Buying a car is one of the most significant financial decisions many people make, second only to buying a home. Whether it’s your first vehicle or your tenth, choosing the right car isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about how your money is spent, protected, or potentially lost in the process. While cars are often considered depreciating assets, not all vehicles follow the same trajectory.
Some lose value almost the moment they’re driven off the lot and continue to drain your wallet with every mile. Others, surprisingly, become more valuable over time, offering owners the rare satisfaction of driving something that either retains its worth or even appreciates.
In an age where inflation affects everything from groceries to gas, the question of automotive investment is more relevant than ever. People want cars that are not only reliable and stylish but that also offer some form of financial resilience.
There’s been a growing awareness among drivers, especially younger ones, that the right vehicle can act as more than just transportation — it can be a form of investment, or at the very least, a hedge against complete financial loss.
At the same time, the market is flooded with flashy cars and tempting deals that hide long-term headaches: unreliable performance, expensive maintenance, and brutal depreciation.
This divide has created two clear categories in the car world: vehicles that will make you money back (or at least hold their value), and vehicles that will only cost you more than you bargained for. In this article, we’ll explore five cars in each category.
The first five vehicles have defied conventional wisdom by either appreciating or maintaining such strong resale prices that they’ve become smart purchases — sometimes even investments. These cars have become automotive legends in their own right: not just because of their performance or design, but because of their value retention, cult followings, and historical significance.
The next five, however, represent the flipside of that coin — cars that, while initially attractive for their features or affordability, have proven to be financial sinkholes over time. These cars suffer from extreme depreciation, high maintenance costs, reliability issues, or a combination of all three.
They may be abundant in the used market, but for good reason: many previous owners are eager to offload them after realizing just how costly they can be to keep. From luxury sedans that depreciate faster than they accelerate, to budget cars that weren’t built to last, these are the vehicles you’ll want to avoid if you’re hoping to make a financially sound automotive decision.
This isn’t just a list for collectors or enthusiasts. Whether you’re a high school graduate buying your first ride, a parent shopping for a family car, or a weekend warrior looking for something fun to drive, knowing which cars are money-smart — and which aren’t — is essential. The choices you make now can affect your wallet for years to come. And while no car is truly “free” to own, some offer a much more favorable balance between enjoyment, practicality, and financial outcome.
So, if you’ve ever wondered whether you could buy a car that might make you money, or whether that “good deal” you’re eyeing might end up costing you thousands, read on. In the next sections, we’ll take a close look at five cars that historically pay you back, and five cars that historically just keep taking.
By understanding what separates an appreciating asset from a depreciating liability, you’ll be in a better position to make the kind of car purchase that serves both your lifestyle and your long-term financial goals.
Also Read: 5 Cars With Smart Alarms That Actually Work and 5 That Never Go Off
5 Cars You’ll Make Money Back On
1. Toyota Supra Mk4 (1993–2002)
The Toyota Supra Mk4, also known as the A80, stands as a beacon in the world of performance cars — a machine that broke the mold for Japanese engineering and became a symbol of tuner culture. Its most famous variant, the twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE, is often cited as one of the most robust engines ever built.
Capable of handling extreme horsepower increases without internal modifications, the Supra earned a reputation as a platform for endless performance potential. Drag racers, street racers, and performance shops all found in the Supra a perfect blank canvas for high-speed ambition.
Much of the Supra’s modern-day success can be attributed to its blend of engineering prowess and cultural relevance. It gained global fame thanks to its pivotal role in The Fast and the Furious franchise, cementing its place in pop culture as the ultimate tuner icon.
But even without the cinematic boost, the Supra’s long nose, short rear deck, and aggressive styling offered a timeless appeal. Today, collectors and enthusiasts worldwide are scrambling to find original or lightly modified examples — and they’re willing to pay top dollar. It’s not uncommon for well-kept models to sell for over $100,000, with special editions or low-mileage vehicles fetching even more.
