The 40 Car Colors With The Best (And Worst) Resale Value, Ranked
When you're buying a car, it's important to remember that even if your new ride looks beautiful when you drive it off the lot, come time to sell, it won't fetch the same price. Different colors of cars retain their value at various levels. Some provide decent resale value, while others will plummet because of the paint color.
Which colors should buyers opt for to make sure they're getting the best bang for their buck? Some of the best picks may surprise you. Read on to see the best (and worst) car colors in terms of depreciation of value.
Best: Black
No surprises here. Black cars are common among car buyers because of their sleek and modern appearance. It's extremely versatile and is bound to look good on any model.
Black paint is also easy to maintain and can easily be kept clean. If an element needs to be repainted, the color can be matched without any issues. The average 3-year depreciation of black cars is around 24%.
Worst: Bright Yellow
Bright yellow has always been a controversial color among buyers. Some of them like it because of how flashy it is since such a vibrant color easily stands out in the crowd.
At the same time, less extravagant buyers will consider bright yellow to be drawing way too much attention to them. Fans of bright yellow are certainly in the minority, which is why cars painted in this color tend to depreciate much quicker than usual.
Best: White
White cars are common, yet they still manage to stand out on the road. This color is nearly as versatile as black and doesn't absorb heat in the sun as much. It's another safe option that's beloved by buyers worldwide.
Cars painted in this sleek color are also easier to spot on the roads. White cars tend to depreciate slowly, with the average 3-year depreciation at just 15%.
Worst: Maroon
Maroon is a classic car color that brings a sense of sophistication to any vehicle. Due to maroon's unique qualities, its resale value has been an interesting subject of debate. It comes down to condition and rarity. A classic maroon car with great upkeep and an interesting backstory will reel in some great offers from collectors or those looking for an upgrade.
On the other hand, if the maroon car suffers from too much wear and tear, the resale value could be lower than other colors. So, if you're looking to invest in a maroon car, take your time to find one in top condition. Otherwise, it could be a bad idea.
Best: Blue
Blue cars have a great appeal to them, and many drivers take them as a style statement. Blue is a mild and elegant color, yet a more lively shade of it can be very extravagant. Blue cars are also among the typical choices of car collectors for their priceless gems.
Sports car owners often opt for blue to make them look more stylish. There is no doubt that if you are into making a style statement and standing out from the crowd, then picking a blue ride will be a great choice. The average 3-year depreciation of a blue car is around 14%.
Worst: Mint Green
Mint green is a timeless classic car color, rarely seen enough to make a lasting impression. The light, vibrant tint adds depth and character to any car, no matter the make or model. Whether it's painted on a vintage classic or a luxury compact, mint green cars are a bold and extravagant color choice.
That's precisely why they're among the worst offenders in terms of depreciation. Mint Green cars have not been able to attract many buyers, as most owners tend to like their cars in a more modest manner.
Best: Silver
Silver cars symbolize elegance for those who are into bright and attention-grabbing modern hues, minus the extravagance of yellow or green. It can be considered a more prestigious alternative, as this color indicates innovation and gives the car a mild and sleek look.
Therefore, silver is also a top pick among car buyers. Its sheen is reflective, which is why it does not get dirty quite as easily. Instead, even with a lot of dirt accumulation, silver makes your car appear to be tidy and all set to make a move.
Best: Red
Red cars are ideal for those who are into making a bold style statement. Red is a color of passion and when you want to achieve a unique presence. Red is also a color that's frequently found on luxury sports cars, so many buyers associate it with sporty performance.
Going with a red car is a flawless choice to make in terms of both style and slow depreciation. From a psychological perspective, red cars can also express the mentality of the drivers based on risk-taking and making bold decisions.
Best: Green
Green is a classic choice and gives a sense of elegance to the drivers and passengers. Buyers are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to all the different shades of green offered by manufacturers worldwide. For the most part, picking a green color for your ride will cause it to depreciate slower than most colors.
Green cars can also symbolize sustainability, so they're the ideal choice for sleek, fuel-efficient automobiles.
Worst: Gold
By now, it has probably become apparent that extravagant colors don't tend to do very well when it comes to depreciation. Gold cars are a prime example. They're not only a representation of affluence but can also be regarded as a way to show off.
