Investment Type of Car

[superdog]

I know what many of you will say, cars and watches are not investments.

I agree with watches, respectfully disagree on cars. And no, I would never buy a new car today figuring that it is an investment.

However, there are certainly cars out there that will likely retain their value and potentially appreciate.

No, it will not be a garage queen. But no, it won't see the track either. This car will likely just be for fun Sunday drives and different events.

And for the sake of clarity, I am not expecting or even hoping to make money. I am not doing this in the traditional sense of having an investment. I am doing this for something to enjoy with the hopes that it can also retain much of its value. I do realize I will lose money for every mile, and other costs such as insurance and gas will likely mean I am losing money in the long run. Thats okay. I realize all of this..

I just like cars and this will be more fun that having it sit in a bank.

Okay, now that this is out of the way....

I was looking at the Ford GT. But that is really a tough car in a lot of ways. It would likely be painful to drive because of how much I would lose with each mile. And considering how expensive it is, I just don't see it ever going up at all. I simply think it is too high and has no room.

I am really looking at a Ferrari. F430 Scuderia. Beautiful car. Relatively rare, and not terribly priced. Also had great reviews is apparently pretty reliable.

Curious what other suggestions some of you car guys might have. Mostly a sports car guy, but I am open to different options. I realize no one has a crystal ball. So just checking out your thoughts and having a discussion.

Thanks in advance.

[Token74]

I personally think of both cars and watches as investments if bought correctly. But, that’s because I don’t see investments as being purely about financial gains. Investments for me are about rewards, which includes pleasure as well as cash. If you can invest some cash in something that will not depreciate and at the same time you can get pleasure, that is a hell of an investment in my book!

There are some sure fire winners out there I reckon. The problem is, if you spend over £100k then there is a chance that it’s already peaked.

I think it is hard to beat the following for pleasure, reasonable running costs, and value retention...

Aston Martin DB7. A car that is getting more beautiful as it ages, whereas the DV9 is becoming more ‘meh’. And, it was the first pretty Aston in a very long time.

Porsche 996 Turbo. The ugly duckling of 911’s, but in the right spec, again a car that is getting better with age. I had one and used it as a daily, it was bulletproof. Still cheap because the purists still hate that it was the move to water-cooled, but eventually it was be seen positively for this reason. And a brilliant car to drive.

Ferrari 348 GT Competizione. People don’t like the 348, but the GTC is a different machine and not yet fully appreciated.

Lamborghini Gallardo Superlegera. As with the first two, gets better with age, relatively cheap to run, reliable, and the right spec is a great car. Not as good investment wise as the other three, but a real beauty.

If I was buying a weekender, it would be one of these four.


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[Chewbacca]

Seth, Certain cars and watches are definitely investments.

The problem is people thinking one of millions is a future investment.

If it’s rare, one of very few, has multiple uses and or the maker is dead or out of business, sure. It could be an investment.

As for the most recent Ford GT and F430. I’d say there’s much better however.

[77T]

If a car is purchased as an investment, by the same token I believe a watch could be seen as one, too. It is the intent of the prospective owner that makes it a good vs bad investment.

For your choice of a GT-40, I suggest finding the nearest authorized service center. These fine machines require certified expertise well beyond the scope of the average Ford dealer.

The 430 just isn’t in the same category of investible sports cars.

The return on your investment seems assured - the smiles per miles are the intrinsic value you’ll never forget.

And the way you take care of it will allow the extrinsic value to outpace typical exotic cars due to strong demand for well preserved pre-owned ones.

Much luck in your quest Seth.


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[Ballzzz]

1. 458 speciale
2. 6mt 430
3. F40/f50
4. Jag E Type
5. M1
6. E46 CSL(imported)

There are a nice bunch of “investment grade” vehicles that fit that criteria, that’s my short list in various price points.

[V25V]

430 scud is an awesome car. But certainly not going to hold its value tremendously well. All of these types are tech revolutions and short of an F40, Enzo, etc the next one comes out and its predecessor tanks. So unless you want to drop 1MM+, just buy the car you want and enjoy it.

[Jackie Daytona]

Call me crazy, but the late 80s early 90s Ferrari Testarossa I feel is a good investment over the longer term. Granted the prices are starting to appreciate already, but I still see deals on them browsing through random automotive magazines.

They really marked the height of the wide body pop up headlamp 80s flair for Ferrari and with the mid engine V-12. As well as the cars from the 80s will begin to appreciate as classics I really believe in 10-20 years or so the prices of a good example of one of these would probably yield a decent return in investment.

They are not immensely popular yet, but down the road a bit considering how big of a deal they were when they were new, I feel there will be a future appreciation of them.

[ruffa]

Subscribed. My interest has shifted more into cars than watches lately.

I myself like to own a car or two that will retain value with hopes of appreciating in value. I am planning to post my new purchase in the open discussion section.

