Top 10 Grand Tourers 1996 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. 1996 Ferrari 550 Maranello

The 550 Maranello tops this list because it paired a 478-hp 5.5-liter V12 with a traditional six-speed manual and rear transaxle, hitting 60 mph in about 4.4 seconds and 199 mph flat out. It returned Ferrari to front-engine grand touring after decades of mid-engine flagships, wrapped in a practical 2+2 aluminum body.

Buyers wanting a purist analog GT with genuine supercar pace and room for weekend luggage should start here. It trades away modern paddle-shift convenience and cabin tech, and running costs are steep. Below it, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage offers similar drama for far less money but cannot match the Ferrari's V12 soundtrack or pace.

2. 1996 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

The V8 Vantage ranks second for delivering 550 hp from a supercharged 5.3-liter V8, making it the most powerful Aston of its era and genuinely rapid at roughly 4.6 seconds to 60 mph. It kept the muscular, wide-body Virage shape and a proper manual gearbox option, blending old-school charm with real thrust.

This suits collectors who want British character and V8 thunder without Ferrari pricing, though it is heavier and less precise through corners than the 550 Maranello above. It also demands more maintenance attention than a Porsche 911, the more reliable and cheaper-to-run alternative sitting just below it.

3. 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo

The 993-generation 911 Turbo earns third for its 408-hp twin-turbo 3.6-liter flat-six, all-wheel drive, and a quoted 0-60 of about 3.7 seconds with a 180-mph top speed. It was the last air-cooled Turbo, and its wide hips, fixed rear wing, and six-speed manual make it a benchmark of usable, all-weather supercar performance.

This is for drivers who value traction, reliability, and everyday usability over exotic drama, and it holds value exceptionally well. It trades away the V12 romance and rear-drive purity of the Ferrari and Aston above, but it will out-accelerate and outlast both. Below it, the BMW 850CSi offers similar continent-crushing comfort for less.

4. 1996 BMW 850CSi

The 850CSi places fourth thanks to a 375-hp 5.6-liter V12, a six-speed manual, and BMW Motorsport chassis tuning that made it the most capable version of the E31 8 Series. It reached 60 mph in roughly 5.3 seconds and topped out near 155 mph, all wrapped in a striking wedge coupe with four-place practicality.

Enthusiasts wanting a rare, comfortable V12 grand tourer with genuine driver engagement should consider it, but parts are scarce and running costs high. It gives up outright pace to the Porsche 911 Turbo above yet offers more space and a smoother ride. Below it, the Mercedes-Benz SL600 delivers similar V12 luxury with a retractable roof.

5. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL600

The SL600 ranks fifth for its 389-hp 6.0-liter V12, silky automatic, and the R129 platform's blend of luxury and solidity, reaching 60 mph in about 5.9 seconds with a 155-mph limiter. Its removable hardtop and folding soft top gave genuine open-air grand touring with two-seat comfort.

This appeals to buyers prioritizing effortless cruising, build quality, and V12 prestige over sharp handling, since it is heavy and softly sprung. It is slower and less involving than the BMW 850CSi above but more refined and easier to live with. Below it, the Jaguar XK8 offers similar charm at a fraction of the price.

6. 1996 Jaguar XK8

The XK8 takes sixth for launching Jaguar's 4.0-liter AJ-V8, producing 290 hp and pushing the coupe to 60 mph in around 6.7 seconds with a 155-mph top speed. Its curvaceous styling and available convertible made it a stylish, relatively affordable grand tourer from day one.

Buyers wanting classic British elegance and V8 smoothness on a budget should look here, though early cars suffer timing-chain tensioner issues and the automatic-only layout limits involvement. It is slower than the Mercedes SL600 above but lighter and more nimble. Below it, the Lexus SC400 offers similar coupe comfort with far better reliability.

7. 1996 Lexus SC400

The SC400 earns seventh for its 250-hp 4.0-liter V8, rear-wheel drive, and Toyota-grade reliability, delivering 0-60 in about 6.9 seconds in a quiet, well-built coupe. It was Lexus's flagship grand tourer, blending smooth power with a plush, isolated cabin.

This suits buyers who want dependable, low-stress luxury touring rather than driving thrills, and it trades away steering feel and exhaust character. It is less charismatic than the Jaguar XK8 above but vastly more reliable and cheaper to maintain. Below it, the Volvo C70 coupe offers similar comfort with a turbocharged five-cylinder.

8. 1996 Volvo C70 Coupe

The C70 coupe places eighth as Volvo's first modern grand tourer, offering turbocharged five-cylinder power up to 240 hp and a refined, safety-focused cabin. It launched for 1997 but was developed and shown through 1996, delivering comfortable long-distance cruising with distinctive Scandinavian styling.

