Logically, used cars should cost less than new ones, but that’s not always the case. Several classic automobiles defy the laws of depreciation, becoming costlier as they age. This high value is mainly due to the car’s legacy, supply chain issues, low new vehicle supply, and dealers paying higher for trade-ins. Here are 15 old vehicles worth more than new ones and why.

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO – $70,000+

Often considered the Holy Grail of classic automobiles, the Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the most sought-after vehicles in the world. With only 36 built, the car’s value soars to an astonishing $70 million, though auction prices are higher. The GTO was released from 1962 to 1964 and was designed for competitive racing. Its sleek and aerodynamic body makes it attractive, while its powerful 3.0-liter V12 engine produces around 300 horsepower.

1961 Jaguar E-Type – $300,000+

Enzo Ferrari called the 1961 Jaguar E-Type the most beautiful car ever designed, proving its iconic and timeless aesthetics. The car’s historical significance and limited numbers add to its immense cost. Its sophisticated engineering includes an independent rear suspension and a 3.8-liter inline-six engine. Released from 1961 to 1968, the E-Type set new standards in automotive design.

1956 Porsche 356A Speedster – $500,000+

Several factors contribute to the high value of the 1956 Porsche 356A Speedster. Apart from its lightweight and minimalist design, the vehicle’s racing heritage and iconic status in the automotive world play a significant role in its desirability. The Speedster was developed in response to the American market’s demand for a more affordable, stripped-down version of the 356, yet it still features Porsche’s engineering excellence and racing pedigree.

1973 Porsche Carrera RS 2.7 – $500,000

The value of the 1973 Porsche Carrera RS 2.7 has soared recently, frequently exceeding $500,000 in today’s market. Its limited production run justifies this hefty price tag, with only 1,580 units ever manufactured. Revolutionary technology was used, including the iconic “ducktail” spoiler for improved aerodynamics and lightweight materials like fiberglass and aluminum.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 – $1 million+

Only 69 examples of this Camaro were produced, each equipped with the 427 cubic inch ZL1 V8 engine and producing 500 horsepower. This engine and the Camaro’s superior handling made it a recognized competitor on the drag strip. Additionally, the ZL1 Camaro was a product of Chevrolet’s Central Office Production Order system, which allowed dealers to order cars with special features unavailable in standard trims.

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing – $1 million+

The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, known for its distinctive gullwing doors, was launched in 1954 and released in 1957. Initially a racing car, it was transformed into a high-performance production car—the fastest of the era. Thanks to its innovative fuel-injected 3.0-liter straight-six engine, it can reach speeds up to 161 mph. In total, only 1,400 units were ever made.

1964 Aston Martin DB5 – $1 million+

This classic car has been immortalized by its appearance in James Bond films, most notably in “Goldfinger” and “Thunderball.” As a British sports car, the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 is celebrated for its powerful 4.0-liter inline-six engine and luxurious interior. Well-preserved versions cost over $1 million at auctions, with some exceptional models surpassing $2 million. The car’s enduring popularity, status symbol, and rarity have kept it appreciating for several years.

1966 Shelby 427 Cobra – $1.5 million 

The 1966 Shelby 427 Cobra symbolizes American muscle and engineering prowess with its aggressive design and formidable 427 cubic inch V8 engine. Manufactured between 1965 and 1967, the Cobra had only 348 units, which added to its exclusivity. Aside from its limited production run, the car’s illustrious racing heritage, with numerous victories in various competitions, enhances its appeal. Today, a carefully restored piece costs over $1.5 million at auction.

1970 Plymouth Hemi’ Cuda Convertible – $2 million+

With only 14 units launched, the 1970 Plymouth Hemi’ Cuba features a formidable 426 Hemi V8 engine, yielding 425 horsepower, a staggering figure at the time. This engine, coupled with the car’s aggressive design and performance-oriented engineering, cemented its status as a high-performance icon. All these factors have driven its price to impressive heights, with well-preserved examples fetching $2 million or higher at auctions.

1954 Oldsmobile F-88 – $3 million

The 1954 Oldsmobile F-88 was produced from 1953 to 1954, an era marked by bold experimentation and avant-garde styling. A concept car by General Motors, the Oldsmobile is propelled by a 324 cubic inch Rocket V8 engine producing around 250 horsepower. The body is made of fiberglass, contributing to its lightweight construction. Also, features like the retractable hardtop, power windows, and a four-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission were advanced for the era.

1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 – $3 million+

Scagletti designed the V12-powered Ferrari 275 GTB/4, manufactured from 1966 to 1968. Its distinctive long hood and short rear deck proportions radiate sophistication, and the GTB/4 designation signifies the inclusion of a four-cam engine. Scarcity, historical significance, meticulous craftsmanship, and attention to detail contribute significantly to the Ferrari’s current worth.

1962 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato – $10 million 

A collaboration between Aston Martin and the famous Italian coachbuilder Zagato birthed the 1962 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato. It was designed to compete with Ferrari and features a more powerful version of Martin’s 3.7-liter inline-six engine, producing 314 horsepower. Only 19 of these exquisite cars were built, making them exceptionally rare. The rarity, elegant design, and performance contribute to their high worth. 

1964 Porsche 911 – $200,000

This iconic sports car features a horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, and signature curvaceous silhouette. Historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship, and scarcity justify its exorbitant price tag. As one of the earliest iterations of the 911 lineage, it represents Porsche’s enduring legacy of performance and innovation. Each component, from its distinctive Fuchs alloy wheels to its sumptuous leather interior, reflects the company’s commitment to excellence.

1967 Toyota 2000GT – $1 million+

An era of automotive excellence followed the manufacture of Toyota’s 2000GT, introduced from 1967 to 1970. The car features a low-slung profile and evokes a sense of timeless elegance. It is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-six engine producing 150 horsepower and is aptly known as Japan’s first supercar. Only 351 units were ever built, this rarity adding to its high market value, which now exceeds $1 million. 

1967 Ferrari 330 P4 – $10 million

The 1967 Ferrari 330 P4 is famed for its unrivaled racing capabilities and breathtaking aesthetics. Only three specimens were initially produced, heightening its cost to astronomical levels. It was manufactured from 1967 to 1968, during which time it dominated the racing circuit. A meticulously engineered V12 engine and aerodynamically refined bodywork gave it a formidable competitive edge.