Cars
2022 Practical Future Collectible Cars
Daily driver cars that you can buy today, and are likely to be collectibles in the future
If you are a car person, and looking to buy a new car, you may want to consider my list of new daily driver cars that you can buy today, and are likely to be collectibles in the future. However, if you are married, it is recommended that you still consult with THE WIFE, before buying anything on this list (or outside it 😉).
What is a collectible car?
“A collectible refers to an item that is worth far more than it was originally sold for because of its rarity and/or popularity.” — Investopedia
According to Investopedia, The most expensive collectible cars combine these attributes:
- Cars with historical importance — ones that pioneered new technology or raised the bar for consumer expectations
- Rare and beautiful
- A racing history
- Association with a designer, racer, builder, or prior celebrity ownership
Considering that my list is consisting of new reasonably priced and daily driver cars, I will be mostly focusing on rare and beautiful.
And instead of focusing on new technologies, I will be focusing on disappearing technologies. As the world is moving towards electric vehicles and self-driving cars, car designers are redefining the user/driver experience. The driver in a self driving car will be treated like any other passenger in the car. Things like engine sound, exhaust sound, and gear shifter are disappearing. When cars with such attributes disappear, they become rare.
Electric self-driving cars of the future will not be driver centered. They will not be owner centered either.
Owning a combustion engine car in the future will be like owning a horse. You own it for the experience, you own it to have fun.
Cars are works of art. Art does not always have to be expensive. So I will not be recommending you to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to get your hands on an “obvious” collectible car like a special edition Ferrari or a Bugatti. Instead, I will be focusing on affordable cars that you can drive on a daily basis.
Beyond the scope of this article — Serious Investment
The global classic car market has grown to over $30 Billion in 2020. If you are okay with investing your money in an old car which is either already a classic or on the trajectory to be a classic, I would recommend you to start your research with the Valuation Tools from Hagerty. There are cars that are under $10K, and there are cars that are more expensive than a house.
If you do not have the money, and you still want to invest in collectible cars, I would recommend you to check out Rally, a platform to invest in assets that appreciates including cars.
“As a basic rule of thumb, if teenaged boys have its picture taped to the wall, you’re looking in the right direction. When those boys grow up, they want to buy the things that made them happy in their youth.” — Investopedia
Back to my list, and before jumping into it, let me summarize my search criteria and attributes of a practical future collectible car:
- Driver centered: it evokes emotions ❤️
- Beautiful: a piece of art 🎨, and without stupid features like fake exhaust pipes (if you are a designer of such features and reading this article, sorry but everyone hates those fake pipes). A timeless design that does not grow old.
- Affordable: between $35k and $80k 💲 well $80K is not very affordable but I had to draw a line
- Practical: a.k.a daily driver 🚸 this is not a requirement for a collectible car, but I want you to enjoy your investment
- High performance on Nürburgring: this about handling and horsepower 🐴 while this is not a hard requirement, but for a driver centered car, it is expected to have some performance
- Not a best seller: if it is a best seller, then it is not rare 😉
- Brand name: does not need to be expensive, but having history helps 🍀
- Sounds like a mistake: if your friends and family think you are stupid if you buy this, then that is a plus 😂
One more: my gut feelings 😜 I will be violating the rules above whenever I feel like it.
P.S. many electric and self-driving cars will be collectibles for pushing boundaries and disrupting the transportation world. However, that is a topic for another article.
Note: I tried so hard not to be biased when I created this list, but I could not. I personally prefer European cars over American and Japanese cars, and I understand that other people might have a different taste. After all, buying a car is an emotional decision, so I will advise you to use my list for inspiration and simply follow your heart to make a final decision.
When it comes to art, the Italians:
“When I see an Alfa Romeo go by, I tip my hat” — Henry Ford
“You Can’t Be A True Petrol-head Until You’ve Owned An Alfa” — Jeremy Clarkson
And specifically Alfa Romeo. Any Alfa Romeo has the potential to be a future collectible. So much history behind this brand. Enzo Ferrari himself was a driver for the Alfa Romeo Racing team. Their logo is a piece of art. Their cars evoke emotions. When you drive an Alfa Romeo, you and the car become one. I owned an Alfa Romeo MiTo back home (a 2-doors turbo charged hot hatch), and it used to put a smile on my face just by looking at it. For me, it was my “poor guy” Ferrari, and honestly, for the price of a Ferrari, I will still get a higher-end Alfa Romeo, like the Disco Valente or the 8C.
