Every year there are millions of cars sold in the USA alone and countless others in countries all over the world. While many purchase vehicles simply to drive around to get from point A to point B, others have a specific style in mind. Many of these others purchase the vehicle as a collectors item more than a car.
One of the most popular subsets of car buyers are the classic car collectors. There are a ton of classic car lovers out there, some who drive their cars and some who don’t. These people love the look, the feel and the sounds of these cars. Many of them will pay a pretty penny to grow their collection or get the car of their dreams.
If you are interested in purchasing a classic car, whether to start a collection or just to drive, here are a few considerations you should make.
Don’t Limit Yourself to Your Local Area
When most people search for a new vehicle, whether classic or not, it is normal to start in your local area. However, depending where you live, the selection you have there may not be wide. But thanks to the internet, you are no longer required to simply shop in your own city.
Buying a car online is very simple and thus, you can now expand your search to find the classic car you actually want. While you could potentially travel to go pick up your car in person, that isn’t the only option you have at your disposal. Companies like Executive Auto Shippers make it easy to ship cars safely, quickly and effectively, without spending an arm and a leg.
Do You Want to Drive it or Not?
Some people purchase classic cars to drive around and show off to the world, while others prefer to keep them in pristine condition in storage or in their garage. The choice is yours, but you definitely need to think about this before you buy. Driving a car is fun, but can also damage it’s value and worsen the condition of the car.
In addition to the condition of the car, whether you drive it or not will impact how much you pay in terms of insurance. Insurance rates will generally be cheaper on antique and classic cars if you don’t drive, so be sure to factor that into your decision. The choice you make will also depend on whether you are planning to sell the car or keep it for your own enjoyment.
Be Sure to Run the Numbers
If you are a purist or plan on selling your classic car in the future, one of the most important things is to make sure the numbers match on the engine, the transmission and rear axle. If all of those parts are stamped with the same number (which should be the last six numbers of your VIN), it means they are all original parts, which is very valuable to collectors and enthusiasts.
These are called numbers-matching cars and can generally sell for more than similar vehicles which have new or different parts. While this may not matter a ton if you are just buying the car to drive and keep to yourself, it can be a good way to make more when eventually selling the classic car.
Buying a classic car is a lifetime dream of many people, but you want to make sure you do it the right way and make all of the necessary considerations. Hopefully this article and the tips included in it can help you make your decision.
