The early 2000s brought a surge of innovation, bold design, and analog engineering that now stands in sharp contrast to today’s tech-heavy vehicles. While some cars from that era have grown in prestige and value, clearly cementing themselves as future classics, others, despite their potential, never quite captured the hearts of enthusiasts.
This list highlights five standout models that are well on their way to classic status and five that, for various reasons, are unlikely to reach the same revered place. From performance legends to misunderstood oddities, the 2000s were a mixed bag of brilliance and near-misses.
Cars from the 2000s That Are Future Classics
1. 2005 Subaru WRX STI – The Rally Legend Lives On
The 2005 Subaru WRX STI represents the peak of Subaru’s rally-inspired road cars. Its 2.5-liter flat-four engine, 5-speed manual, and all-wheel drive platform delivered an exhilarating 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds. What it lacked in outright power, it made up for in mechanical grip and analog charm.
Priced at $23,000 today, it’s one of the last pre-digital performance machines from Subaru. Tuners adore it for its mod-friendly nature, and collectors appreciate its motorsport heritage. As the market shifts toward electrification, the raw, turbocharged thrill of the WRX STI is becoming increasingly rare and valuable.
2. 2002 BMW M3 E46 – The Analog King
The E46 M3 is a universally respected performance coupe. With a 3.2-liter inline-six engine pushing 333 hp and revving up to 8,000 RPM, it delivers a visceral experience few modern cars can match. A 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive layout round out the perfect enthusiast package.
It’s often hailed as the “pinnacle of the analog sports coupe,” thanks to its balance, aggression, and timeless design. At $28,100, the E46 continues to appreciate in value and status. It’s a car loved by both track-day purists and collectors, making it one of the most bankable future classics of the era.
3. 2004 Honda S2000 – Precision and Passion
The Honda S2000 is a minimalist’s dream with a racer’s soul. With a 240-hp 2.2-liter engine and a glorious 8,000 RPM redline, this roadster offers an unmatched combination of balance, power, and control. Its 50:50 weight distribution and slick 6-speed manual provide surgical handling.
Achieving 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, it’s not the fastest, but it’s among the most rewarding. At $29,500, its price continues to rise as demand for analog experiences grows. The S2000’s sleek, timeless design and dynamic personality ensure it will be a centerpiece in any classic sports car conversation for decades to come.
4. 2001 BMW M5 (E39) – The Gentleman’s Muscle Car
The 2001 M5 paired understated luxury with brutal performance. Packing a 4.9-liter V8 pushing 394 hp, this sedan rocketed from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds—a blistering pace for the early 2000s. With rear-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual, it was made for the driving purist who also enjoyed heated leather seats and built-in navigation.
Valued at $31,800 today, its legacy as the original super sedan continues to strengthen. As modern BMWs drift further into technology and complexity, the E39 M5 stands as a benchmark for balanced, analog driving with real-world luxury.
5. 2006 Porsche Cayman S – The Balanced Performer
The 2006 Cayman S is the hidden gem of Porsche’s lineup. Its 3.4-liter flat-six engine delivers 295 hp and reaches 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Mid-engine placement gives it near-perfect balance, while the 6-speed manual transmission ensures an engaging drive.
With a $35,000 current value, it remains a more attainable option than the 911, while offering similar levels of driver engagement and refinement. Its clean lines, timeless Porsche interior, and performance pedigree make it a strong contender for future classic status. In an age of increasing weight and complexity, the Cayman S remains a pure, unfiltered sports car.
Cars from the 2000s That Aren’t Future Classics
1. Chevrolet HHR SS – Quirky, But Not Classic
The Chevrolet HHR SS tried to fuse retro styling with performance, but its execution left much to be desired. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine making 260 hp, it could hit 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Though quick, its front-wheel drive layout and awkward proportions failed to resonate with enthusiasts.
Only available for a brief period, it remains more of a novelty than a collectible. While clean examples are rare, their desirability remains limited. Despite its turbocharged punch, the HHR SS lacks the pedigree or emotional connection needed to be a future classic in most collectors’ eyes.
2. Plymouth/Chrysler Prowler – Design Over Function
The Prowler had standout looks but an underwhelming performance. Powered by a V6 engine making up to 253 hp and paired with a 4-speed automatic, it was more show than go. Its 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds was fine, but enthusiasts lamented the absence of a V8.
While rare, with only 11,702 built, rarity alone hasn’t translated to widespread collector interest. Its cramped interior, compromised practicality, and odd proportions made it more of a curiosity than a true driver’s car. Though it will always have niche appeal, the Prowler is unlikely to reach classic car greatness.
3. 2005–2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 – Power Without Popularity
The Dodge Magnum SRT8 boasted serious muscle with a 6.1-liter V8 producing 425 hp, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. It offered performance in a practical wagon body, but that very body style became its downfall. Wagons have long struggled in the U.S. market, and the Magnum was no exception.
Despite its sleeper appeal, it failed to gain long-term admiration. Though it may eventually attract niche collectors, its market appeal remains limited. Its value and interest are unlikely to grow substantially, as it lacks the desirability and polish of true classic contenders from the same period.
4. 2002–2005 Ford Thunderbird – Retro Revival Gone Wrong
Ford tried to reignite the flame of its legendary Thunderbird nameplate in the early 2000s but missed the mark. The 2002–2005 model came with a V8 and retro styling, yet it failed to connect with buyers. Its soft driving dynamics, uninspiring performance, and high price tag turned off enthusiasts.
Despite winning early praise and even a Car of the Year award, it lacked staying power. Today, the retro T-Bird is more of a curiosity than a collectible. Its limited production run adds some interest, but it’s unlikely to ascend beyond niche appeal in the collector community.
5. Lincoln LS V-8 – Capable, But Forgotten
The Lincoln LS V-8 was a well-engineered sedan with a Jaguar-sourced 3.9-liter engine, rear-wheel drive, and commendable handling. It had all the ingredients of a modern sports sedan but failed to break through due to Lincoln’s lackluster brand perception.
Producing 252 hp, the LS V-8 offered a surprisingly sporty ride, but it lacked the styling flair and name recognition to become a standout. Even though enthusiasts now appreciate its underdog nature, it remains a footnote in early 2000s automotive history. It’s more admired in hindsight than actively pursued, which means it likely won’t achieve future classic status.
Not all cars age equally. Some vehicles from the 2000s—like the WRX STI or E46 M3—offered an ideal mix of performance, style, and driving purity that made them instant icons. Others, like the HHR SS or retro Thunderbird, failed to strike a lasting chord.
As enthusiasts seek out raw, analog experiences and clean designs from a rapidly digitizing era, only a few models will rise to the level of true classics. The rest may be remembered fondly, but won’t command the same admiration or market value. Ultimately, it’s the emotional connection and driving spirit that define a future classic.
Also Read: 5 Cars That Keep Their Cool In Summer And 5 That Turn Into Ovens
