5 collector cars to put into your garage this week

The A124’s Last Hurrah 

The W124-generation Mercedes-Benz E Class has cemented itself in the history books as one of the marque’s most bullet-proof creations, boasting bank vault-like build quality and chiselled good looks penned by the legendary Bruno Sacco. Like all great models, it was given a fitting send-off in the form of the ‘Final Edition’ E320 Cabriolet (otherwise known as the A124), and this particular 1997 example is a stellar representative of the breed. 

Finished in the elegant shade of Azurite Blue and riding on AMG alloys, this Final Edition E320 Cabriolet is powered by a silky-smooth inline six-cylinder engine that produces a respectable 220 horsepower mated to the desirable 5-speed automatic, perfect for a top-down summer road trip to the coast. Creature comforts include heated and electrically adjustable seats, cruise control, and a generous helping of dark burl wood trim. With just two previous owners and a healthy 145,000 km on the odometer, this could be the perfect usable and hassle-free modern classic. 

VIEW CAR

Racing into the Sunset

As far as the most recent iteration of the iconic Ford GT goes, you’re currently looking at the gold standard. Limited to just 67 examples and inspired by the first generation GT40 MKIV that won the 1967 24 Hours of Le Mans, this 2025 Ford GT MK IV takes exclusivity to another level with its bespoke one-off Canepa Sunset Gold metallic paint. 

Honed through countless laps of the world’s most challenging racetracks, the MKIV took performance to new heights thanks to its unique long tail bodywork, which can generate up to 2,400 lbs of downforce at 150 mph. The aerodynamics were just part of the story, though, because NASCAR partner Roush Yates helped to turn the ante up even further on the MKIV’s 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 engine, which now puts out over 800 horsepower.

Included with the sale of this incredible machine is a world-class track day induction, complete with data engineers, vehicle technicians, pro Ford racing drivers for instruction, and full catering. So, if you fancy becoming the new king of the leaderboards at your local circuit, this golden example of the Blue Oval’s most potent racer ever would do the trick. 

VIEW CAR

American Arachnophile 

Typically at Classic Driver, we prefer our spiders as far away as possible and certainly nowhere near the sanctity of our garages. However, when it comes to this 1955 Lancia Aurelia Spider America, we will happily make an exception. One of only 240 cars built between 1954 and 1955, this example is believed to be the second oldest of the mere 68 that survive to this day. 

Under the Bonet you’ll find its matching-numbers 2.5-litre V6 peach of an engine is in better condition than ever before, thanks to a nut-and-bolt restoration at the hands of Stephen Bell of Englewood, Colorado. Finished in its factory-correct specification of Grigio Newmarket over a Vaumol leather interior, this jaw-dropping Lancia was awarded Best of Show at the 2014 Colorado Concours d’Elegance. Eligible to compete in a wide number of historic rallies, including the Mille Miglia Storica, this Aurelia is a perfect slice of the 1950s Dolce Vita. 

VIEW CAR

Swing, batter, batter! 

First shown as a concept car at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Audi TT made it to production practically unchanged, and to this day the J Mays and Freeman Thomas-designed sports car remains an all-time high water mark for Audi design. However, despite its certified status as a design icon, the TT is still a remarkably affordable and perfectly usable modern classic, and even cars bearing ultra-rare specifications — like this 2003 British Racing Green over Baseball leather interior example — can be had for a relative bargain. 

Originally delivered to Japan, this TT cabriolet has since been imported to the UK and will be up for grabs at Historics Auctioneers’ upcoming Ascot sale on September 20th. Apart from a light scuff on the front splitter and a small dent here and there, this TT remains in good condition with only around 30,000 miles on the clock. Its matching green soft top and supremely desirable Baseball leather interior remain in great shape, while its automatic gearbox position it as the ultimate cruiser, perfect for savouring the last sunny days as we head into Autumn. 

VIEW CAR

Bovensiepen’s Silver Bullet

While Alpina has recently been assimilated into the BMW mothership — following the path of AMG and Mercedes, albeit two decades later — the machines from their vast catalogue of incredible tuner cars have only continued to increase in desirability. Chief among them is Alpina’s reinterpretation of the E31-generation 8 Series, otherwise known as the B12 5.0. Dominating the driving the experience is that glorious 5.0-litre V12 engine, which puts out an extra 50 horses for a total of 350 horsepower thanks to Alpina’s mechanical wizardry. 

Finished in Granite Silver Metallic, this 1991 example has enjoyed plenty of highway miles and now shows just over 71,000 miles on the clock. However, judging by its luxurious black Nappa leather interior alone, you would think it had covered half that mileage, with barely any creases visible on its sports seats. Regularly serviced throughout its life and recently benefitting from a five-figure overhaul of its suspension, braking, and fuel systems, this Alpina is now available to the market for the first time in 20 years, giving you the rare chance to experience one of history’s greatest grand tourers. 

VIEW CAR