When it comes to cars, Gen Z has a unique taste, according to Hagerty, a classic car insurer. The company has analyzed its insurance quote data to identify trends among different generations, with Gen Z being defined as people born between 1997 and 2012. As the next generation of collector-car buyers, their preferences provide insight into the future of the hobby.
Hagerty found that Gen Z shares similar tastes with Millennials, particularly in their preference for Japanese cars. This is not surprising, given that both generations grew up during the height of the Japanese auto industry. The nostalgia for cars that were new and exciting during one's formative years is often the strongest factor in developing a passion for cars.
View Price on AmazonBased on Hagerty's data, four out of the five most popular cars among Gen Z enthusiasts are Japanese. Three of these models were not sold in the United States when new but are now importable under the 25-year rule. However, they are not the typical Japanese domestic market (JDM) models that are usually associated with this group.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI, for example, is a well-known JDM model with a rich motorsports pedigree, similar to the Nissan Skyline GT-R. However, Gen Z also has a soft spot for the Toyota Celsior (known as the Lexus LS in the US market) and the Honda Beat, which are less common among traditional JDM enthusiasts.
The other two cars on the list are even more unusual. The Acura RSX, while overlooked by older Honda fans, sits in the same nostalgic sweet spot for both Millennials and Gen Z. The same can be said for the only non-Japanese car on the list - the Chevrolet Cobalt SS. Both of these early 2000s sport compacts deserve more love, and perhaps Gen Z will give it to them.
Hagerty notes that some of these cars may be getting more attention from Gen Z enthusiasts because they are currently affordable to buy. As Gen Z accumulates more disposable income, their preferences may shift towards more expensive or exotic models. For now, Gen Z makes up only 10% of the collector-car market, with Millennials accounting for 20%. Boomers and Gen X still dominate the market, with muscle cars expected to continue their reign at auction catalogs.
Source: thedrive.com
