PRESS RELEASE

24^THFEBRUARY 2016

Want a future classic for not much cash?

Glass's names top 10 affordable models

Glass's has named its Top 10 affordable future classics - cars that are currently available at comparatively low prices but are likely to become collectable in the years to come.

The editors of the motor trade bible cite the Audi TT and Golf GTi alongside more oddball tips including the Renault Avantime and Lada Niva.

Rupert Pontin, Glass's Head of Valuations, explained: "At Glass's, normally everything we do is driven by data but in this instance, we have simply sat down with our car editors and thrashed out a list based on gut feel.

"These are cars that we like, that we believe other people like, and that are today priced at levels that we consider will increase over the next few years. Some are currently as a cheap as a couple of thousand pounds.

"Not that we believe you will make a fortune from any of them but if you buy one, look after it and keep it for a few years, you are unlikely to make a loss and may even see a little appreciation in value. Crucially, it will probably be a lot of fun to own.

"At the end of the day, our editors are car enthusiasts as well as data guys, and these are the models that they believe will capture the imagination of future generations." 

1. Original Audi S4

Currently affordable and attracting a lot of interest for the older used models at auction as a cost effective performance saloon. BMW M cars fall into a similar category.

2. Earlier Subaru Impreza

Has a cult following in STi and WRX forms, especially among the younger generation, plus has a genuine rallying heritage. Mitsubishi Evo is a similar proposition and rarer. 

3. Saab 900 Turbo

The Saab marque is unlikely to ever return to the UK and there is growing interest in the older models. Well-built and delightfully idiosyncratic, these are increasingly rare in both saloon and convertible form. 

4. Jaguar XK8

An appealing and good looking car that is synonymous with Jaguar performance and in a price bracket that is currently affordable as opposed to the costly F Type. The XKR especially looks good value. 

5. Fiat Barchetta

Low volume, classic Italian roadster and not many available. It is a perfect third car for the summer. Almost all in left hand drive although a few right hand conversions are available.

6. Lada Niva

The market for classic 4x4s is growing and, if you can find one, this Soviet off-roadster makes an appealingly left-field choice and is likely to be well priced. Has definite no nonsense charm.

7. Later Golf GTis

Mark one and two Golf GTis have long been collector's cars but there is growing interest in the fourth, fifth and sixth generation. Prices remain competitive and the cars have a timeless appeal.

8. Maserati 3200

Probably the most expensive car on the list but if you want a low price entry to Italian exotica, this is it. Classic Maserati looks and, if well maintained, pretty reliable. Running costs likely to be quite high, though.

9. Renault Avantime

Time has done little to blunt the oddness of this car, which looks like a coupe people carrier. However, volumes are low and it definitely has offbeat appeal. Still viable as a daily driver.

10. Original Audi TT

Many 1990s coupes and roadsters are currently well-priced. The Mercedes SLK is worth a look but, for our money, the original TT rules. Very well made, looks that are aging well and with prices as low as £2,000.

About Glass's

Glass's is the largest vehicle data provider in Europe, offering products and solutions that are invaluable at every stage of a vehicle's lifecycle. These include key valuation, technical and fleet management data, estimating, bodyshop and dealer management systems and web-based services. Founded in 1933 by William Glass, the first Glass's Guide to Car Values - widely referred to as the used car dealer's bible - was published in July of that year.

For further details:

• Sanjay Mistry, Paperchase PR, 07810 368 772, sanjay@paperchasepr.co.uk

• Simon Wells, Paperchase PR, 07768 912 430, simon@paperchasepr.co.uk

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