The cars that could have doubled in value without their owners realising it
The cost of buying a new car has shot up recently, meaning many drivers are opting to stick with their reliable motors for longer.
And while you might think running them into the ground is more favourable than selling up, that might not always be the case. New research from car marketplace giant Auto Trader has revealed some cars may be worth more than you realised.
In fact, certain popular cars from the noughts have almost doubled in price, reports the Mirror. A 2004 Vauxhall Corsa for example is worth 94.4% more now than it was in 2019.
It isn’t the only mainstream motor from the 00s to go up in price either. Popular models from Ford, Volkswagen, and Renaults could be doing better than expected too.
READ MORE: Supermarket chain axes self-service checkouts to bring back fully-staffed tills
Auto Trader’s editorial director Erin Baker explains: “Some nostalgia trends just leave you asking why? But there’s nothing confusing about the appeal of cars from the noughties.
“They’re simple, reliable, and remind working Brits of when they fell in love with driving.
“While you might not think your car is old enough to be a classic, it may hold a hidden value – so don’t view it as another junk item – save that disdain for your oversized circular belts and bootcut jeans.”
Auto Trader will give you a free valuation online, so it’s well worth checking to see if your car is worth more than you expected. Below are eight cars that might be worth more than you thought.
Don’t miss…
How to get rid of spiders with two household items[LATEST]
Any activity – even sleeping or standing – is better for your heart than sitt…[REPORT]
Use ‘old fashioned’ methods to stay healthy into old age – Sir Chris Whitty[NEWS]
1. Vauxhall Corsa – up by 94.4%
Average price in September 2019: £1,136, average price now £2,197
The Vauxhall Corsa “C”, in this instance, followed the incredibly popular Corsa “B”. It brought big improvements instantly becoming a hit with motorists.
It has always been known as a great first car, a reliable family motor, and a solid runaround. Its looks have aged well, making it a good choice for drivers on a budget.
- Support fearless journalism
- Read The Daily Express online, advert free
- Get super-fast page loading
2. Vauxhall Astra – up by 86.9%
Average price in September 2019: £1,069, average price now £1,998
The Mk4 Astra was known as a fine-looking car with good handling and plenty of space. It sold in droves, and they’re becoming a rare sight now, but some versions, such as the Bertone-styled coupe, are assured future classic status.
3. Renault Megane – up by 80.4%
Average price in September 2019: £1,043, average price now £1,182
The Renault Megane evolded onto the scene in 2002. At the time hatchbacks were becoming a bit dull, and the Megane offered an alternate with its “shaking that ass” advert to promote its unusual tailgate.
It still looks pretty sharp now, but electrical and mechanical gremlins haven’t been kind to it, so its rarity might be behind its increase in value.
4. Ford Focus – up by 74.8%
Average price in September 2019: £1,066, average price now £1,863
The first generation Ford Focus was an absolute game-changer, but it had to be. It had to pick up where the Ford Escort, something of a national treasure, left off.
Superb handling, great interior space, and keen pricing made it the perfect all-rounder. And it still looks great today. To be honest, I’m surprised the value hasn’t increased more.
5. Peugeot 307 – up by 71.4%
Average price in September 2019: £979, average price now £1,678
Possibly not considered Peugeot’s finest hour, the 307 had big boots to fill after the brilliant 306. Strong demand and dealership deals put it in a strong position when it was launched. They’re surprisingly solid, so it’s no wonder they’re still in demand.
6. Ford Mondeo – up by 48.8%
Average price in September 2019: £1,544, average price now £2,298
The nation almost shed a collective tear when the Mondeo was finally axed in 2022. A victim of changing tastes and a thirst for SUVs. But this era of Mondeo was arguably its best iteration.
Comfortable cabins, good road manners, excellent safety scores, and strong reliability made it a firm favourite. And they’re still a great choice for a budget family workhorse now.
7. Ford Fiesta – up by 45.8%
Average price in September 2019: £1,171, average price now £1,707
Another Ford that could well become a future classic. While the Fiesta might have been axed from Ford’s line-up, its legacy still lives on.
This era of Fiesta saw big changes for the small hatchback, and not all of them were widely welcomed, but it was a huge success, largely thanks to its superb handling, spacious interior, and lively engines. Fast versions in mint condition are already starting to command silly prices, so the more mundane ones will doubtless continue to increase in value.
8. Volkswagen Golf – up by 37.8%
Average price in September 2019: £1,766, average price now £2,434
The MK4 Golf was solid, dependable, and reliable in its day and, even now, it still is. It’s a sound choice for a used buy, even though it really hasn’t aged all that well.
There’s still a strong following for this era of Golf, which has helped keep used values strong. And, especially if you can find a good one, it could be a very sensible purchase.
Source: Read Full Article
