Five Things to Check Before Buying a Classic Car

Whether you are looking for a classic car to use occasionally or to invest your hard-earned money, you need to be vigilant and make sure that you are making the right decision. From make, year, model to condition, price, and maintenance costs, there are several things to take into consideration before you make up your mind and get your hands on a classic.

1. Is It Easy to Sell?

The first thing to check is whether you will be able to sell your car easily once you have it. You might get bored with your toy, or your circumstances will change, and – when you need the money – you will need to be able to get your investment back. Some classic cars are in demand and are easy to resell, while others will have to be advertised for long months before you can see a potential buyer turning up on your doorstep.

2. How Much Does It Cost to Keep?

You need to be realistic about whether or not you can afford the monthly costs that come with your new car. Calculate the regular maintenance, car insurance, and tax. The more expensive the car is the higher your insurance will be. Check GoCompare before you buy, so you can work out the annual cost of owning a classic car.  

3. Common Problems and Repair Costs

Classics come with a variety of problems. You should do your research on cheap classic cars and be aware of the risks. Whether you will have to touch the suspension or the steering, it is likely to cost you. Check the year and model and read expert reviews, so you can work out whether it is worth to invest in the car knowing the potential problems that might occur.  

4. Is the Value Going to Go Up?

In case you are buying classic cars for investment, you have to find out from experts whether or not the value of the vehicle is likely to go up in the next few years. If it is predicted that the model will become rarer and more sought after, you could turn a profit while enjoying driving around in your beautiful car for years. The rarest and more legendary the model is the more return you will see on your investment.

5. Can You Keep It Safe?

One thing you should be thinking about when investing your hard earned money in a valuable classic is whether or not you can keep it safe. Having a garage always helps, but parking it on the road is another matter. You should probably invest in advanced tracking and security systems, so you can protect your expensive car.

Before investing in a classic car for fun, leisure, or profits, it is important that you check the facts first. Make sure you are aware of the price trends, running costs, common repairs and expenses, and can keep your vehicle safe from criminals. Educate yourself on your selected models to avoid disappointment and enjoy long years of riding in a classic.

Emily Muelford
Emily is a British writer whose love of car culture is augmented by a fascination with both the European and American automotive markets. Her perspective is uniquely fish and chips.