Classic cars, once deemed a risky venture, have grown into a sought-after and rewarding investment in recent years. With a finite number of these vintage vehicles ever produced—and fewer surviving every year—investment-grade classics are becoming rarer and more valuable over time.
Not only do they offer impressive long-term profitability, but they also provide an engaging and tangible alternative to holding equivalent value in cash.
Owning a classic car is often more exciting than watching the digits in a bank account grow. We’ve all heard stories of “barn finds”—forgotten gems purchased cheaply, only to appreciate exponentially in value over the years.
While many high-value classics may already be out of reach, with prices soaring into six or seven figures, there are still numerous vintage models that steadily gain value annually, making them excellent investments.
This article delves into some of the best classic and vintage cars to invest in, the benefits and challenges of classic car ownership, and the key considerations when selecting and purchasing an investment-grade vehicle.
Some classics have appreciated as much as 25% annually—about 2.5 times the average annual return of the S&P 500. While such high returns are exceptional, annual gains of 10–15% are not uncommon.
Over longer periods, the returns can be even more impressive. Since the early 2000s, specific classic cars have increased in value by as much as 500%, according to luxury investment indexes.
This stability has led to the emergence of companies which enable enthusiasts to buy shares in classic cars, later sold for shared profit.
Yet, the true joy of classic car ownership extends beyond financial gain. Many collectors value the personal experience of owning, driving, and preserving these vehicles. This passion often fosters a sense of community among like-minded individuals who share a love for these automotive treasures.
Beyond monetary returns, the satisfaction of owning a tangible, functioning asset—whether it’s driving it to events or simply admiring it in the garage—is unparalleled. Even a modest $10,000 investment in a classic car can feel far more rewarding than leaving the same amount idle in a savings account.
Alfa Romeo GTV6
The Alfa Romeo GTV6 is a distinctive 1980s Italian coupe built on the race-inspired 116 type chassis. Its bold design and performance credentials have cemented its appeal among collectors.
Despite a production run exceeding 20,000 units, the GTV6 has experienced a consistent rise in value, a trend likely to persist as interest in classic Alfa Romeos continues to grow.
- Desirable Years: 1981–1986
- Engine: 2.5L V6
BMW 2002
Once an affordable entry into classic car ownership, the BMW 2002 has become a highly sought-after vintage icon, with clean examples now commanding prices between $20,000 and $50,000.
Named for its 2.0-liter engine and two-door design, the 2002 is desirable across all trims and production years. However, rarer variants like the Targa, 2000tii Touring, and Turbo hold even greater value. Pre-1974 models, which feature round taillights, are especially coveted by collectors.
- Desirable Years: 1968–1973
- Engine: 2.0L Inline-Four
Datsun 240/260/280Z
Datsun’s Z series, consisting of the 240Z, 260Z, and 280Z, remains a favorite among vintage sports car enthusiasts. Often dubbed a “poor man’s Porsche 911,” these vehicles deliver thrilling performance and classic styling.
Once considered affordable alternatives, they have seen a steady increase in value over the years. Even modified race-prepped Z models tend to retain their worth, making them solid investment options.
- Desirable Years: 1969–1978
- Engine: 2.4L Straight-Six
International Harvester Scout (& Scout II)
While the original Ford Bronco has already surged in value, International Harvester’s Scout and Scout II remain relatively accessible entry points into vintage 4×4 ownership.
Prices for these rugged off-roaders range from $10,000 to $15,000 for base models to upwards of $80,000 for well-preserved, original examples. They also serve as excellent platforms for restomod projects, appealing to off-road enthusiasts.
- Desirable Years: 1961–1980
- Engine Options: 2.5L i4, 3.2L i4, 3.8L i6, 4.4L V8, 5.0L V8
Land Rover Defender
Although already a premium-priced classic, the Land Rover Defender remains an attractive investment due to its steadily appreciating value.
Affordable fixer-upper models provide entry points for budget-conscious buyers, while numerous specialist restoration firms offer expertise in transforming vintage Defenders into prized collectibles. With the right investment and restoration, these vehicles can yield substantial returns.
- Desirable Years: 1983–1997
- Engine Options: 2.5L Petrol, Diesel, or Turbodiesel i4, 3.5L V8
Lotus Elise
Renowned for its unparalleled focus on lightweight engineering, the Lotus Elise has achieved legendary status among performance enthusiasts.
Its agile handling and driver-centric design make it one of the finest sports cars ever built. This reputation has elevated its desirability, making the Elise not just a joy to own but also a promising investment vehicle.
- Desirable Years: 1996–2011
- Engine: 1.8L Inline-Four
Mazda RX-7
JDM vehicles have seen a sharp rise in popularity in recent years, and the Mazda RX-7 stands as a prime example. Clean examples of this sleek, Japanese-designed sports car now frequently fetch close to $50,000, with values continuing to climb.
Its standout feature is the unique Wankel rotary engine, which, combined with its distinctive styling, has solidified its status as a modern-day classic.
- Desirable Years: 1985–1997
- Engine: 1.1L, Turbocharged 1.1L, and 1.3L Wankel Rotary
Mini Cooper
An enduring icon of 1960s British pop culture, the original Mini Cooper was produced over several decades by various manufacturers, including the British Motor Corporation, British Leyland, and the Rover Group in the UK.
Its resurgence in popularity has been fueled by today’s modern Mini models, leading to a significant increase in interest and rising values for well-maintained classic Minis.
- Desirable Years: 1959–2000
- Engine: 848cc, 970cc, 997cc, 998cc, 1,071cc, 1,098cc, and 1,275cc Inline-Four
Nissan 240SX
Following the Nissan 200SX S12, the 240SX emerged as a sporty, vintage Japanese hatchback produced in two distinct generations: the S13 (1989–1994) and the S14 (1994–1998). Equipped with a 2.4L inline-four engine, both generations have gained a dedicated collector base.
Their value is expected to rise further as many remaining models continue to be modified or used in racing. Priced between $10,000 and $25,000 for clean examples, the 240SX represents one of the more accessible investment vehicles on this list.
- Desirable Years: 1989–1998
- Engine: 2.4L Inline-Four
Porsche 924/944
Initially regarded as rebadged Volkswagens and not “true” Porsches, the 924 and 944 have undergone a dramatic reevaluation, becoming significantly more valuable in recent years.
This trend mirrors the broader surge in demand for vintage Porsches, including less conventional models like the 914, 928, and 924. From an investment perspective, these cars are among the most promising on this list.
- Desirable Years: 1976–1991
- Engine: 2.0L, Turbocharged 2.0L, 2.5L, Turbocharged 2.5L, 2.7L, or 3.0L Inline-Four
Renault 5 GT Turbo
Rooted in its legacy as a homologated, street-legal version of a legendary Group B race car, the Renault 5 GT Turbo is a thrilling Euro classic that has become a hot commodity in the collector’s market.
Known for its ultra-widebody aero kit and Group B racing heritage, the 5 GT Turbo is one of the fastest-appreciating classics today. Its value has surged by 25% in the past year alone, making it a desirable investment, especially for under six figures.
- Desirable Years: 1980–1986
- Engine: Turbocharged 1.4L or 1.5L Inline-Four