Alfa Romeo — Giulia and Giulia Quadrifoglio
Why is this car special? Well the legend says that the Quadrifoglio model has a V6 Ferrari engine (it is technically a V8 Ferrari with two of the cylinders chopped off), and it is one of the fastest sedans in the world, with very impressive numbers on the Nürburgring. If you can not afford the Quadrifoglio, opt for the lower trims. With Alfa Romeo planning on going fully electric in five years, any of their current models will probably be a collectible. Just like the Giulia from 1962–1978 is a highly collectible car today, I think the new Giulia is on track to be collectible.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Giulia: 280 🐴 at an MSRP of $42K = $153 per 🐴
Giulia Quadrifoglio: 505 🐴 at an MSRP of $80K = $158 per 🐴
Alfa Romeo — Stelvio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio
Why is this car special? The same deal as with the Giulia Quadrifoglio, but comes as an SUV with the same V6 Ferrari engine under the hood. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio set new SUV record on the Nürburgring. It is one of the best performance SUV in the world. Same advice here, If you can not afford the Quadrifoglio, opt for the lower trims. You can never go wrong with an Alfa!
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Stelvio: 280 🐴 at an MSRP of $45K = $160 per 🐴
Stelvio Quadrifoglio: 505 🐴 at an MSRP of $86K = $170 per 🐴
Alfa Romeo — 4C Spider
UPDATE: the 4c was discontinued in 2021. Alfa Romeo ended the 4C with a limited edition, 4C Spider 33 Stradale. This was my dream car, so I missed the opportunity 😢
Okay, so this car is violating my criteria of practicality, and it is definitely not a daily driver, but I could not not mention it in article that lists collectible cars. Why is this car special? This car marked the return of Alfa Romeo to the US. It is a true driver car, with a mechanical steering wheel that provides very accurate feedback from the road, and full carbon fiber body. This is a budget super sport car. This is guaranteed to be as collectible more than a special edition Ferrari.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
237 🐴 at an MSRP of $67K = $282 per 🐴
P.S. do not let the number of horsepower fouls you, the 4C has a great power-to-weight ratio thanks to its full carbon bodywork
Fiat — 500 X
First, I am not a fan of crossovers in general. And this is definitely not a car you take for a lap on the Nürburgring. But you can still hit the streets in style. Why is this car special? The history of Fiat 500 goes back to 1957. It evolved from a small car to a very stylish and practical crossover. Most importantly, this is the last model standing from Fiat in the US. When you buy this car, you do not only own the vehicle, you join a community of fans (e.g., Fiat Club America). In short, owning an Italian car is a way of life, and this car is your gateway to that life!
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
177 🐴 at an MSRP of $26K = $146 per 🐴
When it comes to style, the British:
Jaguar — F-Type
Update: Jaguar dropped the entry level V6 engine in 2021, which makes the starting price of this wild cat at the higher end of my range, but it still deserves a place on my list.
Why is this car special? I think this is the most beautiful car on my list from a very iconic brand with so much history in racing. It is a true British muscle car. With Jaguar planning on going fully electric in 5 years, this is definitely going to be a collectible car. According to most reviews, it has one of the best exhaust sounds in the world, especially on the higher-end trim, R. In my opinion, it even looks better than a much more expensive Austin Martin Vantage. It is not very practical if you have kids, but you can still drive it on a daily basis, and it is definitely more practical than the Alfa Romeo 4c.
Does it come in manual transmission? No, discontinued for the 2022 model 👎
How much per pony?
F‑Type P450: 444 🐴 at an MSRP of $71K = $159 per 🐴
F‑Type R-Dynamic P450: 444 🐴 at an MSRP of $81K = $182 per 🐴
F-Type R: exceeded budget ⚠️
Jaguar — F-Pace
Why is this car special? Like the F-Type, this is the most beautiful SUV on my list. Similar to the F-Type, it was reported that the exhaust sound of this car, especially on the higher-end trim (SVR, which stand for Special Vehicle Ratings), is violating all the noise rules and regulations, and Jaguar had to tune it down a bit to stay in compliance. If you have an additional $10K, opt for the Matt British Racing Green color (yes it is stupid expensive, so less people will buy it, and that makes it more collectible).
