Top tips for purchasing your first classic car

If you’re a classic car enthusiast, it’s likely you’ve considered or will contemplate buying a vintage vehicle. Whether it’s a 1968 Ford Mustang or a classic Cadillac, there’s much to consider: Is the car you’re considering worth its price or does the vehicle have undiagnosed mechanical issues that will cost a fortune to maintain.

Buying A Classic Car? Research

Here are some tips to consider when purchasing your first classic. You’ll shop like a veteran car buyer and have a better chance of not making a costly mistake.

Run Away From Rust

Rust can be a deal-breaker for a used car, but when considering a vehicle that may be 30 to 50 years old, rust is expected. But to what degree? Rust problems can be fixed, but while looking to buy classic cars note that if they’ve been allowed to rust for many years, they may not have been maintained in other areas. If you determine a vehicle you’re considering has too much rust, run fast away. Don’t spend money you’ll likely regret spending.

Check The VIN Number

Because vintage vehicles are so desirable, some sellers will not be honest. Therefore, it’s particularly important to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to ensure the vehicle’s integral parts have the same number as the vehicle’s VIN. It won’t guarantee some aspects of a used car have been altered, but it’s less likely.

Look For A Low Mileage Vehicle

If you’re able to purchase a vintage car with low mileage, it’s likely the vehicle doesn’t have too much “wear and tear.

But vintage cars will low mileage will be more expensive. If a bargain price is your goal, a car with more miles that has been well-maintained is ideal. It’s especially true if you’re buying the car as an investment rather than just for joy.

Some Cars Are Cheaper Overseas

The best prices for American classic cars are in the United States. But foreign-made vehicles like Porsches and BMWs are often better deals when purchased in Europe. It’s even true when considering the cost of car shipping companies and currency conversions. So, as a reminder: When considering a vintage, widening your search may result in a better deal.

Always Do Your Homework

Even you’re a vintage car-buying expert, make sure to do diligent research. Make sure to consider the average selling price of vehicles and the location of the best classic car auctions. Researching vehicles has been simplified with information available on online sites. It just makes sense to check several sources.

Go For A Limited Edition

Most classic cars were not sold as limited editions, but many older vehicles were made in small numbers for various reasons. If a vintage car you’re interested in is available as a limited edition, give it further consideration. It’s likely worth more than mass-produced vintage cars.

Consider The Color

If you’re buying a classic car for pleasure, buy the red Jaguar or yellow Porsche you’ve dreamed about. But if you’re buying a vintage car for investment, note that there’s a higher demand for cars with unique cars.

Big Engines Are Big Sellers

Despite environmental considerations, classic cars with big engines are big sellers. Many collectors appreciate the feels and performance of powerful machines.

Take A Test Drive

If your buying a roadworthy car, always take it for a test drive to see how it handles and if there are issues to fix and how they might affect the price.

Your Classic Car Doesn’t Need to Be “Classic” 

Forget what the gatekeepers are saying; your classic car doesn’t need to be from the 1940s, 1950s, or even the 1960s. You don’t need a certain style, model, brand, or even a certain decade of model, in order for your card to be considered classic. Technically, cars from the 1980s are now considered classic. It’ll eventually get to the point where cars from the 1990s and 2000s will get this way, too. 

Time just keeps going; since time keeps going, cars are getting older, and therefore, newer standards are being created. Nowadays, classic cars come in a variety, such as the selection of JDM sports cars, for example. So, when you’re looking to buy your first classic car, don’t feel limited to certain types- just choose what you want!