The 8 best classic car investments: Which models have delivered the highest ROI over the last decade?

For many car enthusiasts, owning a classic car is about more than just driving a piece of history, it’s about making a smart financial investment. So the question I get asked a lot is: What is the best classic car to invest in? Over the last decade, the classic car market has seen incredible growth, with certain models delivering impressive returns on investment (ROI). So investing in classic cars is a great option but you need to know which are the best classic car investments. This post highlights some of the top performers that have delivered significant value for collectors covers the topic: classic car investing.

1. Porsche 911 (Air-Cooled Models, 1965–1998)

ROI Performance: Over 500% increase in value in some models in the last decade.

The air-cooled Porsche 911, particularly models from the 1970s through the 1990s, has seen a meteoric rise in value. Iconic models like the 911 Carrera RS, Turbo, and the 993 generation have become some of the most desirable classics on the market. With its unique design, incredible driving dynamics, and status as one of the most celebrated sports cars ever made, the air-cooled 911 has proven to be a sound investment. Models that sold for under $50,000 a decade ago now often sell for well over $200,000, especially for rare or pristine examples. Click here for the latest article about the legendary Porsche 911 (2. Gen)

2. Ferrari 308 GTS/GTB (1975–1985)

ROI Performance: Over 300% increase in value.

Thanks in part to pop culture fame (hello, Magnum P.I.), the Ferrari 308 has seen impressive growth in the classic car market. While Ferraris have always been associated with luxury and exclusivity, the 308 offers an entry point into the brand’s classic era without the astronomical prices of other Ferrari models like the Daytona or Testarossa. Its stylish looks, V8 performance, and relative affordability compared to other Ferraris have driven demand, with prices more than tripling over the last decade.

3. Jaguar E-Type (1961–1975)

ROI Performance: 250%+ increase in value.

The Jaguar E-Type is often cited as one of the most beautiful cars ever made, and it’s not just its looks that have driven its investment potential. Known for its elegant design and strong performance, the E-Type has long been a favorite among collectors. Early Series 1 models, especially those with the 3.8-liter engine, have seen substantial price appreciation in the last 10 years, with well-maintained examples fetching well into six figures today.

4. Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda (1963–1971)

ROI Performance: 200%+ increase in value.

The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, known as the “Pagoda” because of its distinctive concave hardtop roof, has skyrocketed in value over the last decade. With its timeless design, superb engineering, and solid reputation for reliability, the 280SL is a top choice for collectors looking for both a classic car and a smart investment. Prices for pristine models have more than doubled, with some even tripling, making it a strong performer in the classic car investment world.

5. Ford Mustang (First Generation, 1964.5–1973)

ROI Performance: 200% increase in value, particularly for fastback and Shelby models.

The original Ford Mustang is one of America’s most iconic cars, and its popularity has only increased over time. While certain models like the Shelby GT350 or GT500 have seen the steepest rises in value, even standard fastback models from the late 1960s and early 1970s have appreciated significantly. The Mustang’s combination of muscle car performance, stylish design, and cultural significance has made it a strong investment choice.

6. BMW E30 M3 (1986–1991)

ROI Performance: Over 400% increase in value.

The BMW E30 M3, known as the original M3, has been one of the standout performers in the classic car market over the last decade. Revered for its race-bred handling and iconic design, this car has become a highly desirable classic for both BMW enthusiasts and collectors. In the past 10 years, prices have skyrocketed, with clean, low-mileage examples commanding prices upwards of $100,000—far more than they cost new.

7. Aston Martin DB5 (1963–1965)

ROI Performance: 250% increase in value.

The Aston Martin DB5, forever immortalized by James Bond in Goldfinger, has become one of the most sought-after classic cars in the world. Its timeless design, exclusivity (fewer than 1,100 were built), and association with the Bond franchise have made it a top-tier collector’s item. Prices for the DB5 have soared over the last decade, with well-preserved models selling for several million dollars at auctions.

8. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 (1960–1984)

ROI Performance: 300%+ increase in value.

For those looking beyond sports and luxury cars, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 has emerged as a serious investment contender. Originally designed as a rugged off-road vehicle, the FJ40’s combination of durability, iconic design, and increasing scarcity has driven demand through the roof. Over the past decade, the value of restored FJ40s has skyrocketed, with pristine examples fetching six-figure sums.

Why These Cars?

The models mentioned above have several things in common that make them great investments:

• Rarity: Many of these cars were produced in limited numbers or have become rarer over time, driving demand and prices higher.
• Iconic Design: Cars like the Porsche 911, Jaguar E-Type, and Aston Martin DB5 are timeless in their design, making them desirable for collectors of all ages.
• Cultural Impact: Whether it’s through film, TV, or pop culture, many of these vehicles have become legends in their own right.
• Strong Enthusiast Base: Cars like the Mustang and 911 have passionate fan bases, which keeps demand high for well-maintained examples.

Conclusion: The Best Classic Car Investment

If you’re looking to make a smart investment in the classic car market, these models have proven their worth over the last decade. The combination of rarity, iconic design, and cultural significance has driven their values up, making them not only a joy to own but also a strong financial asset. While the market can fluctuate, these classics have consistently delivered strong returns and are expected to continue appreciating in the years to come.

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