Classic Car InvestmentArticles & Insights

The Volvo 850 T-5R and 850 R have evolved from unconventional performance cars to cherished modern classics, representing one of the most successful transformations of a conservative brand into a genuine performance force.

The Alfa Romeo 147 GTA stands as automotive proof that passion can triumph over practicality, creating one of the most characterful and increasingly valuable hot hatchbacks ever built.

The Jaguar F-Type represents a fascinating case study in modern classic car potential. Launched in 2013 as Jaguar's spiritual successor to the legendary E-Type, the F-Type marked the British marque's return to dedicated sports car manufacturing after a 40-year hiatus.

While the R8 has already shown signs of market appreciation, its future as a classic depends on several interconnected factors that separate memorable cars from forgettable ones.

Despite the Porsche 944 no longer being the bargain it once was, it remains a good investment opportunity that offers steady returns. It’s also one of the most usable investment cars of its era, and can be maintained without breaking the bank.

Plenty of people dream of being able to fix their own car. There’s something about the inner-workings of a vehicle that just fascinates people. Learning to work on your own car can be a great way to save money, and it can also be a fun hobby.

The BMW i8 will undoubtedly become a classic car in the future thanks to its unique design and cutting-edge technology. But, it will take a number of years before it reaches that status and is likely to yield any serious returns for investors in the short term.

The Porsche 997 is destined to become a classic car in time. It’s beautifully designed, has stood the test of time, and is only getting better with age. Its performance and dedicated fan-base are unrivalled, and values are already beginning to rise.

Classic cars are popular thanks to the nostalgia they evoke and the unbeatable driving experience that each model provides. They also offer exclusivity, an investment opportunity, and they’re a great way to become part of the classic car community.

Modern Aston Martins are considered just as reliable as other similar luxury cars. The company has focused on improving reliability over the last two decades, as older Aston Martins were not considered reliable at all.

It’s advisable to find a garage for your classic car if you can, but not everyone has that luxury. There are lots of options when it comes to storing your classic car, which makes it tricky to decide what’s best for you.

An estate car is a longer version of a saloon or hatchback with additional luggage space at the rear, which is accessed via a large back door. Big items can be easily accommodated thanks to the car’s non-sloping roofline which provides extra height.

The Audi RS4 B7 will be a future classic thanks to its fantastic naturally aspirated V8 engine, six-speed manual transmission, superb handling, and short production-run.

For some classic car enthusiasts, road safety can be a big concern. So are there any old cars that are safe? When compared to today’s cars, not really. But some manufacturers were prioritizing road safety even before the days of mandatory seat belts and airbags, even though the technology we take for granted today wasn’t available. So there are some classics that can be considered safer than their rivals of the time, and as a result we’ve put together a list of the safest classic cars.

Some used sports cars can seem cheap, but without doing proper research first, it's really hard to tell if it will be money well-spent. You'd be surprised how fast things can add up. To help you out in your search, we've put together a list of the best sports cars for under £5k in the UK.

The best examples of the Mercedes SLK have a great chance of becoming classics thanks to their retro styling, impressive performance and the relative rarity of decent examples. Many have been neglected over the years, limiting today’s market to very few cars that are in good condition.

Despite its perceived unpopularity, the Porsche Boxster will become a classic car thanks to its excellent handling, usability, and its unique place in Porsche’s history. Porsche itself has already declared the Boxster to be a “classic of tomorrow”.

It’s well known that the majority of cars will depreciate over time, some more quickly than others. However, there are certain cars that actually appreciate in value. When buying a car, you may want to choose one that you think is destined for the future classic hall of fame.

The BMW 1M remains an exceptional investment opportunity despite substantial appreciation since launch. Thanks to its extreme rarity, passionate enthusiast following, and outstanding performance credentials, it continues appreciating steadily.

Buying any car is a big financial decision, no matter what its cost. But if you're looking to spend no more than £10,000 then it's important to pick the right car that will perform well, and won't leave you stranded on the side of the road.