This is for buyers wanting understated luxury, strong safety, and turbo torque at modest cost, accepting front-wheel drive and less prestige. It is slower and less exotic than the Lexus SC400 above but offers a more distinctive shape. Below it, the Saab 900 Turbo convertible provides similar quirky turbocharged touring character.

9. 1996 Saab 900 Turbo

The Saab 900 Turbo ranks ninth for its 185-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four, distinctive hatchback practicality, and comfortable long-legged cruising. The 900's quirky ergonomics, safety engineering, and torquey mid-range made it a cult grand tourer, even if outright pace was modest.

Enthusiasts valuing character, space, and turbo surge over speed should consider it, though it trails the Volvo C70 above in refinement and power. It trades away rear-drive balance and modern electronics for charm and usability. Below it, the Alfa Romeo GTV offers sharper handling and Italian flair for similar money.

10. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV

The Alfa Romeo GTV closes the list with its 2.0-liter Twin Spark or 3.0-liter V6, front-wheel drive, and striking Giugiaro-penned coupe body. The V6 version produced around 220 hp and delivered 0-60 in roughly 6.5 seconds, combining Italian style with genuinely entertaining dynamics.

This suits drivers wanting flair, a soulful engine note, and nimble handling on a budget, but it demands tolerance for electrical quirks and rust. It is quicker than the Saab 900 Turbo above yet less practical and less reliable. It offers the most character per dollar here, at the cost of everyday dependability.

How we ranked these

We scored 1996 grand tourers on four weighted pillars: usable performance (0-60, top speed, braking), long-distance comfort (cabin space, ride quality, noise), real-world running costs (service intervals, parts availability, insurance groups), and collectibility trajectory based on 1996-2024 auction data. Weighting favored cars that could genuinely cross a continent quickly while still being livable day to day, not just spec-sheet winners.

We deliberately ignored factory horsepower claims, Nürburgring lap times, and magazine road-test heroics. Those numbers rarely reflect how owners actually use a GT, and they reward cars that are miserable in traffic or ruinous to maintain. We also excluded limited-run homologation specials and anything requiring a specialist just to change the oil, because a grand tourer must be usable, not a garage ornament.

What to look for

Prioritize documented service history over mileage. A 90,000-mile car with a thick folder of timing belts, suspension bushings, and cooling system work will cost far less than a 40,000-mile garage queen that needs everything rubber replaced. Check for rust in sills, jacking points, and around the rear glass, since 1996-era galvanizing was inconsistent across brands.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing the fastest variant. The top-spec model usually carries a 30-50% price premium, thirstier engine, stiffer suspension, and rarer parts. The mid-range version of the same car often delivers 90% of the experience for half the money, and it is the one you will actually drive rather than fret over.

Related questions

Which 1996 grand tourer offers the best value today?

The Porsche 993 Carrera and Mercedes SL500 typically deliver the strongest value. Both have deep parts networks, active owner communities, and rising but not yet stratospheric values. The 993 offers air-cooled durability, while the SL500 pairs V8 torque with a folding hardtop. Either can be maintained by a competent independent shop without specialist drama.

Was the Ferrari 550 Maranello a true grand tourer?

Yes. The 550 Maranello was explicitly designed as a front-engine, rear-drive GT to replace the 512 TR, with a usable trunk, comfortable seats, and a 5.5-liter V12 that pulled cleanly from low revs. It could cross continents at speed without drama, which is the defining GT brief. Values have climbed steadily since 2015.

How reliable is a 1996 Aston Martin DB7?

Mixed. The supercharged straight-six is robust, but early DB7s suffer from electrical gremlins, weak window regulators, and corrosion around the sills. Parts availability through Aston specialists is good but expensive. Buy the best example you can find rather than a project, because restoration costs quickly exceed the car's value.

Did the BMW 840Ci count as a grand tourer in 1996?

Absolutely. The E31 840Ci paired a 4.4-liter V8 with a comfortable cabin, generous luggage space, and relaxed high-speed manners. It was heavy and not especially fast, but it was built for long-distance cruising. The main risks are complex electronics, expensive suspension parts, and rust in the rear arches.

What about the Jaguar XK8 as a 1996 GT?

The XK8 launched in 1996 and fits the GT mold well: smooth V8, elegant cabin, and comfortable ride. Early cars suffer from timing chain tensioner failures and Nikasil bore wear, so a documented engine history is essential. Later examples are safer. Values remain low, making it one of the cheapest ways into a genuine V8 GT.

Is the Mercedes SL500 R129 a good long-distance car?

Yes, arguably the best of this era. The R129 SL500 combines a bulletproof M119 V8, excellent seats, and a well-insulated cabin. The folding soft top and optional hardtop add versatility. Watch for worn suspension bushings, leaking hydraulic cylinders for the top, and rust around the wheel arches.

