They say you can’t take it with you when you go, but perhaps that doesn’t apply to a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. Recent data shows that 71% of classic car enthusiasts are also car owners, and 67% have had a lifelong passion for automobiles.1
Moreover, with Baby Boomers driving the new car market in 2021,2 it seems that these legendary classic cars are not only worth more than their weight in gold but are also investments that appreciate over time.
1. 1961 Jaguar E-Type
Enzo Ferrari himself called it the most beautiful car ever made. Its sleek, aerodynamic lines, long hood, and short rear deck were revolutionary for its time.
The Series 1 E-Type, with its covered headlights and 3.8-liter engine, is particularly sought after. Its combination of beauty, performance, and relative affordability (compared to other classics) make it a tempting trade for retirement savings.
2. 1964 Aston Martin DB5
James Bond’s car of choice in “Goldfinger” solidified the DB5’s iconic status. Its elegant design is matched by its powerful 4.0-liter engine and luxurious interior.
The DB5’s association with 007 adds to its allure, making it a collector’s dream.
3. 1964 Porsche 911
The 911 is a legend that continues to evolve today. The original 911, with its distinctive rear-engine layout and rounded styling, is a classic. Its air-cooled engine and nimble handling made it a joy to drive, and its legacy as a performance icon endures.
For many, the chance to own an early 911 could be worth more than a few years of retirement income.
4. 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Split Window Coupe
The 1963 Corvette marked a design revolution for the American sports car. The split window coupe, with its unique rear window design, is a highly sought-after variant.
Its powerful V8 engine and sharp handling made it a formidable competitor, and its design remains a timeless classic.
5. 1966 Lamborghini Miura
The Miura is often credited with starting the supercar craze. Its mid-engine layout, low-slung body, and dramatic styling were groundbreaking.
Powered by a V12 engine, the Miura was incredibly fast and exotic. Its rarity and iconic design make it a crown jewel for any collection.
6. 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS
The El Camino SS was a unique blend of car and truck, offering muscle car performance with the utility of a pickup bed. The SS model packed a powerful V8 engine and stylish design elements, making it a desirable collectible.
Its combination of practicality and power makes it an intriguing option for those who might be willing to trade in their early retirement.
7. 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead
Rolls-Royce is synonymous with luxury, and the Silver Dawn Drophead is a prime example. Its handcrafted coachwork, opulent interior, and smooth ride represent the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship.
The rarity and elegance of this model make it a prized possession for collectors.
8. 1954 Porsche 356 Speedster
The 356 Speedster is a minimalist sports car designed for pure driving pleasure. Its lightweight construction, nimble handling, and open-top design embody the essence of fun behind the wheel.
The Speedster’s timeless design and connection to Porsche’s racing heritage make it a highly sought-after classic.
9. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing
The 300 SL Gullwing is an automotive icon with its distinctive upward-opening doors. Its elegant design and advanced engineering, including a fuel-injected engine and lightweight spaceframe chassis, made it a technological marvel of its time.
The Gullwing’s rarity and status as a symbol of automotive excellence make it a dream car for many.
10. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO
The 250 GTO is often considered the holy grail of classic cars. Only 36 were ever built, and they dominated GT racing in the early 1960s. Its combination of stunning design, V12 engine, and racing pedigree make it the most valuable car in the world, regularly fetching tens of millions of dollars at auction.
For the most passionate car enthusiasts, owning a 250 GTO could be the ultimate dream.
11. Delahaye Type 165
This French masterpiece from the 1930s is a rare and exquisite example of Art Deco automotive design. With its flowing lines, dramatic fenders, and opulent details, the Type 165 is a rolling sculpture.
Only a handful were ever built, and their rarity and historical significance make them highly sought-after by collectors. Owning a Delahaye Type 165 would be like owning a piece of art history.
12. Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic
This legendary Bugatti is one of the most valuable cars in the world. Only four were ever produced, and their stunning design and advanced engineering make them automotive masterpieces.
The Atlantic’s low-slung body, distinctive dorsal fin, and riveted aluminum construction are instantly recognizable. Its powerful supercharged engine made it one of the fastest cars of its time.
13. 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Touring Berlinetta
This elegant Alfa Romeo is considered one of the most beautiful pre-war cars ever made. Its sleek bodywork, long hood, and flowing fenders are timeless. Under the hood lies a powerful supercharged straight-eight engine, making it a formidable performer on the road and track.
Its rarity and historical significance, combined with its stunning beauty, make it a highly desirable collector’s item that could tempt anyone to reconsider their retirement plans.
14. 1964 Ford GT40
This iconic American race car was built to dethrone Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and it succeeded spectacularly, winning four consecutive titles from 1966 to 1969. Its low-slung design, mid-engine layout, and powerful V8 engine made it a formidable competitor.
The GT40’s racing pedigree and historical significance make it a legendary car that could be worth more than a few years of retirement income.
15. 1965 Shelby Cobra 427
This legendary American sports car is a brute force of nature. Its lightweight body and monstrous 7.0-liter V8 engine make it incredibly fast and agile. The Cobra’s raw power and aggressive styling make it a thrilling car to drive and a highly sought-after collector’s item.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.