The appreciation isn’t just tied to hype — it’s backed by long-term reliability and build quality. Toyota engineered the Mk4 with durability in mind, from its overbuilt driveline to its high-quality interior materials. Owners often report hundreds of thousands of miles with little more than routine maintenance.
Unlike many performance cars of the 1990s, which can become mechanical nightmares as they age, the Supra continues to be reliable when maintained properly. This keeps running costs in check and makes it a smarter long-term investment.
It’s also worth mentioning the limited production numbers and stricter import laws outside Japan. These factors contribute to its rarity, especially in North America. Now that import restrictions on Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) versions have lifted, global demand has surged.
Enthusiasts know this car is no longer just a nostalgic relic — it’s a blue-chip collectible. If you bought one ten years ago and kept it stock, you’re likely sitting on one of the best returns in the automotive world.
2. Porsche 911 (Air-Cooled Models, Pre-1998)
Air-cooled Porsche 911s have enjoyed an astonishing renaissance in the automotive collector world, with their values surging steadily over the past two decades. These models, produced from the early 1960s until 1998, represent a distinct era of Porsche engineering that ended with the introduction of water cooling in the 996 generation.
Enthusiasts treasure the mechanical purity, the raspy exhaust note, and the direct driving experience that these cars offer — something that is increasingly rare in modern, electronically-assisted vehicles.
Among the most sought-after models are the early long-hood 911s, the 911 Turbo (930), and limited-production variants like the Carrera RS. These cars have not only retained their value but have appreciated significantly, with many changing hands at auctions for six-figure prices.
Even more common models, like the 964 and 993 generations, have seen dramatic value increases, especially when well-maintained and kept as close to original as possible. The 993, being the last air-cooled 911, has earned a special place in Porsche history and commands a premium for its rarity and engineering excellence.
From an investment standpoint, these vehicles check all the boxes: brand legacy, limited production, mechanical robustness, and a thriving enthusiast base. Porsche’s long-standing reputation for build quality and motorsport success lends credibility to every 911 generation.
More importantly, the simplicity of these older models means they are easier to maintain than many modern luxury sports cars. Mechanics familiar with air-cooled engines are in high demand, but those who invest in proper upkeep can enjoy a car that is both thrilling to drive and lucrative to own.
Collectors aren’t the only ones benefiting. Casual owners who entered the market in the early 2000s — when these models were seen as “outdated” and could be had for $15,000 to $25,000, have seen their investments triple or quadruple. And because Porsche continues to build its brand around the timeless silhouette of the 911, even newer enthusiasts are being drawn back to the air-cooled roots.
As more of these vehicles fall into permanent collections, scarcity continues to drive values higher. If you’re fortunate enough to own one, you’re not just holding a car — you’re holding an appreciating asset.
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA and NB Generations)
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has always been praised as one of the most enjoyable driving experiences on four wheels, but only recently has it begun to emerge as a financial win for early adopters and smart collectors. The NA Miata, introduced in 1989 for the 1990 model year, brought back the classic lightweight roadster formula in a reliable, affordable package.
Its pop-up headlights, tidy proportions, and go-kart handling made it an instant hit among driving enthusiasts and track-day regulars alike. Today, these same features have given it classic-car status, and prices are beginning to reflect that.
Because the Miata was widely used as a budget performance car, many were raced, heavily modified, or simply driven into the ground. That makes clean, low-mileage examples increasingly rare — and therefore desirable.
Special editions, such as the 1993 LE or 1999 10th Anniversary NB, are already being collected, and their values are climbing steadily. What makes the Miata unique in the collector market is its dual appeal: it’s cheap enough to be a first-time classic, but engaging enough for even seasoned car collectors to appreciate.
Mechanically, the Miata is simple, durable, and easy to work on. The engine is practically unkillable with regular maintenance, and parts are cheap and plentiful. This means lower ownership costs over time, a factor that contributes significantly to its overall return on investment. Insurance is affordable, fuel economy is excellent for a sports car, and because so many parts are interchangeable across years, keeping the car running doesn’t require exotic sourcing or specialist labor.
