When it comes to the world of classic cars, there's a massive array of brands and models to choose from, and while Japanese classics such as the Nissan GTR R32 are making a big splash on the collector's scene, European cars remain a firm favorite amongst international collectors. As it turns out, our pals in the UK are absolutely infatuated with Porsches, and more specifically the venerable 911.

Recent research has revealed that the Porsche 911 is the most valuable historic vehicle on the UK market, worth over £900 million ($1.23 billion). Who said the world economy was in bad shape?

Research from the Historic Endurance Rallying Organisation and Endurance Rallying Association (HERO-ERA) has revealed that the Porsche 911 is the dominant classic on UK soil despite the market being filled with British legends such as the Jaguar Type-E. With 23,029 models in circulation, the organization estimates the market to be valued at well over a billion dollars. The report also reveals what most would expect: at the top of the pile, but below Porsche, sits Jaguar, Aston Martin, BMW, and Ferrari, all highly respected brands with a wide portfolio of highly collectible classics.

The report continues to explain the market share Porsche enjoys in the classic car market, and which competing models the public adore most: "By total value, the UK's stock of classic Porsches is worth the most. At £1.18 billion (13.5% of the total), Porsche is the only manufacturer to exceed £1 billion. As will be seen, this is largely driven by 23,000 Porsche 911s, worth an estimated £911 million ($1,246 billion)."

According to the report, the most popular Jaguar is the E-Type and XJ Series with a total market value of £370 million ($507 million). The most popular Aston Martin is the DB5, and BMW fans prefer the 3 Series.