AOL predicts collectible cars of the future
Collecting classic cars has been a thrilling pastime for many attracted to vintage vehicles that represent past generations. However, if some of those collectors' children were to continue the hobby of their parents, what cars would they be collecting? The classic cars of the future may be difficult to imagine, as they are still relatively modern now. However, AOL has ventured a guess as to what types of vehicles may be treasured and collected in the future.
What makes a car a classic?
For car lovers, the question of what makes a vehicle qualify as a classic has often been hotly contested. There are a number of variables that some believe are most important in warranting the exclusive designation, such as age, parts and appeal.
Some argue that the age of a vehicle is essential to determining classic status. Though some use the range between 25 and 45 years old as being the standard for a classic car, other groups, such as the Classic Car Club of America, have a more strict definition.
According to the group, full classic cars or CCCA classics are considered "...fine or unusual motor cars which were built between and including the years 1925 to 1948." They emphasize that "you won't find your Mom's '72 Plymouth Duster ... in the ranks of CCCA...they are not what CCCA is all about."
However, one concept found in most definitions is that the car must maintain an "appeal" even after it is no longer being produced, due to its engineering, craftsmanship, or other unique features.
Since these vehicles are older and may have parts that are no longer being manufactured, classic cars often require their own special auto insurance. An independent definition of "classic" is used to determine eligibility for vintage or classic auto insurance coverage .
AOL's choices as classic cars of the future
AOL has attempted to determine what vehicles will be left standing and will maintain the appeal to don the title of a "classic." Though these vehicles are all fairly recent, in 30 or 40 years they may gain the favor of collectors worldwide.
With such diverse perceptions of the definition of classic, AOL decided to consider the condition of cars. "Remember, in order for cars to draw top dollar at shows, they should have low mileage, be in wonderful condition (cars from states and climates that don't see winters or salted roads tend to do best over time) and have as much original equipment as possible," AOL says.
The cars they selected as potential collectibles in 2041 were:
• PT Cruiser (1999 to 2009)
• Plymouth Prowler (1997 to 2002)
• Dodge Viper (1992 to 2011)
• First generation Audi TT Roadster (1999 to 2002)
• Mini Cooper (2001 to 2011)
• BMW Z3 Coupe (1999 to 2002)
• Cadillac CTS-V Coupe (2011)
• Chevy Volt (2011)
These vehicles may eventually be worth their weight in gold. According to Forbes, some collectible cars sell for amounts well in the millions, including a historic Mercedes that sold for $20 million in 2008.