What’s more, the Miata benefits from an almost universal fan base. There are global forums, clubs, and events dedicated solely to this model. This massive support network makes it easy to restore, customize, or sell your Miata down the road.
As the collector world continues to recognize the value of 1990s-era sports cars, the Miata is becoming a standout. If you pick the right example, especially a first-generation model in stock condition, chances are high that you’ll make money, or at least break even while enjoying years of cheap, top-down motoring.
4. Honda S2000
The Honda S2000 is one of the last true analog sports cars to come from a mainstream manufacturer, and its value has started to rise accordingly. First released in 1999 to celebrate Honda’s 50th anniversary, the S2000 was a marvel of engineering.
Its F20C engine was capable of revving to 9,000 RPM and produced more horsepower per liter than any naturally aspirated production engine at the time. Combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a rigid chassis, it provided a raw, visceral experience that’s all but disappeared in modern sports cars.
From an investment perspective, the S2000 has already started showing signs of appreciation, particularly in North America and Japan. Clean AP1 (1999–2003) and AP2 (2004–2009) models in original condition are now being sought after by collectors and driving enthusiasts alike. Limited editions like the CR (Club Racer) have become especially valuable, with some models trading hands at well over $80,000. What was once a $30,000 car can now be a high-return asset for those who’ve kept them in good condition.
Another advantage of the S2000 is Honda’s bulletproof reliability. The engine, transmission, and suspension components are all overbuilt, with many examples racking up over 200,000 miles with minimal issues. This level of durability means your investment isn’t just sitting in a garage — it can be driven and enjoyed without destroying its value. Compared to European sports cars with high maintenance costs, the S2000 offers a compelling balance of performance and low ownership costs.
Culturally, the S2000 occupies a unique space. It’s often compared to the Mazda Miata, but with more power and a more aggressive edge. It’s been featured in countless video games, magazines, and car shows, and enjoys a broad appeal from both tuner fans and purists.
Because production ended in 2009 and Honda has yet to release a true spiritual successor, the S2000 stands alone in its category. With a growing fanbase and a shrinking supply of clean examples, now might be the last chance to get one before values hit the stratosphere.
5. Jeep Wrangler (TJ/YJ Models and Rubicon Editions)
The Jeep Wrangler, particularly the TJ (1997–2006) and YJ (1987–1995) generations, is one of the most enduring off-road vehicles in automotive history. Known for its utilitarian roots, modular design, and unstoppable off-road capability, the Wrangler has carved out a unique identity that merges lifestyle with function.
Older models, especially those featuring the legendary 4.0-liter inline-six engine, are prized for their mechanical simplicity and durability. These Wranglers aren’t just vehicles — they’re part of a broader cultural movement centered around adventure, customization, and rugged self-reliance.
Unlike most SUVs, which rapidly depreciate after purchase, the Wrangler has shown remarkable value retention. Many models maintain over 70% of their value after five years — a figure that’s virtually unheard of in the mainstream vehicle market. The reason? Demand never really wanes.
Whether you’re in a beach town, a rural farm, or a major city, there’s always someone looking for a well-kept Wrangler. Customization options are nearly infinite — from suspension lifts and aftermarket wheels to roof racks and camping kits — and this versatility only broadens its market appeal.
Another factor in the Wrangler’s investment potential is the availability of special editions. Rubicon models, known for their enhanced off-road capabilities and heavy-duty components, have become especially valuable on the used market. Limited runs like the Tomb Raider Edition or Willys Wheeler are increasingly seen as collector’s items. Unlike many special-edition vehicles, these are often driven and enjoyed, meaning mint-condition examples are becoming rarer and more desirable by the year.
