COUPES and sports cars are the safest investments as low-depreciating company cars, according to Lex Vehicle Leasing.

Lex found that seven out of 10 vehicles were coupes or sports cars when listing three-year-old cars on its fleet with the strongest projected residual values, with the Porsche Boxster coming out on top. In second place was the Honda S2000, while the Mercedes-Benz SLK and CLK took the next two spots.

Steve Jones, LVL pricing manager, said: 'The Boxster is very desirable in that it is the first three-year-old Porsche that many motorists will ever have been able to afford.

'The Honda is quite rare and has a strong following, while demand for used Mercedes SLK and CLKs continue to outweigh supply - this is keeping RVs strong.'

The first mainstream car on the list is the Jaguar X-type, while a surprising entry in seventh place is the Land Rover Defender.

Jones added: 'Strong residual values keep down wholelife costs whether you're buying or leasing, and cars with good residuals are normally desirable, reliable and have a strong brand image.

'For many, the Defender is a surprise entry, but the car doesn't lose its appeal even at 10 years old.'

Residual value winners

Lex Vehicle Leasing top 10 cars with highest residual values after three years/60,000 miles.
1. Porsche Boxster
2. Honda S2000
3. Mercedes SLK
4. Mercedes CLK
5. Jaguar X-type
6. Audi TT
7. Land Rover Defender
8. Lotus Exige
9. BMW 3-series
10. Lexus SC430.