The value of the US dollar has dropped over 3% recently, reaching a four-year low, and it’s down more than 10% since 2025. Given the questionable foreign policy, this situation isn’t great for those holding onto American currency — perhaps it’s wise to spend it while it still holds value.
So, why not gather up all your savings, maybe refinance your house, and even consider racking up some credit card debt to buy this unique German sports car you’ve never seen before? It’s believed there are only 13 of these models. This 1991 Isdera Imperator 108i Series 2 could be just the ride you need as the economy falters. If the government’s currency loses all its value, does it really matter if the loan’s interest rate is a staggering 20%? What’s the bank going to do if you’re injured? In a worst-case scenario, all that debt could be moot, and you’d still have the Isdera to drive around in.
This specific model is practically new, having been built and delivered to Japan 35 years ago, with only a mere 1,378 miles on the odometer. Oddly enough, it has traveled much more by boat and truck than on the road. Now, it’s headed to California for some servicing by Canepa and will eventually be sold in Florida. Buy it, drive it; if the dollar crashes, car depreciation won’t matter at all.
What’s the appeal?
Besides its rarity, the Isdera Imperator 108i is a remarkable vehicle. Just look at its striking, futuristic design—it’s like something from a sci-fi movie. The exposed side exhaust, NACA ducts, and sharply raked windshield make it look like it’s ready to take flight! This car embodies the late 20th-century “wedge” design, drawing from Marcello Gandini’s concepts, although it was shaped by German designer Eberhard Schulz, a former Porsche collaborator.
Its construction features a fiberglass body over a steel tube frame, which isn’t as exotic beneath the surface as it appears. Under the hood, there’s a formidable 300-horsepower 6-liter Mercedes-Benz V8, giving it the performance and feel of a mid-engine supercar, even if it’s not the most jaw-dropping vehicle. Paired with a ZF five-speed manual and tires wider than they are tall, it’s a well-rounded package.
In the last decade, the car has changed hands among four different collections and has undergone various restorations. It’s a bit surprising that a vehicle with so few miles would need extensive work, but leaving a car idle often leads to that. This beauty is definitely yearning to be driven.
It’s worth a look
Given its scarcity, the Isdera probably won’t be inexpensive. You’ll need to be prepared to spend significantly if you want to take it home, especially with several bidders interested. It will be featured at the RM Sotheby’s auction in Miami on February 27th. Holding onto your dollars seems unwise when you could exchange them for something as special as this Isdera Imperator.
Pre-auction forecasts suggest the car’s value could be between $650,000 and $850,000. It’s a rare chance to own an exceptional car, and if many eager bidders are present, it could easily surpass that estimate. Everyone has their own thoughts about future money value, and while you might be tempted to save up for something grander, you might just end up disappointed. Due to the car’s limited production, there aren’t many comparable sales. The last time this model was sold, it fetched €690,000 at a Bonhams auction in Monaco in 2021. Bidding could reignite your passion for life.
While this isn’t financial advice, if you feel the need to take on debt for the Isdera, perhaps you might want to reconsider if you have the financial savvy to navigate this world. However, owning such a car does lend a legendary status. Plus, if we revert to a barter economy after a financial downfall, you could trade Isderas for essentials like food, essentially securing your future.