If you’re someone who wants a vehicle that can climb mountains during the weekend and hold value on the weekdays, the Jeep Wrangler is an exceptional choice. It’s rugged enough for trails, reliable enough for daily driving, and popular enough to ensure resale demand. Buy a well-maintained, older Wrangler today, and not only could you enjoy years of cost-effective ownership, but you might also find that your investment grows in value when you finally decide to pass it on.
5 Cars That Only Cost You
1. BMW 7 Series (2002–2015 Models, Especially E65/E66 and F01)
The BMW 7 Series is a flagship luxury sedan packed with technology, power, and prestige — but for second or third owners, it often becomes a financial nightmare. Take, for example, the E65 generation (2002–2008), which introduced a wave of new features: iDrive, complex electronics, air suspension, and more. While innovative at the time, many of these systems are now outdated, expensive to repair, and prone to failure.
The once-cutting-edge technology that justified its new-car price has aged poorly, leaving owners to foot the bill for constant electronic gremlins, sensor failures, and worn-out modules.
Beyond the electronics, the mechanical upkeep can be daunting. The V8 and V12 engines, while smooth and powerful, are not cheap to maintain. Oil leaks, transmission issues, cooling system problems, and timing chain concerns are all too common.
Many shops won’t even touch certain repairs without quoting labor costs that exceed the car’s current value. Routine maintenance is significantly more expensive than in other luxury sedans, and the cost of ownership climbs even faster if you don’t have access to specialized mechanics or tools.
Depreciation hits the 7 Series like a freight train. These cars can drop in value by 60–70% within just a few years. It’s not unusual to find a once-$100,000 car selling for under $10,000 on the used market.
While this might tempt buyers into thinking they’re getting a bargain, the truth is grim: the cost of maintenance and repairs can easily outpace what you saved upfront. Many owners end up selling at a loss, frustrated and exhausted by the constant upkeep demands.
What makes it worse is the limited resale appeal. Unlike the 3 or 5 Series, which have broader audiences, the 7 Series is too complicated and expensive to maintain for the average buyer.
This keeps the used market flooded and drives prices down further. For those not prepared to treat this car like an exotic with an open repair budget, it becomes less of a luxury vehicle and more of a rolling money pit.
2. Chrysler 200 (2011–2017)
When Chrysler launched the 200, it aimed to revive its image and offer a mid-size sedan that could compete with the likes of the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. While the intentions may have been noble, the result was one of the most underwhelming cars of the decade.
With awkward proportions, cheap interior materials, and questionable long-term reliability, the 200 failed to capture meaningful market share, and even worse, it left a trail of frustrated owners in its wake. Even when it received a styling update in 2015, many of the fundamental flaws remained.
Mechanically, the 200 was never particularly robust. Issues with the transmission, especially the 9-speed automatic in later models, plagued drivers with jerky shifts, hesitation, and complete failures in some cases.
Add to that reports of engine stalling, electrical problems, and subpar suspension components, and it becomes clear that ownership can be a frustrating experience. Repairs are not only common but often costly due to Chrysler’s inconsistent parts support and limited aftermarket solutions.
The car also suffered from catastrophic depreciation. Even when new, the Chrysler 200 struggled to justify its price tag. Within a few years, many examples lost more than half their value, and today they can be found for pennies on the dollar.
However, what looks like a “cheap buy” is often just a Trojan horse for maintenance bills. Buyers on a tight budget might be tempted by the low purchase price, but the reality is that resale value is almost nonexistent, especially for higher-trim models that depreciate the fastest.
To make matters worse, the 200 was discontinued entirely after 2017, which damaged its brand image further. With no successor or ongoing manufacturer support, parts availability is starting to dwindle, and few mechanics prioritize working on them.
In short, the Chrysler 200 is a cautionary tale in poor automotive investment: a vehicle that loses money from day one and only continues to do so until it’s scrapped or traded for a loss.
3. Range Rover (2003–2012 Models in Particular)
The Range Rover has always exuded a certain prestige — a go-anywhere SUV with the elegance of a luxury sedan and the capability of a serious off-roader. But beneath the polished veneer lies a reputation for mechanical and electrical headaches that have haunted the brand for years.
