A new car is likely to be one of the biggest purchases you'll make in your lifetime. With the median price of a used car in 2026 ranging between £10,000 - £20,000, it’s crucial you make sure you're spending your money wisely.
Picking the wrong car can mean a lifetime of stress and repairs which of course is money down the drain. But there’s another factor that comes into play and it can happen as soon as you take ownership of your car - depreciation (the difference between what you paid for the car when you bought it and the value of the car when you come to sell it). If you make the right choice, however, you’ll be able to sell your used car on the second-hand car market at a higher price than others.
So, instead of looking at the colour of the vehicle, look at resale value instead and you’ll end up much better off in the long run.
What factors impact a car's value?
Below, we list the key considerations when purchasing a new car to give you the best chance of getting a good resale price. Of course, buying a car brand new may not be the best option if you’re worried about depreciation, however, the same data trickles down to used cars. So even if you’re buying used, you can still get an idea of value for money.
Demand
Just like most things in life, if it’s more popular, then it commands higher prices. Subsequently, the resale value of an in-demand car even after 3 years of use will be higher than its competitor brands.
Reliability
If a car has bad reviews from customers or has known reliability issues, that will hurt its resale value. Car review websites such as AutoExpress and WhatCar usually give in-depth reviews for every model, so it’s important to check everything before you buy.
Quality
Similar to reliability, the better made the car is (on the inside too), the higher the price it will command. Cars built with higher quality parts and materials in the interior mean the vehicles hold up better over time. Like a good watch or piece of jewellery, the better something wears and maintains its form, the longer it will last - meaning it’ll be worth more, even if it’s old. Some of the cars that appear in the webuyanycar's 10 slowest depreciating car models include several models of Porsche and a Land Rover Defender.
Technology
Cars with the latest technology which enhances the performance and safety of the car can mean they hold their value more.
Condition
The condition of the car will affect its re-sell value. Steps you can take to keep the car in good condition include:
- Regular Servicing: Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule and keeping records will mean your car has a full service history which is beneficial for it's value.
- Minor Repairs: Addressing small dents, scratches, or interior wear promptly is advisable as these can become bigger problems (and cost more) if neglected.
- Cleanliness: A clean car, inside and out, is, of course, more appealing when it comes to selling your car/getting it valued.
Mileage
A lower mileage will generally translate to a higher resale value.
Fuel efficiency
With petrol prices remaining high, buyers are looking for cars with the best fuel economy, and higher miles per gallon should help the car hold its value.
Colour
The colour of the car can impact it's broader appeal and therefore its resale value. Professional buyers in particular will look for popular colours especially with classic/iconic cars which may have a certain colour associated with them, e.g. a red Ferrari. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the most popular colour car in the UK is grey, and has been for 8 consecutive years. Black and then blue are the second and third most popular colours.
Optional Extras
Optional add-ons have a varied impact on the value of your vehicle; however, leather seats and premium sound systems generally command higher prices.
Summary
A car is a significant investment. By understanding the factors that influence resale value – from demand and reliability to condition and even colour – you can make informed purchasing decisions. Remember, a well-maintained car is not just a pleasure to own, it's also a smart financial move. Research thoroughly, choose wisely, and take care of your vehicle, and you should be well-positioned for a good return when it's time to sell.
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