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
F‑Pace: 246🐴 at an MSRP of $50K = $203 per 🐴
F‑Pace R-Dynamic S: 395🐴 at an MSRP of $65K = $164 per 🐴
F‑Pace SVR: 542🐴 at an MSRP of $86K = $158 per 🐴
Land Rover — Rang Rover Sport
This car does not require introduction. Whenever you think of an SUV, you have to think of the mighty Rang Rover and Range Rover Sport. While the Range Rover costs over $100K, the Range Rover Sport is $30K cheaper, and it is the most dynamic of the two. Range Rover was launched in 1970, and it evolved over the years to become this badass SUV. The SVR trim has a higher chance of becoming a collectible in the future. However, the Sport SVR is violating my affordability criteria, but I could not not mention it.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Range Rover Sport: 355–518🐴 at an MSRP of $70K–$89K = $197 — $171 per 🐴
Range Rover Sport SVR: exceeded budget ⚠️
Land Rover — Rang Rover Velar
Why is this car special? like the F-Pace, this is an award winner of the most beautiful car in the world. Honestly, it looks like a luxury yacht ⛵️ It is cheaper than the Sport, and with a very unique presence on the road. Every time I see it in the street, I tip my hat!
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Velar: 247–340 🐴 at an MSRP of $58K–$64K = $234–$188 per 🐴
Land Rover — Rang Rover Evoque
This is the smaller and more affordable brother of the Rang Rover Sport and Velar, but it is guaranteed to make a statement. I had to mention separately, because, in my opinion, it has a better chance becoming a collectible than the Range Rover Sport or Velar. When this car was launched, the whole world fell in love with it. The good news is that is the cheapest Range Rover. Why is this car special? According to Hagerty, If any modern crossover has a shot at collectible status, it is the Range Rover Evoque.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Range Rover Evoque: 246–296🐴 at an MSRP of $44K–$55K = $178–$185 per 🐴
Land Rover — Defender
“The new model represents 70 years of innovation and improvement; honoring the vehicle’s history for rugged solidity while thoroughly remaining a Defender for the 21st century.” — Land Rover Website
Honestly, reading this statement, gives me goosebumps! Why is this car special? This is the best luxury off-road SUV.
P.S. there is a V8 limited edition called the Carpathian Edition inspired by the last 007 movie, “No Time to Die”.
P.S.S. there is 90 model which is 2-door Defender, and the 110 which is 4-door Defender.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Range Rover Defender: 296 🐴 at an MSRP of $51K = $172 per 🐴
Range Rover Defender X Dynamic and X: 395 🐴 at an MSRP of $69K-$87K = $174-220 per 🐴
Range Rover Defender Carpathian Edition: exceeded budget ⚠️
Mini Cooper
Why is this car special? A British hot hatch with a manual transmission. Sounds like a fun recipe! If you opt for the John Cooper Works edition, you get the most powerful Mini in the world, with an exhaust that is guaranteed to leave a smile on your face every time you push the gas paddle.
P.S. I personally love the Clubman model.
P.S.S. not my favorite, but you should also consider the convertible Mini.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Cooper: 134 🐴 at an MSRP of $22K = $164per 🐴
Cooper S: 189 🐴 at an MSRP of $26K = $173 per 🐴
John Cooper Works: 228 🐴 at an MSRP of $32K = $140 per 🐴
When it comes to engineering, the Germans:
Volkswagen — Golf R MK8
The mighty Golf R! With all of my love for Alfa Romeo and Italian cars, I think I might buy this one. Why is this car special? The hottest of the hot hatches. This is an all-wheel-drive hot hatch with 320 horsepower for less than $45K, sign me up please. Oh, and the best part is that it comes with an optional manual transmission. Even in the Europe, they are not getting the stick shift! THANK YOU VW! The 2022 has a new all-wheel-drive system that is rear-biased, and it comes with a f****** Nürburgring drive mode!!! This car is literally checking all of my boxes for a future collectible. I should stop this article here, everyone go get a Golf R, and let us call it a day.
P.S. keep an eye on an anniversary or a special editions of the Golf GTI, as these cars are likely to be collectibles as well.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Golf R: 315 🐴 at an MSRP of $44K = $139per 🐴
Volkswagen — Jetta GLI
You did not see this one coming, did you? Why is this car special? A sedan version of the Golf GTI. German sport sedan that is turbo charged and with an optional stick shift. And for under 30K! This is so underrated, and it is more rare than than the Golf GTI.
“The 2021 Jetta GLI is compact-sedan greatness.” — Car and Driver
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Golf R: 228 🐴 at an MSRP of $26K = $114 per 🐴
BMW — M3, M4, 3 Series, and 4 Series
The ultimate driving machine! You can never go wrong with an M3 or M4. They are best value for the money. Why is this car special ?M cars are known to outperform cars triple their price. The best part is that you can still opt for a manual gearbox. The reason I think 2022 model is unique is because of the new controversial grill design which caused a lot of arguments in the automotive world. Whether you like it or not, history taught us that controversial designs are likely to become collectibles. BMW is known for pushing boundaries, every time people complain about a new BMW design, they end up loving it at the end.
