Future Classics: 40 Modern Cars That Will End Up Being Legendary
A classic isn't just defined by its performance, looks, or even age – what truly defines a classic is its ability to stir emotions, capture imaginations, and offer a unique driving experience that sets it apart from the ordinary. As we speak, a number of cars on the market are on their way to becoming so.
These cars have all the ingredients to become future classics – be it unmatched performance, soul-stirring engagement, or limited production run – and they are captivating not just enthusiasts, but also collectors. So, behold… 40 modern cars that will end up being legendary.
BMW 1-Series M Coupe
The BMW 1-Series M Coupe is a true M-badged gem, offering a true enthusiast experience. Originally intended to be a limited production run of fewer than 3,000 units, BMW ultimately produced over 6,300 cars, with 740 reaching the US. This little powerhouse is not a looker – its stubby, lumpy design and downmarket interior may not win design awards… but its performance speaks volumes.
Powered by a 335-hp twin-turbo straight-six from the 335is and featuring components from the E92 M3, the 1M is a driver's car with no frills. With a 6-speed manual and a lightweight 3,340-pound curb weight, it excels in handling and is a sheer joy to drive.
Dodge SRT Viper
The Dodge SRT Viper marked the final chapter of the legendary American supercar. Unlike its raw predecessors, the last generation introduced modern safety features like ABS, traction control, and electronic stability control when it debuted in 2013.
Powered by an 8.4-liter V10, it churned out a staggering 640 horsepower with 600 lb-ft of torque. With a 0-60 mph sprint time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 206 mph, the SRT Viper remains a raw, unapologetic symbol of American performance... and one of the most brutal sports cars in history.
Audi R8 (First Gen)
The Audi R8 4.2 V8 was once dismissed as too tame, but time has proven it to be a modern classic. Its 414-hp 4.2L FSI V8, borrowed from the B7 RS4, may not have set records, but paired with a gated six-speed manual, it delivers a fun and engaging driving experience.
The R8's mid-engine layout, daily usability, and exotic design makes it a supercar you could actually live with. While early R8s are still under $100,000, prices are rising. With manual transmissions disappearing and Audi discontinuing the R8 altogether, the first-gen V8 R8 will only appreciate over time.
Mazda MX-5
The third generation Mazda MX-5 (NC) gained widespread appreciation for its solid build quality, for its top-notch reliability, and for being extremely refined compared to its predecessors. It featured a limited-slip differential and a choice of five- or six-speed manuals.
Though the powertrain was modest… but the car was meant for driving pleasure and nothing else. Its agility and willingness to change direction made it an absolute treat for purists. The 2009 facelift further improved steering precision, ride comfort, and chassis fluidity, making it a highly enjoyable roadster.
McLaren P1
A groundbreaking hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1 ushered in an era of electrified performance along with the Porsche 918 Spyder and LaFerrari. Powered by a twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor, it delivers a combined 903 hp while weighing a mere 3,280 pounds (lighter than both the 918 and LaFerrari).
The P1 features electric-only drive modes and torque fill for seamless power delivery. Though its design follows McLaren's signature look, its roaring performance and carbon-fiber construction make it truly special. With an estimated market of $1.5-2 million, it remains rare and highly coveted.
Nissan 350Z (2002-08)
Made from 2002 to 2009, the Nissan 350Z is a legendary sports car in the tuner world. It was powered by a 3.5L V6 that churned out 306 hp and 274 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds.
This iconic two-door, two-seater sports car became a staple in racing video games, captivating a generation… and now those enthusiasts are seeking the real deal. Its fulfilling performance, precise handling, captivating looks, and cult following make it a classic automotive icon!
Aston Martin V12 Vantage (2009-16)
Featuring a naturally aspirated 5.9L V12, churning out 565 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed dogleg manual, the 2009-2016 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is a glorious anachronism. It delivers a brutal yet refined driving experience, topping out at 205 mph and hitting 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.
The V12 Vantage comes with hydraulic steering, a highly communicative chassis, and carbon-ceramic brakes… all of which makes it a joy on both twisty canyon roads and the racetrack. The car's pure, unfiltered driving experience and soul-stirring engagement make it a potential future classic.
Lexus LFA
The Lexus LFA is hands-down one of the most iconic cars ever made. Powered by a 4.8L V10 designed with Yamaha, the engine revs to 9,000 rpm and produces up to 553 hp. Oh, and it's the best sounding engine ever. Moreover, both the body and chassis are made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic.
