"What are the future classic cars," you ask? Well, let's just whip out the old crystal ball and find out.
It sure would be good to know whether we ought to hang onto that kid's 1995 Ford Aspire, or that 2004 Honda Accord. You never, know, right?
That's the odd thing with classic cars - sometimes, like with the VW Beetle, the cars were everywhere at the peak of their popularity... and they didn't cost much. Most of our restoration clients who bring heritage cars in (meaning, it's a car that's been in their family for generations) at some point say their dad or grandad (or whoever was the original owner) would roll in his grave if he only knew how much money was about to be poured into this restoration. They were bought originally as economical vehicles. Now, they're kinetic art to be displayed at car shows, daily drivers, and everything in between.
You just never know. Read this article to s
What are the future classic cars? Here are 8 Have a Good Shot in 20 Years
But not all cars are up for retirement; as they age certain vehicles grow in both popularity and demand. As classics like the ’69 Dodge Charger Daytona give way to highly coveted imports like the original Acura NSX, we’ve begun to wonder what the next classics will be.
Collectible automobiles are usually sought by people who have a strong sentimental connection to a car, whether that means they owned it as a kid or lusted after it but couldn’t afford it. High-end or limited-run cars also tend to retain their value and stay in demand. But this doesn’t mean that all of these cars will retain their value forever, nor will they be in constant demand until the end of time because trends and collector preferences are forever changing.
So as time marches on, millennials are growing sentimental over the cars they’ve loved from the 1990s to today, and their ability to buy these machines is increasing. Here are eight cars we’re sure will be coveted in 20 years, standing as testaments to the car enthusiast’s desire to hold onto their glory days, no matter what their age.
1. Porsche 911 R
Pulling heavy influence from an iconic 1967 race car, this stripped-down (and completely sold-out) sports car is about as race-ready and exclusive as it gets. Only 991 of these cars exist, and with its exclusive manual gearbox, optional lift system, 20-inch staggered alloys, and 500-horsepower powerband, the 911 R is already one of the most coveted cars in the world. While it may not be as technologically advanced or insane looking as the 918 Spyder, this car’s traditional lines, simplistic approach to power, and less-is-more approach to fun will more than likely help it feel timeless in 20.
2. Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo
Despite its popularity and relatively long production run (1990–’96 in the U.S., 1989–2000 in Japan), the twin-turbo 300ZX was one of those cars that was way ahead of its time. While it has yet to gain collector car status like the Acura NSX, the chiseled little lift-back has all the trappings of a future classic. It’s one of those cars that’s both period correct and timeless all at once, and while non boosted versions will likely be sought out as well, the turbocharged model will be the one to have considering its rarity and performance gains.
3. Honda S2000 CR
While the S2000 already has become a highly desirable roadster, it’s the “Club Racer” or CR model that’s the real gem. This limited edition final fling (available only for 2008–’09) from Honda was a race prepped, road legal two-seater that only came in four colors and didn’t have leather, AC, radio, or a soft top, all in the name of weight savings. With only 1,400 in existence and a cult following that’s almost all millennial-based, the CR is a prime example of what a “future collectible” is.
4. BMW M3 (E46)
Already in high demand for its solid performance capabilities and reasonable reliability, the 2000–’06 E46 M3 is on the fast track to being one of the most iconic European performance cars of all-time. With its endearing design and easy to iron out design flaws, this easily augmented BMW of yesteryear will more than likely continue to be a highly sought after collectible.
5. Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
Here’s a car that dealers just can’t keep in stock, and for damn good reason. With its sharp stick shift, dampening exhaust, flat plane crank V8, massive brakes, and track-tuned aerodynamics, the latest Shelby Mustang is an American muscle car that will more than likely fetch a hefty price on the auction block in 20 years.
6. Jaguar F-Type SVR
The SVR version of the F-Type is equal parts sexy and sadistic. This carbon fiber-heavy, tuned-up version of the already animalistic sports car has both the pedigree and performance to make it one of the most desirable Jags of all time. With loads of Jaguar pedigree, the thunderous SVR will more than likely stand out as a hot commodity for anyone who wants a rockstar in their garage.
7. Toyota J80 Land Cruiser
If history tells us anything about 4×4 Toyota trucks and their staying power, it’s that demand only goes up over time. While the older generations remain one hell of a hot commodity, the 1990–’97 J80 Land Cruiser will likely go down as one of the greatest SUVs of all time. With its renowned off-roading capabilities, spacious leather cabin, timeless styling, and proven reliability, this Land Cruiser is only going to increase in value as time goes on.
8. Chevrolet Camaro 1LE
Resurrected and ready to rock, Chevy’s track-prepped 1LE Camaro is a new car that everyone seems excited about, and with its sharp styling and modest price tag (starting around $30K), we can see why. We love its massive brakes, bulging body kit, stylish bucket seats, and lightweight wheels, and since it’s about as driver focused as possible, the 1LE has all of the right characteristics to make it a collectible someday.
