Beyond the Present – Cars with Classic Potential
Cars that are already considered classics often see significant price increases. That's why we've taken a closer look at potential future classics. Here are three interesting vehicles that caught our attention.
Sometimes I wonder: Why didn't I buy and keep certain cars three decades ago? If I had, I'd be driving a true classic today. The reason why these cars aren't in my garage now is usually simple. Either I couldn't afford them back then—like a first-generation BMW M3 or a Ferrari 328, both out of my financial reach in the 1990s. Or they simply didn't interest me at the time. A Peugeot 205 Cabrio or a Suzuki SJ 413 would have been within budget, but I just wasn't drawn to them!
Stay Ahead of the Market – Find Your Future Classic Now!
At the beginning of each year, the media often highlights cars turning 30, as they qualify for classic car registration in some countries. However, a closer look at price trends reveals that these vehicles are rarely bargains anymore. The nostalgia and special registration perks can drive prices up. That's why I've taken a look at some newer models and identified three cars I believe could be future classics.
Alfa Romeo 147
Inside, the Alfa Romeo 147? It's typical Alfa Romeo style.
In autumn 2000, Alfa Romeo introduced the 147 as its new compact car. Unlike its predecessor, which was clearly based on the FIAT Tipo, the 147 was a true Alfa Romeo. It shared its technical foundations with the larger Alfa Romeo 156. Some might point out that the 156 also used Tipo components, but it received a completely redesigned suspension. The front used a double wishbone setup, while the rear adopted the Camuffo axle, developed by Lancia.
Alfa Romeo Even Trusted the 147 with Its Legendary V6!
The Alfa Romeo's interior reflects classic Italian cockpit design—elegant and high-quality materials paired with sporty details. But the real highlight was under the hood. Even the four-cylinder engines delivered spirited performance. The star, however, was the 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA, powered by the legendary 3.2-liter Busso V6 engine. Regarded as one of the best engines ever produced, this V6 could push the 147 GTA to a top speed of 246 km/h (153 mph). It's a prime candidate for a future classic.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is also a classic of tomorrow. With it, Toyota defined a new vehicle category in 1994.
The Toyota RAV4 marked the beginning of the compact crossover and small SUV era. It was revolutionary at the time, but not everyone understood it initially. Was it an off-road vehicle? Yes, it had all-wheel drive and short overhangs, both useful for off-road adventures. But most customers weren't interested in off-roading. They saw the RAV4—short for "Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive"—as a stylish, practical lifestyle car with ample space and excellent visibility.
The Electric RAV4 Is the perfect Future Classic!
Toyota even launched an electric version, the RAV4 EV, for lease customers starting in 1997. The limited availability and the return policy aimed to minimize long-term parts stocking. However, a campaign called "Don't Crush" led fans to save many of these EVs from destruction. Of the roughly 1,600 units produced, about half are believed to have survived, making the RAV4 EV a true rarity and a perfect future classic.
Peugeot 106
Peugeot returned to small cars with the Peugeot 106.
The third future classic on our list debuted in 1991. Some earlier models are already eligible for classic car registration, but the Peugeot 106 still flies under the radar among classic car enthusiasts. With the 106, Peugeot re-entered the small car market after the larger Peugeot 205 had grown to compact size with its 3.7-meter length. The 106 brought Peugeot back to its small car roots.
Peugeot 106 is a Motorsport Homologation Hero!
The base Peugeot 106 had a modest 45 horsepower, making it perfect for beginners or as a second car. But the 106 also had a sporty side! The 98-horsepower 1.4 XSI launched with the model, followed by the 106 1.3 Rallye in 1993, a homologation model designed for motorsport with a lightweight build and a 1,294 cc engine. Peugeot later introduced the more powerful 1.6 Rallye in late 1994, making the 106 even sportier. These Rallye versions, especially, have the potential to become sought-after future classics—if you can find one!
Picture credits: 3x Alfa Romeo Stellantis, 1x Toyota