Cheap Cars That Could Be Worth a Fortune in the Future
If you’ve got one of these cheap cars sitting on your driveway, then you might not want to disregard it just yet.
The motoring world had a massive focus on the Frankfurt Motor Show last month, where all the new exciting models were unveiled. But it’s not just the brand new models which are catching people’s eyes. The vintage market is starting to make a name for itself once again.
So, you could be sitting on a ‘future classic’ without even realising it.
That’s according to our founder Duncan McClure Fisher, who with our team of experts have identified 10 modern cars who will increase in value over the coming years.
He says: “As our cars age, we expect them to depreciate in value, and they might not get the same care and attention a new car might get.
“But, as this list proves, it can pay to keep on top of your car’s maintenance, as it could well end up paying you back in spades. Servicing a car in line with manufacturer’s guidelines keeps it running efficiently and reliably for longer.”
Peugeot 306 GTI-6 (1998, £1,000)
“Back in the 1990s, a little car called a Peugeot 205 GTI won a cult following and is now worth an absolute fortune. Good examples of the 205 are regularly selling for £25,000 plus now. And many suspect the 306 GTI - a natural successor to the 205 - is heading that way, too. Decent 306 GTIs are often found on eBay for less than £1,000, meaning you should perhaps invest now if you don’t already own one.”
Look out for: Electrical & suspension issues
Audi A2 1.6 (2003, £1,500)
“It’s fair to say this baby Audi was not a sales hit. Which is good news for owners, because they’re now becoming fairly rare. And because it combines quirky looks with clever engineering involving lots of weight-saving aluminium, it’s gained a lot of fans. It’s also economical - and a glass area in the tailgate even helps to warm the cabin - which means it has eco credentials, too.”
Look out for: Engine & electrical issues
Alfa Romeo 159 sportwagon 2.4 JTDM (2007, £2,500)
“There’s a very simple reason these cars are becoming something of a modern classic among enthusiasts - and that’s purely down to looks. It was created by Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the same man who brought us Back To The Future’s DMC DeLorean. And with 210bhp, the 159 is also quick, reaching 60mph in around 8 seconds.”
Look out for: Suspension issues
MG MGF (2001, £1,500)
“Drop top sports cars are always contenders for future classics - and British ones are even more sought after. And while the MGF has its detractors, public opinion appears to be changing on these little British cars - and prices are currently at an all time low. The MGF is fitted with a 1.8 litre ‘K Serie’ engine sourced from Rover. And these engines can be prone to head gasket failures. However, get a good one, and the MGF is a real driver’s car.”
Look out for: Engine & electrical issues
VW Beetle V5 (2003, £2,000)
“When Volkswagen reintroduced the ‘New’ Beetle to the market in 1997, seemingly dull styling made sure it was unloved. But it’s tough to kill an icon. And when VW called time on the Beetle for good in July this year, interest in the old models was suddenly rekindled. The one you want is the 2.3 V5 Sport Edition - which is rare, and quick.”
Look out for: Suspension & electrical issues
Fiat Coupe (1998, £2,500)
“With its Ferrari-esque looks, prices for Fiat Coupe have been slowly creeping up in recent years. And now might be your last chance to get your hands on one before they become too expensive - with quality examples being sold for £10,000 plus. The 20v Turbo models hold their value best.”
Look out for: Suspension & engine issues
Saab 9-3 Turbo X (2009, £6,500)
“When Swedish firm Saab folded in 2012, fans weeped. And with the cars now something of a collector’s item, the rarest Saabs are sure to hold their value. The 9-3 Turbo X fits the bill perfectly, featuring a four-wheel-drive system married to a 2.8L, 276bhp engine.”
Look out for: Suspension, engine & electrical issues
Citroen Saxo VTS (2000, £1,500)
“This could be another ‘Peugeot 205’ in the making. The VTS was the range topping Saxo, which came with a punchy 16 valve, 1.6 litre petrol engine and bags of personality. They were immensely popular with enthusiastic young motorists in the day - which means those very same drivers will be looking to relive their youth by putting their hands in their pockets in the years to come.”
Look out for: Suspension & gearbox issues
Skoda Fabia VRS (2005, £1,800)
“When the Fabia VRS first hit showrooms, the only option you had was to get it with a 1.9 litre diesel engine. Petrol engines only came with more modern versions of the vRS. But that decision means the original vRS is now a much sought-after car, considered by many to be one of the most un-sung hot hatches going.”
Look out for: Suspension & electrical issues
Ford Puma (1997, £1,000)
“In June this year Ford revealed its latest ‘Puma’ - a chunky looking SUV. That model is a million miles away from the original Puma, released in 1997. And it’s the old model which many are tipping for future classic status. The appeal is in the dynamics of the handling, with the Puma defying the laws of gravity at times. Sporty ‘Racing’ Pumas are already going for £15,000, but the standard versions - which boast a 1.7 litre engine - can be had for a whole lot less.”
Look out for: Cooling & heating system, braking system issues
