Top 5 Upcoming Classic Cars to Buy in 2026

Mar 30
3 min read

Future icons worth getting into before everyone else does

The classic car market has always rewarded those who get in early. Spotting a “future classic” isn’t about luck—it’s about understanding rarity, character, cultural relevance, and timing. As cars disappear from roads and the industry shifts toward electrification, the appeal of analogue, driver-focused machines is only getting stronger.

Here are five standout picks for 2026 that we believe are on the cusp of serious appreciation.

1. Jaguar F-Type (2014–2024)

If there’s one car screaming “future classic,” it’s the F-Type. A proper British sports car with a snarling V8, rear-wheel drive, and timeless design—it’s also one of the last of Jaguar’s petrol-powered icons.

As the brand moves toward an electric future, the F-Type represents the end of an era. That alone gives it huge collector appeal, and values are already stabilising

Why buy now?

End-of-era appeal: As Jaguar moves toward an electric future, the F-Type stands as one of its final petrol-powered sports cars—giving it instant long-term significance.
Collector-spec demand rising: V8, rear-wheel-drive, low-mileage examples are already becoming harder to find and are leading early value stability.

2. Alfa Romeo 156 GTA (2001–2005)

This is one for the purists. The 156 GTA blends stunning Italian design with one of the greatest engines ever made—the legendary Busso V6.

It was never built in huge numbers, and clean examples are becoming harder to find. Prices are already creeping up, and for good reason—this is a car people feel, not just drive.

Why buy now:

Engine alone is enough: The Busso V6 from Alfa Romeo is one of the most celebrated engines ever built—and nothing like it will be made again.
Clean examples disappearing: Unmodified, well-maintained cars are becoming increasingly rare, pushing values steadily upward.

3. Honda S2000 (1999–2009)

The S2000 has quietly been climbing for years—and it’s not slowing down. High-revving, naturally aspirated, manual-only… this is everything modern cars are moving away from.

With Honda unlikely to build anything like it again, the S2000 is becoming a benchmark modern classic.

4. Lotus Elise S1 (1996–2001)

Lightweight, raw, and completely driver-focused—the Elise S1 is already a cult classic, but it’s not done climbing.

In a world of heavier, tech-filled cars, the Elise represents something purer. That purity is exactly what collectors are chasing.

Why buy now:

Unmatched purity: Built on Colin Chapman’s philosophy, it delivers a raw, lightweight driving experience that simply doesn’t exist anymore.
Strong upward trajectory: Values are rising, but the best, original examples still have clear room for growth.

5. BMW i3 (2013–2022)

A wildcard—but a smart one. The i3 is one of the most forward-thinking cars BMW has ever built, with a carbon fibre structure and unmistakable design.

As early EVs begin to gain historical significance, the i3 stands out as a pioneer of modern electric mobility—and that uniqueness could make it highly collectible.

Why buy now:

Groundbreaking design and engineering
First-gen EV significance
Increasing appreciation for “early electric” cars

Final Thoughts: What Makes a Future Classic?

There’s no guaranteed formula—but the strongest candidates usually tick a few key boxes:

Rarity or low production numbers
Unique engineering or design
Emotional driving experience
Cultural or historical significance

The biggest trend heading into 2026?Cars that feel different—manual, analogue, loud, or simply bold—are becoming increasingly desirable as the industry moves toward electrification and autonomy.

Buy something you genuinely love—because even the best investment should still make you smile every time you drive it.

Which one would you buy?

Jaguar F-Type
Alfa Romeo 156 GTA
Honda S2000
Lotus Elise S1