With just 500 units built between 2010-12 and a rare Nurburgring Edition pushing prices even higher, the LFA remains a true collector's piece. It consistently trades for $700,000 to $800,000… and is a true classic in the making.
Mazda RX-8
The Mazda RX-8 debuted in 2003 as a successor to the beloved RX-7. Marking the end of an era for the iconic Wankel rotary engine, it featured a naturally aspirated Renesis rotary engine that produced 238 horsepower and offered a more balanced driving experience.
The RX-8, however, retained the sharp, responsive handling of its predecessor. In contrast with the traditional two-seater sports cars, it had rear-hinged freestyle doors to get access to rear seats. By the time production ended in 2012, the RX-8 was already a rare breed… so it makes sense for it to become a classic some years down the line.
Nissan GT-R Nismo
A 600-hp twin-turbo AWD monster with a mechanical limited-slip diff, improved cooling, and added downforce, the Nissan GT-R Nismo is the swan song of the legendary R35 GT-R. Despite its 3,858-lb curb weight, it remains surgically precise and brutally quick… with a 0-60 time of just 2.5 seconds.
The GT-R Nismo embodies Nissan's old-school, overbuilt engineering that dominated the 1990s JDM era. With the rest of Nissan moving toward electrification, this $220k sports car is likely on borrowed time. A relic of the brand’s relentless pursuit of excess, it’s a modern classic for sure.
Lamborghini Huracán Performante
With its 631-hp naturally aspirated V10 engine and its ALA active aero system that channels air through the body for optimal performance, the Lamborghini Huracán Performante is where the Huracán lineup peaked.
The super car offers a perfect blend of lightness, loudness, and razor-sharp precision, making it a true standout. More importantly, it's aggressive without being overly flamboyant. As the Huracán is phased out, the Performante stands as its crowning achievement. It’s a future classic, with its current market ranging from $270,000 to $320,000.
Honda S2000
One of the most celebrated driver's cars of all time, the S2000's legacy is defined by its high-revving F20C engine and its impeccably engaging driving experience. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder produced 240 horsepower at 8300 rpm… and was capable of screaming to an 8900 rpm redline.
This was paired with a precise six-speed manual transmission and a chassis that perfectly balanced grip and feedback. The 2004 revision made gearshifts even smoother and increased engine displacement to 2.2 liters to improve low-end drivability. All in all, the car’s perfect balance, sharp handling, and timeless looks made it a true enthusiast's gem.
Bugatti Chiron
The Bugatti Chiron takes the legendary Veyron's foundation and improves upon it in every way… be it performance, reliability, or design. The hypercar is not just a visual masterpiece, but also a marvel of engineering. Powered by a monstrous 1,600-hp quad-turbocharged W16 engine with a 0-60 time of 2.3 seconds, it famously hit 304 mph in a 2019 test run.
The Chiron’s rarity, beauty, and technological sophistication make it a surefire future classic. At a starting price of $3.8 million, this hypercar is undeniably worth the investment… for those who can afford it.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R is no ordinary Mustang – it's a track-focused masterpiece with a 5.2L Voodoo flat-plane-crank V8 that screams to 8,250 rpm and delivers 526 hp through a six-speed manual. Unlike typical Mustangs, the R model came with carbon fiber wheels – a feature only shared with Koenigsegg at the time.
It also featured a carbon rear wing, aggressive aero, and a 130-lb weight reduction by ditching amenities like the rear seats and A/C. This hardcore setup, along with limited production and its naturally aspirated uniqueness, makes it a surefire future classic. Prices today hit up to $130,000, but as an analog, high-revving rarity, the GT350R will only become more coveted over time.
Bentley Continental GT W12 (2018-21)
The final chapter for Bentley's legendary twin-turbo W12, the third-gen Bentley Continental GT is an iconic luxury grand tourer. Blending opulence with brute force, it delivers effortless jet-like acceleration with its 650-hp powerhouse and offers billions of customization options to create a truly bespoke machine.
This Continental GT marks the end of an era as Bentley moved to V8s, hybrids, and EVs after this. A symbol of old-world power and excess before electrification took over, it’s a surefire future classic, with current prices hovering around $300k and limited numbers only expected to drive values higher.
Audi TT-RS
The Audi TT-RS is all about raw power, agile movements, and lots of refinement. Equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive and Audi's iconic 2.5-liter turbo inline-five engine churning up to 400 hp, it delivers thrilling performance that rivals supercars. And it does all of that in a compact and super-stylish coupe.