Owners of earlier L322 models (2003–2012) have consistently reported a litany of issues, from suspension failures and coolant leaks to electronic glitches and drivetrain problems. Even relatively low-mileage examples can feel like ticking time bombs if not meticulously maintained.
A major culprit behind these issues is the vehicle’s complicated air suspension system. Designed to offer ride-height adjustment and smooth on-road comfort, it’s notorious for leaking, failing, and triggering warning lights. Replacement costs are high, and failure often leads to uneven wear on other suspension components.
Electronic issues are also rampant, ranging from dead screens and faulty parking sensors to total ECU malfunctions. Owning a Range Rover from this era is almost guaranteed to involve multiple costly service visits.
From a financial perspective, depreciation is brutal. A new Range Rover loses value faster than almost any other luxury SUV, with some models dropping to 25% of their original MSRP within just 5–6 years. That means a $90,000 SUV may be worth $20,000 or less a few years down the line — but still cost just as much to maintain.
For buyers drawn to used models by the low price tag, the reality is often sobering: repair costs routinely reach into the thousands, especially if performed at a dealership.
While newer models have improved somewhat in terms of quality and reliability, the damage to the brand’s reputation remains. The L322-era vehicles, in particular, continue to suffer in the resale market. Even with luxury features, off-road prowess, and brand cachet, they can’t escape the financial burden they place on their owners.
For most people, buying a used Range Rover is less about value and more about vanity — and unfortunately, that vanity often comes with a steep cost.
4. Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke was one of the most polarizing cars to come out in the 2010s. Its design was quirky, to put it mildly, with bug-eye headlights, a frog-like stance, and compact dimensions that confused many consumers.
While some found it refreshingly different, many others were turned off by its unconventional aesthetics and cheap interior materials. Despite initial hype, the Juke failed to develop lasting mainstream appeal, and resale values have reflected that lack of enthusiasm in spades.
One of the biggest issues with the Juke lies under the hood. Most models came equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While this setup offered decent fuel economy, it also proved problematic in terms of reliability.
The CVT, in particular, has a reputation for early failure, with many owners reporting issues at relatively low mileage. Replacing or repairing a CVT is not cheap, and on a car with minimal resale value, it’s usually not worth the investment.
Interior quality is another sore point. Hard plastics, flimsy switchgear, and cramped rear seating made the Juke feel more like a budget car than a serious competitor in the compact crossover segment.
Features like AWD were available, but didn’t do enough to elevate its image. Over time, buyers realized they could get better vehicles for similar prices — ones with more space, better reliability, and stronger brand value. As a result, demand dropped, and so did prices.
Today, the Nissan Juke has little presence in the used-car world beyond the bargain-bin tier. Few enthusiasts collect or modify them, and most used car buyers avoid them due to the known CVT issues and dated design.
The Juke might have been an experiment in redefining what a crossover could look like, but from a financial perspective, it ages poorly. Unless you’re getting one for nearly free — and are ready for repair bills — this is a car that offers more frustration than value.
5. Fiat 500L
The Fiat 500L was Fiat’s attempt to take the retro charm of the original 500 and scale it up into a family-friendly compact MPV. Unfortunately, in doing so, it managed to lose much of what made the original appealing while adding little to attract practical buyers.
Launched in the U.S. in 2014, the 500L was criticized from the start for its awkward styling, cheap materials, and uninspiring driving dynamics. Despite the brand’s efforts to market it as a fun and practical alternative to traditional compact SUVs, the 500L quickly fell out of favor.
From a performance and reliability standpoint, the 500L fell short in multiple areas. The engine — a 1.4-liter turbocharged unit — was underpowered for the car’s weight, and its dual-clutch transmission was plagued by slow shifts, jerky behavior, and frequent malfunctions.
Owners regularly reported problems with the infotainment system, window regulators, and power steering, contributing to one of the worst reliability records in its class. Fiat’s limited dealership network and parts availability only worsened the ownership experience.
