YOUNG drivers are snapping up retro motors like never before, many in the hope of turning a profit in years to come.
Many cars around 20 years old are becoming highly sought-after for their distinctive looks – or simply for their nostalgia value.
According to new research by Cazoo, younger petrolheads are reshaping the used-car market by viewing retro models not just as expressions of identity – but as tangible assets with the potential to hold or increase in value.
Indeed, social media and classic car culture trends are credited as key forces behind this revival.
Their survey found that 27% of Gen Z say they’re likely to purchase a retro car in the next decade, ahead of Millennials at 19%.
And what’s more, 68% say a car’s potential to hold or increase its value is important when choosing what to buy.
Among those who view cars as an investment, 89% say value retention and appreciation are important factors in their car-buying decisions.
Also, with many Gen Z priced out of the housing market, retro cars are increasingly seen as a more attainable asset class – offering a way to invest in something tangible, potentially appreciating and, of course, personally meaningful.
Lucy Tugby, Marketing Director at Cazoo, said: “Cars have always been about freedom and individuality – but for Gen Z, they’ve also become a way to invest in something tangible and lasting.
“It’s amazing to see younger drivers rediscovering retro models not just for their personality, but for their potential to hold or even gain value.“
And Charlie Harvey, Cazoo’s Motoring Expert and a retro car enthusiast himself, has picked the models he believes have the potential to become future classics.
Toyota MR2
Wonderfully sporty and unapologetically of its era, the Toyota MR2 is an ideal entry point into classic sports car ownership.
Cheap to buy at the moment and relatively easy to maintain, its defining feature is its mid-engined layout – something usually reserved for hardcore sports and supercars – which makes every MR2 feel incredibly nimble and rewarding to drive.
Classic Mini
The quintessential classic motor, which was built from 1959 to 2000, the Mini is cute, playful and instantly recognisable – even to people who couldn’t care less about cars.
Better yet, they’re cheap to buy and simple to work on; thanks to one of the most active owner communities in the UK, you’ll never be short of advice or spare parts if anything does go wrong.
Mazda MX-5
A rival to the aforementioned MR2, the MX5 – designed as a back-to-basics roadster that channelled the spirit of classic British sports cars – the early MX-5 of the 1990s has now gained classic car status.
It remains relatively affordable although the earliest examples are beginning to creep up in value.
Nissan 300ZX
While many Japanese icons have flown into the public consciousness thanks to The Fast and the Furious effect, the 300ZX has somehow slipped under the radar.
A hugely advanced set of wheels when new – complicated as a result – it’s perhaps worth having a little stash of money saved for maintenance.
VW Corrado
This striking coupe of the 1990s was pricey when new – making it fairly rare today.
Indeed, the VR6 versions, which can be bought for as little as £6,000, are considered the holy grail of the lineup – boasting the strongest performance of the range.
Ford Fiesta
The Fiesta may be a household name, but with its 46-year production run ending in 2023, it’s officially become a piece of history.
For many, it was the first car they ever owned or learned to drive in – meaning it wins big points for nostalgia value.
Sporty editions such as the XR2 and RS Turbo are considered heroes among many – and now command strong money as a result.
Ordinary models, though, remain accessible modern classics.
Honda Prelude
With its eye-catching coupe shape, the Honda Prelude certainly stands out among today’s sea of SUVs.
And with Honda reviving the Prelude name for a new model, interest in the classic versions is almost certain to spike.
Ford Puma
Long before Ford used the name on a small SUV, the original Puma was a Fiesta-based couple renowned for its excellent handling.
Fun, stylish and still great value, a solid example can be yours for under £4,000.
BMW 3 Series (E36)
The E36-generation 3 Series is rapidly becoming scarce – as prices continue to climb.
Rust and hard-driven pasts mean you’ll need to shop around, but find a good one and you’ll have a charismatic, rear-wheel-drive sports saloon or couple that stands out.
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