 Turbo is worth more than a 1980 Porsche 911 Carrera.

Ideally, get a 911 produced as early as possible before 1980. Presently, Porsche 911’s can sell for anywhere between $30,000 – $100,000.

However, the 911 may have some issues with reliability, so while they are desirable, you need to be careful.

Classic cars that are expensive to fix

Some cars are high on people’s wish list but may not be a sound investment. These include:

  • Aston Martin DB5
  • Ford Mustang
  • MGB

This is because they have specialized parts that may be difficult to find and may no longer be in production.

The best choice?

Your best bet is likely to be a Mercedes Benz SL. They are well-built, reliable, and reasonably affordable when it comes to maintenance.

It is important to remember that investing in classic cars is a risky proposition. There is no guarantee that the value of a classic car will appreciate.

However, if you do your research and choose a car wisely, you can increase your chances of making a profit. You can also have fun while you own it!