Renault Avantime (2001-2003)

A big question mark hangs over the Avantime. Is it a big MPV or an expensive upmarket four-seater? The jury’s still out on that. One thing’s for certain though – it’s totally unique, eminently collectable and because just 400 out of the 8557 built came to these shores, it’s likely to become very rare, very soon. Especially as, according to www.howmanyleft.co.uk, only around half the ones sold here are still on the road.

Despite being a commercial flop and bankrupting its maker, Matra, it’s an attractive and rewarding car to own, especially in energetic 3.0-litre V6 diesel guise which was good for 140mph and a sub-9 second 0-60mph time. Other options were the 2.0-litre petrol turbo and 2.2 turbodiesel. Prices started at £24,050 for the 2.0-litre and £28,450 for the V6.

Because no-one here knew the Avantime existed, or if they did actually wanted one, prices have always been subdued, meaning that until recently just a couple of grand might have been enough to own one. The thing is, it’s a nice to drive, very usable future classic. Moreover, apart from unique items like the rear light clusters, being based on the Espace most parts are still available, and there’s even an owner’s club to help with bits that aren’t. The upshot is, prices are on the up. Indeed, a tidy example in a nice colour might now be as much £10,000, while anything that still drives could cost you £3000-£5000.

Whatever your answer to the first question, and regardless of how bonkers you think it is, the Avantime’s future classic status is assured. In other words, if you’re not brave enough to buy one now, you’ll have to fork out a lot more five years down the line.