• Famous previous ownership.
• Proven race or rally history, both recent and historical.
• Unrestored original condition. A car can only be factory-new once, and originality is highly valued.
• Expert restoration. If restored, the quality should be inspected by a professional.
• First or last in a model series. Unique serial numbers often enhance desirability and value.
• Unique features or options. Examples include:
  -Modern supercars with manual transmissions, such as the Ferrari 599 Fiorano, where only 30 out of roughly 3,500 were equipped with a manual gearbox.
  -Porsche Cayman/Boxster models with six-cylinder boxer engines, which are increasingly sought after compared to the more common four-cylinder versions.

In addition to the aforementioned factors, several trends can be observed in the classic car market:

• The Porsche Effect: Certain Porsche models that were previously somewhat undervalued are now experiencing a surge in popularity. Examples include the 914 and 996 series. Once overlooked, they are now in high demand!
• The Launch of a New Model: When a new car model is introduced based on its predecessor, the predecessor’s value can increase—especially if the new version (in terms of design or performance) fails to impress as much as its predecessor, often due to regulations. For instance, the first-generation Audi TT became collectible due to its original “pure” design, despite a spoiler being added later to address instability issues.
• Shifting Eras of Popularity: Just like fashion, the popularity of specific automotive eras waxes and wanes. Cars from the 1980s, once dismissed as dull and boxy, are now highly sought after.
• The Poster Car Effect: Research shows that people tend to value cars from their youth (ages 16 to 25) the most. This explains the declining interest in pre-war cars and the rising appeal of 1990s supercars!

Of course, maintenance costs are also a consideration when it comes to collectible cars. Before making your purchase, you can consult various sources to determine the maintenance costs associated with the car you prefer. You can contact car (brand) clubs or specialized garages with experience in maintaining the car you’ve chosen

Naturally, your personal preference is the decisive factor. Before starting your purchasing process, it is important to be informed about the different brands, parties offering collectible cars, and models available for sale

Have you seen a car that interests you? Ask the seller for the maintenance documentation. If this has been kept up to date, you can use this information to better assess the costs you will need to consider to maintain the car in question.

When purchasing a new or classic car, there is an important factor that you, as a buyer, need to consider. Some cars are fully restored, while other dealers offer cars in their original condition.

When you buy an original car, you are aware that the car still needs to be restored. This can either be done by yourself or by having it done at a garage. When the car is in original condition, all authentic parts are still present, and the car represents the time in which it was produced.

More and more cars are being labeled as “barn finds.” Be cautious: a car that has been sitting for 30 years will typically not start easily. Not every dusty car is a barn find. Sometimes, the romantic story is added to artificially inflate the price.

When a car is fully restored, the parts are often replaced, and the car may, in some cases, be seen as less authentic. The advantage of this is that the car is more practical to use. Certain parts may have been modernized or replaced with better versions than what was available at the time (think power steering or air conditioning).

Ultimately, the choice between an original collectible car and a restored collectible car depends on your personal preferences and what you intend to use the vehicle for.