Market Watch: What 90s Cars Can You Buy In Singapore Today?

What are your fondest memories of the 90s? Baggy pants, flannel shirts and combat boots ruled the fashion world, while Nokia mobile phones, personal computers and MP3 players in the later years were just some of the tech advancements.

What about within the motoring domain? Perhaps the most obvious was the tuning culture - not restricted by uniformity - it was a time of bold, unique self-expression. Emission regulations were less restrictive too, allowing manufacturers more freedom to design cars close to concept guise.

While it’s tempting to focus on 90s JDMs, we have to be reminded that BMW, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz had a major part to play in building some of the most iconic cars. Porsche’s 964 and 993, BMW’s Z3 M and stunning E81 8 Series, and Merc’s 190E were top of mind. These shone alongside JDM heavy hitters, namely Honda’s NSX, Toyota’s A80 Supra and Mazda’s FD RX-7.

Judging by how the values of these cars have climbed in recent years, it’s rather safe to infer that car enthusiasts are looking for that authentic driving connection these cars possess in spades. Right here in Singapore where tax structures of older cars take on a different beat, perhaps only the best examples survive and only the well heeled can indulge in this niche hobby. Let’s find out what 90s cars can be bought on Carousell’s used car classifieds.

I want a large buffer for spare parts!

Sure, let’s set it at 8 grand depreciation per year maximum. We’ll be looking at a couple of Corollas, like this near 300k mileage 1999 example, and this well kept 350,000km 1993 specimen.

What about S$1,000 depreciation a month?

We’re in a band where options start to widen. Not many can match the raw theatre of a 1991 Toyota Starlet. If you like all things Honda, this B16-equipped EG sedan, EF Civic sedan facelift and striking 3rd-gen Honda CR-X should fit the bill. If you’re after a slow burn project from the West, BMW options include this E36 3 Series and E34 5 Series.

Show me some money-no-object 90s builds

Cars you used to purchase on Gran Turismo can be yours in reality. This Bayside Blue R34 GT-R has a supercar-rivalling depreciation. Mitsubishi’s golden years were not only represented by Evos - this 3000GT GTO with pop-up headlights looked the part, too. Mazda’s weapon of choice was the hard-edged FD RX-7.

But their NA MX-5 proved that lightness and finesse can be charming, too. Speaking of drop-top motoring, look towards the Germans too - this R129 SL300 doesn't look like it has clocked up 300,000km, while this 1998 986 Porsche Boxster looks in fine fettle.

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