The Nissan 350Z has already begun its transition to classic status thanks to its popularity amongst Japanese performance car fans, excellent performance credentials, stylish looks, and surprisingly reasonable maintenance costs.

The BMW Mini has already begun achieving classic status thanks to the iconic status of its predecessor, influential and recognizable design, brilliant handling, and overall popularity around the world. The first-generation models, in particular, have demonstrated clear appreciation trends and growing collector recognition.

The Aston Martin Vantage will be a classic thanks to its impressive performance and handling, and the rewarding bark of its naturally aspirated engine. It’s a car that can run rings around other sports cars from the same era, and is strikingly beautiful to look at.

A classic car is one that’s older than 20 years, an antique car is one that’s older than 45 years, and a vintage car is one that was built between 1919 and 1930.

Once rust is present, it can quickly turn into a major issue for your car, even causing damage to engine components under the hood. Fixing it can lead to some seriously expensive bills. As such, it’s important that you do everything you can to prevent it forming.

It’s true that most new supercars do lose value rapidly, but it’s every car enthusiast’s dream to one day own an exotic car. Thankfully there are some that do defy the odds and actually rise in value. We’ve put together a list of 12 of the best examples of such supercars below, that if held onto for long enough should see a decent return on investment.

There are a handful of cars that will gain value over time. They’re often older sports cars, but not always. So to help you on your journey, we’ve taken a look at 11 examples of cars that appreciate in value.

Despite its underwhelming performance, the Lexus SC430 has the potential to become a classic thanks to its unique styling, rarity, and luxurious ride. Its future classic status is more assured in the USA than in other parts of the world.

Jaguars are some of the most exceptional high-quality cars around. Their reputation for reliability is improving, their looks are magnificent, and their performance is sublime. Jaguar has a long history of producing great cars, and is continuing to innovate as we move into the electric vehicle era.

The Aston Martin DB9 will undoubtedly appreciate in time, but there are a number of years to go yet before we start seeing any meaningful increase in values. The rarest variants have the best chance of appreciating.

Driving fast is bad for the engine, drivetrain, suspension and various other components of a car as it causes them to wear more quickly. However, modern cars are built to tolerate speeds much higher than are legal on any public road.

These days, high mileage cars aren’t necessarily bad. Modern cars are built to last much longer than those from previous generations, and if they’re well cared for there’s no reason to believe they’ll be any less reliable than a low mileage car.

The Alfa Romeo Brera will undoubtedly become a classic in years to come. Its breathtaking design, limited production run, and increasing rarity provide all the hallmarks of future classic status. While performance limitations may have hindered contemporary reception, history shows that stunning design often triumphs over dynamic shortcomings in the classic car market.

Cleaning and waterproofing your convertible top can be tricky if it’s your first time, and regular cleaning products can damage the roof’s material. It takes skill and patience, so we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you get the best results.

It is possible that the Chrysler Crossfire will become a classic thanks to its relative scarcity and unmistakable design. The high performance SRT6 model and the rarer manual models are more likely to become collectible.

With regular servicing and maintenance, cars can keep going for many years when driven frequently, but it’s a different story altogether when the car isn’t being used.

The Porsche 996 is rising in value and will continue to appreciate, but at a slower rate than older air-cooled 911s. The 996 offers Porsche fans a great way into the 911 market at an affordable price whilst still providing impressive performance and an authentic driving experience.

To stop a convertible top from leaking you should regularly apply a waterproofing product to the fabric, lubricate the rubber seals, and ensure the drain holes are not blocked. Replace the roof if there are any tears or holes in the fabric.

It’s much better to keep a car in a garage so it’s protected from the elements. Garages prevent the car’s bodywork from being damaged by rain, snow, and even the sun’s UV rays. They also provide better protection against vandalism and theft.

Driving a convertible says you prioritize having fun over practicality on the road. Driving is an experience rather than a chore, and you would rather drive a nice-looking car than one with superior handling.