Except affordability, M3/M4 are checking all my boxes for a future collectible. If you can not afford the M4, opt for the 4 series, with that grill, it has a very good chance to become a collectible. The 3 series is a great car but it is also a best seller, so that does not help much when it comes to collectibles. The 2022 3 series survived the new grill design, which makes sense as BMW did not want to risk their best selling car. It could be the last 3 series with a normal grill. However, if you are going for the 3 series, opt for the baby M3, M340i.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes, only M3 and M4 👍
M3: 473🐴 at an MSRP of $70K = $147per 🐴
M4: 473🐴 at an MSRP of $72K = $152per 🐴
4 Series: 255🐴 at an MSRP of $46K = $180 per 🐴
M340i: 382 🐴 at an MSRP of $55K = $143 per 🐴
BMW — M2
This is the cheapest true M car you can get from BMW. Why is this car special? This car is a result of BMW reflecting on their history and M cars origin (small, light weight, and supper powerful). The new 2022 BMW 2 series is a little bigger than the previous 2 series, which I believe is against the inspiration/motivation behinds the previous model. However, it looks more mature.
P.S. 2022 M240i is more powerful than than 2021 M2, so I am listing the price for this baby M2 below for your reference.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes, only M2 👍
How much per pony?
M2: TBD
M240i xDrive: 382 🐴 at an MSRP of $48K = $125 per 🐴
P.S. the M240i xDrive has one of the lowest cost per 🐴 in the luxury segment! this indicates that this car is a great value for your money!
Porsche — 718
Why is this car special? A Porsche with a manual gearbox. Do I need to say more? Let me say it again, A Porsche with a manual gearbox. I think it is enough said. It is not very practical if you have kids, but you can still driver it on a daily basis.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
718 Cayman: 300 🐴 at an MSRP of $60K = $200 per 🐴
718 Cayman S: 350 🐴 at an MSRP of $72K = $205 per 🐴
718 Cayman GTS 4.0: 394 🐴 at an MSRP of $87K = $220 per 🐴
Mercedes Benz —AMG CLA 45
Why is this car special? Like any true AMG engine, it is hand-build engine and singed by a Mercedes engineer. The AMG CLA 45 has the strongest 4-cylnders engine in the world. And a steering wheel that looks like it was brought from Hamilton’s F1 racing car. This is also the most affordable AMG (there are another cheaper model that is labeled as AMG, the AMG CLA 35, but in my opinion it does not qualify for the AMG badge).
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
CLA 45 AMG: 382 🐴 at an MSRP of $55K = $143 per 🐴
Mercedes Benz — C 300 Cabriolet, and AMG C Cabriolet
Why is this car special? regardless if you go with the AMG trim or not, it does come with a soft top which is available in 3 colors (black, red, and blue), and I think that is more than enough to give this car a place on my list. The much more expensive S Class Cabriolet looks very similar to the C class it is regarded by industry experts as a future classis, and I believe the little brother here has a fair shot too.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
C 300 Cabriolet: 255 🐴 at an MSRP of $55K = $215 per 🐴
AMG C 43 Cabriolet: 385 🐴 at an MSRP of $65K = $68 per 🐴
AMG C 63 Cabriolet: 469 🐴 at an MSRP of $78K = $166 per 🐴
Audi — TT
The first generation of this car is already a collectible. History repeats itself, and the TT is not an exception of that rule considering its beautiful design and sleek lines. Whether it is RS trim or not, it looks like a budget daily driver Audi R8.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
TT: 228 🐴 at an MSRP of $52K = $228 per 🐴
TT S: 288 🐴 at an MSRP of $60K = $208 per 🐴
TT RS: 394 🐴 at an MSRP of $72K = $182 per 🐴
Audi — RS3
Equipped with a very unique 5 cylinders engine. This car has a ton of character and attitude. This is one of most practical cars on my list and still very fun to drive. Audi paid attention to every single detail of this car, and it shows!