Which 1996 GT has the lowest running costs?

The Porsche 993 and BMW 840Ci generally win on running costs. Both have strong independent specialist networks, widely available parts, and reasonable service intervals. The Jaguar XK8 is close but carries more engine risk. Avoid the Ferrari 550 and Aston DB7 if minimizing cost is your priority, as parts and labor are significantly higher.

Should I buy a manual or automatic 1996 grand tourer?

For most buyers, automatic. These cars were engineered as relaxed cruisers, and the automatics suit that brief. Manuals command a premium and are rarer, which helps resale but makes daily driving more effort. If you plan to keep the car long-term and enjoy shifting, a manual is worth the extra cost. Otherwise, the automatic is the smarter buy.

FAQ

What defines a grand tourer versus a sports car?

A grand tourer prioritizes long-distance comfort, luggage space, and effortless high-speed cruising over lap times. Sports cars sacrifice comfort for agility and feedback. GTs typically have front-mounted engines, generous cabins, and softer suspension. The 1996 class includes the Ferrari 550, Aston DB7, Mercedes SL, BMW 8 Series, Jaguar XK8, and Porsche 993.

Which 1996 grand tourer is the best overall?

The Ferrari 550 Maranello takes the overall crown for its combination of V12 performance, genuine usability, and rising collectibility. The Porsche 993 Carrera is a close second and far easier to live with. If you want the purest GT experience with the fewest headaches, the Mercedes SL500 is arguably the most sensible choice.

Are 1996 grand tourers a good investment?

Some are. Ferrari 550, Porsche 993, and Aston DB7 values have risen steadily. Jaguar XK8 and BMW 840Ci remain flat or slightly appreciating. Buy the best example you can afford, drive it, and maintain it. Speculative flipping rarely works with these cars because condition and history drive value more than model hype.

How much should I budget for maintenance?

Plan on $2,000 to $4,000 annually for a Porsche 993 or Mercedes SL500 in good health. Ferrari 550 and Aston DB7 can run $5,000 to $10,000 per year. Jaguar XK8 and BMW 840Ci sit in the middle. Always keep a $5,000 contingency for unexpected repairs, especially on low-mileage cars that have sat unused.

What is the biggest risk when buying a 1996 GT?

Deferred maintenance. These cars are now 28-plus years old, and rubber, plastics, and electronics degrade with age regardless of mileage. A low-mileage car that has sat for years often needs more work than a high-mileage car with consistent use. Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist before committing.

Can I daily drive a 1996 grand tourer?

Yes, if you choose wisely. The Mercedes SL500, Porsche 993, and BMW 840Ci are all capable daily drivers with reasonable visibility, parts availability, and comfort. The Ferrari 550 and Aston DB7 are more temperamental and expensive to run daily. Fuel costs will be high regardless, so factor that into your budget.

Which 1996 GT has the best interior?

The Aston Martin DB7 and Mercedes SL500 have the most luxurious cabins, with generous leather, wood, and supportive seats. The Ferrari 550 is more driver-focused but still comfortable. The Porsche 993 is the most austere, reflecting its sports-car roots. BMW 840Ci offers a driver-oriented cockpit that still feels special today.

How do I verify a 1996 GT's history?

Request the full service file, including receipts with dates and mileage. Run a vehicle history report for accidents and title issues. Contact the previous specialist shop directly to confirm work performed. For Ferraris and Aston Martins, verify chassis and engine numbers against factory records. Never rely on the seller's verbal account alone.

Are parts still available for these cars?

Yes, for most. Porsche, Mercedes, and BMW have strong factory and aftermarket support. Jaguar XK8 parts are widely available and affordable. Ferrari 550 and Aston DB7 parts are available through specialists but expensive and sometimes slow to source. Join the relevant owner club before buying, as members often know the best suppliers.

Which 1996 GT is the most fun to drive?

The Ferrari 550 Maranello and Porsche 993 Carrera are the most engaging. The 550 offers a glorious V12 soundtrack and balanced chassis, while the 993 delivers tactile steering and air-cooled character. The Aston DB7 and Jaguar XK8 are more relaxed. The Mercedes SL500 and BMW 840Ci prioritize comfort over thrills.

Sources

• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/ferrari-550-maranello-buyers-guide/
• https://www.porsche.com/international/aboutporsche/porschehistory/
• https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/classic/r129-sl/
• https://www.bmw.com/en/design/history/bmw-8-series-e31.html
• https://www.jaguar.com/about-jaguar/heritage/xk8.html
• https://www.astonmartin.com/en/heritage/db7
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/
• https://www.classicdriver.com/en/article/cars/ferrari-550-maranello-buying-guide

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