Longevity

I've always wondered about those classic cars that become considered priceless in the present-day. For instance, the people who were in their prime during the first releases of these cars (such decades as the 50s,60s, etc.) couldn't have known that 50+ years from then, what they used as their daily driver would be considered relic. Recently, I came across old 80s magazines that had advertisements for "new" cars which we would consider today in 2007 as "hoopties." Not to say that these cars have not passed the tests of longevity but 2-3 decades seems like not a sufficient test of value. So, how can we know what we're driving today won't be considered priceless decades and decades from now? How do we know that the Honda, the Mercedes, or even the Lamborghini that we drive would actually be sought after by car collectors of the future? I came across a pretty interesting article where an insurance agency surveyed thousands of their clients to see which cars they expect will have the most value 20-50+ years from now. Kind of surprising, I must say.

1. Dodge Viper

2007 sticker price: $86K
2057 prediction: $257K-$429K



2. Mini Cooper

2007 sticker price: $19K
2057 prediction: $56K-$93K



3. Toyota FJ Cruiser

2007 sticker price: $22K
2057 prediction: $66K-$110K



4. Scion xB

2007 sticker price: $14K
2057 prediction: $42K-$70K



5. Jaguar XK

2007 sticker price: $75K
2057 prediction: $225K-$374K



Individually, all these cars represent their maker's innovation in design, extravagance, yet with a great degree of practicality. I'll see you in the 2050s and we'll see how these predictions pan out. Until then, have a good one...

-Rack of Lam