By Classic Yorkshire correspondent Tony Lofthouse
It’s about the passion. When thinking about buying your first classic it’s the excitement and anticipation that will ‘drive’ you.
There’s lots of fun in owning a classic car but also pitfalls to think about. Your dream motor could be costly to run, liable to frequent breakdowns and prove a sobering reality check.
If the idea still interests you, here are some useful tips from the Classic Yorkshire team.
Choose the right car. What do you want from your ‘new’ car? A doer-upper that you can have hours of fun restoring or a pristine motor that still retains the smell of leather inside, comes with gleaming bodywork and is ready to go!
Where to buy. Where possible, get an independent inspection of your intended buy or ask a trusted mechanic to look over the vehicle. If you are buying at auction remember you are buying ‘as seen’ and you can’t take it back.
Garage space. If you’re planning a restoration project, you’ll need a garage or at least a driveway with space to work.
Check the price guides. Check the internet or up to date car guides to get a good idea of the sort of prices the car you want is selling for.
Do your research. Read all about the car, get in touch with the owners club (if there is one!) and find out the good and bad about it. Ask yourself ‘is this the right car for me?’
Set a budget. You need take into account not just the price of the car, but it’s running cost – how much are parts? Plus how much will it cost to insure?
Maintenance costs. Are parts widely available and affordable? Again, owners clubs can be very useful in sourcing parts and getting tips on maintaining your new buy.
Go for a test drive. The car may look a ‘knock out’ on the forecourt but how does it drive? Get behind the wheel and find out. Ask to see its service history and invoices covering major repairs or restoration work.
The more you prepare the less the shocks in store and more the fun. If you’re still in love with the idea, then go for it and enjoy the ride! Good luck.
Do you have any tips for first-time buyers? Why not share with a comment at the end of this article?