7 Investment Cars from the 2000s Worth Watching in 2026
The Investment Journal · VDM Cars
The cars that once decorated bedroom walls are finding their way into the garages of a new generation of collectors.
Twenty years ago, the Ferrari F430, Lamborghini Gallardo and first-generation Audi R8 represented the ultimate automotive dream.
For an entire generation, these cars were icons. Featured in magazines, video games and television programmes, they defined what an extraordinary sports car should be.
Two decades later, these childhood dream cars are capturing the attention of a new generation of buyers. Enthusiasts who once admired them from a distance are now entering the market, bringing renewed interest to some of the most iconic performance cars of the 2000s.
But beyond nostalgia, something interesting is happening in the European collector car market.
Certain performance cars from the 2000s are attracting renewed attention, while others remain surprisingly affordable.
The question is no longer simply which cars were the most desirable twenty years ago.
It's which of those cars are demonstrating genuine value appreciation today, and whether that growth can be sustained.
Which performance cars from 2000–2010 are worth watching as investments?
VDM Cars’ seven-model selection is the Audi R8 V8/V10 Manual, Ferrari F430 Coupé, Porsche 996 Turbo, Lamborghini Gallardo Manual, BMW M3 E46 CSL, BMW M5 E61 Touring and early Nissan GT-R R35. Our preference is for desirable specifications, documented histories and carefully assessed condition. Future collector value is an investment view, not a guaranteed return.
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Explore the seven collector cars
- Audi R8 V8 & V10 Manual
- Ferrari F430 Coupé
- Porsche 996 Turbo
- Lamborghini Gallardo Manual
- BMW M3 E46 CSL
- BMW M5 E61 Touring
- Nissan GT-R R35
VDM Cars European Investment Market Overview
Research edition · October 2026. These documented European examples show different market positions, not uniform model valuations. All prices are in euros. Asking prices, auction results and research medians are identified separately.
| Model | Price and evidence | Vehicle context |
|---|---|---|
| Audi R8 V8 Manual | €89,995 · asking price, reviewed 20 October 2026 | 2008; 79,304 km; modified exhaust and suspension |
| Ferrari F430 Coupé Manual | €224,250 · reported auction sale, Monaco 2024 | 2005; 33,398 km |
| Porsche 996 Turbo Manual | €84,900 · median last advertised price, June 2026 study | 200 manual Coupés in the SOLD archive; not verified transaction prices |
| Lamborghini Gallardo Manual | €195,000 · asking price, reviewed 20 October 2026 | 2004; 37,241 km; Belgium |
| BMW M3 E46 CSL | €129,375 · reported auction sale, Paris 2026 | 2004; replaced instruments; estimated total mileage closer to 90,000 km |
| BMW M5 E61 Touring | €79,950 · asking price, reviewed 20 October 2026 | 2007; 96,414 km; Netherlands |
| Nissan GT-R R35 | €78,990 · asking price, reviewed 20 October 2026 | 2009; 89,000 km; modified engine and tuning; not an original-car benchmark |
What do the historical European figures show?
For the Porsche 996 Turbo, ClassicTrends’ German advertised-price average moved from a five-year reference of €60,567 to €72,498 at its November 2025 update (+19.7%). For the broad Gallardo range, its October 2025 data showed five-year increases of 12.4% in Germany and 23.1% in France. These are asking-price series covering wider model ranges, not manual-only investment returns.
BMW M3 CSL auction examples include €97,750 at Essen in 2019, €178,250 at Munich in 2025 and €129,375 at Paris in 2026. They concern different cars and sale conditions, so no appreciation percentage is inferred. Comparable historical series have not been established here for every model or specification.
VDM Cars’ outlook favours manual R8s and Gallardos for their driving character, the manual 996 Turbo for its comparatively modest transmission premium, and the CSL and E61 Touring for their documented rarity. The F430 F1 provides a more accessible alternative to the factory manual. For the early GT-R, originality and the quality of any modifications require particular attention.
Price evidence excludes ownership costs and is not a net investment return. Advertisements can change or expire; each link records the source reviewed on 20 October 2026.