The blend of muscle-car performance and sports car handling is too tempting for the enthusiasts to overlook. Moreover, since the TT-RS is the last of Audi's cars to feature this unique engine, it’s a surefire modern classic as the brand shifts toward electrification in future models.
Ferrari 458 Speciale
The 458 Speciale represents the pinnacle of naturally aspirated mid-engine Ferraris, before turbocharging and hybrid tech took over. Lighter by 200 pounds than the 458 Italia, it boasts 597 hp at 9,000 rpm from its 4.5L flat-plane V8 and delivers a truly earth-shattering exhaust note.
One of Ferrari's last great purist machines, the 458 Speciale is razor-sharp yet thrillingly raw, thanks to quicker shifts, side slip control, and an electronic diff. With only 1,300 coupes and fewer than 500 Apertas built, its rarity, performance, and drive experience make it a certified future classic. Prices hover around $500k, with Apertas already touching $800k.
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
The ultimate expression of Dodge's Hellcat insanity, the Challenger SRT Demon was built for just one purpose – dominate the drag strip. Limited to 3,300 units, this 808-hp (840 hp on race fuel) monster could blast through the quarter-mile in 9.65 seconds… and was so fast that it got banned from most tracks.
As the LX-platform era ends, the Demon stands as a rare, over-the-top relic of raw American horsepower. Prices have already surged to as much as $150,000… but it’s just the beginning. The Demon will only become more legendary as gas-powered muscle fades.
Porsche Cayman
Built for purists who crave an unfiltered and visceral experience, the Porsche 718 Cayman is a true driver's car. While its flat-six-powered GTS 4.0 and GT4 RS variants deliver the most thrill with 394 and 493 hp respectively, even the turbocharged four-cylinder models offer a fulfilling ride with up to 350 horses under the hood.
The Cayman’s mid-engine layout grants exceptional balance, while Porsche’s chassis expertise makes it surgically precise on the road… oh, and don’t forget the six-speed manual transmission! On the inside, an ergonomically perfect cockpit places the shifter, pedals, and wheel exactly where they should be.
Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible
A rare and significant model from the C6 era, the Corvette 427 Convertible was produced to celebrate the legendary LS7 V8 engine from the Z06. With 505 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, this powerhouse was paired with a regular Corvette's steel chassis, as engineers deemed the Z06’s aluminum frame too soft for a convertible.
Despite this, most of the 427’s components, including the suspension and brakes, were taken straight from the Z06… so the performance was near-identical. Since it marked the end of the large-displacement, naturally aspirated Chevy convertible, this Corvette is a classic for sure.
Jaguar XK
Blending British elegance with performance, the Jaguar XK is a standout in the modern classic scene. The pre-facelift model features a 300 hp 4.2-litre V8, while the post-facelift cars pack a more powerful 380 hp 5.0-litre V8. For more performance, there are supercharged R models… and the mighty XKR-S, which pushes output to up to 540 hp.
The post-facelift engine also offers a smoother and incredibly responsive experience. Despite being a performance machine, the XK also shines as a practical daily driver, with ample comfort for tall individuals, reasonable fuel efficiency, and remarkably charming looks!
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
With an old-school, supercharged 6.2L LT4 V8 paired with a six-speed manual in a luxury sedan – the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing offers a rare experience. Churning out 668 hp, it's one of GM’s finest engines, delivering raw power with surprising durability and an intoxicating exhaust note.
Then, there's MagRide suspension and a super-balanced chassis that perfectly blend brute force with precision handling. Unlike most high-performance sedans, it’s also practical… and at $99,090, it easily undercuts European rivals. As the era of big-displacement, manual super sedans fades, the Blackwing’s rarity and analog purity will ensure its future classic status.
Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 (2014-15)
Built for those who demand raw performance over comfort, the 2014 Camaro Z/28 was a track-bred monster… featuring a 7.0L LS7 V8 that produced 505 hp while working with a six-speed manual. Unlike its more refined counterparts, the Z/28 shed unnecessary weight – no trunk trim, minimal sound insulation, and even no A/C – to maximize agility.
Chevrolet went all in, and fitted the car with carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes, a Torsen limited-slip differential, aggressive aero enhancements, and race-ready DSSV shocks. The Z/28 also had 305-section Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires that helped the car decelerate at 1.5g and pull nearly 1.1g in corners!
