If you are a car enthusiast, and if you are reading this article, then you often think of what the next big thing in the car collector’s world will be. What cars will emerge in the spotlight of the global car community, achieve high prices on the market, and become timeless collector’s items for decades to come? Even though nobody has a definitive answer to those questions, if you closely follow the scene, you can always tell what models have that potential. So, let’s say you have a budget of 50,000 euros and browse the classified ads for an investment car that will provide you immense driving enjoyment and a profit. Which model will grab your attention? Here are our suggestions and ten vehicles that will definitely earn you money.
Porsche 997 (from 45,000 euros)
The 911 is always a sure bet, as we can see from the current prices. However, the 997 generation is now in that particular place where it isn’t expensive but isn’t dirt cheap. It will only increase since the 997 model possesses some qualities that the 996 or 991 lacks. Introduced in 2004 and sold through 2013, the 997 model is probably the last 911 with lightweight construction, compact dimensions, and direct driving dynamics.
It is nimble, still pretty fast, well-equipped and elegant. It is the epitome of pure 911 philosophy and is sold in numerous versions and trim levels. The manual transmission models are an obvious choice, although the famous PDK transmission was available from the 997.1 model.
Aston Martin DB9 (from 45,000 euros)
There are several Aston Martin models that fit the budget of 50k euros. However, we believe that DB9 is the best bet for future classics. With timeless design, elegant lines, and that charming, naturally-aspirated 5.9-liter V12 in the front, the DB9 is one of the best GT cars Aston Martin has ever produced.
With 450 hp in the base version, the DB9 is still very competent and fast, and you can comfortably choose the automatic version since the venerable ZF6HP transmission is ideally suited to the character of the car and utterly dependable. It is only a matter of time before more people realize how good the DB9 is to drive and how smooth the V12 engine is.
BMW Z4 M Coupe (from 45,000 euros)
The Z4 M Coupe is a forgotten performance BMW that will soon get mainstream recognition. Introduced in 2006, this rare two-seater was the most potent Z4 model with an S54 straight-six engine from E46 M3 mounted under the hood. However, it wasn’t just about the power; the Z4 M Coupe got complete M Performance treatment with a ration six-speed manual gearbox, stiffer suspension, bigger brakes, and trim.
The result is a competent sports car with 343 hp on tap, low weight, and driving dynamics that will seduce any enthusiast. In just three years of production, BMW delivered only about 4,250 cars, so grab yours today and watch the prices go up soon.
Mercedes SL63 AMG (from 40,000 euros)
Similar to the Porsche 911, you cannot lose money on Mercedes SL. However, if you want to earn money, you have to be careful which cars you buy. One of the sure bets is the R230 Mercedes SL63 AMG. The refreshed model 2008 brought a sought-after version with the legendary M156 V8 engine.
With 525 hp from a naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8, the SL63 AMG had the performance of a supercar with a fantastic soundtrack. Of course, being a Mercedes, it had a luxury interior, folding hard top, and remarkable build quality. The unique 7-speed automatic was very fast to shift, and overall performance was astonishing.
Audi RS6 C6 (from 35,000 euros)
There are fast wagons on the market, and there is an RS6. For decades, it has represented a unique combination of performance and practicality with a healthy dose of madness. A station wagon that can chase a Ferrari on the Autobahn and climb the Alpes in winter is nothing short of spectacular and mad. Amongst all generations of RS6, the C6 model (2008 to 2011) is the most insane.
The reason is the 5.0-liter V10, which is shared with Lamborghini, has 571 hp and is sent to all four wheels via Quattro’s all-wheel drive system, and performance that still demands respect. And all of that in the unassuming body of an ordinary Audi wagon. The collectors realize how particular this car is, and the prices will rise accordingly.
Dodge Viper RT/10 (from 35,000 euros)
Born in the early ’90s, the Dodge Viper RT-10 was a reincarnation of a legendary Shelby Cobra. And just like the Cobra, it was overpowered, crazy, extremely dangerous, aggressive, and fantastic. Powered by a massive 8.0-liter V10 engine with 450 hp, no traction controls, or ABS (in early versions), the Viper constantly tried to kill its driver.
But that is precisely why it is so exciting. It is raw, fast, unapologizing, and a complete antipode of modern and politically correct sports cars. The prices are still affordable, but more and more people are getting into Vipers and enjoying their unique charms.
BMW M5 E60 (from 30,000 euros)
The BMW M5 has always been a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate sports car performance in a family sedan form. However, the E60 generation went further, offering a detuned Formula One engine with a redline of 507 hp and 8000 rpm. This created a unique and unrepeatable model that was a blast to drive with an engine sound out of this world.
The E60 M5 was also offered as a station wagon (E61 chassis code), but unfortunately, most of the cars produced came with the terrible SMG transmission, with only a handful equipped with a 6-speed manual. If you can find a manual version, it will bring big money on auction, but even the SMG-equipped ones will rise in value due to the incredible driving feel.
Audi R8 (from 45,000 euros)
The original Audi R8 created a stir when it was released in 2006. Suddenly, there was a supercar from a company that had never produced one, and the car community was stunned by just how good and competent it looked. Almost 20 years later, the original R8 is still a beautiful and exciting machine to drive.
The prices for good examples are below 50,000 euros, and for that money, you will get a timeless design, a 4.2-liter V8 with 420 hp, impressive handling due to Quattro, and exciting performance. Bonus points for getting the manual since driving will be even more rewarding.
Renault Megane RS R26. R (from 30,000 euros)
All hot hatches are attractive to collectors, but the Renault Megane RS R26.R is the most extreme of them all. Born as a track day special on which you can put the license plates, it was first shown in 2008 and shocked the car world. With no rear seats, a full racing roll cage, special seats, thin plastic windows, and a stripped-out interior, the R26.R was as close to a cup car on the street as you will ever get.
With 225 hp sent to the front wheel, close-ratio manual transmission, and direct steering, the R26.R was a blast to drive and a sure future classic that will never be repeated. Only 450 examples was produced.
Porsche Cayenne GTS Manual (from 35,000)
You might be asking why the 2003 to 2010 Porsche Cayenne GTS is on the list since it is a common and relatively inexpensive car. However, only a few people know that Porsche offered a 6-speed manual for its GTS model in that period. This factory option was scarce, with less than 2000 examples sold worldwide, but it effectively turned the Cayenne from a luxury SUV to a sports car for five people with a big trunk.
The GTS had a 4.8-liter V8 engine with 401 hp and was somewhat lighter than the standard Cayenne. Equipped with a 6-speed, the driver’s choice of the range only now gathers recognition from collectors. Rarity, unique features, and performance make it a sure investment.
