Is your car a potential money-spinner or will it be nothing but an old banger ready for the scrap-yard in 50 years?
Before you start searching for David Beckham's first car or the model featured in the latest blockbuster film, read what an auction specialist advises to identify cars that might become classics.
Auctioneer Tim Naylor says older examples from iconic British manufacturers such as Jaguar and MG have always tempted classic-car buyers and are likely to do so in the future – whoever owns the brands.
Despite recent news of Ford planning to sell Jaguar the cars remain hugely aspirational and the flowing lines of the bigger saloons are timeless.
Naylor commented: "We know Jaguars from the 1960s are sought after today so it's not a stretch to believe some current models will be desirable in years to come.
"The XJ6 and XJS sedans from a few years ago, for example, could return a good value in years to come. Sports models such as the XK8 and XKR are always likely to be desirable. Coupé and convertible models are definitely worth looking out for."
"The Mazda MX5 is another strong contender for future classic status as it 're-introduced' the traditional two-seat open sports car – but this model will never be scarce and values will reflect that.
"The Honda S2000 is another good bet for the future; it's rarer so might attract a premium."
The Mazda RX-8 already has a cult following and is quirky enough with its rotary engine and "freestyle" rear doors to become sought after, he says. Its roles in "X-Men 2" and The Fast and the Furious – Tokyo Drift" will also increase its future popularity.
Cars with real driver satisfaction such as the mid-engined Toyota MR2 are sure to be in demand in years to come – especially after Toyota's decision to discontinue the MR2 after 22 years.
History tells us that cars with character hold buyers' interest, he explains, but that's a rare quality to pin down. Recent models such as MG's RV8, MGF and MG TF have it and are likely to be admired by classic-car enthusiasts in the years ahead.
Classic convertibles
Convertibles always attract collectors; current models such as the Peugeot 207CC, Ford Street Ka and Audi TT quattro could all achieve cult classic status. And there's the fun-loving Mini, hugely desirable now so it's hard to see that ever changing.
Mini convertibles should be the pick of the bunch simply because of their relative scarcity while the Mini Cooper's antics in "The Italian Job" remake will no doubt boost its status - and keep an eye on the new Countryman as a future classic prospect.
However, the sad fact is 99.99 percent of cars depreciate – and, even for the small percentage that do appreciate in real terms, by the time you've taken into account running costs your money would surely be better off elsewhere if "making a mint" is your aim.
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