For most of us, buying a car is like throwing money into a high-speed shredder. You drive off the lot, and—poof!—thousands of dollars vanish in depreciation. But what if we told you some cars appreciate? Yes, you read that right! Instead of turning into money pits, some cars can become investment vehicles. (Pun intended). Here are 7 such cars!
Porsche 911 (Air-Cooled Models)
We are talking about the air-cooled Porsche 911 models built before 1998, the golden age before water-cooled engines took over. The 911 is already a design icon, and the air-cooled models hold a special place in enthusiast’s hearts. They were the last of their kind, offering a driving experience that’s raw, mechanical, and unapologetically thrilling. With classic lines and that unmistakable engine sound, these beauties have seen their values skyrocket over the last decade.
Ferrari 250 GTO
The Ferrari 250 GTO is the Mona Lisa of the car world. While owning one of these is more of a distant dream for most (only 36 were ever made, and prices are in the realm of *millions*), the GTO proves that cars can be art, and art can be worth an unimaginable fortune. The 250 GTO was initially designed as a race car, but Ferrari’s gorgeous design and racing pedigree turned it into an instant classic. It holds the record for the most expensive car ever sold, fetching a mind-boggling $70 million at auction. Not every appreciating car will reach these heights, but if you had the foresight to snag one in the 1960s (for a mere $18,000), you’d be richer than your wildest dreams.
Toyota Supra Mk4
Few cars have undergone a meteoric rise in value, like the Toyota Supra Mk4. Thanks to its starring role in the Fast and Furious franchise, this 90s Japanese sports car went from cult favorite to global superstar. What makes the Mk4 special is its legendary 2JZ engine, a twin-turbocharged inline-six that has earned a reputation for being nearly indestructible and highly tunable. In recent years, original, low-mileage Supras have sold for six figures.
Ford GT (2005-2006)
The Ford GT is a supercar with a blue-collar origin story. Born out of Ford’s desire to revive its legendary GT40, the 2005-2006 Ford GT was designed as a tribute to its racing forefather while offering modern supercar performance. And let’s be honest, what could be cooler than a car that beat Ferrari at Le Mans? With only 4,038 units produced during this short run, the Ford GT’s rarity alone was bound to make it a collector’s item. But the car’s blend of American muscle and supercar aesthetics has driven its appreciation. Ford GTs now fetch prices north of $300,000, with some examples pushing past $500,000.
BMW E30 M3
There are few cars as beloved as the BMW E30 M3. Launched in the 1980s as a homologation special for touring car racing, the E30 M3 is often considered the blueprint for the modern sports sedan. The E30 M3 was relatively affordable for years until collectors and enthusiasts realized how good it was. Its perfect balance, sharp handling, and motorsport pedigree have led to an explosion in value, with pristine examples selling for six figures. Part of the reason the E30 M3 is so valuable is that it represents a simpler, more analog time in driving.
Land Rover Defender (Pre-2016)
You wouldn’t usually think of a utilitarian, boxy off-roader as a car that would appreciate, but the Land Rover Defender is no ordinary off-roader. The Defender has long been the go-to vehicle for adventurers and explorers, and its rugged charm has earned it a cult following. When Land Rover announced it would discontinue the classic Defender in 2016, demand — and prices — for older models began to soar. The Defender’s timeless design and rugged capability make it valuable. People love its no-frills approach to off-roading; it can go anywhere, adding to its appeal. These days, vintage Defenders can sell for well over $100,000, and restored examples can easily exceed that.
Datsun 240Z
The Datsun 240Z may have been an affordable sports car when it launched in 1969, but it’s become one of the most sought-after Japanese classics today. Known for its sleek design, strong performance, and reliability, the 240Z was a game-changer in the sports car world. The 240Z was one of the first Japanese sports cars to gain a serious following outside of Japan, and it helped lay the foundation for brands like Nissan.
14 Supercars Under $100K That Deliver Breathtaking Speed and Style
When you think of supercars, names like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and McLaren often come to mind, along with their staggering price tags. However, high-performance vehicles aren’t exclusively reserved for the super-rich. There exists a sweet spot where speed, style, and (relatively) sensible pricing converge, offering thrilling rides without completely obliterating your bank account. Hop in as we explore 14 underrated supercars under $100K.
14 Supercars Under $100K That Deliver Breathtaking Speed and Style