With that said, I’ve been looking at the car market and noticed a car that stood out to me clearly. Increased in price and demand over the last 6 months as if it’s a hot cake. The Alfa Romeo 4C. Hard to appreciate over the internet but if you see and test ride one in person, you’d be sold then and there. It’s light, it has a carbon fiber monocoque/tub, it’s QUICK, it’s a mini Ferrari, it get more attention than you’d ever expect (I get at least 5 compliments every time I take it out for a short drive), it’s raw and aggressive, you’ll sweat driving the car because if you let go of the wheel, the manual steering will try to kill you, it’s loud, and it’s sexy. I believe there has been roughly 2,000 4C’s sold in America which makes it slightly limited. I own the Launch Edition, make only in 2015 and there’s 500 of them with each being individually numbered. Many car enthusiasts with Ferrari’s and Lambs own a 4C because it’s a true mini exotic, it feels like one. The last 3 Alfa 4C’s have been going insane amounts in Bring A trailer lately. People are starting to realize that this car is a future classic and will soon be very hard to get for a reasonable price. I’ve been monitoring them lately and Cargurus sold more than 1/2 of their 4Cs within 2 months. New listings are rarely coming up so that must be saying something.

Anyways, Post pictures when you get one! Here’s mine...

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[brandrea]

I know nothing about cars Seth ... I wish I could help.

I’ll offer up one idea though ... what about a classic car, like an all original corvette from the 50”s or 60’s ...

Maybe these aren’t your thing. I can see the parallels between these and vintage watches.

[Chewbacca]

I love these Seth threads. It’ll go 10 pages, almost get locked with guys talking cars like the purse and cologne threads and then he’ll buy a 911.


I’m getting popcorn and keeping this open on my other screen today.

[MrGoat]

Lamborghini Murceilago LP640 with a manual instead of paddle shifting. It’s an iconic car and only going up in value.


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[Ballzzz]

Originally Posted by ruffa

Subscribed. My interest has shifted more into cars than watches lately.

I myself like to own a car or two that will retain value with hopes of appreciating in value. I am planning to post my new purchase in the open discussion section.

With that said, I’ve been looking at the car market and noticed a car that stood out to me clearly. Increased in price and demand over the last 6 months as if it’s a hot cake. The Alfa Romeo 4C. Hard to appreciate over the internet but if you see and test ride one in person, you’d be sold then and there. It’s light, it has a carbon fiber monocoque/tub, it’s QUICK, it’s a mini Ferrari, it get more attention than you’d ever expect (I get at least 5 compliments every time I take it out for a short drive), it’s raw and aggressive, you’ll sweat driving the car because if you let go of the wheel, the manual steering will try to kill you, it’s loud, and it’s sexy. I believe there has been roughly 2,000 4C’s sold in America which makes it slightly limited. I own the Launch Edition, make only in 2015 and there’s 500 of them with each being individually numbered. Many car enthusiasts with Ferrari’s and Lambs own a 4C because it’s a true mini exotic, it feels like one. The last 3 Alfa 4C’s have been going insane amounts in Bring A trailer lately. People are starting to realize that this car is a future classic and will soon be very hard to get for a reasonable price. I’ve been monitoring them lately and Cargurus sold more than 1/2 of their 4Cs within 2 months. New listings are rarely coming up so that must be saying something.

Anyways, Post pictures when you get one! Here’s mine...

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Great Car enjoy it! I would have looked at it harder if it came with 3 pedals, still sexy though.

[CamSLC]

The maintenance of an "older" ferrari worries me. I would stick to what I know and get a 911. 996 GT2/3 is a value play, but they're my least favorite design.

[enjoythemusic]

Look for barn finds and have a great restoration specialist.

[ruffa]

Originally Posted by Ballzzz

Great Car enjoy it! I would have looked at it harder if it came with 3 pedals, still sexy though.

My advice, go test one. Many 4C owners say the manual would actually be a bad idea in this car. I didn’t believe them until I drove one. You’re already too involved with the steering alone. The car just wants to buck and kick. You truly don’t miss the 3rd pedal in this car and many owners agree.

[rolexest]

I think there will always be a desire for the Ferrari 360CS, more so than the 430scud that you are considering. IMO that is the best sounding street car to ever be produced.

[superdog]

appreciate all the comments guys. a lot of food for thought.

agree that the 430 is not in the same league as the GT, but that is what is somewhat appealing to me. The GT is on another level.

but agree with the sentiment.

I am all over and even thinking about an early Mustang or Vette as mentioned above. I am likely going to make a few moves over the next few weeks.

A big part of me says screw it, and should just get the AS Supperleggera that I want. But that will absolutely tank in value. My wife also wants something to go to these events with me....smh.....

So we will see.

Definitely thinking about something that I can baby as an "investment". That is pretty much my focus right now. So we will see what the comings weeks bring.

I was up at Miller Motor Cars this weekend. What a place....wow.

[Jackie Daytona]

Originally Posted by ruffa

Subscribed. My interest has shifted more into cars than watches lately.

I myself like to own a car or two that will retain value with hopes of appreciating in value. I am planning to post my new purchase in the open discussion section.

