Investment Cars That Are The Last of an Era

Investment Cars That Are The Last of an Era

Harry Edworthy

Investment Cars That Are The Last of an Era

In the fast-changing world of performance cars, some models mark the end of an era—the last of their kind before new technology, regulations, or changing trends take over. These final editions often become highly sought-after by collectors and investors alike. Here are seven cars that represent the end of an iconic chapter in automotive history and could be future blue-chip investments.

1. Porsche 718 Spyder RS – Last Boxster with a GT3 Engine

Why It’s Special: The Porsche 718 Spyder RS is the ultimate evolution of the mid-engine Boxster platform, featuring the 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six from the 911 GT3. With 500bhp and a sky-high 9,000rpm redline, it delivers an unmatched open-top driving experience.

Investment Potential: With Porsche moving towards electrification, this could be the last time we see a high-revving GT3 engine in a Boxster chassis. Relatively low production numbers and its connection to Porsche’s motorsport and Cup car DNA make it a solid long-term investment.

2. Lexus LFA – Last Lexus with a N/A V10

Why It’s Special: The Lexus LFA remains one of the most unique supercars ever made, thanks to its screaming 4.8L naturally aspirated V10 and carbon fibre construction. Built in limited numbers 436 “regular” models and 64 Nurburgring Package variants, it was Lexus’s first and last true supercar.

Investment Potential: With only 500 units produced, the LFA has already seen significant appreciation. Its Formula 1-inspired engine and Yamaha-tuned exhaust note make it one of the most special-sounding cars ever built, securing its place as a collector’s dream.

3. Aston Martin Vantage GT12 – Last Vantage with a N/A V12

Why It’s Special: The GT12 is the most extreme version of the Vantage, featuring a 600bhp naturally aspirated 6.0L V12, aggressive aerodynamics, and extensive weight-saving measures.

Investment Potential: Limited to just 100 units (rarer than a Valkyrie!), the GT12 represents the end of an era for high-revving, naturally aspirated Aston Martins. As turbocharged and hybrid powertrains have taken over, its exclusivity and raw driving experience ensure strong future value growth.

4. Porsche 918 Spyder – Last Porsche Hypercar (For Now)

Why It’s Special: The 918 Spyder was Porsche’s first plug-in hybrid hypercar, delivering 875bhp from a V8 hybrid setup. It was part of the legendary Holy Trinity alongside the McLaren P1 and Ferrari LaFerrari.

Investment Potential: As Porsche shifts further towards electrification, the 918 Spyder is likely the last of its mid-engine, hypercar lineage for a while. Limited production and groundbreaking hybrid technology, with a brutal V8, make it a future classic.

5. Mercedes-McLaren SLR – Last Mercedes Built with McLaren

Why It’s Special: The SLR was the result of a rare collaboration between Mercedes and McLaren, featuring a 617bhp supercharged V8, carbon-fibre body, and a long-nose Grand Tourer design inspired by the legendary 300SL and designed by Gordon Murray,

Investment Potential: With McLaren and Mercedes parting ways after this car, the SLR is the last of its kind. Its blend of F1 technology, exclusivity, and supercharged V8 thunder make it a compelling long-term investment.

6. Audi RS2 – Last Audi Built with Porsche

Why It’s Special: The RS2 Avant was Audi’s first RS car, developed in collaboration with Porsche. Featuring a 2.2L turbocharged five-cylinder and Quattro all-wheel drive, it was the original high-performance estate car.

Investment Potential: As Audi moves towards electrification and SUVs dominate the market, fast estates like the RS2 are becoming even more desirable. With its Porsche-engineered performance and limited production, values have been steadily rising.

7. Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta – Last Ferrari with a N/A V8

Why It’s Special(e): The 458 Speciale Aperta is Ferrari’s final naturally aspirated V8, producing 598 bhp from a high-revving 4.5L engine. Limited to just 499 units, it’s the last of Ferrari’s iconic non-turbo V8s.

Investment Potential: As Ferrari transitions to smaller hybrid and turbocharged engines, this car is a future blue-chip classic. Prices have already more than doubled since launch, and with demand continuing to rise, it remains one of the most investable modern Ferraris.

The last dance

These seven cars mark the end of an era—the last of their kind before automotive evolution changed their DNA forever. Whether it’s the last naturally aspirated Ferrari V8, the last Lexus V10, or the final Cup car powered Boxster, these cars have genuine collector appeal. As car manufacturers move towards electrification and downsizing, these final editions will only become more sought-after.

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