1. Audi R8 V8 & V10 Manual (2007–2010)
The Increasingly Rare Gated Manual Supercar
When Audi introduced the R8, it created one of the most recognisable supercars of the 2000s. Inspired by the Le Mans quattro concept, the original R8 combined groundbreaking design with naturally aspirated performance and an extraordinary driving experience.
The first-generation R8 was initially offered with Audi's own 4.2-litre V8, closely related to the engine found in the RS4 B7. In 2009, the range expanded with a 5.2-litre V10, sharing its engineering heritage with the Lamborghini Gallardo.
While both engines offer their own distinctive characteristics, one particular specification is becoming increasingly interesting to collectors: the six-speed gated manual transmission.
A Disappearing Specification
When the R8 was new, many buyers opted for the R tronic automated transmission. Nearly two decades later, collector preferences have shifted towards the traditional manual gearbox.
Today, finding a first-generation Audi R8 equipped with the iconic exposed metal gearshift gate is becoming increasingly difficult.
In June 2026, German automotive publication AUTO BILD reported that just eight of the 160 Audi R8s advertised on its platform were equipped with a manual transmission.
This limited availability highlights just how uncommon these vehicles have become on the European market.
European Market: The Manual Premium
AUTO BILD highlighted a 2008 R8 V8 Manual advertised for €90,000 in June 2026 and reported positive value development for the first generation. A separate VDM Cars 2008 V8 Manual with 79,304 km was advertised at €89,995 when reviewed on 20 October 2026. That car has a titanium exhaust and KW suspension, with the original parts supplied; it is not a completely factory-standard example.
A 2008 V8 R tronic with 78,162 km was advertised in Riga at €45,500, compared with €89,995 for the VDM Cars manual with 79,304 km. That is close to half the advertised price. The cars differ in location, history and specification; this is an illustration of two asking prices, not a universal valuation rule.
Sources: 2008 R8 listings, reviewed 20 October 2026.
V8 or V10: Which Manual R8 Will Collectors Prefer?
One of the most interesting questions surrounding the first-generation Audi R8 is whether the original V8 Manual or the more powerful V10 Manual represents the most desirable long-term collectible.
The V10 undoubtedly offers an extraordinary experience. Its naturally aspirated 5.2-litre engine, developed within the Audi-Lamborghini engineering family, brings genuine Italian supercar character to the R8.
Combined with the iconic gated manual transmission, it creates an exceptionally desirable specification.
However, the V8 has something the V10 cannot replicate: it represents the original production Audi R8.
The 4.2-litre V8 was the engine with which Audi introduced its first supercar. Closely related to the powerplant of the legendary RS4 B7, it represents a distinctly Audi approach to high-performance engineering.
And that raises an interesting question for collectors.
Will the market ultimately favour the more powerful and exotic V10 Manual, or will the original V8 Manual become increasingly appreciated for its historical significance?
Both versions are becoming difficult to find in desirable original specifications, particularly with the six-speed gated manual transmission.
While the V10 Manual offers greater performance and exceptional exclusivity, the V8 Manual represents the beginning of Audi's supercar history.
For collectors, the most powerful version is not necessarily the most historically significant.
That distinction could become increasingly important as the first-generation R8 develops its identity as a modern classic.
Investment Perspective: Two Engines, One Increasingly Desirable Transmission
Whether the original V8 Manual or the more powerful V10 Manual will ultimately become the most desirable collector's choice remains an interesting debate.
The V8 represents the beginning of Audi's supercar history, while the V10 offers an extraordinary connection to Lamborghini's engineering heritage.
At VDM Cars, we see collector potential in both versions because of their character, historical significance and gated manual transmissions.
At VDM Cars, we consider both the V8 Manual and V10 Manual excellent investment opportunities. Each offers its own unique characteristics, but both combine historical significance, mechanical driving pleasure and an increasingly rare gated manual transmission.
In our view, the combination of limited manual availability and collector interest makes this a particularly interesting phase for the first-generation R8. A comparable historical price series has not been established here for V8 Manuals and V10 Manuals separately.
For enthusiasts who have always dreamed of owning one, now could be an excellent moment to enter the market.