With that said, I’ve been looking at the car market and noticed a car that stood out to me clearly. Increased in price and demand over the last 6 months as if it’s a hot cake. The Alfa Romeo 4C. Hard to appreciate over the internet but if you see and test ride one in person, you’d be sold then and there. It’s light, it has a carbon fiber monocoque/tub, it’s QUICK, it’s a mini Ferrari, it get more attention than you’d ever expect (I get at least 5 compliments every time I take it out for a short drive), it’s raw and aggressive, you’ll sweat driving the car because if you let go of the wheel, the manual steering will try to kill you, it’s loud, and it’s sexy. I believe there has been roughly 2,000 4C’s sold in America which makes it slightly limited. I own the Launch Edition, make only in 2015 and there’s 500 of them with each being individually numbered. Many car enthusiasts with Ferrari’s and Lambs own a 4C because it’s a true mini exotic, it feels like one. The last 3 Alfa 4C’s have been going insane amounts in Bring A trailer lately. People are starting to realize that this car is a future classic and will soon be very hard to get for a reasonable price. I’ve been monitoring them lately and Cargurus sold more than 1/2 of their 4Cs within 2 months. New listings are rarely coming up so that must be saying something.

Anyways, Post pictures when you get one! Here’s mine...

Attachment 1158063
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Those 4cs are awesome. Congrats on the purchase. I would love one of those in the future. I just got rid of my sports car since neither my wife nor kids can really enjoy it. However I just replaced it with something that was (probably still is) a terrible investment. Thank you $130k or depreciation in 5 years, or I wouldn’t have gotten it. Lol.

[m j b]

A friend had a 4C for the weekend and absolutely raved about it, but then added that he'd never own one because it was such an uncomfortable and brutal experience.

If you like vintage or near vintage, then an air-cooled 911 or E46 M3 BMW or even an E92 M3 (the last naturally aspirated V8) might be something that you could enjoy and not loose a bunch of money on.

Anything like a Ferrari or other exotic will likely cost you more in maintenance and repairs than in appreciation.

[m j b]

Hit enter to soon.

I'm of the mind that cars are meant to be driven. They are not objects to be stored and used as investments. If it goes up in value, more the better, but aside perhaps from an electric car, letting a ICE vehicle sit around just causes issues, and especially with the older ones, it just won't drive right.

Buy what you want, to enjoy, drive it, use it, and don't worry about appreciation but rather just try to minimize the depreciation by not paying too much for it and when you sell it, sell it well.

[jltait]

1997 Toyota Camry. Only 32 ever made.

[Knappo 1307]

Weekend car for you and your wife, 1965 Shelby Cobra.

[gnuyork]

Originally Posted by Ballzzz

Great Car enjoy it! I would have looked at it harder if it came with 3 pedals, still sexy though.

Same, but I have a Lotus (aftermarket SC and other mods), the other affordable mini exotic. Happy with my decision

Originally Posted by ruffa

My advice, go test one. Many 4C owners say the manual would actually be a bad idea in this car. I didn’t believe them until I drove one. You’re already too involved with the steering alone. The car just wants to buck and kick. You truly don’t miss the 3rd pedal in this car and many owners agree.

I definitely would. A friend of mine said he drove one and if it didn't have the same transmission as a Dodge Dart he would have purchased.

[ArtNouveau]

You don’t mention your budget but amongst “modern” cars the most sure bet for investment is and has been the McLaren F1. Only 106 total were built including all variations, the actual road car only 64, and there’s only 100 left in the world.
They were crazy expensive new in the 90’s at around $1M but the going price now seems to be $18-20M plus. The guys who bought them years ago like Jay Leno and Ralph Lauren(who owns three) have made a fortune sitting on them.
They are very driveable although sadly most of them aren’t. Mileage and past damage to them doesn’t affect value as McLaren still supports them and can fix anything that happens. One of the two Houston owners drives his regularly, it was the first of three that I have seen. Buy one Seth and I’ll be glad to come detail it for you!

[Chewbacca]

Originally Posted by jltait

1997 Toyota Camry. Only 32 ever made.

Love it.

[Duey]

A nice older Toyota 4x4

[bondtoys]

If I where you, I‘d look for a very good condition SLS.

Gullwings will always retain value!

[GoingPlaces]

AMG GT Black Series. Values will climb.

[GoingPlaces]

Originally Posted by bondtoys

If I where you, I‘d look for a very good condition SLS.

Gullwings will always retain value!

Or SLS GT or Black Series. Values are exploding.

[superdog]

Originally Posted by bondtoys

If I where you, I‘d look for a very good condition SLS.

Gullwings will always retain value!

Agree with this. I have been looking. These are relatively realistic all things considered. The Black Series is nuts. Mostly all over 400k.

For a little bit of color to the conversation, it is not just a "buy and drive what you like". I already have that in the collection.

2020 Huracan Evo
2019 911 Targa GTS (manual)
2016 Cayman GT4 (also manual, but only drive it on the track).

Daily a Raptor.

I want this to be a little different.


Agree on the SLS. That really might tick all the boxes of what I am looking for.

Going to see what I can find in person and drive. Still thinking about other options. Open to all ideas.