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
RS3: 401🐴 at an MSRP of $56K = $139 per 🐴
Audi — RS5, RS5 Sportback, and all A5 Models
I still remember my first impression when I saw the first model of the Audi A5 back in 2007, “this is my dream car, I do not need more than this car to be happy”. I bought my Alfa Romeo MiTo a year later, and never looked back 😂. However, the A5 has a special place in my heart, it is underappreciated in its class, comparing to other German models like the 4 Series and C Class Coupe, and that makes it more rare with a better shot at collectible statuses. Why is this car special? it is stunning! period. If you are wondering why I have so many Audi models on my list, it is because they are outsold by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, and because Audi models were featured in so many great movies, which makes them more collectibles in the future.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
A5: 261 🐴 at an MSRP of $45K = $175 per 🐴
S5: 349🐴 at an MSRP of $54K = $154 per 🐴
RS5 and RS5 Sportback: 444 🐴 at an MSRP of $76K = $171 per 🐴
Audi Q8
Why is this car special? This is a very beautiful luxury SUV from Audi which shares the same platform with the Lamborghini Urus. Q8 RS is even considered a better SUV than the Urus, but I will still be happy with a simple and elegant Q8. It was first released in 2019, and while it was not first in class, I think it is best in class, and Audi nailed the design.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Q8: 335🐴 at an MSRP of $70K = $208 per 🐴
Audi — A6 Allroad
If you thought I am done with Audi models, think again! Why is this car special? this is not your grandparents wagon. Even if it was, I will still take it for a ride. This is a very unique and rare car. While the RS6 is definitely the ultimate wagon in the world, the A6 Allroad inherits some of its characters. This car is the swiss knife when it comes to cars/SUVs.
“The legendary Audi A6 allroad® doesn’t just take the road less traveled, it makes a new one altogether.” — Audi
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
A6 Allroad: 335🐴 at an MSRP of $67K = $200 per 🐴
When it comes to reliability, the Japanese:
I know that I said at the beginning of this article that we do not care about reliability when it comes to collectible cars, but being reliable is the selling point for most of these Japanese cars below.
Honda — Civic Type R
While I am not a big fan of the styling of this car, the 2023 model might help me change my opinion (picture below is of the lower trim SI, which I actually love). Why is this car special? This car is a beast when it comes to handling and performance, and it is only getting better, and hopefully prettier, with every single year. With a big fan base, and an extremely reliable brand behind it, this car is guaranteed to stand the test of time.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
2022 Civic Type R: TBD
2022 Civic SI: 200🐴 at an MSRP of $27K = $135 per 🐴
Nissan — Z
Why is this car special? This car is a legend! It is a lifestyle. The seventh generation is better than ever. I hardly call a Japanese car, a piece of art, as this is reserved for the Italians, but I will make an exception for the 2023 Nissan Z. Equipped with a V6 twin-turbo engine producing 400HP and an optional manual gearbox, you are going to have a hard time driving this car in a straight line! It is not very practical if you have kids, but you can still drive it on a daily basis. This is my favorite from the Japanese list.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
2023 Nissan Z: TBD
Toyota — Supra
Why is this car special? This is more legendry than the Nissan Z. Historically speaking, when you think of the Supra, you compare it with the Nissan GTR. However, in today’s world, the Supra is half of the price of the Nissan GTR. The new Supra is a collaboration project between Toyota and BMW, which is another factor to make this car a collectible. Some people do not like the fact that this mighty Japanese car is based on the BMW Z4 and shares a lot of parts with it, and they even call it Zupra 😂. I think that this is still a badass car and people will appreciate it more as time passes. It is not very practical if you have kids, but you can still drive it on a daily basis and be sure that it is as reliable as your Toyota Camry.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Supra 2.0: 250🐴 at an MSRP of $43K = $172 per 🐴
Supra 3.0: 382🐴 at an MSRP of $51K = $133 per 🐴
Toyota — 4Runner TRD Pro
Why is this car special? I think the Wrangler has a bigger chance becoming a collectible than the 4Ruuner, but it worth mentioning the 4Runner TRD PRO as it comes third, after the Wrangler and the Defender, in the off-road class.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
$Runner TRD Pro: 270🐴 at an MSRP of $52K = $192 per 🐴
Toyota — GR86
Why is this car special? If you are on a budget, and you want a driver car, the Toyota GR86 will not disappoint you. This is the most affordable driver centered car on my list. Rear wheel drive, and a manual gearbox, are two very important features of any driver car. And by the way, I will personally choose the GR86 over the Subaru BRZ.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
GR 86: 228🐴 at an MSRP of $27K = $118 per 🐴
Lexus — RC and RC F
