I know most of the subscribers to Classic Yorkshire will be experienced classic car enthusiasts and so may pass this article by. But before you do, what advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first classic? Perhaps this article will help you give some sound advice.
Things to consider:
What do you want to use it for?
Is it to go to car shows, cruising with the roof down, family trips or touring. Each of these might limit the choice of car. No point buying a two seater convertible if you are taking a family of four on a picnic for the day.
How mechanically adept are you?
Obviously the more skillful you are, the more of a basket case you can buy. But if you want to actually drive your classic then its probably best to buy a good one. If you are more interested in hiding in the garage then a full resto could keep you hidden away for years. Bear in mind how much time you will need to devote to it. That’s why many successful projects are by retired people.
How obscure do you want to go.
Do you want a car that turns heads because of its rarity? Then there are plenty of cars that you hardly ever see. But be warned, obscurity means more challenges finding parts. Other people prefer a shared experience, driving along with owners with the same or similar cars.
What’s your budget?
There is classic car for every budget, from take it away for free to multi million pound cars. As a general rule, the more expensive the car, the more expensive the running costs. Work out a purchase budget and realistic running costs and don’t spend more, whatever the temptation. Overreaching leads to many abandoned projects.
Here are a few suggestions, but the list of possibilities is endless.
Convertibles:
In my view its hard to beat an early MX5. Fun to drive, reliable and plenty of spares (I’ve had 2). As an alternative how about an MG Midget. A bit older, a proper classic with lots of modifying options. You could go for a four seater convertible and there are lots of options but the SAAB 900 is a pretty good one (I had on of these too) or if you want a prestige brand, how about a Porsche Boxter.
Family car:
The choice here is huge and so it is largely a matter of personal taste. In terms of investment a fast ford such as a ST Fiesta or Focus are good bets, though a Subaru Imprezza is an option with motorsport heritage (I still have one). A slower but incredibly popular car is of course the Mini (I still have one of these too). The Mini is one of those cars that you can take to the show down the road or a high class concours and you will be welcome at both. But any of the older main brands will give years of low cost classic ownership.
Prestige:
It goes without saying that you are now at the more expensive end of the classic car market and probably not advisable as a starter classic. But if you must then I would look to get the best Bentley I could find. A budget of £20 000 will get you a great car but the running costs !!!!!!!
Finally: If it all goes wrong and you end up with a car that’s frustrating and unreliable, get rid and start again.
These are just my thoughts and there are thousands of possible options. What would you recommend? Let us know in the comments below.