Therefore, the takes on gold cars are different. Some people consider them overly flashy. Some buyers are keen to get their hands on a gold-colored vehicle, but they're definitely in the minority.
Best: Grey
Gray cars have quite a neutral feel to them. Due to this reason, many vehicle producers offer their models in various shades of this color. Many buyers are fans of this color, as it offers a balance of style and modesty.
Other than this, gray is also sophisticated and never disappoints you in terms of getting a modern and sleek feel. Grey cars are always elegant, no matter the make or model.
Best: Navy Blue
When it comes to vehicle resale value, car buyers are always looking for something unique that will also hold its value well over time. Navy is the perfect choice for car owners who want to make a statement while maintaining good resale value.
Not only is the dark shade of blue attractive and modern, but Navy vehicles also tend to increase in value after initial purchase. This can be attributed to the rareness of the color and its strong reputation as a more luxurious option.
Worst: Pink
Picking pink for your car might seem like a fun choice at first, but when it comes to resale, it can be a bit of a downer. People in the used car market usually lean towards the classics like black, white, or silver.
Pink cars might give off a too-specific vibe, and not everyone's into it. It's not about dissing the color; it's just that it's a bit like choosing a funky wallpaper – what you love might not be everyone's jam. Besides, pink cars can be a tough match with other styles. It's not impossible, but it might take more effort than most buyers are up for.
Best: Metallic Bronze
Most buyers will be happy to hear that metallic bronze might actually rev up your resale game. While everyone's drooling over the classic black, white, and silver rides, the metallic bronze can make your car stand out in a crowd.
Metallic bronze is essentially the chameleon of car colors. It can vibe with different styles and doesn't mind mixing and matching. If you're thinking long-term and want your car to be the hot ticket in the resale market, that metallic bronze might just be the secret sauce.
Best: Champagne
Picking champagne as the color for your next ride is a smart move for the resale hustle. While the car world might have its crushes on the classics like black, white, and silver, don't sleep on the sophistication of champagne. It's like bringing a touch of luxury to the used car scene, making your four-wheeled buddy stand out in a sea of sameness.
Champagne is surprisingly versatile, like the chameleon of car shades. It can effortlessly blend in with different vibes so that you can pick and choose the perfect spec for your vehicle.
Worst: Orange
Orange is another flashy color, and therefore, for most drivers, it is not the best pick. People have different takes on orange cars. Some consider them vibrant, while for others, this color can ruin the resale value at a later point.
The hard truth is that orange cars tend to depreciate quickly. The exception here would be high-end gems, as a rare and vibrant color may boost its value even further. In most cases, however, orange can negatively impact the resale value of a vehicle.
Best: Burgundy
Want to go with burgundy for your next car? You're diving into a color that may just add some serious flair to the resale game. While the car market often sways towards the classics, don't underestimate the charm of burgundy. It's like giving your vehicle a dash of sophistication that stands out in a sea of ordinary, all while maintaining a high resale value.
Burgundy is more than just another color; it's a proper statement. It brings a touch of elegance without going overboard. Plus, it's got that classic vibe that doesn't age.
Best: Charcoal
Charcoal is another car color that's beloved for its perfect modern and contemporary look. This is a solid pick that's much less common than black or silver, yet it still maintains a neutral and classy tone.
Charcoal exudes a sense of modernity and timelessness that can make your car stand out in a crowd without any flashiness. Whether you're cruising through city streets or suburban neighborhoods, charcoal blends in effortlessly while still making a statement.
Worst: Beige
Beige can sometimes hit a speed bump when it comes to resale value, especially in comparison with the classic colors that most buyers typically opt for. It's like bringing a vanilla ice cream cone to a flavor-packed party; it might not stand out as much.
Beige isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, but it tends to hover in the background. It lacks the wow factor that makes a car pop on the resale runway or the contemporary feel of a safer color choice. So, if you're eyeing that resale value, you might want to consider a hue that's more universal.
Best: Pearl White
Pearl White is an option that's often overlooked by buyers when seeking out their new ride. For an extremely modern and pure look, pearl white may just be the perfect choice. This color represents luxury and sophistication. It's more flamboyant than a regular white hue, yet just as universal.
There is no doubt that pearl white is a color that enhances the appeal of cars and adds to their cost as well. Also, it works well in summer and looks brilliant around darker elements.
