Buy Classic Car

Buy Classic Car

Six Point Guide to Buy the Classic Car You Want

Thinking about getting your first classic cars? With thousands of dealers and hundreds of website selling anything models from veteran models to the 1950's Mustangs and Camaros. You will definitely be spoiled for choices. Fact is sometimes we can accidentally make rash purchases in that "rush" of the moment.

1. Wait awhile before purchasing

Unless you happened to be searching for a rare model, there is no rush to jump into the purchase mode as there will be definitely be some options around to check out. Look for the model you want on the internet, in your local car dealer or even the off beaten track garage, get the idea of the options that are available, how much of the price is fair (refer to price guide), whether it is still possible to source for original restoration parts, what kind of restoration work can be expected and of course by getting more knowledgeable often put you in the position to negotiate a better deal. Remember classic cars are something that you want, it is not a necessity, and therefore it is okay if you decide to walk away from a not-so-good deal.

2. Make a check list

Buying a classic car can also be somewhat similar to buying any other second hand car, ascertaining the condition of the car is of paramount importance. Make a check list on what to look out for, ranging from the car body up to its interior, head lights and braking system. To make things easier, you can check out some of the check list that are available from classiccars.about.com or even eBay. Simply copy most of the attributes and add on a few points to consider the sourcing of restoration parts and the work involved.

3. Make sure you get all the documentation

When you are about the make the purchase, request that the seller to hand over a copy of documentation including the car registration, insurances, service history and schedule maintenance. If the car has been restored before, ask the seller to provide details such as photos taken before and after the restoration. Inspect all documents to ensure that they are genuine; make sure the VIN on the documents matches the VIN on the vehicle. Also if you are paying extra dollar on a good condition vintage, check the service history to ascertain that the car is well maintained.

4. Read your custom laws for international purchases

Purchasing any automobiles from out of the country places you with the extra challenges of arranging shipping as well as clearing the customs, not to mention the higher chances of getting scammed. So unless that this is a rare model indeed, it is better to save all the trouble by looking locally first. For those of you looking to import that rare vintage, consider hiring a freight or shipping agent to handle your shipping, most of them would also be able to offer competent advise of declaring customs, all the paperwork as well as providing the amount of duty to be paid. Certain countries require special permits to import foreign cars, therefore consult with your shipping agent first before making a purchase. Also expect that once the car is in the country, you would need to enlist the service of a car agent to arrange the registration and inspection of your classic car before it can be on the road. It is also sometimes possible to negotiate with the seller for a money back guarantee if things are not what it seems, but in most cases the shipping and duty charge cannot be refunded.

5. Check up the seller, seller must be willing to answer question

There are many ways to find information on the seller; firstly sellers must be willing to answer any question regarding the car. When dealing with the seller, be polite but upfront with your questions, such as whether the car has been in an accident before, is there any rust in the structure etc. Any signs of sellers evading the question must sound an alarm for you to be more cautious. If you are buying from auction websites such as eBay, they also offer to extra feature of enabling you to trace the feedback from the seller’s pass customers to ensure that the seller is in good repute.

6. Arrange an actual inspection and test drive if possible

If you are buying locally, insist on physically inspecting and test drive the car. Bring along your mechanic or your friend who has experience in classic car restoration. An expert would be able to alert you to minor defects that are harder to detect as well as providing an estimate on how much the restoration work is going to cost you.

About the Author

Loves vintage cars? Want to know more about the history of car making or simply to check out some restoration tips, find out at our site http://www.vintage-cars-for-sale-uk.com, the marketplace to check out vintage car offers from the UK.

What classic car should I buy? Up to £4000 to spend?

I am looking for a 'sensible' classic (or distinctive modern car) for up to £4000. Requirements - must seat 2 adults and 2 kids (pref room for a third); Not too expensive to run; decent boot space. Have been thinking about an MGB GT, but would like something similar, but with a bit more room...any ideas?

Thanks

(by the way, I am in the UK)
A Jaguar XJS is also on my list to consider

I have an MGB GT, and, unless your kids are the size of small rabbits you won't get them to stay in the back for more than a few minutes at a time - no leg room or back support in the back seat - great car otherwise. Jag will cost a fortune to run. Have you condidered a Porche 928 - fast, fun, bulletproof engine and reasonable room. Rover P6? loads of room, good club support. MG magnette (I've one of these too), very distinctive, nice to drive, lasts forever, very good club support.
Subscribe to Practical classics magazine - great reviews and advice. Best of luck.

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