Any more model suggestions: 'classics', perhaps?

The problem with classics is that prices tend to fluctuate in a rather unpredictable way. This is why I did not suggest them. Once a car develops a reputation for being a sound investment, every speculator and his dog jumps on the bandwagon and then you're stuck in a cycle of boom and bust. You don't really know where you are in this cycle. The other problem with rare classics is that they can be horribly expensive to repair, especially if the problem is rot in the undercarriage.

For £15K, how about a Triumph TR6 with the 2.5 Injection engine? Beautiful looking car, decent performance, and relaxed cruising with the overdrive. As classics go, the values are relatively stable. Just need a tow truck to escort you around :)

Thank you, BenG,

That was the sort of answer I had hoped to elicit.

With respect to some of the others my question was not about seeking a sound, formal instrument of investment. I asked into which car you might think to put up to £15,000, with the intention of getting back as much of it as possible when coming to re-sell.

Wasn't intending to be facetious but your post read like you were thinking of making an investment in a vehicle, rather than trying to go for residuals.

HJ often advises on these types of queries in the Telegraph - I think it's Ferraris that drop and then go back up as they become 'collectors' cars.

I drive a MX-5 - I'm happy that I will get a decent amount back for it when I sell it; they retain about 50% value after 3 years which is not the worst I've ever seen!

The Lotus Elise is a good bet. Very small depreciation.