http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars/863...n-classics

We pick out some collectors' cars and modern classics that could make you money

A full car collection is a far-flung dream for most of us, but buying a depreciation-proof car is much easier than you might think - and many of them can even increase in value.

We've picked out some of the best cars in a variety of price brackets that we expect to rise in value over the next five years - starting with a modern classic that you can get hold of for less than £1,000.

Volkswagen Golf GTI MkII



The car that set the hot hatch template is becoming a true classic. Original MkI Golf GTIs are fetching serious money, so the even more accomplished MkII is the best bet for cheap thrills. Prices of low-mileage minters are on the up, but tidy, usable GTIs are still available for under £1,000.

The good news is that 8v and 16v GTIs are robust and parts plentiful. Look after it, and you’ll never lose cash. In fact, prices are only going to rise.

Price new: £11,429
Price now: £995
Model: GTI 8v
Engine: 1.8-litre 4cyl, 112bhp

Predicted Price: £2,500 in five years (1989/G-reg)

MGF



When the MGF debuted nearly 20 years ago, the British sports car was reborn. It mixed modern looks with engaging mid-engined handling and open-air thrills, and was an instant hit. Later cars had regular steel suspension, but early MGFs with the novel Hydragas set-up are likely to be the collectors’ items.

Whatever you buy, make sure it has a full history and look for head gasket problems on the 1.8 K Series engine.

Price new: £15,995
Price now: £1,500
Model: 1.8i
Engine: 1.8-litre 4cyl, 118bhp

Predicted Price: £3,500 in five years (2000/X-reg)

Audi A2



When new, Audi’s cleverly packaged, supermini-sized A2 was a surprise sales flop. Despite its roomy, top-notch interior, lightweight aluminium construction and low running costs, it was just too pricey. Yet increasing fuel costs have ensured the bold A2 is now very desirable.

Diesels are frugal but noisy, so go for a smoother 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol car, while big wheels make the already firm ride even more uncomfortable.

Price new: £14,144
Price now: £3,495
Model: 1.6 se
Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 110bhp

Predicted Price: £6,000 in five years (2003/03-reg)

Range Rover MkI




The original Range Rover is a cast iron classic, with early cars now changing hands for tens of thousands of pounds. But a long 26-year production run means that there are plenty of later models available for the price of a new Dacia Sandero.

It won’t be cheap to run, but a MkI Range Rover serves up iconic looks and a commanding driving position. Plus, go off-road and you know it’ll cut the mustard.

Price new: £35,419
Price now: £6,995
Model: vogue se
Engine: 3.9-litre V8, 182bhp

Predicted Price: £15,000 in five years (1993/L-reg)

Ford Racing Puma



Ford Racing Puma
With its wild looks, great driving experience and sheer exclusivity, Ford’s Racing Puma is a guaranteed future classic... not that you’d know it from the price. While the car – hand-built by tuner Tickford and limited to only 500 models – was expensive new, you can now bag a high-miler for £6,000.

That looks good value given the thrilling front-wheel-drive handling, 155bhp 1.7-litre engine and racy interior, and prices are already rising.

Price new: £23,000
Price now: £6,500
Model: racing puma
Engine: 1.7-litre 4cyl, 155bhp

Predicted Price: £12,000 in five years (1999/V-reg)

Caterham 7



Buyers after a no-risk four-wheeled financial investment should check out the Caterham 7. Consistently high demand for the low-slung two-seater means you’re unlikely to ever lose money.

Under the bonnet you can have anything from a humble 103bhp 1.4-litre to a wild 311bhp supercharged 2.3-litre engine. And whatever model you choose, you’ll enjoy the same intoxicating driving thrills.

Price new: £14,897
Price now: £12,000
Model: supersprint
Engine: 1.7-litre 4cyl, 135bhp

Predicted Price: £18,000 in five years (1992/K-reg)

Lancia Delta HF Integrale



Cars with a rich racing heritage are sound investments – and the Delta is no exception. This hatch racked up an incredible six world rally titles from 1987-1992, while the road cars are famed for their engaging 4WD handling and scorching performance.

Fragile mechanicals and hard use mean many need TLC. But find a good example, and you’ll be rewarded with a motorsport legend that will keep on rising in value.

