So you’ve decided the time is right to purchase your first classic car.
Buying and owning a classic vehicle is an exhilarating and exciting journey but how do you know if you’re making the right decision and if you’ve found the right classic car for you?
Gary Dunne, Sales Manager at Silverstone Auctions and Classic Car Auctions, exhibitors at the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show, which is returning to the Birmingham NEC this spring from Friday 18thMarch until Sunday 20thMarch 2022, shares his top tips to make sure you drive away happy.
Set a budget
Whether your budget is £10,000 or more, have a budget in mind. When you know your budget, set about researching the marketplace for the type of cars that you would like. Look at classified adverts, auction listings and classic car specialists. This will give you an idea of what you might be able to buy for your money.
Go and visit a potential purchase
It is essential to go and see the car in question. If you are looking at a car but are not an expert, try and take someone more experienced with you to help have a good look around the car. Make sure you see all the paperwork for the car, V5 of course, but also ask to see anything else related to the car. This could include a folder of restoration invoices or receipts for work carried out and old MOTs that substantiate the mileage.
Have a go-to mechanic or garage
When buying a classic car, find a local and trusted garage or mechanic to have a look at your purchase and give you their thoughts. There is likely to be a cost of running a classic – they are often twenty, thirty or forty years old, or more after all. Having someone you know, trust and can rely on will be beneficial in the long run.
Don’t be afraid to try an auction
An auction can be a great place to find your first classic car. You can visit an auction and thoroughly check over the car that has peaked your interest. You’re able to carry out your due diligence before the sale and then inspect the car once more. All the history files are at hand, and you’ll have a team of specialists and experts available to help as much as you need.
Have fun!
Most importantly, have fun! Buy the car that you would like, not the one you think is likely to be the best investment.
Silverstone Auctions and Classic Car Auctions can be found at the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show from Friday 18 March until Sunday 2 March 2022 at the Birmingham NEC, with a fantastic catalogue of 100+ lots being offered during their auction at the show. Whether you’re a fan of Aston Martin, Porsche, BMW, Triumph, Lamborghini, Ford or Ferraris you can find something to aspire to on the auction block.
For more information on the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show please visit www.necrestorationshow.com