Why is this car special? The RC is the LC’s little brother. The LC is already labeled as a Future Classic by many of the industry experts and it cost above $100K. I am hoping that overtime, the RC will follow the path of its big brother. The RC and RCF have a really unique aggressive styling without sacrificing luxury, reliability, and comfort.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
RC 300: 241🐴 at an MSRP of $42K = $174 per 🐴
RC 350: 311🐴 at an MSRP of $45K = $144 per 🐴
RC F: 472🐴 at an MSRP of $65K = $137 per 🐴
Lexus — IS F
Well the name of this car is IS 500 F Sport Performance indicating that this is not a full F model. What the F? It has the same engine on the RC F, and the famous F quad exhaust, so for the purpose of this article and until there is an IS F, let us call the IS 500 F Sport Performance simply IS F. Why the F is this car special? This is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, it looks like a practical reliable Japanese sedan, however, while the whole world is going with small turbo charged, hybrid, or fully electric engines, Lexus decided to go the opposite direction and fit its massive naturally aspirated V8 engine under the hood of this car! This is the same engine on the RC F and LC (priced at ~$100K). It is cheaper than all of the competition (it is $15K cheaper than the M3). Not only it is cheaper than the M3, there is no need to fake the engine’s sound like in the M3, all real and natural here. The best part is that you just need to pick the color of this car, and send it to a dealer. I love the fact that it is only available in rear wheel drive, like a proper sport car, take it or leave it! This is a practical performance driver centered car that is guaranteed to last you a million miles.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
IS F: 472🐴 at an MSRP of $56K = $118 per 🐴
Acura — TLX Type S
The Type S has returned! Why is this car special? this is simply a very practical and beautiful sport sedan. Very beautiful car indeed, that is worth saying it might be even more beautiful than its German competitors. Its long base gives it a unique look across competitors in its class. With the reliability of Acura, a V6 turbo charged engine, Brembo breaks, and quad exhaust, what else are you looking for? This is less brutal than the Type R from Honda, but way more luxurious and practical.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
TLX Type S: 355🐴 at an MSRP of $53K = $149 per 🐴
Subaru — WRX STI
Why is this car special? Whenever you think of Rally racing, you can not not think of the mighty STI. A street legal all-wheel-drive rally car with a manual gearbox, what else are you looking for? I just do not like the styling of 2022 model, and unlike the Honda Type R, it seems it is getting uglier with every single model! I wish Subaru can come up with a retro design based on the 2006 STI and bring back the frameless doors. The STI is still TBD, and the WRX is violating an important criteria for a collectible car, which is beautiful and a piece of art. If the STI does not improve on the WRX, and get rid off all of that ugly and cheap plastic wrap, I am going to remove this car from my list. Subaru, you have been warned!
P.S. the 2021 is still on sale (pictured below), which is much better looking than the 2022 model, and that makes it much more collectible, so hurry up!
P.S.S. I am actually still so pissed off about how ugly the new WRX is, and I can write a long article just on that. Who approves such a design to make it to production?
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
2022 WRX STI: TBD
2021 WRX STI: 310 🐴 at an MSRP of $37K = $119 per 🐴
Mazda — Mazda3 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo Hatchback
Mazda is in the process of reinventing itself! Honestly, they look more Italian than Japanese with their elegant and simple designs. Why is this car special? A hot hatch with a manual gearbox. Again, it is a simple formula for fun and practicality. As an endangered specie, it has a small chance to become a collectible in the future. Unfortunately, the turbo charged model only comes in automatic, so you either get the stick shift or the turbo, pick your toy!
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes, only on Premium trim 👍
How much per pony?
2.5 S: 186 🐴 at an MSRP of $28K = $150 per 🐴
2.5 Turbo: 250 🐴 at an MSRP of $31K = $124 per 🐴
Mazda — MX5 Miata
Why is this car special? Everyone wants a Miata, including the very rich! This is the most fun per dollar on my list. Older generations of this car are already collectibles, and the 2023 is on the same trajectory. Stay on the lookout for special and anniversary editions.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
MX5 Miata: 181 🐴 at an MSRP of $27K = $149 per 🐴
MX5 Miata RF: 181 🐴 at an MSRP of $33K = $182 per 🐴
When it comes to strength, the Americans:
Jeep — Wrangler and Gladiator
Does this one require an introduction? I guess not. Please note that not all Wranglers are treated equally, so choose you trim carefully! Rubicon and Rubicon 392 are recommended.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Rubicon: 285 🐴 at an MSRP of $43K = $150 per 🐴
Rubicon 392: 470 🐴 at an MSRP of $72K = $153 per 🐴
Jeep — Grand Cherokee SRT
Why is this car special? This is the most badass SUV on my list. Iconic brand with a history, and a high performance trim of their best looking SUV. SRT Trackhawk is already a collectible, and while the SRT is less rare than the Trackhawk, it does not disappoint and it has fair shot at being collectible too.
