10 Cars That Could Make You Money as They Age (You Won’t Believe #6)

When you purchase a new car, it usually loses value quickly.

According to Edmunds, a typical car depreciates 23.5% during the first year and 60% over the first five years of its lifespan.

However, some cars actually grow in value over time. Here are some vehicles that can help owners get ahead financially by increasing in value as the years roll on.

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1. AMC AMX

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American Motor Corporation built the AMC from 1968 to 1970 to compete with the Chevrolet Corvette, another two-seat sports car of the era. The AMX was priced to appeal to budget-conscious buyers at the time.

The car never gained the popularity that other sports cars did, making it a rarity compared to other classics. That scarcity has pushed the price higher.

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2. Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

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At one point, the Mercedes-Benz car company had a stake in the legendary racing team McLaren, which led to the companies working together on the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.

The car, manufactured between 2004 and 2010, featured a stylish, aerodynamic design and unique butterfly-wing doors, which still make it popular today.

3. Willys Jeep

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Off-road drivers who want to try something different have been propping up the value of the Willys Jeep over the years.

This vehicle famously saw action in World War II and was known for its off-road capabilities. Today, it’s a great vehicle to own for its ruggedness. Many owners also love to work on the car.

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4. AM General Hummer H1

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The AM General Hummer H1 began production in 1992. It's a boxy, big SUV that stands out from the crowd.

Production of the H1 ceased in 2006, but General Motors' decision to revive the Hummer name means this classic is expected to increase in value.

The current Hummer is available as an all-electric SUV or pickup.

5. Saab 900 Turbo

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Vehicles are no longer made under the Saab brand name, and that fact might boost the price of existing Saab models.

The Saab 900 Turbo, for example, had a striking look that appealed to fans who still wanted to get behind the wheel of the car.

6. Ford Focus RS

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Many aftermarket parts were previously available for the Ford Focus RS, and the ability to customize the car appealed to some buyers.

However, Ford stopped manufacturing the Focus. Today, you will only find this vehicle on the used car market. That scarcity may be one reason many expect the car’s value to jump in the coming years.

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7. Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06

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The Chevrolet Corvette is considered a cool car regardless of the year it was made, but collectors give the C5 Z06 model from 2001 to 2004 a special look.

This model has features that make it stand out from other Corvettes, such as its styling and engine. It is still relatively affordable on the used-car market if you want to buy a Corvette, but some observers expect the price to climb soon.

8. Lamborghini Murciélago

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High-end sports cars can be pricey to pull into your garage when you buy them new. And in some cases, the value continues to rise in the ensuing years.

For example, check out the Lamborghini Murciélago, with its sporty design and scissor doors. The car, made between 2001 and 2010, also has a V12 engine that makes it stand out when you put your foot down on the gas.

9. Pontiac GTO

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When you think about American muscle cars, the Pontiac GTO leaps to mind.

The GTO’s 1966-67 model is particularly valuable. The car includes hood scoops, unique exterior styling, and a powerful V8 engine, making it particularly valuable to collectors and car enthusiasts.

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10. Audi R8

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Audi is known for its stylish features, but the Audi R8 took them to another level with its sporty design and desirable engineering.

The car was even featured in Marvel’s Avengers movie series, with rich superhero Tony Stark driving an R8 as his car of choice.

Scarcity could become an issue, as Audi’s 2023 version of the R8 was the last to be produced. So, you might want to get your hands on one before they become hard to find.

Bottom line

Sometimes, buying a special car can also be an investment that helps you build wealth as the vehicle increases in value.

However, remember that these cars are older models or even models that aren’t made anymore. That might lead to extra costs you should consider before deciding whether to own one of these cars.

Make sure your budget includes the extra expenses of maintenance, repairs, car insurance, and other costs associated with these vehicles.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).