The definition of a classic car can differ between various organisations. According to the DVLA, a car that is 40 years old qualifies as a classic and is exempt from road tax. On the other hand, HMRC adopts a more mathematical perspective, stating that a vehicle must be at least 15 years old and valued at over £15,000. This means owners of Subaru Imprezas, E92 BMW M3s, and 987 Porsche Caymans from 2009 or earlier may find this advantageous. Additionally, many insurance companies consider cars older than 20 years to be eligible for classic car policies.
Regardless of how you define a classic car, it's clear that these vehicles are desirable, sought after, and often quite rare, with an iconic status that tends to grow over time. One could argue that the DVLA classification provides a solid framework for understanding classic car status, while anything newer is viewed as a “future classic.” These newer models are likely to see appreciation in value in the coming years, potentially making them a wise investment.
With this perspective, we decided to explore cars that have reached their 20th anniversary this year, which are on track to become future classics.
Ferrari Enzo / Maserati MC12
If any model exemplifies how a highly sought-after future classic can achieve the popularity and demand of a genuine classic in 20 years or less, it is the Ferrari Enzo, along with its counterpart, the Maserati MC12. The Enzo was designed to be the ultimate flagship of the Ferrari lineup, while the Maserati was developed to mark the brand's return to racing after a 37-year hiatus. Specifically for the FIA GT Championship, Maserati needed to produce 25 road-going variants; however, a rule change regarding maximum length necessitated the creation of an additional 25. In contrast, Ferrari produced 399 Enzos, with a final 400th car built and donated to The Vatican for charity.
Although both cars were built on the same chassis, the MC12 is longer, wider, and taller, yet it boasts a lower drag coefficient. In contrast, the Enzo accelerates faster and has a higher top speed. Both vehicles incorporate Formula 1 technology, featuring a full carbon fibre body and carbon ceramic brakes, along with elements like active aerodynamics. They also share a 6.0-litre V12 engine, producing 651 bhp in the Ferrari and 621 bhp in the Maserati.
n 2004, the starting price for the Ferrari Enzo was approximately £400,000, making it the most expensive Ferrari ever produced at that time, while the Maserati was priced at £412,000. According to the expert valuation website Hagerty, a well-maintained MC12 can start at around £1.5 million, with concours-quality models fetching £2 million or more. Despite being less rare, the Ferrari Enzo is significantly more sought after, with current estimates placing its value between £3 million and £4 million. This represents an impressive return for anyone who purchased either car when they were initially offered for sale.
Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren
The Mercedes-Benz SLR was created to symbolise and celebrate the brand's racing achievements. Developed in partnership with McLaren, thanks to Mercedes' 40 percent stake in the company at the time, the SLR pays tribute to the iconic 300 SLR from the 1950s and their ongoing collaboration in Formula 1. Mercedes handled the styling of the vehicle, while McLaren managed nearly all other aspects of the project.
The SLR was incredibly advanced for its time, employing sophisticated race-derived technologies such as carbon-ceramic brakes with a brake-by-wire system, active aerodynamics that included an airbrake, and a flat underbody with a rear diffuser. The hand-built supercharged 5.4-litre V8 engine generated nearly 620 bhp, enabling a 0-62 mph time of just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 207 mph. However, it is the distinctive sound of the car that leaves a lasting impression, as the under-car aerodynamic design positions the signature side-exit exhausts perfectly for maximum auditory impact.
Originally, Mercedes planned to produce 3,500 units of the SLR, but ultimately built just 2,157 cars. Despite this reduction in numbers, the SLR has remained one of the most coveted cars of its era. With an initial list price of just under £325,000, SLR values initially saw a significant decline. Performance rivals of the time, such as the Porsche Carrera GT and Ferrari Enzo, which were primarily aimed at grand touring, have experienced substantial increases in value in recent years, now worth £2 million to £3 million or more. While the McLaren-Mercedes SLR’s value has largely stayed around its original list price, its rarity and collectibility suggest that it is likely to appreciate significantly in the coming years.
Ford Mustang (Mk5)
The 5th generation of the Ford Mustang, launched in 2004, was part of the brand's effort to reintroduce ‘heritage’ editions, which also encompassed the GT and the Thunderbird. Similar to how the Ford GT drew inspiration from the GT40 racing car, the new Mustang featured elements reminiscent of the original 1960s design in its aesthetics and silhouette. Much like the new GT, this latest Mustang presented a modern interpretation of the classic model, equipped with the latest technology and engine advancements.
Similar to its predecessor, the new Mustang revived the American Muscle ideal, offering a 4.6-litre V8 engine with 300 bhp in the Mustang GT variant. This was soon complemented by one of the most iconic models, the 5.4-litre Shelby GT500, which boasted an impressive 500 bhp. All variants were available with twin ‘viper stripes,’ while the Shelby GT500 featured ‘GT500’ sill stripes to echo the original design.