Price new: £23,395
Price now: £16,995
Model: hf integrale
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl
turbo, 215bhp

Predicted Price: £25,000 in five years (1993/L-reg)

Audi RS4



With 2007’s RS4, Audi finally delivered a worthy successor to the eighties Quattro. Its muscular 4.2-litre V8 sends 414bhp to all four wheels, while the pumped-up bodywork means it looks the part. And whether you go for the saloon, Avant estate or Cabriolet, all feel upmarket inside.

Plus, as the latest RS4 – only available as an Avant – isn’t as good to drive, the older car is a guaranteed future classic.

Price new: £50,675
Price now: £21,950
Model: rs4 saloon
Engine: 4.2-litre V8, 414bhp

Predicted Price: £30,000 in five years (2006/06-reg)

Ferrari 355 Berlinetta



Ferrari can trace the success of its current line-up back to the gorgeous 355. This car blended a screaming 40-valve V8 with fine handling, and was also the first Ferrari to feature the F1 paddleshift semi-auto box.

Today, the 355 is as desirable as ever, with prices creeping above those of the newer 360. Yet cared for examples still go for less than the price of a new Porsche Cayman – and their value will only rise.

Price new: £97,361
Price now: £45,000
Model: 355 berlinetta
Engine: 3.5-litre V8, 380bhp

Predicted Price: £65,000 in five years (1998/S-reg)



Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars/863...z3CSsZPHfV

Interesting, I think Integrale, RS4 , caterham and 355 are a no brainer and already classics, but A2?? MGF. maybe, Puma?? GTI mk2, not sure, would love to hear other views

I have an MG F Trophy 160 as my toy, its a great little car as a one of the last British sports cars, it is a modern classic.

Can we come up with 2 seater convertibles that dont become classics?? cant think of one

Triumph Spitfire. Still sh.1.te after all these years
Mazda Mx5 mark-1. Rustbuckets and not a patch on the mark-2
MG-F or whatever it's called. That front wheel drive, underpowered, unreliable feck.
Oh that other front wheel drive Lotus POS. Christ on a bike, what a nail.
Rover 200 convertible. Jeezuz, where does one start. (4 seats possibly)
There was that Renault thing from the 80's too. Unremarkable and easy to forget.

That's after just one beer.

(Not that you'd want to own any of the above mind you - no offence if you do)

Fiat Coupe - quick, rare (only about 6k of all variants ever registered in the UK), great styling, especially the interior with the wrap around coloured strip, good to drive (update the springs, dampers and anti-roll bars, add some negative camber and the handling becomes very sharp and neutral, as opposed to under steering when pushed as standard. If you want to up the power, there is a well trodden upgrade route to a reliable 350-400bhp in a car which weight 1,300kg! Should give 12 sec 1/4 mile time, but also consider it's FWD car and suffers getting off the line compared to RWD - the in gear acceleration when rolling is phenomenal!) and practical (you can fit two adults in the rear for short trips and the boot is a good size)

If you can find an unmolested 20 valve turbo in LE or Plus spec, you will be onto a winner! 2007 Zermatt Silver TDV8 Vogue SE - now sold but was a great car!

^^ You are wrong about the mx5 mk1.... Very sought after, well the rust free jap imports. Highly tuneable.
Mk2's have a weak front end... Previously..
Vogue SE TD6
Defender 90 2.4
Defender 110 TD5
Vogue 3.5 EFI


Last edited by Contraband on 5th Sep 2014 8:18pm. Edited 1 time in total

i am not debating whether they are good or not just that they appear to be going up in value, I do have a soft spot for the spitfire although I cant fit in one

Fair enough buying these cars, but not to make money. Even if the price does go up as predicted the running and maintenance costs will mean you won't be making any money. They will only get top money if they're in tip top condition.

I too have had a lifelong (weird) hankering for a Spitfire. I nearly bought one when 19 but it was so knackered I could not drive it away as the clutch was so far gone. I nearly bought it then but have wanted one ever since. NO IDEA WHY!!!

PS: My first car at 17 was a Triumph Herald and I thought that was the bees knees for about five minutes....(even tried to Rally it)

Click image to enlarge

If I could fit in a GT6 would be nice:

my mrs audi TT

 _____________________________________________________
Zambezi silver Vogue Se unique

I'd much prefer a TR6 to a Spitfire.

'ere ya go.



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But then I'd prefer a Lotus Elan +2 to a TR6.



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