It’s always worth protecting your vehicle’s value, but even more so if you’ve purchased it as an investment or you wish to trade it in for a new car somewhere down the line.
There are certain models that auto experts believe will go up in value, rather than depreciate.
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1. Toyota MR2
Described as one of Toyota’s most entertaining vehicles, the MR2 was manufactured from 1984 to 2007.
Three generations of this fun sports car were made: the Mk1, built from 1984 until 1989, had a more boxy wedge shape and pop-up headlights. One of the more iconic models, it is considered a classic today.
If you’re a collector, it’s advisable to choose the original UK-specifications model and look out for accident damage or rust, as these can cause the value to decrease.
You can usually pick up a Mk1 MR2 in reasonably good condition for around £3,500. Buying one with low mileage might cost you around £6,000, but it should be worth it in terms of holding onto its value.
2. Daimler V8 250
The iconic Daimler V8 250 was made between 1962 and 1969, after Jaguar purchased Daimler in 1960. It pretty much looks like the Jaguar Mk 2 saloon, although is not quite as popular.
Despite this, it’s a much-loved car that’s a real head-turner. It boasts a 2.5-litre V8 engine that first appeared in the Daimler SP250 sports car.
It’s also quite a bargain when compared to other vehicles in its class. You can normally pick one up for around £10,000, which is £2,000 cheaper than the Jaguar Mk 2 saloon.
Expect to pay around £20,000 for a truly immaculate example, and even more if you want a show standard Daimler.
3. Mini 1499GT
Launched in 2018, the Mini 1499GT is set to be one of the most collectible cars of the future. It was inspired by the first Mini dating from 1969. Only 1,499 limited edition Mini 1499GT models were built, so it is highly sought after.
When launched, it came in Midnight Black or Pepper White.
It boasts a John Cooper Works Sport Pack, distinctive side stripes and decals, sports seats that were part leather trimmed, an anthracite roof lining and contrasting red stitching on the steering wheel.
Priced at £15,900 new, it was sold to motorists who wanted a touch of nostalgia. There are some low-mileage models available for around £12,000 today.
As it’s a rare model, it’s worth looking after this affordable Mini, as its price looks set to rise in the future.
4. Honda S2000
Launched in 1999 to mark Honda’s 50th anniversary, the iconic S2000 was in production until 2009. More than 110,000 cars were sold in this period.
It is still a great drive and has become very collectible in a relatively short time. You can buy one for around £7,000, which is cheap for this type of sporty vehicle.
Those with low mileage are quite hard to pick up. One of the rare GT Edition 100 models sold for almost £25,000 recently and the value is expected to increase as they become scarcer.
5. Rover SD1
A true blast from the past, the Rover SD1 won the title European Car of the Year in 1977. Collectors have dubbed it the “last true Rover”.
In production from 1976 to 1986, it featured a front end that resembled a Ferrari Daytona – hence its collectability today. Its five-door hatchback design was pretty radical in the 1970s!
Around 303,300 SD1 cars rolled off the production line. Unfortunately, it eventually went out of production amid claims it had build quality and reliability issues. Despite this, some models have survived and are rated as classics.
The later Vitesses and V8 Vanden Plas models are the most sought after today. Expect to pay a minimum of £6,000 for the SD1. Experts say this is a good time to buy.
Car repair and maintenance
Look after your car now and it will look after you financially in the future.
Ordinary wear and tear and extra mileage on the odometer can cause it to lose value. Interior wear and tear and dings caused by even a minor accident can also cause the price to come down.
The average depreciation rate of a new car is 49% after five years, although pre-owned cars lose value more slowly – and those that have achieved classic status are more likely to increase in value.
After the initial loss over the first five years, depreciation slows down.
Market value of car
By pampering your car, you can stem the loss of value, to a certain extent. This means more money in your pocket when selling or pawning your car.
Even the way you drive can impact its value, such as if you drive over potholes and speed bumps too fast, impacting the suspension.
If you’re not great at parking and scrape your car, even minor damage can reduce its value.
Keep up to speed even with the small jobs, as if you let them accumulate, you may suddenly find it’s become a big job to get your car in pristine condition again.
