The top five modern classics of the future

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2012 Porsche 997 Turbo S. Photos / Supplied

Vehicle finance provider JBR Capital has identified five modern classics they think are set to become standout automotive investments in the coming years.

Classic car investments has the potential to yield growth of over 400 per cent for the right vehicle and are among some of the best-performing investment opportunities available. Over the last decade JBR Capital has noticed classic cars have become one of the most attractive luxury investments, ahead of traditional items such as jewellery and art.

Only fine wines (24 per cent increase) appear to have proved a better investment in the last 12 months, with cars from Porsche, Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz generating the most increase in value over the last year.

“The classic car investment market has calmed down slightly over the last 12 months, but prices are still rising and it is modern classics – cars from the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s – that are one of the safest investments," says Darren Selig, CEO of Co-Founder at JBR Capital.  

"These are the poster cars, the cars that graced bedroom walls and, in many cases, found fame on TV or in the movies. They are in hot demand from buyers who are now able to realise a dream."

“Our advice is to always buy the best. Perfect condition with a full history, few owners and low mileage – or fully restored – is vital when it comes to investing your hard-earned cash. Most importantly though, buy a modern classic because you love it. Do all this and you will be rewarded.”

Selig has selected the following five vehicles which show great promise for increasing in value over the next five years:

1 - 1989 Mercedes 300SL (R107)

Darren's verdict: “In our opinion, this is a great car for those interested in collecting a classic. Made famous by TV series such as Dallas and Hart to Hart, the R107 is in strong demand with values rising in recent years and showing no signs of slowing down. It’s an understated beauty for weekend motoring with the soft top down.”

2 - Ferrari F355 Berlinetta (manual), 1998

Darren’s verdict: “The car that replaced the much-criticised 348, the F355 was faster and better in every way. In Berlinetta coupe guise, with a traditional Ferrari open-gate six-speed manual gearbox, it’s a textbook modern classic. For similar money you could get a 2005 Ferrari F430 – both boast a powerful V8 with terrific performance – but we think the F355’s iconic styling will see its status soar in years to come.”

3 - Aston Martin Vanquish S, 2007

Darren’s verdict: “The last car produced at Aston Martin’s Newport Pagnell factory and a starring role in the 2002 James Bond movie Die Another Day mark the Vanquish out as very special indeed. Our pick is the Vanquish S, a genuine 200mph machine, of which less than 1,100 examples were made. While not cheap, we believe they are modern classics in the making.”

4 - Porsche 997 Turbo S, 2012

Darren’s verdict: “Air-cooled Porsches have risen hugely in value over the last ten years, and now the spotlight is being shone on the more special water-cooled cars. One of these is the 997 Turbo S. Built in relatively low numbers, it combines 530bhp with everyday usability – it’s a high performance supercar that offers great investment potential.” 

5 - BMW Z8, 2000

Darren’s verdict: “Inspired by the stunning BMW 507 of the 1950s, the Z8 is one of the most beautiful BMWs ever made and now a highly sought after and appreciating roadster. Under the bonnet lies the same V8 as the E39 M5 while its interior is a masterpiece in quality and style. Values have doubled in the last decade.”

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