The 5th generation Ford Mustang had a starting price of just under £30,000 for the base V6 model, with the V8 variant available for only £5,000 more. This made it a comparative bargain in the muscle car market, especially for a vehicle with such power and an exhilarating sound. The Shelby GT500, being more sought after, started at just under £45,000, representing great value for money. Low-mileage, well-maintained Shelby GT500s can now be found priced between £30,000 and £40,000. Given their limited availability in the UK, they have become a rare find nearly 20 years later and represent an excellent opportunity to acquire a future classic.
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
Ferrari's successor to the 456 was the larger 612 Scaglietti. Its increased dimensions transformed the car into a genuine four-seater, perfect for grand touring, and its design pays tribute to the 375 MM from the mid-1950s. The name honours the renowned coach builder Sergio Scaglietti and his company, which had been handcrafting Ferrari's bodywork since the late 1940s before their factory was eventually acquired by Ferrari.
As Ferrari's second all-aluminium vehicle following the 360 Modena, the 612 Scaglietti featured the same 5.7-litre V12 engine as the 575, with its advanced chassis serving as the foundation for the 599 GTB. Built with comfort and long-distance capability in mind, its powerful engine and lightweight design allowed it to accelerate to 62 mph in just 4 seconds, with a top speed of just under 200 mph. Over a production span of seven years, more than 3,000 units of the 612 were made before production ended in 2011.
In 2004, the starting price for the 612 Scaglietti was just over £182,000. As has historically been the case with four-seater Ferrari models, its value experienced a significant decline over the next decade. However, recent trends show a resurgence in interest and admiration for the 612, with prices beginning to rise closer to their original list price. Currently, examples on the market range from £60,000 to £100,000 for low-mileage cars, and those with proper history and maintenance documentation are likely to see their values increase even further in the coming years.
Ford GT
Speaking of models that have experienced significant value increases in recent years, let's discuss the Ford GT. Created as a gift to commemorate the company's centenary, the GT is a fresh interpretation of their most iconic racing vehicle, the Le Mans-winning GT40 from the 1960s. Beyond its visual resemblance to the legendary racing car, the GT is larger, wider, and, importantly, taller than its predecessor, making it more accessible, particularly for taller drivers.
Early previews of the concept cars generated immense demand for the new GT, resulting in over 4,000 units being produced within two years. Equipped with a 5.4-litre supercharged V8 engine that delivers 542 bhp, the GT could accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in a conservative 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 205 mph, making it one of the fastest cars in the world at that time.
Two decades ago, while considered "expensive for a Ford," the GT was priced just over £120,000. Today, despite relatively generous production numbers for a vehicle of its kind, demand for the GT remains strong, even with a new model recently pushing the boundaries of reinterpreting the original racing car. A well-maintained, low-mileage early 2000s Ford GT is now valued at over £300,000, with two examples currently listed on Car & Classic for around £400,000.
Noble M12 / M400
Noble initially seemed like any other small sports car manufacturer, filled with ambition and innovative ideas, but it ultimately faced challenges competing with established brands. However, anyone who has driven a Noble quickly recognised its charm and the exceptional driving experience it offers. Despite operating on a limited budget, the company succeeded in producing cars that could outperform many well-known brands both on the racetrack and on the road.
The M12 commanded attention from the start. Equipped with a dependable Ford-sourced V6 producing over 350bhp, a lightweight fibreglass body, a racing-inspired steel space-frame chassis, and genuine downforce, the Noble offered a groundbreaking handling experience. Its performance figures of 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds and 0-100 mph in 9.0 seconds remain impressive even two decades later. The more powerful M400, the ultimate iteration of the M12, boasted 400bhp per tonne and handling that allowed any skilled driver to feel like Lewis Hamilton.
Priced at just £50,000, and later £60,000 for the M400, its remarkable performance often placed it in direct competition with much pricier models like the Porsche 911 GT3, Ferrari 360, and Lamborghini Murcielago. Only 75 M400s were produced over three years, making it not just rare but also challenging to find for sale. As of now, there are three M12s and one M400 listed on Car & Classic, with the M400 priced at £55,000. It’s only a matter of time before these vehicles surpass their original sale prices.
Aston Martin DB9
The Aston Martin DB9 emerged as the much-needed modern successor to the aging DB7. After a decade of production under Ford's ownership, the DB7 relied heavily on Jaguar components, featuring Mazda taillights, Ford Scorpio switches, and Citroen wing mirrors, making it feel dated. In contrast, the all-new DB9 was developed from the ground up, incorporating a completely new chassis, innovative construction techniques, a revamped suspension setup, and updated bodywork materials.
