** Classic and historically significant vehicles—those aged over 20 years or approaching “historic” status within a decade—are experiencing soaring global demand. Auction houses and events like Bologna’s Auto e Moto d’Epoca highlight the sector’s robust post-pandemic recovery, with numerous models appreciating in value. This accessible market spans all budgets: iconic 1970s Fiat 500 variants sell under €10,000, while rarities like the Ferrari F50 command €4 million. A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupé even fetched $145 million in 2022.
Collectors face a choice: invest in low-mileage, pristine vehicles for future returns or drive cherished models recreationally. These goals aren’t mutually exclusive—affordable “youngtimers” like the Nissan 350Z (a rear-drive V6 coupé with 300 HP, priced below €25,000) offer near-supercar thrills. Maintenance and provenance checks remain critical. Ownership costs vary: cars over 30 years qualify for road tax exemption (paying only a €28.40 annual fee), while 20–29-year-old models may receive regional tax breaks.
Amid today’s electric vehicle boom, demand for analog driving experiences endures, especially for models featuring legendary engines like Alfa Romeo’s V6 Busso, BMW’s inline-six, Honda’s V-TEC, Toyota’s VVT-i, or Porsche’s air-cooled flat-six.
Notable Anniversaries:*
– **Fiat Barchetta**: Turns 30 in 2025; debuted at 1995 Geneva Motor Show.
– **Ferrari 308 GTB**: Celebrates 50 years since its 1975 Paris Show debut.
– **BMW 3 Series**: Marks 50 years with over 20 million units sold.
– **Volvo 480 ES**: Production ended 30 years ago.
– **Peugeot 205 Roland Garros**: Launched in 1989.
– **Opel Astra Coupé**: 25th anniversary of its Bertone design.
– **Mercedes R-Class**: 20 years old in 2025.
– **BMW Z3**: 30-year milestone for the 1995 roadster.
– **Fiat Panda**: 40 years; hybrid/GPL/methane record-holder.
– **Renault 4**: 60 years; 8.13 million units sold.
– **Peugeot 205**: 40th anniversary of its 1983 launch.
– **Citroën 2CV Charleston**: 40-year iconic status.
– **Renault 5**: 50 years; 5 million sales ahead of electric revival.
– **Fiat 600**: 65 years; symbol of Italy’s economic boom.
– **Mini**: 64 years since 1959 debut.
– **Fiat X1/9**: 50-year milestone for the beloved spider.
– **Alfa Romeo 4C**: 10 years since 2013 Geneva premiere.
– **Fiat Bravo/Brava**: 30 years since replacing the Tipo in 1995.
(Source: ANSA)*