Airbags are dangerous pieces of equipment when they’re defective or used incorrectly. They inflate at speeds of over 200mph, and have been known to cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers. Care should be taken to ensure airbags are always in good working order, and haven’t been recalled by the car manufacturer.

Your car battery will eventually die if you don’t drive it regularly. Car batteries are designed to be charged by the alternator as they move along, so if it’s sat on your driveway for an extended period of time the electrical systems (such as the alarm) will drain the charge.

A Ferrari 360 represents an excellent investment opportunity for those seeking entry into Ferrari ownership. It offers compelling value, proven reliability, and relatively manageable maintenance costs for a supercar.

A convertible with a roof in good condition will not leak under normal circumstances, particularly if it’s a modern vehicle. But it can never be completely watertight, and if the rubber seals between the car and the roof have deteriorated there may be some leakage into the cabin.

Doing your own car maintenance you will save you thousands of dollars over the years. You will avoid paying the significant hourly labor charges that garages command, and you’ll only need to pay for the parts required. A huge saving.

It’s good to have ABS brakes as it makes your car safer, but you don’t necessarily need them. Your brakes will still function without anti-lock brakes, and many older cars on the road today don’t have them. But if your car was fitted with ABS from new it’s a requirement that they’re working correctly to pass inspection.

Classic car investment has evolved from niche hobby to recognized asset class, with the right cars delivering returns that consistently outperform traditional investments while providing the unique benefit of being enjoyed during ownership.

Classic car ownership doesn't have to mean constant breakdowns and expensive repairs. Our research has identified the most dependable vintage automobiles that combine classic character with modern-day reliability when properly maintained.

Classic car safety is a legitimate concern, but understanding the actual risks and available improvements allows enthusiasts to make informed decisions about ownership while taking practical steps to enhance protection.

The Jaguar XJS has completed one of automotive history's most remarkable transformations, evolving from reviled E-Type successor to cherished modern classic that represents exceptional value in today's GT car market.

Some of the most attractive JDM cars are performance-oriented, and they have a plethora of adoring fans all around the world. JDM cars over 25 years of age can be imported into the USA, and there are plenty of businesses that specialize in doing this. However, market dynamics have shifted significantly in recent years, with many previously affordable options now commanding premium pricing.

We’ve put together a comprehensive and printable used car inspection checklist for you to follow. By following our guidance, you’ll be in a much better position to spot possible issues, and get the best deal when buying a second hand car.

The BMW Z3 has evolved from mainstream roadster to increasingly appreciated modern classic, representing BMW's successful entry into the affordable sports car market and creating a template for accessible premium performance.

Our track record speaks for itself: when we recommended the Mercedes SL R129 at £9k and BMW E46 M3 at £12k back in 2020, skeptics questioned our judgment. Today, those same cars command £15k-30k+. Now we're identifying the next wave of undervalued classics before the market catches on.

Car manufacturers don’t always get it right. There have been some absolute horrors designed and produced over the years. Here’s our list of the 14 ugliest cars in the world.

The Saab 900 Turbo has evolved from undervalued oddball to cherished classic, representing one of the most significant and characterful cars of the turbocharged era.

The BMW E46 M3 has completed its transformation from affordable used car to established modern classic, representing the final expression of BMW's naturally aspirated M3 philosophy.

The original Mazda MX-5 has transformed from affordable sports car to celebrated modern classic, representing one of the most significant automotive success stories of the past four decades.

The Volkswagen Corrado has quietly evolved from commercial disappointment to cherished enthusiast classic, representing one of the most sophisticated and rewarding driving experiences ever to emerge from Wolfsburg.

The Honda Civic Type R (EP3) has transformed from affordable hot hatch to cherished modern classic, representing the moment when Honda's legendary Type R philosophy reached the mainstream.

The Honda S2000 has evolved from affordable sports car to cherished classic, representing the final expression of naturally aspirated perfection in an increasingly turbocharged world.

The first-generation Audi TT has transformed from dismissed fashion accessory to respected modern classic, vindicating its revolutionary design philosophy.

