How to Choose a Vintage Car
There’s nothing like a new car, but many owners and drivers of vintage and classic cars will disagree. Vintages may not seem to be the fastest cars on the road, but they stand out in terms of elegance, flair, and class. Here are some ways to help you choose a vintage car to add to your collection.
What is a Vintage?
Many car collectors consider “vintages” to be vehicles made at the the turn of the 20th century, and 1930 is agreed upon as the upper limit of vintage vehicles. While assembly-line and machine-made vehicles were available then, most cars were still made and assembled by hand. The long history and intricate craftsmanship of a vintage vehicle makes it a very coveted product on auctions or specialized dealerships.
Makes and Models
People who buy and collect vintage cars should be familiar with the makes and models of vehicles. Many libraries and second-hand bookstores carry magazines, books, and other reading materials that can help you become more familiar with particular makes and models. Don’t rely on looks alone; sometimes collectors pay more attention to the historic value of a car even if it doesn’t look as flashy as other vehicles. You need to do your research so that your money goes to a valuable vehicle that will give you a great return of investment.
Prices and Value
You may notice that many vintage vehicles are even more expensive than some high-end road cars. The reason why a vintage can be more expensive is that you’re not only buying the parts and the car itself, but you’re also buying the historicity of the vehicle. Many vintages represent a phase in the history of the auto industry, or have had a significant impact in the way people travel. Prepare to have a lot of money on hand so that you can pay top-dollar for a well-maintained, well-conditioned vintage that will stand the test of time.
Vintage vehicles are a great investment, especially if you want to keep a piece of automotive history in your hands. With these tips, you can buy a great vintage car at a reasonable price.