Investing in a car that's soon to be — or one day will become — a classic is a wise investment. There’s only one problem — there are no guarantees a car will be a classic or worth as much as predicted. In many ways, it's a venture comparable to playing the lottery or trading stocks. No one expected the DeLorean to find a resurgence — all it took was a homage in Back to the Future to drum up interest.

While it is not certain how a car's future value will unfold, certain vehicles have greater potential to become future classics compared to others due to appreciation. Bearing this in mind, we have compiled a list of undervalued vehicles worthy of one's consideration. The following list has everything from sports cars to pickup trucks, with data sourced by Hagerty.

UPDATE: 2023/12/01 09:15 EST BY MONDAY GOMA

We updated the content of this list using data and insights sourced from Hagerty's Bull Market lists published for 2022 and 2023. The amount of appreciation is reflected in each entry (along with the time period that applies). Models are sorted in order from least to most appreciation values.

14 1966–1967 Pontiac GTO: 0% Change

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $66,500 - $79,700
• Original MSRP: $3,700
• Value Changes: The value of the Pontiac GTO remained the same, without any change, at 0 percent between 2020 and 2021

The 1966–67 GTO Is An Iconic '60s Muscle Car With Attractive Design

The GTO is one of the most recognizable car names in the world, partly because of its unique combination of strong performance and stylish design. The second generation model produced in 1966 and 1967 features a powerful V8 engine, offering up to 360 horsepower, as well as distinctive exterior styling cues such as hood scoops, dual exhaust, and a sleek silhouette that set it apart from other cars of its time.

Hagerty notes that the 1966-67 GTO design has garnered widespread admiration. This appealing characteristic and its affordable pricing position the car as a promising investment for future appreciation.

13 1992–1995 Porsche 968: 8% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $62,000 - $89,000
• Original MSRP: $39,850
• Value Changes: The value of the Porsche 968 appreciated by 8 percent between 2020 and 2021

The 1992–95 968 Is The Fastest Appreciating Porsche Coupe

According to Hagerty, the 1992–95 968 is currently experiencing the highest appreciation rate among Porsche coupes. 968 coupes in excellent condition have seen their value soar by 139% since 2016, and the classic and collectible vehicle insurer believes there is still potential for further value growth.

Hagerty credits the 968's appeal to several factors, including its pleasing aesthetics, finely tuned and balanced handling, practicality, and good fuel economy on highways.

12 1992–2006 AM General Hummer H1: 9.9% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $142,000 - $169,000
• Original MSRP: $102,581
• Value Changes: The value of the AM General Hummer H1 has appreciated by 9.9 percent since 2019.

The 1992–06 Hummer H1 Is A Limited Production Vehicle With Military-Grade Materials And Construction

The 1992-2006 Hummer H1 is celebrated for its durability and impressive off-road capabilities. Originally developed for military purposes, it features robust engineering and advanced technologies that enable it to navigate challenging terrains effortlessly. The vehicle benefits from a high ground clearance, favorable approach and departure angles, and advanced four-wheel drive systems that enhance its off-road prowess.

In terms of value, the Hummer H1 has seen a noteworthy 9.9 percent increase since 2019, according to Hagerty. Hagerty also notes that Gen Xers, known for their affinity for collectible SUVs, own more than half of the H1s protected by the company. This indicates an increased appreciation for the H1 among this particular demographic and suggests a potentially accelerated rise in value for these rugged SUVs.

11 2001–2004 Chevrolet Corvette Z06: 24% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $40,500 - $55,200
• Original MSRP: $51,155
• Value Changes: The value of used Chevrolet Corvette Z06 in contours condition has increased 24 percent since 2022.

The 2001–04 Corvette Z06 Was Produced In Limited Quantities

The C5 Z06 is arguably the best 400-hp used sports car you can buy, it's therefore good to know that its value has the potential to increase significantly. Hagerty has observed several early indicators that suggest a growing demand for the C5 Z06. According to their data, the number of lookups on Hagerty Valuation Tools for the C5 Z06 has tripled since 2021.

The insurer also highlights that insurance quotes for the C5 Z06 are evenly distributed among baby boomers, Generation X, and millennials, indicating a balanced demand across different age groups. In addition, new buyers are willing to pay a premium for the best examples, as the value of Z06s in contours condition has risen by 24 percent since 2022.