The BMW E39 M5 stands as the definitive expression of the high-performance sedan, combining supercar power with family practicality in a package that many consider BMW's finest achievement.

The Jaguar XK (X100) has quietly established itself as one of the most compelling classic car values in today's market.

The Mercedes SL R129 stands vindicated as one of the most successful classic car investments of recent years.

Audi still scores poorly in reliability studies, and there have been reports of Audis suffering from reliability issues over the years. It has a reputation for being a premium car brand, however, premium doesn't always mean reliable.

An Audi can be serviced anywhere, but it's best to find a garage that specializes in Audis. Servicing is cheaper at an independent garage than an Audi dealership, but the dealership does offer additional benefits.

The BMW E36 M3 stands as one of the most celebrated sports cars of the 1990s, representing a pivotal moment when BMW transformed the M3 from a homologation special into a proper performance icon. Produced from 1992 to 1999, this generation of M3 laid the foundation for everything that followed, combining razor-sharp handling with everyday usability in a package that still captivates enthusiasts today.

A JDM Nissan is a Nissan vehicle that has been manufactured specifically for the Japanese domestic market. To be considered JDM it has to have been sold in Japan when new, rather than exported to a foreign-market.

A JDM Honda is a vehicle that has been manufactured by the Honda Motor Company for sale in the Japanese domestic market. Vehicles produced by Honda that are exported for sale in other parts of the world when new are not considered JDM Hondas.

Lamborghini is owned by Audi, which is in turn owned by its parent company, the Volkswagen Group. Lamborghini is a wholly owned subsidiary of Audi, which means Audi has full control over Lamborghini and its operations.

BMWs are safe vehicles. Not only are BMWs loaded with all of the newest safety features, but the Bavarians also build them to be durable. BMW cars have received excellent crash test ratings from the IIHS for many years. US News also recently ranked the company’s cars at seventh place on their top 10 safest automotive brands list.

BMW owns Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and has done since 1998. The first Rolls-Royce built by BMW was released in 2003 after the German company had to acquire the rights to the Rolls-Royce logo and grille design from Volkswagen.

BMWs last for over 15 years when maintained correctly. Well cared-for BMWs will last well over 200,000 miles, and in some cases over 250,000 miles. There have also been reports of some BMWs lasting over 300,000 miles, although this is much rarer.

The BMW Group owns the MINI brand and has done since it purchased it in 1994. MINI was included as part of BMW’s acquisition of the Rover Group, the brand’s previous owner.

Honda has a long history of producing Kei cars – small, fuel-efficient vehicles that are popular in Japan. In fact, Honda was one of the first companies to produce a Kei car.

All Audis burn oil to some degree, but a handful of models have been identified as burning more oil than would normally be expected. While Audi claims this is normal, there have been lawsuits filed against the company for problems stemming from the excessive oil consumption.

BMWs do burn oil more quickly than most other cars, but this is a normal part of the car’s function according to the German manufacturer. BMWs can burn up to one quart every 750 miles, and even more if it’s a high-performance model.

BMW models built since 2006 do not have dipsticks. They were replaced with an electronic oil level indicator located in the oil pan thanks to owners’ infrequent use of the physical dipstick.

BMW is owned by parent company BMW Group, which in turn is owned by Stefan Quandt and Susanne Klatten, with the remaining shares owned by the public.

We take a look at some of the best JDM cars ever produced. We’ll consider cars that offer a variety of different driving experiences, from the high-performance sports cars to the rally-bred sedans.

Audis come with a collapsible spare wheel and tire as standard, which is located under the floor of the trunk. This means that if you get a puncture, you can inflate the spare tire and change the wheel yourself without having to call a tow truck.

Apple CarPlay is available in BMWs that have iDrive 5 or above installed. Since 2019 BMW have offered this for free in newer models with iDrive 7 installed.

BMWs do not have spare tires, instead they have run-flat tires. The company cites weight-saving benefits and the low-frequency of punctures as reasons for ditching spare tires across its range of cars.