There are a few models out there that we all seem to have agreed are something special. Whether they represent a period of time, a mechanical development or great styling, they've become collectible cars. We love looking at any of them whenever we can. And of course we love getting behind the wheel even more.

Do you have your own list of favorite cars? Compare them with our list of our collectible cars. They might not all be our dream autos, but they offer something very important that most cars do not. These vehicles have struck a chord across cultural and regional divides. No matter how old the models themselves get, it's clear the cars below will not be forgotten.

What do all of these vehicles have in common? There are certainly a few things you're likely to find in any of the most sought after autos. First, there's styling. Whether it's breathtakingly beautiful or over the top futuristic, these cars stand out. Then you have performance. This can be raw power under the hood or a refined, luxurious ride.

But beyond what they have in common, all of these cars are unique and one of a kind. That is perhaps what makes them the most collectible cars ever produced. Some were classics as soon as they rolled off the assembly line. Others gained popularity through popular culture or some other external event. Even the models that have come out in recent years have proven their value among collectors. And we think you'll find our favorites intriguing in very different ways.

If you know autos, you're probably familiar with the history of Jeep. It goes back to military service around the World War II period. But when civilians got the chance to drive them, the model truly took off.

Jeeps have changed a lot since then to include new safety features and a lot more power. But the general shape and functionality remains largely the same. This model helped mainstream the idea of personal sport utility vehicles. Decades before the Ford Explorer and Chevy Blazer took the stage, the small Jeep was selling like hotcakes.

So it ranks among our favorite collectible cars for the obvious reason that it revolutionized the industry. Later vehicles like the Hummer line took cues from this model. Though the earlier models will always be in high demand, all versions have become popular. Few vehicles retain their value as reliably as Jeeps. And perhaps the most collectible of all is the CJ 7 sold in the 1970s and '80s. This update really made the ride more suitable for the typical driver. It was a bit longer and lot more stable. It retained those basic styling cues and rugged versatility that made the original so popular. 

Since then, there have been a range of special editions and unusual trim levels. But underneath each one is the heart of that humble SUV that dates back almost 80 years.

We'll transition from humble roots to a luxury pedigree for our next entry. Classic Mercedes Benz designs have been collectible cars for generations. But few have as many key components to their coveted status as the SL.

The badge itself dates back to early days of the brand. And each redesign added something new to love about it. Of course, every car collector has his or her favorites. But the consensus seems to point to the fourth iteration of the SL as the most collectible. Maybe that's because it evoked both the classic design elements and the modern, sleek lines. Plus, the performance of this model was ahead of anything the small coupe had previously unleashed.

Throughout its history, the SL has been popular for its small size and big fun. Tiny coupes -- especially convertibles -- aren't exactly the most practical automotive choices. But they often comprise some of the most collectible cars on and off the road. A retractable roll bar gave the fourth generation a cleaner appearance and safer experience. That revolutionary advancement is another reason this model remains so popular among collectors. 

Even today, drivers note the superb driving experience of this coupe, which was retired in the 2001 model year. Some super tuned versions and special editions along the way make it an even more legendary line.

If Mercedes Benz set the standard for German luxury, Porsche did the same for performance. That's why both brands have become among the most collectible cars on the road. And the 911 Turbo stands out as one of Porsche's longest running nameplates. It's also among the most coveted from a very distinguished line of sports cars.

As the models advanced in styling, they also became more precisely tuned driving machines. Performance and technology began to meld into what some motorists consider the perfect 911. The 996 model that emerged in the early 2000s is one of the most sought after Porsches we've reviewed. And when you look at the reason for its mass appeal, there's really no question why it's so collectible.

It might earn some low marks from a few Porsche fans who think it's too watered down. But the fact that you can drive it comfortably while still getting the performance is a lot of its charm. You don't have to settle for a jarring, stiff ride to enjoy the launch of a perfectly tuned engine. And there was plenty of horsepower on demand. It put a race car pedigree in the hands of average drivers.

The turbo has always given the 911 maximum power. But by the 996 model, it was off the charts impressive. Bridging the gap between high performance sports cars and exotics, the 911 Turbo is a sight to behold. That's why so many collectors have at least one in their garages.

The Firebird has long been a favorite among American muscle car fans. The GM model relied on a consistently fierce style that spent generations on the F-body frame. By the end of that run in the early '90s, the Pontiac coupe was at its peak. And the Formula package represented the top of the line.

But the most coveted among them is arguably the Firehawk. Not only are they incredibly rare, they're also incredibly fun. You'll find Corvette performance in a Firebird's skin. You could get this impressive badge on your car in models as late as 2002. And by that time, they were putting out crazy performance compared to its competitors. Folks who know collectible cars are sure to have this instant classic in their lineup.

You might immediately equate Rolls Royce with the epitome of luxury automobiles. And you'd certainly have plenty of company. The revered British brand dates back well over a decade, making it among the first luxury car brands. And one of its first major hits has since become one of the most collectible cars ever produced. 

The Silver Ghost represented the best car anyone had ever seen at the time. And even after several generations have come and gone, it stands the test of time. Some consider it still to be the single greatest car ever created. It certainly is one of the most coveted. And for a brand like Rolls Royce, it definitely takes something special to stand out.

We started with the Jeep, which brought the idea of sport utility to the automotive forefront. But we're ending with the vehicle that made it accessible to the masses. Jeep as a brand might have cornered a narrow market of folks who wanted the go anywhere performance. It was the Ford Bronco that made everyday drivers give the segment a second glance.

And it evolved over the next few generations, ultimately being replaced by a series of Ford SUVs. But it still remains on our list of collectible cars because it left an indelible mark on the industry. The groundbreaking style and concept of the first generation makes it among the most sought after SUVs ever.

There are tons of other models that could have been on our list. And there's no real standard that makes a car collectible. But most of us have a feeling that we know them when we see them. They're just special.

We hope our guide has introduced you to a few of the most collectible cars ever produced. If so, share this article with the car enthusiasts in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions.

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