10 Cars That Increase in Value Over Time

When most cars hit the road, they begin to lose value immediately. But a rare few defy depreciation and become more valuable over time. These appreciating cars are prized by collectors and savvy buyers who see vehicles as more than transportation—they see them as investments.

Iconic collector cars lined up at sunset—vehicles that continue to gain value over time

Dynamic Car Auction Scene with Diverse Bidders and Auctioneer Presenting Pre-Owned Vehicle

Why Some Cars Appreciate in Value

Before diving into the list, here’s a quick breakdown of the factors that drive car appreciation:

Factor	How It Contributes to Appreciation
Limited Production	Creates scarcity, increasing demand among collectors
Unique Design or Engineering	Makes the car stand out as a milestone or innovation in automotive history
Strong Heritage or Racing Pedigree	Connects the vehicle to a storied performance or brand legacy
Celebrity Ownership or Pop Culture Relevance	Boosts desirability due to emotional and cultural connection
Combined Effect	Leads to increased long-term value in the collector market

1. Porsche 911 (Air-Cooled Models 1964–1998)

The air-cooled Porsche 911 models have become icons. Especially the 964 and 993 generations are skyrocketing in value due to their analog driving experience, timeless design, and limited availability.

Key Appreciation Factors:

Discontinued air-cooled engine technology
Increasing demand from purists
Robust global collector market

2. Toyota Supra Mk4 (1993–1998)

Turbocharged legend. The Mk4 Supra’s 2JZ-GTE engine is bulletproof and highly tunable, making it a darling of both collectors and tuners.

Why It Appreciates:

Cult following from “Fast & Furious”
Limited U.S. production numbers
Rising JDM car demand

3. Ford GT (2005–2006)

A modern tribute to the Le Mans–winning GT40, the 2005–2006 Ford GT offers retro looks with supercar performance.

What Drives Its Value:

Only ~4,000 produced
Manual gearbox
American heritage + global desirability

4. Acura NSX (1991–2005)

Engineered with input from Ayrton Senna, the original NSX changed the perception of Japanese sports cars forever. Values have steadily increased, especially for unmodified, low-mileage examples.

Highlights:

Mid-engine V6 with VTEC
Aluminum monocoque
Reliable, exotic performance

5. BMW E30 M3 (1986–1992)

The first M3 set the benchmark for performance sedans. Today, it’s a blue-chip collectible.

Appreciation Catalysts:

DTM racing heritage
Flared boxy design
Raw, analog driving experience

6. Mazda RX-7 FD (1992–2002)

With its rotary engine and lightweight chassis, the third-gen RX-7 is beloved for its balance and styling.

Why It’s Going Up:

Rarity of well-maintained examples
Limited production after 1995 in U.S.
Rotary engine mystique

7. Land Rover Defender 90/110 (Pre-1997 U.S. Models)

Old-school Defenders have transformed from utilitarian workhorses to luxury collector items.

Value Drivers:

Classic off-road look
Pre-1997 U.S. imports exempt from modern safety regulations
Iconic status among adventurers

8. Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (C5, C6 – 2001–2013)

The C5 and early C6 Z06 models are emerging collectibles due to their track-ready performance and bang-for-the-buck appeal.

Investment Value:

LS6 and LS7 engines
Lightweight construction
Manual-only transmission

9. Datsun 240Z (1970–1973)

The car that started Japan’s sports car revolution, the 240Z has become a collector’s gem.

Why It Appreciates:

Simple yet elegant styling
Affordable performance when launched
Increasing rarity of rust-free examples

10. Mercedes-Benz 500E (1991–1994)

Built in collaboration with Porsche, the 500E is a stealth luxury missile with serious collector cachet.

Key Value Points:

Hand-assembled in Stuttgart
Wide-body stance
V8 power in a sleeper sedan form

Honorable Mentions

These cars are also seeing steady appreciation and deserve attention:

Lexus LFA
Ferrari 360 Manual Transmission
Audi RS2 Avant
Subaru Impreza 22B STI
Dodge Viper GTS (Gen II)

What to Look for When Investing in Appreciating Cars

Factor	Importance
Low Mileage	Essential for collector appeal
Factory Original Parts	Maximizes value retention
Service History	Proven maintenance matters
Limited Production	Rarity fuels appreciation
Desirable Trims/Colors	Niche appeal boosts resale

Pro Tips for First-Time Collector Car Buyers

Avoid heavily modified vehicles unless restoration is the goal.
Storage conditions matter—look for garage-kept examples.
Verify VIN and title history using Carfax or AutoCheck.
Get a professional pre-purchase inspection—hidden issues can destroy value.
Understand the cost of ownership—insurance, maintenance, and storage.

