Classic Car Market Poised for Explosive Growth in 2026

Revving Up the Engines: The Classic Car Surge

As someone who appreciates the finer things in life both on and off the field I've always had an eye for timeless classics. And it seems the classic car market is about to shift into high gear. Hagerty reports a 10% surge in auctions and online sales reaching $4.8 billion in 2025. That's a bigger six than one I hit in Mohali. The CEO McKeel Hagerty predicts even stronger demand in 2026 fueled by activity in the private market. It's not just about the cars; it's about the passion and the legacy they represent.

A Generational Shift Behind the Wheel

The biggest shift? It's the changing of the guard or rather the changing of the keys. Baby Boomers are making way for Gen X Millennials and Gen Z. These younger collectors are rewriting the rules favoring online sales (up 12% to $2.5 billion) and newer models. Forget those old 1950s and '60s sports cars; they want the high performance supercars of the '90s and beyond. We're talking Ferrari F40s and F50s Bugatti Veyrons and Chirons and McLaren F1s. Speaking of investments for those looking for good investments in today's classic car market Hagerty just published its Bull Market List . The annual ranking uses Hagerty data to find cars that are good value fun to drive and likely to increase in price due to strong demand. Much like a well placed cover drive these cars are set to deliver. Want to dive deeper into smart investment moves? Check out Top Dividend Stocks Wall Street Analysts Are Betting On Now.

Supply Meets Demand: Supercar Production on the Rise

Fortunately supercar makers are keeping up with the demand. Ferrari Porsche – they're all setting record sales numbers. This ensures a steady supply for the collectors of tomorrow. "That's the future of what people will be buying and they'll be collecting and they'll hang on to them. So we like that as the tail wind," Hagerty says. It's a bit like knowing the bowlers strategy you can predict that supply will keep the game interesting and the market robust.

The Great Wealth Transfer: A $100 Trillion Opportunity

Here's where things get really interesting. Cerulli Associates estimates that a staggering $100 trillion will be inherited by spouses and families by 2048. This includes real estate collectibles and yes classic cars. These families will have to decide: keep them garage them or sell them? "Some of that will be cars," Hagerty notes. "Those families will have to decide if they want to keep it do they want to put it in a garage? Do they want to sell them? I think it's really just beginning." It's a financial innings that could redefine the market.

Hagerty's Bull Market List: Your Investment Guide

If you're looking for guidance Hagerty's Bull Market List is a great starting point. It highlights cars that are good value fun to drive and likely to appreciate in price. This year's list includes the 2004 2007 Porsche Carrera GT (pricey at over $1.5 million) the 1969 1972 Alfa Romeo GTV (ranging from $50,000 to $150,000) and the 1999 2005 Mazda MX 5 Miata (a steal at $9,000 to $26,000). It's all about finding that sweet spot – like finding the perfect bat for the conditions.

The Power of Wealth: Fueling the Market

Ultimately the classic car market is powered by wealth creation. With stock markets performing well and interest rates falling collectors have the financial confidence to invest. "They're feeling pretty good about their personal balance sheets," Hagerty explains. "They log into their accounts and see their portfolio is doing OK. People I think are feeling that strength to be able to go out there and make those purchases." It's a winning formula just like a solid partnership at the crease.