Everyone Starts with a 911 — But Here Are 5 Cars That Won’t Depreciate
Harry EdworthyShare
Everyone Starts with a 911 — But Here Are 5 Cars That Won’t Depreciate
When it comes to performance cars, the Porsche 911 is often the default choice. It’s iconic, usable, and instantly recognisable. But while the 911 remains a great sports car, it’s no longer the safe haven for your money it once was. Prices on many variants have plateaued — and in some cases, fallen — as production numbers rise and supply catches up with demand.
If you’re looking for something that offers the same driving thrill without the depreciation, there are smarter choices out there. Below, we’ve highlighted five standout investment-grade cars — machines that combine performance, rarity, and collectability in one package.
1. Audi R8 V10 Manual
The Audi R8 is now officially discontinued — and that makes the first-generation V10 manual the one to have.
It’s the perfect balance of exotic performance and everyday usability. With its naturally aspirated Lamborghini-derived engine, six-speed gated manual, and timeless design, it’s a future classic that enthusiasts are already chasing.
Find one in silver, the colour that defined the launch cars, and you’ll have a piece of modern motoring history. Manual examples are already appreciating, and their values are expected to climb further as supply tightens.
2. BMW M5 CS
The BMW M5 CS is the ultimate expression of the modern M5 — and quite possibly the last of its kind.
It’s lighter, sharper, and more focused than any M5 before or since. Finished in matte green with gold wheels and carbon bucket seats both front and rear, it’s a collector’s dream.
Only 1,000 units were ever made, and it’s the only M5 that’s held its value from new — a rare feat for a performance saloon. For investors, it represents the end of an era for naturally aspirated M cars that blend power and practicality.
3. Ferrari F430 Manual
The Ferrari F430 Manual marks the end of an era — the last manual, mid-engined V8 Ferrari.
Most buyers opted for the F1 automated gearbox when new, leaving only a handful of true manual examples worldwide. That scarcity has turned them into serious collector cars.
The F430’s value lies not just in its rarity, but in its driving feel. It’s pure, mechanical, and deeply engaging — traits that modern Ferraris have largely left behind. As appreciation for analog cars grows, the manual F430 is fast becoming one of the smartest investments in the modern Ferrari lineup.
4. Aston Martin V12 Vantage Manual
Before Mercedes engines found their way into Aston’s lineup, there was the V12 Vantage Manual — arguably the last “true” Aston Martin.
It’s powered by a 6.0-litre naturally aspirated V12, sends power to the rear wheels, and comes only with a manual gearbox. The combination is intoxicating.
It delivers the perfect blend of sound, style, and driver involvement — all wrapped in one of the best designs Aston ever produced. And at under £100,000, it’s still undervalued. Cars like this don’t come around often anymore.
5. Ferrari F12
The Ferrari F12 is one of the most beautiful and capable front-engined Ferraris ever built — and the last designed by Pininfarina.
With a 6.3-litre V12 producing over 730 horsepower, it’s a masterpiece of engineering and proportion. But beyond its performance, it’s significant for what it represents: the final evolution of Ferrari’s naturally aspirated GTs.
Prices are already creeping up, and experts predict the F12 could soon overtake the 812 Superfast in value as collectors seek out the Pininfarina legacy.
It’s elegant, ferocious, and a genuine long-term investment.
Why These Cars Make Smart Investments
Unlike mass-produced models, each of these cars combines low production numbers, driver engagement, and brand heritage — three essential traits of a strong investment vehicle.
Whereas many modern cars are built in high volumes and rely heavily on technology, these examples represent the final generation of pure, mechanical performance cars. And as time passes, that purity becomes more desirable — and more valuable.
Investing in cars isn’t about guessing; it’s about recognising the right cars at the right time.
Don’t Buy the Wrong Car — Buy the Right Investment
Choosing the right car is about more than passion — it’s about preserving and growing your capital.
At Autofolio, we specialise in identifying cars with appreciation potential and helping collectors and investors make informed decisions before the market moves.
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