Best: Midnight Blue
Buyers choosing midnight blue are diving into a shade that can seriously amp up their resale value. This playful color brings a touch of sophistication with a dash of mystery. It's like giving your ride a cloak of coolness that sets it apart from the usual suspects.
Midnight blue radiates a sense of elegance and timelessness, making your car a standout player in the resale game. Picture cruising down the street in your midnight blue chariot – you're not just driving a car; you're making a statement.
Worst: Lavender
Opting for lavender on your car? Brace yourself because it might not be the resale scene's shining star. Lavender surely stands out; however, it is for all the wrong reasons, at least when it comes to the resale value.
Lavender screams "niche taste." It's like choosing the eccentric option when most people are rocking the tried-and-true. Resale-wise, lavender might be a tough sell, as potential buyers may find it challenging to justify as opposed to safer alternatives.
Best: Matte Black
Matte black symbolizes a bold and contemporary appeal. These are not only among the aesthetic cars but also stand best among the other color options. It's essentially black with an edgy twist that demands attention and leaves a memorable mark.
Matte black has this undeniable coolness that breaks away from the glossy crowd. Choosing it is bold and unconventional, all while oozing individuality as well. In the resale game, matte black isn't just a safe choice; it's a proclamation that resonates with those seeking a ride that stands out.
Best: Copper
Copper is among the metallic hues and has a reflective nature. It is not among the flashy hues but still proves to be a good option for symbolizing luxury and style. It's an infusion of personality that adds a touch of richness to your vehicle, no matter the make and model.
Copper isn't for the faint of heart; it's a bold choice that grabs attention. Resale-wise, copper might not be everyone's cup of tea, but those craving a ride that breaks away from the norm will certainly appreciate its eccentric nature.
Worst: Cream
Picking cream as the color for your next ride is a guarantee to hit a resale speed bump. The primary issue with cream is it doesn't necessarily sync with the mainstream vibe, as most buyers will opt for black, white, or red.
Cream is a subtle choice; sometimes, subtlety might not scream resale value. Potential buyers might find cream a tad too understated, making it a tougher sell compared to more vibrant options.
Best: Steel Blue
Buckle up; choosing steel blue is a savvy move for the resale game. This lively color is like bringing a touch of sophistication and modernity to the party. It brings an effortlessly cool vibe that resonates with a broad audience.
Steel blue manages to strike a balance between being eye-catching and universally appealing. Resale-wise, steel blue stands out without veering into niche territory, making it a solid choice for those aiming for a unique color that won't depreciate quickly.
Best: Olive Green
Olive green on your car is a solid choice, especially for those eyeing a unique yet versatile option. It's another pick that manages to stand out while also being pretty unique out on the roads. Olive green provides the perfect balance between boldness and timelessness.
This color effortlessly combines eye-catching allure with a sense of subtlety, like a serene forest in the midst of an urban landscape. Olive green stands out without being overly flashy, making it a smart and versatile option for those seeking a strong resale value.
Worst: Brown
It should not come as a surprise that a brown car can be a tough sell. This is a color that won't resonate with most buyers. If you're a fan of brown cars, you're most certainly in the minority.
Brown is a choice that can be perceived as traditional or understated. In the resale game, it might lack the attention-grabbing factor that appeals to a broader audience or the universal appeal that black or silver has.
Best: Graphite
While the car world often revolves around classic tones like black, white, and silver, graphite brings a touch of sophistication and a modern edge to the ride. This sleek color will easily resonate with most car owners, and as a result, it depreciates slower than other colors.
Graphite manages to blend eye-catching allure with timeless appeal. It's like slipping into a tailored suit – effortlessly stylish yet versatile. Resale-wise, graphite stands out without being too flashy, making it a smart choice for those seeking a strong resale value.
Best: Crimson Red
Crimson Red is a symbol of passion and brightness. It is a deep shade of red and, therefore, can be used as a definition of luxury and sophistication. This bold and energetic choice catches the eyes and leaves a lasting impression.
Crimson red strikes a balance between being attention-grabbing and universally appealing; when it comes to resale value, this is a confident choice that offers a departure from the ordinary without veering into overly niche territory. Opting for crimson red for your car is like adding a touch of excitement to the asphalt, making it a strong contender for those aiming at maintaining a high resale value.
