CLASSIC CAR RESOURCES AND LINKS
How to Acquire a Classic Car
The collector car hobby today is vast, and growing. As the hobby grows, the number of cars available increases slightly, as more cars are discovered and restored. The supply of good cars however can not keep up with the increased demand, and finding and buying the right car is often the most difficult aspect of the hobby. There are many different ways in which you can acquire a classic car, each offering pluses and minuses. The quest for a vintage car can be local, national, or international in scope. Finding the car is, and should be, a lot of fun.
Neighbor or Private Party:
Pro: Has intimate knowledge of the vehicle for sale, has probably owned the car for some time
Con: May be too attached to the car to see the big picture, may be unaware of the value of the car in today's market, and have unrealistic expectations of the car's true value.
Reputable Dealer:
Pro: Knows the market very well and is able to bring the car to market at today's value. Expertise in finding good cars.
Con: Unlikely you will be able get the car at a steal
Live Auction:
Pro: Big selection of cars available. Ability to view a large amount of cars in a short amount of time, fun atmosphere. Possibility of winning, getting a good price.
Con: Possibility of buying a car with many more needs than anticipated due to short time to view and inability to properly inspect. Getting caught up in auction fever
Online Auction:
Pro: A great source of vintage automobiles. You can view from your home or office easily
Con: You don't really know what you are buying. Individual selling may not have level of knowledge necessary
Magazines/Internet
Pro: A great source of leads
Con: Limited information. Buyer must do due diligence
Local vs. Long Distance
Local
Pro: The ability to see the car in person
Con: Limited selection, very hard to find rare cars
Long Distance
Pro: Greater choices, opportunity to get a better car
Con: May require travel, car will need to be shipped
See also:
Helpful Information