Trend scouting for 2026 – Some of our favorites
Following the car market can sometimes feel like trying to read the future in the rearview mirror. But certain patterns recur time and time again. Models that have long been undervalued. Cars that can be used, enjoyed and owned – without losing capital along the way. As we at Bidders Highway look ahead to 2026, we see several clear trends and some personal favorites that stand out a little.What do we see in our crystal ball in 2026?
Below we list a few of our favorites right now, and there will likely be more and longer lists in the future. What they have in common is that they have already shown a steady rise, while still being surprisingly affordable. These are cars you can buy, drive and love – and which may well prove to be a really wise ownership over time.
BMW M5 E60 – the last of its kind
Some cars really need no introduction. The BMW M5 E60 is one of them. The V10 engine, the revving power, the sound and the feeling of driving something that will never be built again make this model completely unique. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being complex, but the truth is that many of the childhood diseases are now well known and fixed.
The result is a car that today offers better reliability and more driving pleasure than ever before – and which will most likely never be cheaper than it is right now. For enthusiasts, this is already a modern classic.
Pro Touring and restomods – the best of both worlds
A clear trend we have seen in recent years, and which only continues to grow, is Pro Touring and restomods. It is not just about preserving classic cars – it is about refining them. Modern performance, improved reliability and usability combined with classic design.
We have seen everything from electric conversions to supercharged LS builds and modern Volvo sixes and eights. The interesting thing is that pre-built objects can often be pure gems compared to building them yourself. There is a wide range in price, but also an audience that is willing to pay for the right workmanship.
Porsche 944 – the rational Porsche
The Porsche 944 will always live in the shadow of the 911. But that doesn't mean it's any less fun to drive. Quite the opposite. This is one of the most affordable sports cars you can buy today, with fantastic balance, clear feedback and great usability.
Whether you see it as a future race car, a classic daily driver or a pure enthusiast car for sunny days, the 944 is a safe entry into the Porsche world. The rise is unlikely to be as explosive as for the 911 – but that's precisely why it feels stable, reasonable and long-term sound.
Dodge Viper – raw, brutal and irreplaceable
Once production ends, something happens to a car's aura. The Dodge Viper is a prime example. Every generation will always have its audience, but the first generation stands out. V10, manual transmission, and a design that literally oozes attitude.
This is a car with no filters. No excuses. And that's why it will always be attractive to future buyers. In an increasingly digital and electrified automotive world, the Viper represents something that will never come back.
Mercedes W140 and R129 – when quality was most important
The top models from Mercedes from the 90s have long been an open target for those looking for value. The S-Class W140 and SL R129 are two models that are often described as some of the last truly overbuilt Mercedes cars.
They offer a comfort, build quality and feel that is extremely difficult to find today – especially in relation to the price. These are cars that still feel solid, relevant and luxurious, while the market has not yet fully caught up with their true value.
Corvette C3 – from forgotten to sought-after
Last but not least is a real wildcard. The Corvette C3 has long been the least appreciated generation in the Corvette family. But times are changing. Cars that a few years ago sold for around 100,000 kronor are now selling for double that – and more.
Interest has exploded, bidding is intense and prices are clearly pointing upwards. What is particularly telling is that we recently sold a copy for almost 700,000 kronor – a European record for the model. The C3 has simply woken up.
Summary – driving pleasure as an investment
If, like us, you live by the philosophy that life is too short to drive boring cars, then these are examples of models that offer more than just transportation. They are fun, useful and – perhaps most importantly – stable in value.
It’s not about quick cuts or speculation. It’s about buying the right car at the right time. And right now, there are several opportunities that combine passion with healthy car ownership. 2026 is closer than you think – and the classics of the future are already here.
Don't miss our series of articles that conclude a fantastic 2025, and also look into the future with all that it means.
See you on the streets, at the meetings and in the auction section of our website!
//The Bidders Highway team
