Which Cars From 2019 Will Be Valuable Collector Cars in 30 Years?

Almost any car can eventually become collectible, but becoming so within a human lifetime is a different matter entirely. The key lies in the uniqueness and scarcity of the vehicle. Toyota Camry and Ford Taurus, for example, are common with millions produced, making them unlikely to become notable collectibles even in a century’s time. However, electric vehicles like the new Ford Mustang and electric truck present an interesting prospect, especially if the production is limited.

The Myth of Titular Collector Cars

For a car to become truly collectible in the future, it must hold some form of nostalgia or scientific advancement. Cars from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s are prime examples, with iconic models like the Corvette consistently capturing the hearts of car enthusiasts.

Electric Vehicles and Future Collectibles

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in 2019 raised questions about which models might one day be considered collectors' items. Among the most promising is the 2012 Tesla Model S. Here’s why:

First Year of Production: The Model S was the first mass-produced electric car introduced by Tesla, a company that pushed the boundaries of the automotive industry by championing electric vehicles. Limited Production: Only about 3,000 of the first Model S cars were produced in the first year, creating a limited edition status. Performance: Though subsequent models have improved significantly, the initial 2012 Model S remains highly regarded for its impressive acceleration and performance for its time.

Despite these positive points, several factors may impact its future collectibility:

Replacement Parts: Finding original parts as the car ages could be challenging, impacting the car's restoration value. Age of the Car: As the car gets older, it may lose its feel and authenticity, which is essential for collectibles. Preservation: Owners might not have stored the car properly, leading to wear and tear that could diminish its value.

Real Estate vs. Car Collectibility

While the 2012 Tesla Model S presents a compelling case, it's worth noting that real estate is often a better long-term investment. In contrast to the 2012 Tesla Model S, which would take about a decade to double in value, a house could triple in value over the same period.

Investing in real estate allows for sustained growth and appreciation. If you owned a house in 1999, it would now be worth more than double what you paid for it. Yet, cars, especially mass-produced models, have much lower potential for such rapid exponential growth due to the challenges of maintaining their value.

Therefore, while electric vehicles like the 2012 Tesla Model S may offer a glimpse into the future of automotive collectibles, the broader trends suggest that real estate remains a more reliable long-term investment for significant value appreciation.