The question is not whether the V8 or V10 is the better investment, but which of these two remarkable engines you would rather have behind your seats.
Sources: Audi: R8 history; AUTO BILD, 12 June 2026; VDM Cars R8 advertisement.
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2. Ferrari F430 Coupé (2004–2009)
An Italian Icon with Significant Investment Potential
Few supercars represent the 2000s quite like the Ferrari F430. Introduced in 2004, its naturally aspirated 4.3-litre V8 produces 490 PS and delivers one of the most recognisable soundtracks of its generation.
For many enthusiasts, the F430 was the ultimate childhood dream car. Today, it is becoming increasingly attractive to a new generation of collectors.
After years of depreciation, the F430 is entering an interesting stage of its market development. Collector interest is particularly strong for factory-manual examples, while the more affordable F1 versions offer a different opportunity.
Manual vs. F1: A Remarkable Difference in Value
One of the most interesting developments is the growing price difference between the two transmissions.
When new, Ferrari's F1 transmission represented advanced technology derived from Formula 1. Most buyers selected this option, making the traditional six-speed gated manual considerably less common.
Today, the situation has changed dramatically.
Selected European F430 F1 Coupé advertisements reviewed on 20 October 2026 included €114,990 for a 2009 car with 42,000 km and €129,999 for a 2006 car with 85,664 km. These are individual asking prices.
A particularly interesting example is the 2005 Ferrari F430 Manual that sold through RM Sotheby's in Monaco in 2024 for €224,250.
The premium for the manual transmission demonstrates how strongly collector preferences have changed.
However, the significantly lower prices of F1 models may present an interesting opportunity.
Both versions share the same naturally aspirated V8, distinctive design and historical significance. As collectors increasingly turn their attention towards performance cars from the 2000s, the F1 could benefit from growing interest in the F430 generation.
Special Editions: Already in a Different League
Perhaps the strongest indication of the F430 generation's collector appeal can be found in its most exclusive derivative: the Ferrari 430 Scuderia.
Developed with considerable input from Michael Schumacher, the Scuderia introduced a more focused driving experience, reduced weight and an upgraded 510 PS V8.
Today, these cars occupy an entirely different position within the collector market.
Selected 430 Scuderia advertisements reviewed on 20 October 2026 were €385,900, €399,430 and €449,980. These examples have different mileages and specifications and are not a complete market range.
The Scuderia illustrates how significantly collector demand can influence the market position of special Ferrari models.
Interestingly, the Scuderia was exclusively equipped with Ferrari's advanced F1-SuperFast2 transmission.
Its exceptional collector appeal demonstrates that rarity, historical significance and model identity can be just as important as having a traditional manual gearbox.
Investment Perspective: Is It Too Late to Buy?
At VDM Cars, we consider both the Ferrari F430 Manual and F430 F1 excellent candidates for long-term investment.
The manual transmission has already established itself as the most desirable configuration of the standard F430, with its rarity reflected in substantial price premiums.
However, we believe the F1 version deserves equal attention from buyers seeking a more accessible entry into the modern Ferrari collector market.
While the most exclusive versions have already reached remarkable prices, the standard F430 remains considerably more affordable.
With increasing collector interest in naturally aspirated Ferraris from the 2000s, we see significant potential for further value appreciation, particularly among original, well-maintained examples with desirable specifications.
The F430 is no longer simply a depreciating used Ferrari. It is developing into a modern classic, and we believe the opportunity to enter this market has not yet passed.
Sources: RM Sotheby’s Monaco 2024, F430 Coupé; F430 advertisements, reviewed 20 October 2026; 430 Scuderia advertisements, reviewed 20 October 2026.
Sources: Ferrari: F430 technical history; Ferrari: Scuderia and special-series V8s.
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3. Porsche 911 Turbo (996)
From Underrated Porsche to Desirable Modern Classic
For years, the Porsche 996 Turbo remained one of the most underrated models in the 911's history.
Introduced in 2000, it represented a significant turning point for Porsche. The 996 became the first water-cooled generation of the legendary 911 Turbo, combining an entirely new design with extraordinary performance.
Its 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six produces 420 PS, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds.
However, its most important characteristic may be hidden beneath the engine cover.
