The classic car market has cooled since its pandemic-era peak, but that doesn’t mean values are falling across the board. Here’s a look at which classic car values are rising right now, based on the latest 2026 market data.
Has the Classic Car Market Cooled Down?
Yes. After the surge in prices during the pandemic, the collector car market has stabilised into something far more rational. Many classic cars are holding steady or even softening in price, which for buyers means genuinely fair pricing has returned rather than the inflated values seen a few years ago.
Modern Classics on the Rise
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk2
The Mk2 Golf GTI has seen limited recent appreciation compared with the Mk1, whose values have risen around 25 percent since 2020, making the Mk2 a relative bargain by comparison. Excellent condition examples currently average around £15,300.
Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171)
The 2004 to 2011 SLK offers an excellent value, quality roadster that can genuinely be driven all year round, with even the range-topping SLK 55 AMG remaining relatively affordable at around £5,200 on average for an excellent example.
Audi Quattro
Early Quattros have risen gradually, presenting an opportunity as buyers increasingly recognise the significance of the original model while prices remain accessible. Expect to pay around £12,000 for a usable example, rising to £36,000 to £50,000 for an exceptional, low-mileage version.
Ford Transit Mk1 (1965-1977)
Due to rarity and strong recent asking prices, the original Transit made a notable collector car list for 2026, with values for 2.0-litre petrol models averaging around £17,200.
Classic Mini and Mini Cooper
Compact, characterful classics are seeing particularly strong demand in 2026, and the Mini’s iconic design and driving enjoyment continue to drive rising values, helped by strong generational appeal among younger buyers.
Why Younger Buyers Are Reshaping the Market
A new generation of collectors isn’t chasing brass-era touring cars or pre-war classics. Instead, interest is concentrated on analogue-era performance cars from the 1990s and 2000s, cars people can drive regularly and enjoy rather than simply store away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are classic car prices still rising like during the pandemic?
No, the market has cooled and stabilised since the pandemic-era boom, though specific models and segments continue to see genuine appreciation.
Which classic car segment is performing best in 2026?
Analogue-era performance cars from the 1990s and 2000s, sometimes called modern classics, are currently the strongest growth segment according to industry valuation data.
Related reading: thinking about buying your first one? See our guide on how to buy a classic car in the UK.
Written by the Apriliapartsbuyer editorial team, covering UK classic car guides.