Worst: Purple
Purple can be a tougher sell. By now, it is no secret that buyers prefer safer color options when choosing a vehicle. This is certainly not one of them.
Purple is a choice that can be seen as bold or unconventional. It may lack the broad appeal that attracts a wide range of buyers, killing its resale value as a result. Potential buyers might find purple less versatile compared to more neutral options. If you're eyeing a resale that appeals to a larger audience, you might want to reconsider purple and opt for a more universally accepted choice instead.
Best: Platinum
Platinum is another color option that adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to your ride. This understated elegance resonates with a wide audience, which can have a positive impact on the car and its slow depreciation.
Platinum effortlessly combines eye-catching allure with timeless appeal, akin to donning a perfectly tailored suit. It stands out without being overly flashy. So, if you want your car to exude a sense of refined style in the used car market, platinum could be the winning ticket to attract potential buyers and cruise with a touch of timeless grace.
Best: Mocha
Mocha combines gray and brown and turns into a warm, cozy color. It is a neutral tone and is not too flashy, either. At the same time, it is a much less obvious choice than some safer hues. Mocha will introduce a touch of warmth and sophistication to your ride.
This cool color effortlessly blends eye-catching allure with timeless elegance, like sipping on a perfectly brewed coffee. Resale-wise, mocha stands out without being too bold, making it a smart and versatile choice for those aiming for a ride that won't depreciate as quickly.
Worst: Mustard Yellow
Mustard yellow is far from the most desired color choice in the world. In fact, this bold and unconventional color is disliked by the majority of buyers.
In the resale game, it may lack the broad appeal that caters to a wide range of buyers. It's like selecting an avant-garde piece in a room filled with traditional artwork. Potential buyers might find mustard yellow less versatile, potentially impacting the resale value.
Best: Sky Blue
Sky Blue vehicles are vibrant and give a calming vibe. Also, these cars look trendy and represent the playful nature of the driver. Bold yet highly appealing, sky-blue cars prove to be a great choice that can also have a positive impact on depreciation.
Opting for sky blue on your car is a fantastic choice for the resale game. It's an uplifting and universally appealing choice that the majority of buyers will adore. Sky blue combines eye-catching allure with a sense of tranquility, like cruising beneath a clear blue sky.
Best: British Racing Green
British Racing Green is a darker shade of green, which is quite common in the sports and racing industries. This color is adored by fans of Aston Martin or Jaguar.
British Racing Green effortlessly combines eye-catching allure with a sense of elegance, like navigating the curves of a scenic track. It also stands out without being overly bold, making it a smart and versatile option for those seeking a color that depreciates slower than usual.
Worst: Lime Green
Although lime green can work on exotic cars, it's not the best choice for more conventional vehicles. A statement this bold is simply too much for your everyday ride, and the quick depreciation of lime green cars proves it.
Lime green may lack the broad appeal that caters to a wide range of buyers. It's like selecting a vibrant mural in a room filled with neutral tones. If you're aiming for a slower depreciation, then going with a color that appeals to a larger audience is a must. In this case, you should reconsider lime green.
Best: Sapphire Blue
Sapphire Blue is a color of depth, and we can use it for its elegant nature. It is among the best shades of blue that people like to go for their cars.
Sapphire blue effortlessly combines eye-catching allure with a sense of refinement. Resale-wise, sapphire blue stands out without being overly flashy, making it a smart and versatile option for those aiming for a strong resale value.
Best: Cherry Red
Cherry red is a deep tone that is somewhere between pink and purple. It is another aesthetic color that is not flashy and, therefore, proves to be a good pick that's not as obvious as black or white. It is a playful and attractive color as well, bound to resonate with the majority.
Cherry red effortlessly combines eye-catching allure with a sense of dynamism, like driving through a picturesque autumn landscape. If you want your car to exude a lively and stylish vibe that appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers, cherry red could be the winning hue.
Worst: Chrome
A chrome-colored car will likely present a resale challenge. It's a finish that can be perceived as bold and attention-grabbing. However, in the resale game, it may lack the broad appeal that caters to a wide range of buyers.
It's like selecting a spotlight in a room filled with softer lighting. Potential buyers might find chrome less versatile, potentially impacting the resale value. So, if you're aiming for a resale that appeals to a larger audience, you might want to reconsider chrome and explore more universally accepted finishes in the used car market.
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