10 Cars That Actually Increase in Value Over Time

SAVING & SPENDING - HOME & AUTO
Buckle up for a journey into the world of cars that age like fine wine in your garage.
Updated April 11, 2024
Fact checked
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When you purchase a new car, it usually loses value quickly.

According to Edmunds, a typical car depreciates 23.5% during the first year and 60% over the first five years of its lifespan.

However, some cars actually grow in value over time. Here are some vehicles that can help owners get ahead financially by increasing in value as the years roll on.

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Ford Focus RS

Brandon Woyshnis/Adobe ford-focus-rs

Many aftermarket parts previously were available for the Ford Focus RS, and that ability to make the car your own is why it appealed to some buyers.

However, Ford stopped manufacturing the Focus. Today, you will only find this vehicle on the used car market. That scarcity may be one reason why many expect the car’s value to jump in the coming years.

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AMC AMX

Brian/Adobe american motors amx coupe

American Motor Corporation built the AMC from 1968 to 1970 to compete with the Chevrolet Corvette, another two-seat sports car of the era. The AMX was priced to appeal to budget-conscious buyers at the time.

The car never gained the popularity that other sports cars did, making it a rarity compared to other classics. That scarcity has pushed the price higher.

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Thomas Dutour/Adobe mercedes benz slr mclaren

At one point, the Mercedes-Benz car company had a stake in the legendary racing team McLaren, which led to the companies working together on the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.

The car, manufactured between 2004 and 2010, featured a stylish, aerodynamic design and unique butterfly-wing doors. Those features still make the car popular today.

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Willys Jeep

OceanProd/Adobe jeep willys 4x4 car

Off-road drivers who want to try something different have been propping up the value of the Willys Jeep over the years.

This vehicle famously saw action in World War II and was known for its off-road capabilities. Today, it’s a great vehicle to own for its ruggedness. Many owners also love to work on the car.

AM General Hummer H1

be free/Adobe hummer h1 general motors suv

The AM General Hummer H1 began production in 1992. It's a boxy and big SUV, making it stand out from the crowd.

Production of the H1 ceased in 2006, but the decision by General Motors to revive the Hummer name means this classic is expected to increase in value.

The current Hummer is available as an all-electric SUV or pickup.

Saab 900 Turbo

Martin Debus/Adobe saab 900 sedan

Vehicles are no longer made under the Saab brand name, and that fact might boost the price of existing Saab models.

The Saab 900 Turbo, for example, had a striking look that appealed to fans who still wanted to get behind the wheel of the car.

Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06

Sergey Kohl/Adobe chevrolet corvette (c6)

The Chevrolet Corvette is considered a cool car regardless of the year it was made, but the C5 Z06 model from 2001 to 2004 gets a special look from collectors.

This model has some features that make it stand out from other Corvettes, such as its styling and engine. It is still relatively affordable on the used-car market if you’re looking to buy a Corvette, but some observers expect the price to climb soon.

Lamborghini Murciélago

Brandon Woyshnis/Adobe lamborghini

High-end sports cars can be pricey to pull into your garage when you buy them new. And in some cases, the value continues to rise in the ensuing years.

For example, check out the Lamborghini Murciélago, with its sporty design and scissor doors. The car, made between 2001 and 2010, also has a V12 engine that makes it stand out when you put your foot down on the gas.

Pontiac GTO

Brian/Adobe pontiac gto hardtop coupe

When you think about American muscle cars, the Pontiac GTO leaps to mind.

The GTO’s 1966-67 model is particularly valuable. The car includes hood scoops, unique exterior styling, and a powerful V8 engine that makes it particularly valuable to collectors and car enthusiasts.

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Audi R8

pixarno/Adobe white audi r8 coupe car

Audi is known for its stylish features, but the Audi R8 turned it up to another level with its sporty design and desirable engineering.

The car was even featured in Marvel’s Avengers movie series, with rich superhero Tony Stark driving an R8 as his car of choice.

Scarcity could become an issue, as Audi’s 2023 version of the R8 was the last to be produced. So, you might want to get your hands on one before they become hard to find.

Bottom line

ivanko80/Adobe couple enjoying road trip

Sometimes, buying a special car can also be an investment that helps you build wealth as the vehicle increases in value.

However, remember that these cars are older models or even models that aren’t made anymore. That might lead to extra costs you should consider before deciding whether to own one of these cars.

Make sure your budget includes the extra expenses of maintenance, repairs, car insurance, and other costs that might be associated with these vehicles.

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