Keen to invest in a car that will hold (or even increase) its value in years to come? Well, then you'll be interested in the results of a UK survey of the top motoring media to compile a list of future classics.
Topping the survey -- carried out by carsite.co.uk -- is the drop-dead gorgeous Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, of which just 500 examples have been built following its 2007 launch.
Echoing the styling of the original 1930s 8Cs, the stylish two-seater cost around 30 per cent more in Europe than a Maserati GranTurismo, with which it shares its 4.7-litre V8 and underpinnings.
Somewhat surprisingly, in second place is the go-faster (but relatively un-exotic) Ford Focus RS, a car that sadly also never made it to our shores.
The Focus RS polled just ahead of the megabuck Bugatti Veyron, which is undoubtedly bound for classic status as the dire state of the global economy indicates few car companies would now be willing to invest the resources that went into developing the 16-cylinder, quad-turbo, 400km/h-plus supercar.
Distinctly less exclusive and pricey is the modern-day Fiat 500, which still managed to place fourth in the top-10 list. It's proof that well-executed design more or less guarantees a car's long-term appeal.
Honda's S2000 roadster (discontinued in 2009) rounds out the top five, as its powerful, free-spinning engine and taut dynamics adds up to a stylish, fun package -- just like its 1960s S600 and S800 predecessors.
Nissan's GTR (the survey doesn't specify which generation) placed sixth -- no surprises it figured in the top 10 -- ahead of the Enzo Ferrari.
Limited to a production run of just 400, the Enzo already enjoys classic status as examples have been trading above $US1million at auctions -- well above its sticker price of $US650,000 when it launched in 2002.
Completing the top 10 are the Audi TT (the original model), VW Scirocco (current generation) and Tesla Roadster.
Carsite's top ten 'future classics'
1. Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
2. Ford Focus RS
3. Bugatti Veyron
4. Fiat 500 Mk II
5. Honda S2000
6. Nissan Skyline GTR
7. Enzo Ferrari
8. Audi TT Mk I
9. VW Scirocco Mk III
10. Tesla Roadster
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