Depreciation was swift and unforgiving. Within a few years, 500Ls were worth a fraction of their original price, often sitting unsold on dealer lots. Today, a used Fiat 500L is one of the cheapest ways to buy a recent-model family car — and that’s not a compliment.
Its resale value is practically nonexistent, and many owners are forced to sell at a loss or simply keep the vehicle running as long as possible before scrapping it.
Fiat exited the U.S. market in 2020 (except for the niche 500e), further undermining any long-term support for 500L owners. With dwindling parts availability and little brand presence, even basic repairs can be time-consuming and costly. The Fiat 500L might have looked like a clever alternative to larger crossovers on paper, but in reality, it’s become a perfect example of a car that only costs you in time, in money, and in peace of mind.
Also Read: 5 Cars With Smart Alarms That Actually Work and 5 That Never Go Off
Cars, unlike houses or stocks, aren’t usually bought with appreciation in mind — yet they still represent one of the largest financial commitments most people make. What you choose to park in your driveway can either act like a slow leak in your bank account or, with the right knowledge and timing, a surprisingly savvy investment.
This article has taken a deep dive into both sides of that spectrum. From sports cars that are climbing in value year after year to luxury sedans that collapse in worth faster than you can say “extended warranty,” the contrast is stark and often surprising.
The five cars in the “Make You Money Back” category share several key characteristics: limited production runs, strong brand heritage, high reliability, and emotional appeal. They’re more than just machines — they’ve become cultural icons, objects of desire, and collectible investments.
Models like the Toyota Supra Mk4, Honda S2000, or the air-cooled Porsche 911 are examples of cars that were perhaps underappreciated in their own time but have since gained notoriety and value due to their design, performance, and rarity.
Even vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Mazda Miata, which may not seem exotic on the surface, have proven themselves as long-term value holders, thanks to loyal followings and bulletproof mechanical design.
Importantly, these aren’t cars you have to lock in a garage and never drive. Many of them — especially the Miata, S2000, or Wrangler — offer financial stability and daily usability. That’s what makes them such unique investments.
You’re not just buying something to flip years later; you’re buying a car you can enjoy, maintain affordably, and then sell at a minimal loss — or, if you’re lucky and market conditions are right, a substantial gain.
On the other hand, the “Only Cost You” list serves as a cautionary tale. These vehicles, regardless of how attractive they may seem when new or how affordable they look used, often lead to regret. The BMW 7 Series, for example, is the classic case of champagne luxury with a tap-water budget for repairs. The Chrysler 200 and Nissan Juke highlight how poor engineering and design missteps can tank resale value and user satisfaction.
The Range Rover, while luxurious and stylish, continues to struggle with reliability issues that make ownership a risky—and often expensive endeavor. And the Fiat 500L is a perfect example of what happens when brand image doesn’t match product execution; what started as a quirky alternative to mainstream compacts ended up as an economic liability.
What ties these depreciating models together is inconsistency, whether in build quality, reliability, brand support, or resale appeal. They may offer tempting prices on the used market, but those low costs come with high strings attached: unreliable components, high repair costs, and minimal resale demand.
Often, the total cost of ownership over several years far outweighs what the car is worth, making them poor long-term choices, no matter how affordable they seem at first glance.
Ultimately, being a smart car buyer means thinking beyond the initial price tag. It means considering the full lifecycle of a car — purchase, ownership, maintenance, and resale — and asking yourself which vehicles are likely to offer not just satisfaction, but sustainability.
You don’t have to be a collector or a car flipper to benefit from understanding value trends; even everyday drivers can save thousands simply by avoiding poor choices and recognizing the cars that will stand the test of time.
As the automotive world continues to evolve, with EVs, autonomous tech, and subscription services entering the market, the principles explored here remain timeless. A well-built, well-loved car will always have a place and a value. The challenge is knowing which ones to buy. Now, you do.
