Old Classic Car Models

Old Classic Car Models

Vintage Car Models: a Collectors Dream

You may not be able to realize a dream of having a fleet of fully restored vintage cars, but you can be able to have the next best thing, a collection of vintage car models. As a vintage car enthusiast, hobbyists would most likely want to have a collection of their own, and if possible, this would be a collection of real vintage cars. But not all of us have buildings named after us, nor do we have a software empire that can finance such a huge enterprise, so having vintage car models would be closer to the real thing.

Having a collection of vintage car models will allow you to appreciate more your passion for vintage cars. This is because you will be able to treasure them and show them off and at the same time, learn more about them along the way. They are also great as decorations to a home. You have to understand though that because they are only models, it doesn’t mean that they don’t cost much.

In fact, some vintage car models are also vintages on their own right. Some are from the same era as the cars they are replicating and can command a considerable amount of money. If they are in an exceptional state or in mint condition, these models can cost thousands of dollars. With that price, you wouldn’t think of them as mere toys.

Many of these vintage car models are made from die cast metal. Plastic models were unheard of in those days and even know, if a model is in limited edition, they are generally made from metal to allow them to last longer. This way, they can be worth something in the future. Also, the price of the model is not just based on how old it is and how good the condition it is in. Another consideration would be the design and the detailing of the model.

There are vintage car models that are highly detailed and have different movable parts attached together. Since they are small, they can be hard to build and has to be manually produced. These details provide an intricate authenticity to the model and they are scaled exactly to the proportions of the car so you can have a general idea of what they really look like in their true to life size. The more detailed the model is, the higher the price it can command.

Usually, vintage car models can be found in hobby stores and collectible stores. If you don’t have one in your area, you may have a hard time making your collection grow. This is the old fashioned way of looking for vintage car models. So that you can specifically find a particular vintage car model, all you need to do is log on to the internet and find the numerous collectibles and hobby retail websites. There you will be able to get good deals and discounts and be also able to find exactly what you want.

Auction sites are good sources for these collectibles. Usually, there are collectors who sell their vintage car models as well. You can do a thorough search for the different vintage car models and you don’t even have to leave your home or office. Better yet, join clubs and forum on the internet and be always informed.

About the Author

Kolawole Olambiwonnu is also the Publisher of Niche-Newsletter, a collection of well-researched articles. To learn Restoration Tips From A Classic Car Junkie, download Vintage Cars now!

Passing Virginia Inspection with Classic Car?

I have a 30 year old Skylark, many modifications, what do I need to pass inspection? It's tagged as an antique temporarily but I want to tag it as a normal car for daily driving. Emissions are all removed, along with all heating and A/C. Is there a way to look up specifically what your car needs by year or make? Or what if you put a late model engine in it with emissions intact?
To be tagged as an Antique it does not need to be inspected. But that means limited driving, only to parades and car shows. And less than 300 miles a year. I want to tag it as a normal everyday car so I can drive it everywhere.

The following is an extract from Virginia DMV FAQ Website:
Vehicle Emissions Inspection FAQs

http://www.deq.virginia.gov/mobile/mobfaq.html#dmvnaei

Does my vehicle need an emissions inspection?

Most vehicles that primarily operate in the program area are subject to emissions test. Currently, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles prompts 25 vehicle model years up to 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating to pass or waive the emissions inspection to register their vehicles at least once every two years. DMV is responsible for notifying vehicle owners whether or not an emissions inspection is required for registration. Check the middle section or bottom right corner of the registration renewal card for the following statement: "Emissions Inspection Required."

Currently there is a number of legislative actions focused on cars with Antique License plates, most of the attention is on "Kit and Replica" cars with antique plates.

I currently have 56 Fairlane, I do not have antique plates because I like to drive my car when and where I want with no restrictions. You will need an annual inspection, all that incompasses is an inspection of all the safety equipment that the car was originally equiped with. But, you will have to have seat belts even if they were not originally installed.
I have found it is best to find a local inspection station that the owner is a "Car Guy", many of the Francise shops will not inspect an older car because they do not know what to look for unless it is spelled out in some book. Be sure to give the local shop your routine automotive repairs, the shop does not make any money on inspections.
The closer to DC you get, the more complicated it gets.
If you don't drive your Classic Car, then in reality it is not a car, it is just decoration.
Take a Kid to a Car Show!

Vivek Oberoi at the Mumbai Vintage Car Rally