Peugeot 106 (1991-2003)
It might be a small car, but the 106 has a big personality with an interior that combines French quirkiness with practical simplicity. They are also easy to work on.
What Hagerty says: “The Peugeot 106 is great value: a Series 1 106 Rallye in excellent condition costs around 32% less than its older relative, the Peugeot 205 Rallye. They tick many of the requirements of a collectable car, although originality is critical.”
Porsche 912 (1965-1969)
In the 1960s, Porsche wanted a car that fitted between the 356 and the 911. That car was the 912, a sports car that had all the looks of the 911 and the same level of build quality and comfort, but at a much lower price. It was also cheaper to run, thanks in part to the use of the four-cylinder engine from the 356.
What Hagerty says: “With a 912 you get the early 911 experience for a fraction of the price. Other than very early 912s, the vast majority of the car is identical to its six-cylinder sibling – only the engine is different.”
Range Rover P38 (1994-2001)
The Range Rover P38 is the successor to the original classic model. It features a more rounded exterior design, while the interior has all the hallmarks of the model, including lots of wood and leather. In recent years they have become well-known for reliability issues, but a good example can still deliver a great premium 4×4 experience.
What Hagerty says: “The P38 is currently extremely affordable. Plus, they are getting rarer: cars are being broken for parts or heavily modified for off-road use. Find an original, well-maintained example, and it could offer a lot of value for money.
Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II (1977-80)
Rolls-Royce introduced the Silver Shadow in 1965 but then it updated the model for the final few years of its life, creating the Silver Shadow II in 1977. It was the ultimate in luxury motoring at the time.
What Hagerty says: “Prices have been relatively static. The big difference has been in the top examples, with a concours condition value up over 20% [in the last five years]. This is a good sign, as a rise in top examples often encourages more to be spent on maintaining other, less pristine cars”.
Subaru Impreza P1 (2000-01)
A very British version of a very Japanese performance car: only 1000 examples of the P1 were built, each fettled by famous motorsport company, Prodrive. This included design changes by the designer of the McLaren F1, Peter Stevens and engine upgrades. The P1 was only available in Sonic Blue.
What Hagerty says: “Prices have risen a lot in the last few years. Many of these cars have been driven hard, and the gulf between top and bottom values is huge. Pristine, low mileage cars will probably increase most, but regularly driven cars that are a little rough around the edges will be much more affordable and great fun.”
Toyota RAV4 (1994-2000)
The Toyota RAV4 is the model that started the modern era of compact crossovers and small SUVs. The Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive (RAV4) provided all the passenger and luggage space people needed, together with more ground clearance and a higher driving position. Three and 5-door versions are available.
What Hagerty says: “Legendary Toyota build quality, combined with an instantly recognisable design and very low current prices mean that Hagerty believes the RAV4 is a great entry-level classic.”