The DB9 showcased significant advancements in modern styling, updated technology, and overall performance and handling compared to its predecessor. While designed as a grand tourer, its emphasis on weight distribution and minimising unnecessary mass allowed it to perform like a sports car when needed. The newly crafted interior provided a sense of occasion, elevating the refinement and luxury to a new level, even for an Aston Martin.
Now 20 years old, the DB9 has aged gracefully and appears much more contemporary than many of its counterparts from the same era. In 2004, it had a starting price of £140,000, not including a range of costly options, and it experienced significant depreciation in the years that followed. Recently, however, its value has begun to rise again, with well-maintained examples now selling for over £40,000, and some low-mileage variants priced above £50,000 or even £60,000. As many cars on this list have seen substantial value increases in recent years, now may be the ideal time to find a good DB9 before prices escalate further.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS (996)
Having already demonstrated Porsche’s motorsport expertise with the 996 GT3, the company chose to create a variant specifically designed as a road-legal racing car. This led to the introduction of the GT3 RS, which has since set the standard for road-legal racing vehicles. Available exclusively in white, the GT3 RS offered a choice of red or blue graphics and matching wheels, along with a prominent exposed carbon fibre fixed rear wing, making it easily recognisable from the rest of the 911 lineup.
The powerful 3.6-litre naturally aspirated engine, now generating 375bhp, combined with extensive lightweight features like carbon fibre body panels and a polycarbonate rear window, allowed the RS to deliver exceptional performance. Weighing 50kg less than the GT3 Clubsport, the RS also incorporated racing-derived bodywork, suspension components, and engine parts, emphasising its serious intent.
When new, the 996 generation GT3 RS was priced just over £84,000, but by 2010, its value had fallen to around £60,000. The once-criticised ‘fried egg’ headlights of the 996 are now gaining appeal among collectors, and the rarity of the original GT3 RS (fewer than 700 units produced) has led to a steady increase in prices. According to valuation expert Hagerty, a well-maintained model can be expected to cost around £140,000, supported by two examples currently listed on Car & Classic for £150,000 and £170,000. It seems clear that the value of these 911s is only going to continue rising.
BMW M3 CSL (E46)
Similar to the GT3 RS, the CSL harnessed the expertise and engineering prowess of BMW’s motorsport division to develop the ultimate iteration of the iconic M3. The journey began with enhancing the smooth naturally aspirated 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, boosting its power output to 355 bhp. While some special editions only marginally reduce weight, BMW’s engineers went further by eliminating an impressive 110 kg from the car’s overall mass. This weight reduction included the introduction of the first carbon fiber roof on an 'M car,' a lightweight exhaust system, and thinner window glass, all contributing to the vehicle's performance. Additionally, options such as removing the air conditioning and radio were available to further decrease weight.
All 1,383 units produced were either Sapphire Black or Silver Grey, featuring a wider track and semi-slick tires that required buyers to sign a disclaimer acknowledging their reduced performance in wet conditions. Those who held a racing license could also opt to raise the 155 mph speed limiter to 174 mph.
Two decades ago, a new BMW M3 CSL was priced at £58,455, representing an almost 50% premium over the standard M3 at the time. Many considered this steep for an additional 17 bhp, despite the car being able to lap the Nürburgring a remarkable 30 seconds faster. As a result, BMW UK reduced the production run from 500 to just 422 units, making the CSL even rarer today. Currently, prices for this ‘ultimate M3’ exceed £100,000 (according to Hagerty valuations) for models in good condition, and they have been steadily increasing. However, finding a seller willing to part with theirs is quite another challenge.
TVR Sagaris
British car manufacturer TVR was known for its unconventional approach. Even with the Sagaris, their last model before filing for bankruptcy, they disregarded EU regulations mandating ABS and airbags. They argued that ABS encouraged overconfidence while driving and that airbags could endanger lives during a rollover. These bold claims about standard safety features demonstrated the company's strong commitment to prioritising the driving experience in their vehicles.
With the Sagaris, TVR truly saved the best for last. Its striking aerodynamic design, prominent rear spoiler, side-exiting exhausts, and an impressive power output of over 400 bhp in a vehicle weighing just over 1,000 kg made it more extreme than many of its predecessors. Additionally, the Chief Engineer’s frustration with the brand’s quality reputation led to the Sagaris being engineered to a standard that exceeded all previous models.
While it was the most well-built, comfortable, and user-friendly model when needed, the Sagaris could still unleash its power and challenge your driving skills with a simple push of the accelerator. Priced at £50,000 when new, it had the ability to outperform much more expensive cars, making it a daring purchase given the brand’s history of reliability and build quality issues. With only 211 units produced before the company ceased operations, the rarity and appeal of the model have resulted in significant value increases in recent years, with two models currently on the market priced around £70,000.