The top 10 cars to invest in for a budget of 30,000 €

The world of car collecting is an immensely interesting place. From antique, pre-war vehicles to modern-day supercars, car lovers seem to collect anything with interesting stories, exciting designs, or great performances. But the classic car market is also constantly evolving, with new models getting into the spotlight and becoming sought-after items. Even though it looks like all in-demand cars are really expensive, the truth is that there is plenty of affordable yet enjoyable machinery that fits almost anybody’s budget and represents a sound investment. The cars from the ’60s and ’70s had their moment in the spotlight of the collector’s world. However, the new generation of enthusiasts is more interested in the cars from the 80s, 90s, and even early 2000s. That is why we compiled a list of exciting vehicles that can be bought for 30,000 euros, which will surely come up in value soon.

1. Chevrolet Corvette C4 (from 15,000 euros)

The C4 Corvette is one of the sports car icons of the 80s with an unmistakable wedge shape, robust V8 engine, surprisingly composed handling, and charmingly retro digital dash. Compared to the 911 from the same period, the Corvette is far more affordable and accessible to maintain but quicker, rarer, and more rewarding to drive. However, if you want to get the best versions in terms of quality, dependability, and features, look for the 1992 to 1996 model, which has a more powerful 300 hp LT1 V8 engine and improved looks.

The best version is the mighty Corvette ZR1, which had a Lotus-tuned, 32-valve, 5.7-liter V8 engine with up to 405 hp. With a precise 6-speed manual transmission, it was a supercar-beating machine in the early ’90s and still an incredible performer today.

2. Alfa Romeo GTV 3.0 V6 (from 15,000 euros)

It is hard to describe precisely what makes the Alfa Romeo GTV desirable. Is it a unique Pininfarina design, legendary Busso V6 engine, or exquisite interior? Maybe it’s its lively performance, motorsport heritage, or exciting soundtrack of that 3.0-liter V6 at full throttle. Whatever it is, the GTV 3.0 V6 is a sure bet for a sought-after future classic.

Introduced in 1994 and sold until 2006, the GTV was the last proper Alfa’s coupe. The 3.0-liter was its top model, and in 2003, it was updated to an even more powerful 3.2-liter version. Available as a Spider (convertible), this is a must-have for any Alfa aficionado. The prices are still affordable, but the best examples are getting more expensive.

3. BMW M3 E36 Sedan (from 25,000 euros)

Any proper M car is a no-brainer for investment, but the E36 generation, even though well-known, will be even more expensive in the future. There are several reasons for that. First, it offers a unique combination of lightweight construction with a motorsport-derived and high-powered straight-six engine (S50 or S52). Second, it comes as a sedan, which is a rare body style.

Third, it is easy to maintain, delivers exhilarating performance, and comes from when BMW wasn’t busy delivering turbocharged engines, oversized grilles, and pretentious designs. All that, plus elegant styling, especially in the sedan version, makes it irresistible for any BMW fan.

4. Mercedes E55 AMG (from 17,000 euros)

People tend to forget that, not that long ago, AMGs were very rare cars. Until the E55 AMG was presented and exploded on the scene as one of the fastest and most powerful sedans on the market. Introduced in 1997, the E55 was a four-door muscle car with unassuming looks but 911-beating performance. Powered by a 5.4-liter V8, it delivered 350 hp and could propel this luxury sedan to 280 km/h (limiter removed), which was unheard of in the late ’90s.

The E55 AMG was so good that Mercedes was swept with orders and sold almost 12,000 examples, which made it one of the best-selling AMGs ever. Prices for the good examples are on the rise, and now it is time to invest in this Autobahn stormer.

5. Lotus Elise (from 20,000 euros)

Car enthusiasts often complain about how distracted, heavy, and unexciting modern cars feel. However, there is a solution – Lotus Elise. It was, and still is, one of the most visceral, exciting, raw, and pure driving experiences you can have at legal speeds. The Elise is the complete antipode to modern and heavy cars; it is a minimalist dream, a lightweight sports car that reminds you what driving is all about.

It is so tiny you can park it in your living room, and it will charm you with its purity as soon as you sit behind the wheel. It will remind you that you don’t need crazy horsepower in order to have fun. That is why it is so popular and will be even more in the future.

6. Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited (from 15,000 euros)

We have already seen a significant rise in classic Range Rovers or Toyota Land Cruisers prices. But this model is far superior to either of them. Introduced in 1997, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited was a forerunner of performance SUVs that are popular today.

Powered by a 260 hp 5.9-liter V8 engine and filled with luxury features, the limited-edition model was also very capable off-road and remembered as one of the rare cars that perfectly combined upscale features, powerful engines, and off-road usability. Jeep made only about 14,000 examples, and they are getting hard to find.

7. Ford Focus RS Mk1 (from 24,000 euros)

The Ford Focus RS Mk1 is one of the forgotten hot hatches quickly gaining popularity among collectors. Produced for only a year and in limited quantities, the RS was powered by an underrated 2.0-liter turbo engine that officially produced 225 hp. However, it had utterly reworked suspension, brakes, and unique wheels and was delivered only in Imperial Blue color.

Ford made just over 4500 examples, half of them in RHD configuration. With its rarity, race car-like driving dynamics, and wild engine under the bonnet, it is no surprise that prices are very strong and will continue to climb.

8. Maserati 3200 GT (from 20,000 euros)

What if we tell you that you can own a thoroughbred Italian GT for the price of a second-hand SUV? Yes, it is true. The Maserati 3200 GT is a proper exotic sports car with a 3.2-liter, twin-turbo V8, elegant looks, luxurious interior, and still respectable performance. And it is still affordable, but not for very long.

Introduced in 1998 and sold till 2003, the 3200 GT was produced in just over 4,700 examples. If you are looking for this model, we suggest finding an example with a manual transmission since it will be more rewarding to drive and more sought-after, which means it will bring you more money when you decide to sell.

9. Porsche Cayman S (from 24,000 euros)

As we all know, classic Porsches are extremely expensive. But there is one model that is still affordable and offers 90% of the 911 driving feel for a fraction of the price. The Cayman S was introduced in 2006 as a coupe version of the Porsche Boxster, but it was much more than that.

With a 3.4-liter engine and 295 hp on tap, it was a scaled-down 911, which is why it was so good to drive and delivered pure driving excitement. At the moment, the prices are still reasonable, but we can expect that it will go stratospheric very soon.

10. Volkswagen Beetle Convertible (from 26,000 euros)

With the crazy prices for T1 vans and Karmann Ghias, it is refreshing to find out that the legendary Beetle Convertible could be had for a decent amount of money—especially the later models, arguably the best of the breed. With more powerful engines, better equipment, and a top feel, the Beetle Convertible is the best investment Volkswagen classic you can own.

Interestingly, compared to the standard Beetle, the Convertible has different body panels, and the famous company Karmann made it in fewer numbers, which makes it even more exclusive.