Unlike the standard 996 Carrera, the Turbo features the legendary Mezger engine, closely related to the powerplant developed for Porsche's successful GT1 racing programme.
Renowned for its robust engineering and motorsport heritage, this engine has become an important part of the 996 Turbo's growing collector appeal.
European Historical Asking Prices
ClassicTrends reported an average advertised price of €72,498 for the German 996 Turbo market at its 2 November 2025 update, compared with a five-year reference of €60,567: an increase of 19.7%. This is a broad model series, not a manual-only return.
The Controversial Design That Is Finally Finding Appreciation
Perhaps one of the most interesting developments surrounding the Porsche 996 is the changing perception of its design.
When introduced in 1997, the fifth-generation 911 received considerable criticism for abandoning the traditional round headlights that had defined the model for decades.
The early 996 Carrera’s integrated lamps became known as “fried egg headlights”. The Turbo used a revised design, later adopted by the facelifted Carrera, so the two shapes should not be confused.
For years, the 996 was considered one of the least attractive 911 generations.
Today, however, perceptions are changing.
What was once considered an unfortunate design decision is increasingly appreciated as part of the car's unique identity.
The 996 represents a specific period in Porsche's history, and its unconventional appearance is becoming part of its appeal.
The very characteristics that once made the 996 unpopular are now helping distinguish it from other generations of the 911.
For collectors, this changing perception could become another important factor in the model's long-term desirability.
Manual vs. Tiptronic: A Surprisingly Small Price Difference
911Finder’s June 2026 analysis of its MarqueScope SOLD archive recorded a median last advertised price of €84,900 for 200 manual Turbo Coupés and €72,900 for 129 Tiptronic examples: a difference of €12,000. Records cover October 2025–June 2026. These are the last recorded asking prices of vehicles marked as sold, rather than verified transaction prices.
This sample differs from the ClassicTrends series in period, method and vehicle coverage. The two datasets do not form one continuous valuation curve.
Investment Perspective: Could the 996 Turbo Manual Be Undervalued?
At VDM Cars, we believe the Porsche 996 Turbo Manual represents one of the more interesting investment opportunities among early 2000s performance cars.
While manual transmissions have already established substantial premiums in models such as the Ferrari F430 and Audi R8, the Porsche 996 Turbo tells a different story.
With a median price difference of approximately €12,000 between manual and Tiptronic examples, the manual version remains surprisingly accessible.
This raises an interesting question: has the market fully recognised the collector potential of the manual 996 Turbo?
The model already combines several characteristics associated with desirable modern classics: the legendary Mezger engine, impressive performance, historical significance and a design that is finally receiving the appreciation it deserves.
We believe the relatively small transmission premium presents an opportunity for collectors to enter the manual market before the difference potentially becomes more substantial.
As the next generation of enthusiasts increasingly appreciates traditional driving experiences, demand for well-preserved manual examples could strengthen further.
In our view, the Porsche 996 Turbo Manual is not just an interesting modern classic. It could be one of the opportunities that collectors will look back on and wish they had recognised earlier.
Sources: ClassicTrends Germany, updated 2 November 2025; 911Finder, June 2026; Porsche: 996 history.
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4. Lamborghini Gallardo Manual (2003–2010)
The Original V10 Supercar Is Becoming a Serious Collector's Car
When Lamborghini introduced the Gallardo in 2003, it created one of the most recognisable supercars of the decade.
Designed by Luc Donckerwolke, the Gallardo combined dramatic Italian styling with a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10 producing 500 PS.
For an entire generation, the Gallardo represented the ultimate dream car. Its unmistakable design, extraordinary engine soundtrack and appearances in automotive magazines, television programmes and video games made it an icon of the 2000s.
Today, more than twenty years after its introduction, the original Gallardo is entering an increasingly interesting period in the European collector car market.
And just as we have seen with the Ferrari F430 and Audi R8, the transmission is becoming an important factor in determining its desirability.
European Market: Values Are Already Increasing
The Lamborghini Gallardo has experienced a noticeable shift in market positioning over the past several years.
Historical European advertising data illustrates this development.