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
The Giulia Quadrifoglio marked Alfa Romeo's bold return to its performance roots when it debuted in 2015. It was powered by a Ferrari-derived 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, that churned out 503 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque… enabling it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
As the brand’s first rear-wheel-drive model in 30 years, the Quadrifoglio combined thrilling acceleration with razor-sharp handling. The six-speed manual option was discontinued after 2017 (which makes it an even more of a classic)... but even the ZF eight-speed automatic is not bad.
Nissan GT-R
The Nissan GT-R made its mark as an iconic performance machine when it hit the streets in 2008. With its 3.8-liter V6 that churned out more than 500 horses and could do 0-60 in just 3.3 seconds, it was a supercar slayer.
What really set the GT-R apart was its ability to outperform a number of performance cars at a fraction of their price. Yes, there were a few issues (such as the early transmission problems), but its nimble handling and track-ready persona made it a true icon.
Porsche 911 Carrera (991.1)
The truth is, we can include a lot of 911s in this list. But if we were to select just one, we'd like to go with the Carrera (991.1). Why? Well, it marks the last 911 to feature a naturally aspirated flat-six before the shift to turbocharging in later models.
The base Carrera comes with a 3.4-liter flat-six producing 350 horsepower and 287 lb-ft of torque, while the more powerful Carrera S uses a 3.8-liter flat-six with 430 horsepower and 324 lb-ft. The car’s combination of performance, classic 911 styling, and the last of the naturally aspirated engines makes it every enthusiast’s dream!
BMW Z4 (E85/E86)
The first-generation BMW Z4 (E85/E86), produced from 2003 to 2008, was initially overshadowed by the Porsche Boxster and Cayman, but it has since earned a cult following. While all Z4s offered sharp handling and a driver-focused experience, the real star was the Z4 M.
Powered by the legendary 3.2L S54 inline-six from the E46 M3, it produced 343 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque, launching from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Paired with a six-speed ZF manual, the Z4 M delivered a raw, engaging drive. Today, it stands as an underrated yet thrilling modern classic with true M-car DNA!
Ford GT (First Gen)
Ford launched the GT in 2005 to pay tribute to the legendary GT40 and celebrate its historic Le Mans victories over Ferrari. This road-going supercar featured a 5.4L supercharged V8 pumping out 550 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual for a pure driving experience.
The GT's unique butterfly doors, race-inspired cockpit, and aggressive styling made it an instant classic. Limited to just 4,038 units, it was rare even when new… and today, it’s one of the most sought after Ford vehicles. It’s a pure driver’s car that demands full attention and rewards skilled hands with exhilarating performance!
Bugatti Veyron
With a 8.0L quad-turbocharged W16 engine delivering an astonishing 1,001 hp (which increased to 1,200 hp in the Super Sport), the Veyron is considered by many as the first hypercar. It catapulted from 0-60 in less than 3 seconds and had a record-breaking top speed of 253 mph. The Super Sport variant later pushed this even further to 267.8 mph, cementing its place as one of the fastest production cars ever.
A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, all-wheel drive, and Michelin PAX tires – custom-made to handle its extreme speed – further made this hypercar special. Though surpassed by its successor, the Chiron, the Veyron will always remain an automotive icon. Just 500 units were made!
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (2008-15)
Known for its naturally aspirated 6.2-liter M156 V8 engine, this charismatic car is brutally quick, thanks to its 481-hp powertrain which maxes at 507 hp in the rare 507 Edition. The C63 AMG offers an intoxicatingly raw power delivery that turbocharged engines just can't replicate.
Unlike modern 4.0-liter turbocharged V8s, the M156 delivers a linear, visceral driving experience with a sound that has become iconic in the performance car world. Yes, the C-Class sedans and coupes are not the most luxurious… but the M156 engine single-handedly transforms them into highly sought-after performance icons.
Acura NSX Type S
The Acura NSX Type S addressed the shortcomings of its predecessor and delivered the performance fans had been waiting for. Powered by a 602-hp twin-turbo V6 with electric motors boosting 492 lb-ft of torque, it's quicker off the line and more responsive, thanks to lower gear ratios and a reprogrammed nine-speed dual-clutch.
The Type S also had enhanced downforce, retuned suspension, and a more aggressive exhaust note – all of which made it far more engaging than the original NSX. With only 350 units produced, and just 300 for the US, it may cost as much as $270,000, and is definitely a classic in the making.
Chevrolet SS (2014-17)
A four-door, rear-wheel-drive V8 sports sedan with a manual transmission, the 2014-2017 Chevrolet SS flaunted a formula that's nearly extinct in the modern era. Thanks to its 6.2L LS3 engine that churned out 415 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, this sleeper sedan was potent enough to hover near performance car territory.
