The Most Underrated Future Classic Cars to Buy Now
The Most Underrated Future Classic Cars to Buy Now
In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, certain cars stand out not just for their immediate appeal but for their long-term potential as future classics. While models like the Porsche 911, Ferrari F40, or Jaguar E-Type have already cemented their legendary status, there are numerous underrated gems that are poised to become highly sought-after collectibles in the years to come. These cars often fly under the radar of mainstream collectors, making them affordable investments today before their values inevitably rise.
If you’re looking to get ahead of the curve and secure a future classic before prices skyrocket, here’s a curated list of the most underrated cars that deserve your attention right now.
1. Lexus LFA (2010–2012)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
The Lexus LFA was a passion project for Toyota’s luxury division, taking nearly a decade to develop. With a hand-built 4.8L V10 engine co-developed with Yamaha, a carbon-fiber chassis, and an exhaust note that rivals the best supercars, the LFA was a masterpiece. However, its high price and limited production (only 500 units worldwide) meant it was often overlooked in favor of European rivals like the Ferrari 458 or Lamborghini Gallardo.
Investment Potential:
Prices have already started climbing, but compared to its contemporaries, the LFA is still undervalued. As enthusiasts recognize its rarity and engineering brilliance, expect values to soar.
2. Acura NSX (First Generation, 1990–2005)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
The original Acura/Honda NSX was a game-changer—Japan’s first true supercar, designed with input from Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna. Its aluminum chassis, mid-engine layout, and high-revving VTEC V6 made it a technological marvel. Despite its brilliance, it was often overshadowed by flashier Italian rivals.
Investment Potential:
Clean, low-mileage examples are already appreciating, especially manual-transmission models. With Honda discontinuing the new NSX, nostalgia for the original will only grow.
3. BMW Z8 (2000–2003)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
Designed by Henrik Fisker as a modern interpretation of the iconic BMW 507, the Z8 was a limited-production roadster with a 4.9L V8 from the E39 M5. Its retro-futuristic styling and hand-built construction made it special, but its high initial price kept sales low.
Investment Potential:
Values dipped in the early 2010s but have since rebounded sharply. With only 5,703 units made, the Z8 is destined to become a blue-chip classic.
4. Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (1998–1999)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
Born from homologation rules for the FIA GT Championship, the CLK GTR is one of the rarest and most extreme road-legal Mercedes ever made. Only 25 were produced, featuring a 6.9L V12 and a body designed purely for speed.
Investment Potential:
Already worth millions, but lesser-known than the McLaren F1 or Ferrari F50, the CLK GTR is a dark horse that could appreciate even further as ultra-rare supercars become more desirable.
5. Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R (1999–2002)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
The R34 GT-R is the ultimate iteration of Nissan’s legendary Skyline lineage. Its advanced ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system, twin-turbo RB26DETT engine, and motorsport pedigree make it a JDM icon. However, due to import restrictions (until recently), many enthusiasts couldn’t own one in the U.S.
Investment Potential:
Prices are rising rapidly as U.S. buyers finally get access. Clean, unmodified examples will be worth a fortune in a decade.
6. Porsche 928 (1978–1995)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
Intended as a replacement for the 911, the front-engine V8-powered 928 was Porsche’s grand tourer masterpiece. Its advanced design (including a transaxle layout and pop-up headlights) was ahead of its time, but purists initially dismissed it for not being a 911.
Investment Potential:
Well-maintained 928s are still affordable, but as 911 prices become stratospheric, collectors will turn to this underappreciated classic.
7. Ford GT (2005–2006)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
The mid-2000s Ford GT was a modern tribute to the Le Mans-winning GT40, packing a supercharged 5.4L V8 with 550 horsepower. Despite its performance and heritage, it was overshadowed by European exotics at the time.
Investment Potential:
Prices have already doubled in recent years, but compared to limited-run hypercars, the Ford GT remains a relative bargain with huge upside.
8. Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione (2007–2010)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
With only 500 coupes and 500 spiders made, the 8C was Alfa Romeo’s return to high-end sports cars. Its Ferrari-derived 4.7L V8 and stunning design made it special, but limited marketing kept it under the radar.
Investment Potential:
As Alfa Romeo’s modern halo car, the 8C is already gaining traction among collectors. Expect prices to climb as its rarity becomes more appreciated.
9. Subaru Impreza 22B STI (1998)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
The 22B was a limited-run (only 424 units) homologation special celebrating Subaru’s WRC success. With a hand-built 2.2L turbocharged engine and aggressive wide-body styling, it’s the ultimate Subaru.
Investment Potential:
Already a cult car, the 22B is becoming nearly unobtainable. Prices in Japan and Europe have skyrocketed, and U.S. collectors are starting to take notice.
10. Aston Martin V12 Vantage (2009–2018)
Why It’s a Future Classic:
The V12 Vantage was a rare beast—a small, lightweight Aston Martin with a 6.0L V12 crammed under the hood. Only a few thousand were made, making it one of the rarest modern Astons.
Investment Potential:
With Aston Martin shifting to hybrids and EVs, the last of the naturally aspirated V12 manuals will become highly desirable.
Final Thoughts: Buy Before They Skyrocket
The best time to invest in a future classic is before the market catches on. Many of these cars were underappreciated in their time but are now gaining recognition for their rarity, engineering, and driving experience. Whether you’re a collector or an enthusiast looking for a rewarding ownership experience, these underrated gems offer both driving pleasure and strong investment potential.
If you act now, you might just secure a piece of automotive history before prices become out of reach. Which one would you add to your garage?
