Top 10 collector cars run style, power gamut

If you seek value in the present for the future, the most recent list of collectible vehicles could ensure you appreciate your ride as it appreciates in value down the road.

Hagerty auto insurance president and CEO McKeel Hagerty released a list that is not parsed from yesteryear but features forward-looking, high-tech, high-powered machinery. The 10 cars that make Hagerty’s Hot List are most often mass-produced vehicles for the current model year listing for less than $100,000. Consideration was given to newly launched cars that never appeared on a previous list but will likely earn a spot in the next 20 years.

SRT Viper

MSRP: $97,395

The redesigned coupe has more power than ever with its 8.4 liter V-10 engine, 640 horsepower, and 600 pound-feet of torque. The new Viper is as sinewy as ever.

Chevrolet Corvette Convertible 427

MSRP: $75,925

The 60th anniversary of this iconic American sports car earns it a spot on the list. With a 505 hpV-8 pushrod engine, the ’Vette will run from 0 to 60 in 3.8 seconds. Hagerty notes that Corvette values tend to favor the last model year of each generation, making the 60th anniversary year a worthy example to keep in your garage.

Audi RS5

MSRP: $68,900

Good looks do count. Called handsome and oozing good taste, Audi’s ability to learn its lessons well at finishing school got it a prime time slot. Oh, yeah, the 414 horsepower from the 4.2-liter V-8 doesn’t hurt either.

Porsche Cayman S

MSRP: $63,800

Hagerty says the Cayman S atones for the diesel offering. The S is more powerful, efficient, and lighter than previous versions of the Cayman.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible

MSRP: $59,545

A pricey drop-top pony car that generates 580 horsepower from a supercharged V-8 will likely limit sales and ensure that few editions drive up collectability.

Tesla Model S

MSRP: $58,570

While electric cars aren’t completely new, the Model S defies stereotypes with its ability to run from 0 to 60 in 5 seconds in its stealth mode.

Mini John Cooper Works GP

MSRP: $39,950

Called the “fastest Mini ever built’’ because it can reach a top speed of 150 miles per hour, the car gets its power from a turbocharged engine that generates 211 horsepower. With but 500 units being sold, exclusivity and a high collectors’ value are all but guaranteed.

Subaru BRZ

MRSP: $24,495

The Subaru BRZ’s rear-drive setup and precise handling were credited with earning it a place on the list.

Volkswagen GTi

MSRP: $23,995

The econo-car that every power hungry, newly minted college grad could afford to thrash daily is still around (the Golf GTi debuted in 1976). This year’s edition should be no different, providing plenty of peppy power at a prurient price.

Ford Focus ST

MSRP: $3,700

Some may be shocked to see a Ford in the list until they realize that this 4-hatchback, nee sedan, fits the power quotient and at a great price. Once the informed realize the 2.0-liter, EcoBoost engine delivers 252-horsepower with an EPA listed 26 miles per gallon combined rating, their tune should change.