Moreover, with its Tremec six-speed manual and Magnetic Ride Control, it perfectly combined old-school muscle with modern handling finesse. With just 12,924 units sold in the US (before Holden Commodore’s demise), the SS is already a cult classic!
Lotus Evora GT
The Lotus Evora GT is one of the most engaging driver's cars of the modern era. It’s built for those who crave raw connection over outright speed… and exudes this purpose from the moment you settle into its low-slung cockpit.
Powered by a mid-mounted 416-hp 3.5L supercharged V6, the Evora thrives on twisting roads, where its six-speed manual transmission and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s create an intoxicating rhythm of power and grip. Sure, rivals like the C8 Corvette offer more muscle, but not a lot of cars feel this alive. It’s a true purist’s machine!
Honda Civic Type R (FL5)
Blending raw performance with everyday usability, the current generation Civic Type R is a masterclass in precision engineering. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder churns out 315 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most potent front-wheel-drive machines ever. But it's not just about power – the perfectly weighted steering, crisp six-speed manual, and track-tuned suspension make this car simply irresistible.
Yes, the Civic Type R may lack the flash of six-figure supercars… but it punches far above its weight and delivers Porsche 911 GT3-level engagement in a super-practical package. It’s also lighter, sharper, and more composed than ever!
Porsche 918 Spyder
Blending raw power and hybrid tech in a way that had never been seen before, the Porsche 918 Spyder marks a revolutionary shift in the hypercar world. It features a mid-mounted naturally aspirated V8 that produces 599 hp, with the output increasing to 875 hp in the hybrid setup.
Staying true to Porsche's design ethos, the 918 is unarguably better looking and more usable compared to LaFerrari and McLaren P1. With only 1,000 units made, this limited edition hypercar commands a price of $1.5 million to $2 million, with Weissach pack variants going for even more!
Maserati GranTurismo I
Designed by Pininfarina, the Maserati GranTurismo I exuded timeless elegance while packing a Ferrari-derived V8 under the hood. With its 454-hp powertrain, it delivered pure automotive music… and a 0-60 mph time of less than 5 seconds. Not the quickest GT, but it guaranteed a thrilling and emotional drive.
Thanks to its soulful performance, impeccable handling, striking looks, and unmatched tune (that sounds like nothing else on the market), the GranTurismo I is poised to be a modern classic. As a matter of fact, its prices are already on the rise!
Lucid Air Sapphire
The Lucid Air Sapphire redefines performance in the EV space. With an impressive 1,234 hp, this luxury sedan shatters expectations, delivering a 2.1-second 0-60 sprint and consistent 9-second quarter-mile times. It's powered by three electric motors, and can traverse 427 miles before needing another recharge.
In addition to the heart-throbbing performance, the Sapphire boasts a pretty exterior, a lavish interior, and an immaculately tuned chassis. While the car comes at a premium price of $250k, it’s sure to cement itself as an icon in the rise of performance EVs.
Cadillac CTS-V Wagon
Bending brute muscle with the practicality of a wagon, the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon is one of the most unique performance vehicles of its era. It featured a 556-hp supercharged V8, rear-wheel drive, magnetorheological dampers, and Brembo brakes.
The CTS-V Wagon was built to compete with the likes of the Audi RS6 Avant and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon. Since it was a niche vehicle, the V model made up only a small fraction of CTS wagon sales… which is just one of the reasons for it being a highly sought after Caddy.
Lotus Elise
When the Lotus Elise debuted in 2004, it redefined the sports car experience in America with its ultra-lightweight design (around 2000 pounds), its engaging driving experience, and its relatively accessible price. These cars weren't the fastest on the road (courtesy to the modest 1.8-liter, 190-hp powertrain), but their ability to dance through corners made them incredibly fun.
Though production ceased in 2011 due to new regulations, their appeal hasn’t waned even yet. Both the Elise and its hardtop counterpart, the Exige, continue to captivate enthusiasts looking for pure, unfiltered motoring joy.
Pontiac Solstice GXP
Made from 2007 to 2009, the Pontiac Solstice GXP took the stylish but underpowered base Solstice and turned it into a true sports car. Under the hood, it packed a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four, producing 260 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a factory performance kit further bumping output to 290 hp and 341 lb-ft.
This enabled the GXP to have a 5.2-second 0-60 mph sprint, putting it in Z4 and RX-8 territory. Moreover, the car's lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, and available manual transmission made it an absolute joy to drive.