According to ClassicTrends, average advertised Gallardo prices increased by 12.4% in Germany and 23.1% in France over the five-year periods ending in October 2025.
These figures cover the broader Gallardo model range, but illustrate the growing price expectations surrounding Lamborghini's first V10 supercar family.
The current European market also reveals substantial differences between individual configurations.
In October 2026, two early Gallardo Coupés were advertised in Belgium:
| 2004 Gallardo 5.0 V10 | Mileage | Asking price |
|---|---|---|
| E-Gear | 58,600 km | €94,900 |
| Six-speed Manual | 37,241 km | €195,000 |
Although these vehicles differ in mileage and condition, the enormous difference in asking price demonstrates the particularly strong market positioning of desirable manual examples.
The Original 5.0 V10 or the Later 5.2?
Another interesting consideration is the difference between the original 5.0-litre Gallardo and the revised LP560-4 introduced in 2008.
The original Gallardo represents the beginning of Lamborghini's V10 supercar generation.
In 2008, Lamborghini introduced the revised LP560-4 with a new 5.2-litre V10 producing 560 PS, improved performance and updated styling.
While the later model offers greater performance and more advanced engineering, the original 5.0-litre Gallardo retains the appeal of being the first interpretation of this iconic supercar.
For collectors, this creates two distinct propositions.
The early 5.0 Manual represents the original Gallardo experience, while the 5.2 LP560-4 Manual combines the desirable gated transmission with the later, more powerful engine.
Both have characteristics that could become increasingly relevant as the Gallardo develops further into a modern classic.
Investment Perspective: The Last of the Manual Lamborghinis
At VDM Cars, we consider the manual Lamborghini Gallardo one of the most promising collector cars from the 2000s.
VDM Cars favours the manual Gallardo for its collector appeal. The €94,900 E-Gear advertisement and €195,000 manual advertisement illustrate very different asking-price positions, although mileage, condition and history also differ. They do not measure a like-for-like transmission premium or a historical rate of appreciation.
The gated manual belongs to a completed chapter of Lamborghini’s V10 history: the Gallardo’s successor, the Huracán, used a dual-clutch transmission.
This makes the Gallardo Manual particularly significant within Lamborghini's history.
At VDM Cars, we believe the opportunity to acquire a desirable manual Gallardo deserves serious consideration. Our expectation of further collector interest is an investment view; the broad Gallardo price series does not establish a separate historical appreciation rate for manual examples.
In our view, the manual Gallardo is not simply a desirable modern classic. It represents one of the last opportunities to own a traditional gated-manual Lamborghini before these cars potentially become even more exclusive.
Sources: ClassicTrends Germany, 30 October 2025; ClassicTrends France, 30 October 2025; 2004 E-Gear advertisement; 2004 Manual advertisement.
Sources: Lamborghini: Gallardo history; Lamborghini: LP 560-4.
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5. BMW M3 E46 CSL (2003)
From Performance Icon to Highly Desirable Collector's Car
The BMW M3 E46 is widely regarded as one of the most celebrated M cars ever produced.
Introduced in 2000, it combined timeless styling with BMW's naturally aspirated 3.2-litre S54 straight-six, producing 343 PS.
Today, the E46 M3 has developed a strong following among enthusiasts and collectors. Particularly desirable are original manual Coupés with comprehensive maintenance histories.
However, one version has moved into an entirely different category within the collector car market.
The legendary BMW M3 CSL.
BMW M3 CSL: Just 1,383 Examples Worldwide
Introduced in 2003, the M3 CSL represented the ultimate evolution of the E46 generation.
Limited to just 1,383 examples worldwide, the CSL was developed around an uncompromising lightweight philosophy.
BMW reduced the weight by approximately 110 kilograms compared with the standard M3, introducing an innovative carbon-fibre roof, lightweight interior components and thinner rear glass.
The naturally aspirated straight-six received additional modifications, increasing output to 360 PS.
Perhaps its most distinctive characteristic is the carbon-fibre airbox, responsible for one of the most recognisable induction sounds in BMW M history.
Interestingly, the CSL was exclusively equipped with BMW's SMG II transmission. Unlike the standard M3, a factory manual gearbox was never offered.
