I've never consciously considered collectability and future values when purchasing a toy, but find it curious that all of mine over the years have become so, and appreciated in value after buying them. I'm curious if there's a formula, and PeerBlock listed a number of interesting criteria. I bought what and when I did because I thought they were really cool cars when I stumbled across them pretty much by accident, and not because I had a plan, or had been a fan, or even paid attention to them when new. Once discovering them I'd do all kinds of research and get really excited...or not in some cases.
I think some of the common factors for me were:
- The "cool" factor. They were all exciting cars in a variety of ways, luxury and performance were a part of that , and I was always surprised I hadn't noticed them before. I've seldom frequented new car shows, and hardly ever followed automobile magazine articles so it was easy for me to have missed anything that wasn't mainstream when new. Specific trim levels and options made the cars cool.
- The "rare" factor. They were all rather low production models, either because they were relatively expensive when new, or didn't suit the needs of many buyers in some way. Rust used to be much more of an issue than it is today, but special interest cars lost to corrosion, accidents and user abuse have made some even more rare. Try to find an unmolested Supra TT. And a car just wasn't "cool" to me if it was even remotely common in any way.
- Desirability of its successor. The Supra Turbo of the late 80's was all the rage until the new twin turbo model came out in 1994, and the market has pretty much forgotten about all of the pre-94 models. It was the best, and then its production ended...score!
- The "used car bargain" factor. They all seemed like a steal compared to what they sold for new, and what you'd currently have to pay to buy something else that cool. They generally cost less than what an average and relatively boring new car was selling for new.
-The "lust" factor. This was more something that developed as I'd research the car and learn what made it truly special. I'd say I must have generally discovered that before the used car buying public or the values would have already appreciated. Which leads to...
-Timing. Values take a huge hit when buying new of course. A good time is when average values have dropped due to age and average vehicle conditions, but while ones in exceptional condition are still available for a small premium.
-Condition. This ties together all of the other factors, and if the condition isn't great the other factors don't mean much. Restoring is expensive, and I think it's always better value to buy in great original condition...and those are the ones that become the most rare and valuable.
-Factory stock. It was the car's factory design and performance that appealed to me, and never looked at it as a canvas to paint my idea of a better version. I think the market is more accepting now of common modifications that are recognized as being desirable for some cars, but the owners of those Supras that installed body kits and huge power mods really lost big time.
I'm not sure how all this would affect anyone purchasing a Gen V Viper, but one thing is for certain...their values will likely drop a long ways before they appreciate!
Bruce