Where to Buy Collector Cars

Finding appreciating vehicles at the right price requires access to the right marketplace. At RideSafely, we connect buyers directly to exclusive dealer-only auctions across the U.S., giving you the edge when searching for rare, classic, and investment-grade vehicles. From JDM legends to American muscle and European classics, RideSafely’s online platform allows you to bid on sought-after models at wholesale prices—buy cars at auction without a bid card or dealer license – exclusive savings with RideSafely.

Whether you’re a first-time collector or a seasoned investor, RideSafely makes high-value car acquisitions simple, secure, and strategic. Explore the diverse range of vehicles available at RideSafely to discover a constantly updated inventory, including hard-to-find models that are poised for appreciation.

Interested in restoration projects? Unlock vintage car restoration success at salvage auctions by bidding on classic models with strong resale potential. For those just starting out, salvage car auctions – turn profits while you learn offers a smart entry point into the collector market, blending affordability with long-term upside.

Final Thoughts: Not Just a Car—An Asset on Wheels

Investing in the right vehicle is a strategic move that can pay emotional and financial dividends. Whether you’re buying for nostalgia, status, or speculative return, appreciating cars offer a rare opportunity to enjoy an asset while it gains value.

FAQs on Appreciating Cars

What makes a car appreciate in value?

A car appreciates when demand exceeds supply, especially for models with limited production, historical significance, or cultural impact. Factors like originality, mileage, condition, and provenance also contribute.

How do I know if a car is a good investment?

Look for low production numbers, strong enthusiast communities, documented service history, and increasing auction sales trends. Using platforms like RideSafely to track auction performance can offer valuable insights.

Are modified cars still valuable?

Generally, unmodified cars hold their value better, especially for collectors. However, professionally modified vehicles with rare parts or historical significance can also appreciate under certain conditions.

Do I need a dealer license to buy collector cars at auction?

Not with RideSafely. The platform offers access to dealer-only auctions without requiring a license, making it easier for individuals to purchase investment-grade vehicles.

Which brands typically have appreciating models?

Porsche, Toyota (especially JDM), BMW, Ford (performance lines), and select models from Mercedes-Benz, Acura, and Datsun/Nissan are known for strong appreciation in specific trims or generations.

Can I finance a collector car?

Yes, but it depends on the seller and platform. Some specialized lenders offer financing for classic or collectible cars, although traditional banks may not. RideSafely buyers usually pay by bank transfer, credit card, or wire.

How do I store an appreciating vehicle?

Store it in a climate-controlled garage, maintain a regular service schedule even if not driven, and preserve all original parts and documentation. This helps retain maximum value.

Is there a best time of year to buy collector cars?

Yes—buying during the off-season (typically late fall or winter) may yield better deals, as demand tends to spike in spring and summer during peak driving and auction seasons.

Find Rare Collector Cars at Auction Prices

Looking for rare, investment-worthy cars? Start your journey with RideSafely’s nationwide inventory of used and salvage repairable collectible vehicles. Easily filter by make, model, condition, and budget to uncover hidden gems at wholesale prices. Act fast—these deals don’t last!

Start Your Search

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04-21-2025

10 Cars That Increase in Value Over Time

Contents

Why Some Cars Appreciate in Value

1. Porsche 911 (Air-Cooled Models 1964–1998)

2. Toyota Supra Mk4 (1993–1998)

3. Ford GT (2005–2006)

4. Acura NSX (1991–2005)

5. BMW E30 M3 (1986–1992)

6. Mazda RX-7 FD (1992–2002)

7. Land Rover Defender 90/110 (Pre-1997 U.S. Models)

8. Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (C5, C6 – 2001–2013)

9. Datsun 240Z (1970–1973)

10. Mercedes-Benz 500E (1991–1994)

Honorable Mentions

What to Look for When Investing in Appreciating Cars

Pro Tips for First-Time Collector Car Buyers

Where to Buy Collector Cars

Final Thoughts: Not Just a Car—An Asset on Wheels

FAQs on Appreciating Cars

Find Rare Collector Cars at Auction Prices

What People Are Saying

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