Its rarity, distinctive engineering and motorsport-inspired character have helped establish the CSL as one of BMW's most desirable modern collectibles.
European Market: The CSL Has Already Reached Remarkable Values
The European collector market demonstrates how desirable the M3 CSL has become.
Several verified European auction results illustrate its position:
| Year | Auction | Sale price |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | RM Sotheby's Essen | €97,750 |
| 2025 | RM Sotheby's Munich | €178,250 |
| 2026 | RM Sotheby's Paris | €129,375 |
These results involve different cars. The Munich 2025 example had 32,456 km; its sale addendum specified VAT on the hammer price and buyer’s premium. The Paris 2026 car had an instrument replacement: its displayed 64,332 km was not its total mileage, which RM estimated closer to 90,000 km. The Essen 2019 car was originally delivered in Japan. These are individual reported European auction results, not a comparable-car return series.
Nevertheless, the figures demonstrate the substantial sums collectors are willing to pay for an original CSL.
The current European market reinforces this position.
Why Is the BMW M3 CSL Becoming So Valuable?
Several characteristics distinguish the CSL from the standard M3.
First, its extremely limited production.
With just 1,383 examples produced, the CSL is significantly rarer than the conventional E46 M3.
Second, its historical significance.
The CSL introduced engineering innovations that subsequently became important characteristics of BMW M vehicles, including the extensive use of carbon-fibre lightweight components.
Finally, the driving experience.
The combination of reduced weight, naturally aspirated power and the unmistakable sound of the carbon airbox creates a character that modern performance cars rarely replicate.
The CSL is no longer simply a particularly desirable E46 M3. It has established its own position within the European collector car market.
Investment Perspective: The CSL Leads, but the Standard M3 Offers Opportunity
At VDM Cars, we consider the BMW M3 CSL one of the most significant modern collector cars in BMW's history.
With just 1,383 examples produced, its lightweight construction, exceptional engineering and unmistakable character have already secured its position among desirable modern classics.
European prices reflect that status, with exceptional examples commanding well over €150,000.
However, the remarkable appreciation of the CSL raises another interesting question: could the standard E46 M3 Manual represent an even more attractive entry point for investors?
While the CSL has already established itself within the exclusive collector market, the regular M3 Coupé provides a more accessible route into the E46 generation.
Both share the legendary naturally aspirated S54 engine and much of the character that made the E46 generation so celebrated.
We believe the CSL will remain particularly desirable among serious BMW collectors, while original, well-maintained M3 Coupé Manuals could offer interesting opportunities for further appreciation.
The CSL may already be the collector's choice, but the standard E46 M3 Manual could be the investment opportunity worth watching.
Sources: BMW M: M3 CSL; RM Essen 2019; RM Munich 2025; RM Paris 2026.
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6. BMW M5 E61 Touring (2007–2010)
Just 1,025 Examples: The Extraordinary V10 Estate with Serious Collector Potential
Some of the most interesting collector cars are those that combine extraordinary engineering with genuine rarity. The BMW M5 E61 Touring is a perfect example.
Introduced in 2007, the M5 Touring featured BMW's remarkable naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10, producing 507 PS and revving to an impressive 8,250 rpm.
Developed during BMW's Formula 1 V10 era, the S85 engine gives this extraordinary estate a character unlike almost anything else on the road.
Yet its most significant characteristic may be its production numbers.
BMW produced just 1,025 examples of the E61 M5 Touring worldwide.
This makes it one of the rarest BMW M production models of its generation.
European Market: Scarcity Is Becoming Increasingly Valuable
The European market is already demonstrating considerable interest in original M5 E61 Tourings.
A 2007 M5 E61 Touring with 96,414 km was advertised by Auto Arp in the Netherlands for €79,950 when reviewed on 20 October 2026. This is an individual asking price, rather than a completed sale or a model-wide valuation.
For collectors, finding an original E61 Touring with low mileage, a documented maintenance history and a desirable factory specification is becoming increasingly challenging.
The E60 Sedan: A More Accessible V10 Alternative
While the E61 Touring stands out for its exceptional rarity, the E60 M5 Sedan should certainly not be overlooked.