P.S. the 2022 SRT is still not confirmed, for now you can buy the 2021 model which is pictured below.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
2022 Grand Cherokee SRT: TBD
2021 Grand Cherokee SRT: 475 🐴 at an MSRP of $72K = $151 per 🐴
Jeep — Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer
Did you know that there is shop in Texas, Wagonmaster, that sells meticulously restored and upgraded classic Grand Wagoneers for around $80,000 each?
Will now you know, and I just give you a heads up that the new Wagoneer will likely be a collectible. The Grand Wagoneer is above my threshold, and it costs above $100k. Both, the Wagoneer and the Grand Wagoneer, are the same size, and since size matters when it comes to SUVs, both of them have a fair shot to become collectibles.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Wagoneer: 392 🐴 at an MSRP of $69K = $176 per 🐴
Grand Wagoneer: 471 🐴 at an MSRP of $88K = $186 per 🐴
Ford — Mustang Mach 1, and Shelby GT500
This article took more time than I thought, so I appreciate when a car makes my job easier, like this Mach 1. Why is this car special? The Mach 1 is a limited edition Mustang yet cheaper than a Shelby GT500, do you get it? If I were you and reading this article, and I have $50K to spend on a new car, I will head straight to the nearest Ford dealership for a test drive. The first generation of Mach 1 is from 1969, and these cars are now the most desirable to collectors.
“As a basic rule of thumb, if teenaged boys have its picture taped to the wall, you’re looking in the right direction. When those boys grow up, they want to buy the things that made them happy in their youth” — Investopedia
It is worth repeating this rule here as a reminder, because I think boys and girls, even in Italy, have the picture of a Mustang taped to the wall!
Okay now, the Shelby GT500, let us all agree that it might be pricy, and it might be less practical, but it is a hell of a muscle car. If I will pick one car to represent America, it is the Shelby GT500!
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Mach 1: 480🐴 at an MSRP of $53K = $110 per 🐴
Shelby GT500: 760🐴 at an MSRP of $72K = $94 per 🐴
Ford Bronco
Why is this car special? This is the first year marking the return of the Bronco, so this is highly likely to become a future collectible.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Bronco: 300🐴 at an MSRP of $28K = $93 per 🐴
Cadillac CT4 V Blackwing
Why is this car special? Do you want a car that balances between being an American badass muscle car and has the luxury at the level of German cars? Enter, Cadillac CT4 V Blackwing. Cadillac brought all of their years of experience in racing into this car without sacrificing any of the practicality and luxury. The best part, you guessed it, it comes with a stick shift. THANK YOU, Cadillac!
P.S. there is a CT4 V trim, which is not a true V car, and it comes only with astigmatic gearbox 👎
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes, only on the Blackwing trim👍
How much per pony?
CT4 V Blackwing: 472🐴 at an MSRP of $58K = $122 per 🐴
Dodge — Durango SRT, and SRT Hellcat
A Hellcat 3 rows SUV? Hell ya! This is one of the rarest cars in America. It is limited because of regulations from the government. Hurry up while Dodge is still taking orders. The SRT is less rare, but it does not disappoint. I always loved the aggressive and muscular look of the Durango, and while I am not a fan of any of Dodge’s interiors, as they give me the vibe of being in a truck, however, on the Durango, it feels home.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Durango SRT: 475 🐴 at an MSRP of $64K = $134 per 🐴
Durango SRT Hellcat: 701🐴 at an MSRP of $82K = $116 per 🐴
Dodge — Charger Scat Pack Widebody
Do I need to introduce this? Here you go, this car is legend! The Scat Pack balances performance and practicality, and it is much more usable than the Hellcat. Now it is offered with the Widebody package which was previously only offered on higher trims. For people who do not consider the Cadillac CT4 V Blackwing a true muscle car, then this Dodge is the one and only 4-door American muscle car. If you can afford the Hellcat, go for it, but keep in mind it is less practical.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Charger Scat Pack Widebody: 485 🐴 at an MSRP of $48K = $98 per 🐴
Dodge — Challenger Scat Pack Widebody
Why is this car special? You can not think of muscle cars, and not think of this timeless true American muscle car. The Scat Pack package balances everything with this car, and might be the best value for your money. I think the Widebody option is more than enough to earn this car a collectible status regardless if it is top trim or not. If you can afford the Hellcat, go for it, but keep in mind it is less practical.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Challenger Scat Pack Widebody: 485 🐴 at an MSRP of $48K = $98 per 🐴
Chevrolet — Camaro ZL1
let me start by saying that the Camaro is not my favorite muscle car. It is not a best seller in the muscle car category. And, rumors are pointing that it will be discontinued in 2023–2024. Maybe we will miss this car after it is gone? I think so. However, The ZL1 trim is very special. It has the same engine from the Z06 Corvette, and the Chevy logo is hollow to bring more air to cool that massive engine! All of these factors combined made me add this muscle car to my future collectible list.