10 1983–1997 Land Rover Defender: 26% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $64,700 - $85,300
• Original MSRP: $27,405
• Value Changes: Value of the Land Rover Defender appreciated by 26 percent between 2020 and 2021

The Defender Is Rare and Continues To Captivate With Enduring Charm

The 1983–1997 Land Rover Defender is an exotic vehicle that remains both scarce and highly sought after in the United States despite the production of around 2 million units. Per Hagerty, collectors can take advantage of this situation as it provides them with an opportunity to make a profit, especially if they explore cheaper alternatives in the vehicle's home country, the UK.

The insurer reports that non-North American specification Defenders have seen a value increase of 47% since 2016. Given their enduring appeal, the plentiful availability of parts and club support, it comes as no surprise that Defenders are considered one of the currently undervalued cars to buy now before their value potentially skyrockets.

9 1979–1985 Mazda RX-7: 26% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $28,400 - $44,500
• Original MSRP: $9,875
• Value Changes: The value of the Mazda RX-7 appreciated by 26 percent between 2020 and 2021

The RX-7 Offers A Unique Blend Of Rotary Engine And A Balanced 50:50 Weight Distribution

The first-generation RX-7 is yet another sports car that appears to be gaining interest from collectors in recent years. As per Hagerty's findings, the values of RX-7s in excellent condition have witnessed an impressive 136% increase since 2016, with a notable interest driven by millennials and Gen Xers. The insurance provider further predicts that RX-7s' values will likely continue rising in the future.

Hagerty attributes the appeal of the RX-7 to various features, including a 100-horsepower carbureted 1146-cc twin-rotor rotary engine that can rev up to 7000 rpm, and a balanced 50/50 weight distribution that imbues it with exceptional handling capabilities without compromises. In addition, the insurer says the engine's simplicity allows for straightforward maintenance and, when properly looked after, can provide reliable performance.

8 1983 Mazda RX-7 GS: 26% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $28,400 - $44,500
• Original MSRP: $10,600
• Value Changes: The value of the Mazda RX-7 GS appreciated by 26 percent between 2020 and 2021

The 1983 RX-7 GS Offers Entry Into An Eighties-Era Classic Sports Car

Like other members of the RX-7 lineup, the 1983 RX-7 GS has gained popularity among collectors and should see a rise in value over the coming years, says Hagerty.

A 26 percent rise in value between 2020 and 2021 suggests the GS is fast becoming an extremely hot property, with mostly millennials and Gen Xers showing keen interest in acquiring it.

7 1968–1970 AMC AMX: 28.8% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $33,300 - $48,400
• Original MSRP: $3,395
• Value Changes: The value of the AMC AMX has appreciated by 28.8 percent since 2019.

The AMX Is The Only Two-Seat American Muscle Car

The AMX is a great muscle car for collectors in 2023 and beyond. According to Hagerty, the AMX has witnessed a significant appreciation of 28.8 percent since 2019. In addition, there has been a considerable increase in interest from next-generation enthusiasts, with their share rising from 13 percent to 38 percent since 2019, indicating a strong likelihood of further appreciation.

Hagerty notes that the AMX's special design, limited production volume of only 19,134 units, and impressive performance make it a relative bargain for collectors.

6 1985–1993 Saab 900 Turbo: 33% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $23,800 - $29,800
• Original MSRP: $18,150
• Value Changes: The value of the Saab 900 Turbo has appreciated by 33 percent since 2019.

The 900 Was The First Car To Feature A Cabin Air Filter

The Saab 900 Turbo has a rich history, and if you manage to acquire one, you will possess not only a vehicle with historical significance but also one that has seen a value increase of 33 percent since 2019. The car's popularity among younger enthusiasts might see its market continue to increase, as indicated by the fact that owners under 40 years old have tripled from 7 percent to 22 percent since 2019, according to Hagerty.

Hagerty also highlights that insurance quotes for the 900 Turbo are growing at three times the rate of the overall growth rate at the company. The 900 Turbo's growth can be attributed to its timeless aesthetics, exceptional build quality, reliable engine, as well as spacious, practical interior.