After all, it shares the same extraordinary naturally aspirated S85 V10 engine, arguably the most important characteristic of this generation.
Produced in significantly greater numbers, the Sedan offers enthusiasts a more accessible opportunity to experience one of BMW M's most remarkable engines.
We believe original, well-maintained E60 Sedans also have interesting long-term collector potential, particularly as naturally aspirated V10 engines become an increasingly distinctive part of automotive history.
Investment Perspective: One of BMW M's Most Interesting Modern Collectibles
At VDM Cars, we consider the BMW M5 E61 Touring a particularly interesting investment opportunity.
Its exceptionally limited production, naturally aspirated V10 and unique position within BMW M history provide compelling reasons for long-term collector interest.
With only 1,025 examples ever produced, the supply of original vehicles is permanently limited.
We believe this combination of rarity, distinctive engineering and growing appreciation for performance cars from the 2000s creates significant potential for future value development.
The E60 Sedan remains an attractive alternative, but for collectors seeking the strongest combination of exclusivity and historical significance, our preference is clear.
The BMW M5 E61 Touring is not simply a fast estate car. It is an exceptionally rare chapter in BMW M history, and one we believe collectors should be paying close attention to.
Sources: BMW M: V10 M5 and 1,025 Tourings; Auto Arp M5 Touring advertisement.
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7. Nissan GT-R R35 (2007–2010)
The Japanese Supercar Icon Where Originality Could Become Its Greatest Asset
When Nissan unveiled the R35 GT-R in 2007, it challenged the established supercar world.
Powered by a hand-built 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V6 producing 480 PS at launch, the GT-R combined extraordinary performance with advanced all-wheel-drive technology and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Its ability to compete with considerably more expensive European supercars quickly earned it the nickname Godzilla, continuing the legacy established by earlier Skyline GT-R generations.
For a generation raised on Japanese performance cars and racing video games, the R35 became an instant icon.
However, the GT-R presents a particularly interesting challenge from an investment perspective.
Finding an original, unmodified example may become increasingly important to collectors.
The Tuning Culture: An Important Part of the GT-R's History
Few supercars from the 2000s have become as closely associated with tuning as the Nissan GT-R R35.
Its twin-turbocharged VR38DETT engine offers considerable potential for performance modifications. Specialist companies have developed everything from relatively modest software upgrades to extensively modified engines producing extraordinary power.
As a result, many examples have received modifications to their engines, transmissions, suspension or appearance.
While these upgrades can make the GT-R exceptionally exciting to drive, they also create an important distinction within the collector market.
A highly modified GT-R may appeal strongly to performance enthusiasts, but a completely original example offers something different: an authentic representation of Nissan's original engineering.
As the R35 continues to develop into a modern classic, we believe that distinction could become increasingly relevant.
European Market: Originality Requires Careful Verification
A 2009 GT-R advertised in Austria for €78,990 with 89,000 km, reviewed on 20 October 2026, illustrates why specification must be checked carefully. The seller describes a rebuilt and strengthened engine, modifications and adjustable tuning up to approximately 650 PS. This is a modified-car asking-price example, not a benchmark for an original GT-R.
A consistent European historical price series for comparable, unmodified early R35s has not been established here. VDM Cars’ preference for original cars is a collector-focused judgement, not a measured guarantee of higher returns.
Nissan ended R35 production on 26 August 2025 after approximately 48,000 cars over eighteen years. That total covers the whole R35 generation, rather than only the early 2007–2010 cars considered here.
Investment Perspective: Could Originality Become the Deciding Factor?
At VDM Cars, we consider the Nissan GT-R R35 an interesting modern classic with long-term collector potential.
Its extraordinary performance, technological significance and important position within Japanese automotive history provide several reasons for continued enthusiast interest.
However, we believe the most interesting investment opportunities may lie with early examples retaining their original factory specifications.
The GT-R's extensive tuning culture makes originality a particularly important consideration.
As the cars age, carefully preserved examples with documented histories and original components may become increasingly desirable.
Well-executed modifications can certainly appeal to a different group of buyers, but they do not automatically create greater collector value.