Btw, the SS and ZL1 are currently banned in California and Washington states because of their toxic break pads.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Camaro ZL1: 650🐴 at an MSRP of $64K = $98 per 🐴
Chevrolet — Corvette
Why is this car special? Well this is a super sport car, so I am extremely violating my rule when it comes to practicality. However, for the price, I had to mention it! This is the first mid-engine Corvette in history. A lot of people consider this a budget Ferrari 458 Italia. Being the first mid-engine Corvette, gives it an edge to become a collectible.
Does it come in manual transmission? No 👎
How much per pony?
Corvette: 495 🐴 at an MSRP of $62K = $125 per 🐴
Honorable mention, the Koreans (no offense):
Kia — Stinger
Why is this car special? For me this is a budget Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, while the brand name is not in its favor to become a collectible, you can not deny that this a very handsome car with unique styling.
Does it come in manual transmission? No, not the 2022 model 👎
How much per pony?
Stinger GT: 300 🐴 at an MSRP of $36K = $120 per 🐴
Stinger GT1: 368 🐴 at an MSRP of $43K = $116 per 🐴
Genesis — G70
Why is this car special? Since I have mentioned the Stinger, I have to mention its G70 cousin from Genesis. The 2022 is really a beautiful luxury sport sedan and it an excellent daily driver.
P.S. you can reserve the launch edition now, which is a limited production run.
Does it come in manual transmission? No, not the 2022 model 👎
How much per pony?
G70: 252 🐴 at an MSRP of $37K = $146 per 🐴
Hyundai — Veloster N
Why is this car special? You should probably know by now that my weakness is hot hatches. This is a very high performance track ready turbo charged hatchback with an optional 6-speeds manual that been tested on the Nürburgring. This is underappreciated in the US, see what they think of this car in the UK.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Veloster N: 275 🐴 at an MSRP of $32K = $116 per 🐴
Hyundai — Elantra N
Why is this car special? Time has changed, the Elantra is no longer that compact slow car. This is first true N sedan car from Hyundai with 276 horsepower for $32K. Yes, you heard it right, 276 horsepower! And honestly, there is no competition at this price. If you like the idea and the price of the Veloster, but you would like more practicality, then the Elantra N is your answer.
Does it come in manual transmission? Yes 👍
How much per pony?
Veloster N: 276 🐴 at an MSRP of $32K = $116 per 🐴
Kia — Soul
We can all agree that this is a very ugly car, but my gut feeling is telling me this might become a collectible. So I am going to violate the “beautiful” rule. I think this car already became part of Kia’s legacy.
Does it come in manual transmission? No, not the 2022 model 👎
What I would buy?
Very tough question! Based on my budget, I will get the Kia Soul 😢 kidding, I will probably get the Golf R or BMW M2 (#savethemanuals). However, if money is not a problem, and I can get 3 cars 😜, then I will get the mighty Range Rover Sport SVR, the wild Jaguar F-Type R, and the badass M3 with a stick shift. Oh, and I will go after one of those limited edition Alfa Romeo 4C 33 Stradale, even if it is a used one. What would you buy?
Conclusion
While no one can predict the future and what cars will become collectibles, we can see some clues, and by looking back in the history, we can connect the dots to see patterns of cars that are likely to become collectibles. Remember that buying a car is an emotional decision, so I will advise you to use my list for inspiration and simply follow your heart to make a final decision. I also found it helpful to consider the price per one horsepower (I started it as a joke, but it turned out to be a useful metric). I know power-to-weight ratio, and 0–60 are more important than horsepower when it comes to performance, but since I am not comparing super sport cars, price per one horsepower is a quick and easy way to compare value for money of performance daily driver cars. It shows you how much you are paying for technology, features, and brand name vs how much you are paying for performance. For making serious investment in classic cars, I would recommend you to check Valuation Tools from Hagerty and Rally.
To be continued…