5 2008–2015 Audi R8: 37% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $165,000 - $228,000
• Original MSRP: $114,200
• Value Changes: The value of the Audi R8 has appreciated by 37 percent since 2019

The 2008–15 R8 Is A Limited Production Car With Motorsport Heritage

The R8 is widely regarded as one of the exceptional Audi models that excel in both performance and comfort. Its combination of these attributes, along with its impressive motorsport heritage, appears to be attracting collectors. According to Hagerty, enthusiasts from all generations appreciate the R8, and interest in the car is steadily increasing.

Insurance policy growth for the R8 has surpassed the Hagerty average by over three times in the past five years. In addition, lookups on Hagerty Valuation Tools have doubled in the last 12 months. With R8 values experiencing a 37 percent increase since 2019 and the growing demand, it is likely that the R8 will continue to appreciate in value.

4 2004–2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren: 37% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $374,000 - $473,000
• Original MSRP: $455,500
• Value Changes: The value of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has appreciated by 37 percent since 2019.

The SLR McLaren Is The First Production Car To Feature A Full Carbon-Fiber Monocoque

According to Hagerty, the price of a used SLR McLaren can reach as high as $473,000. Although this may initially appear significant, Hagerty highlights that when compared to other exotic cars from the same era, such as the Porsche Carrera GT, Ferrari Enzo, and Ford GT, the price of the SLR McLaren is highly undervalued. So, potential buyers can find solace in the likelihood that the value of this grand tourer will appreciate over time.

Hagerty reports that the SLR has experienced a substantial 37 percent increase in value since 2019. Since the third quarter of 2022, the SLR has maintained a 23 percent premium over its successor, driven by demand from younger buyers. While baby boomers continue to hold the majority ownership, the share of millennial owners is growing at a rate twice as fast as the Hagerty average, the insurer said.

3 2001–2010 Lamborghini Murcielago: 48% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $356,000 - $441,000
• Original MSRP: $311,100
• Value Changes: The value of the Lamborghini Murciélago has appreciated by 48 percent since 2019.

The 2001–10 Murciélago Was The First Lambo To Feature The "e-gear" Transmission

The 2001-2010 Murciélago is a special supercar with many unique attributes, including the iconic upward-swinging scissors doors. However, one significant innovation was the introduction of the "e-gear" transmission, which allows for automated shifting without the need for a clutch pedal. In addition, a limited number of Murciélago models were available with a traditional six-speed manual transmission, with fewer than 25 manual LP640s believed to have been imported to the United States.

Considering its unique attributes, rarity, and historical significance, it comes as no surprise that the value of the Murciélago has increased substantially by 48 percent since 2019, as reported by Hagerty. Also, the ownership of the Murciélago has seen a change, with a growing number of next-generation enthusiasts owning almost two-thirds of these vehicles. Given this trend, it is anticipated that the values of the Murciélago will continue to rise.

2 2003–2008 Nissan 350Z: 78% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $24,400 - $32,100
• Original MSRP: $28,605
• Value Changes: The average value of Nissan 350Z in excellent condition has appreciated by 78 percent since 2021.

The 2003–08 350Z Has A Distinctive And Iconic Design

The 350Z stands out as a favorable investment option due to its distinct design, reliability, and widespread aftermarket support, meaning parts are relatively cheap and easy to find.

Unsurprisingly, collectors have taken notice of these factors as well. According to Hagerty, 350Z values have surged by 78 percent for models in excellent condition since the beginning of 2021. Although most 350Z owners are still baby boomers, there has been an increase in interest from buyers under 40, with 19 percent of new insurance policies in 2022 being attributed to this age group.

1 2008 Nissan 350Z Nismo: 78% Increase

Valuation Highlights

• Used Price: $43,900 - $55,600
• Original MSRP: $38,775
• Value Changes: The average value of a 2008 350Z Nismo in excellent condition has appreciated by 78 percent since 2021.

The 2008 350Z Nismo Is A Limited Production Model

The 2008 350Z Nismo is considered to be one of the most exclusive Nissans, with only 1,613 units sold in the United States (including 6 in Guam).

This limited production adds to its appeal and desirability among enthusiasts and collectors. Similar to the standard versions of the 350Z, the average values for a 350Z Nismo in excellent condition have risen by 78 percent since 2021, says Hagerty.

Sources: Hagerty 2022 Bull Market List, Hagerty 2023 Bull Market List, Hagerty Valuation Tool