The early R35 also has an important mechanical consideration: the GR6 dual-clutch transmission. Documented maintenance, software updates and careful previous ownership are particularly important when evaluating these vehicles.
In our view, the greatest opportunity may not be finding the most powerful GT-R, but finding one that remains as close as possible to the car Nissan originally intended to build.
For collectors interested in Japanese performance icons of the 2000s, the original R35 deserves attention before genuinely unmodified examples potentially become harder to find.
Sources: Nissan Heritage: 2007 GT-R; Modified 2009 GT-R advertisement.
Sources: Nissan: R35 production ended 26 August 2025.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are cars from the 2000s good investments?
Selected examples may have collector potential. Specification, originality, condition, maintenance and purchase price matter. Historical asking-price increases or individual auction results do not guarantee future appreciation.
Is the Audi R8 manual a good investment?
VDM Cars considers both the V8 Manual and V10 Manual interesting investment candidates. The V8 is the original production R8; the V10 adds shared Audi-Lamborghini engineering. A gated manual is central to our selection.
Which Ferrari F430 should collectors consider?
Our focus is the F430 Coupé. Factory-manual cars occupy a higher price position, while the F1 provides a more accessible entry point. The 430 Scuderia is a distinct derivative and should be assessed separately.
Why consider the Porsche 996 Turbo Manual?
Its Mezger engine and manual transmission are central attractions. 911Finder’s June 2026 SOLD-archive analysis recorded a €12,000 difference between median last advertised prices for manual and Tiptronic Coupés. Those are asking-price records, not verified sales.
How rare are the BMW M3 CSL and M5 E61 Touring?
BMW records 1,383 M3 CSLs and 1,025 V10 M5 E61 Tourings. Production rarity supports their collector story, while individual condition and history remain essential.
Should an investment-focused Nissan GT-R be original?
VDM Cars favours carefully preserved early R35s with documented histories. Modified cars may suit different buyers; additional power does not automatically create higher collector value.
Can VDM Cars find a car that is not in the collection?
Yes. Submit a search request with your preferred model, specification and requirements, or explore the current collection.
The Poster Car Generation: Why Now Could Be the Right Time to Invest
The supercars and performance cars of the 2000s are entering a fascinating new chapter.
What were once childhood dream cars are increasingly becoming desirable modern classics. The generation that grew up admiring these machines is now entering the collector market, bringing renewed attention to an extraordinary period in automotive history.
And the European market is already reflecting this shift.
From the increasing premiums commanded by manual Audi R8s and Lamborghini Gallardos to the established collector status of the BMW M3 CSL, certain models have already experienced remarkable changes in value.
Yet opportunities remain.
At VDM Cars, we believe the period between 2000 and 2010 represents one of the most interesting segments of today's European collector car market.
The opportunity is not necessarily to buy the most expensive or most powerful example, but to recognise the right car, in the right specification, at the right moment.
And for enthusiasts who spent their childhood dreaming of these extraordinary machines, that moment may be closer than ever.
Find Your Dream Car with VDM Cars
Whether you are searching for a gated manual Audi R8, a Ferrari F430, a Porsche 996 Turbo or an exceptionally rare BMW M5 Touring, finding the right example is essential.
At VDM Cars, we specialise in exclusive sports cars, modern classics and collectible automobiles. Through our international network, we help enthusiasts and collectors find exceptional vehicles with the specifications, condition and history they are looking for.
Explore Our Current Collection
Our collection features a carefully selected range of exclusive sports cars, collector vehicles and exceptional automobiles.
From rare Ferraris and Porsches to distinctive Lamborghinis and other remarkable performance cars, discover the vehicles currently available at VDM Cars.
Looking for Something Specific? Let Us Find It.
The most desirable collector cars are not always available on the open market.
Perhaps you are searching for a particular colour combination, a rare manual transmission or an exceptionally original example with a documented history.
Through our international network of dealers, collectors and automotive specialists, VDM Cars can assist in locating vehicles that match your individual requirements.
Whether your search involves one of the seven models featured in this article or another exclusive automobile, our team would be pleased to discuss your requirements.
The car you once had on your bedroom wall could be the next one in your garage.