FAQ About Buying & Owning a Classic Car: A Beginner’s Guide
Purchasing a classic car is very different from buying an ordinary vehicle for daily commutes. That’s why first-timers have so many questions when buying their first vintage vehicle. Show Cars of Boca Raton wants to make the shopping experience straightforward for you whether you’re buying your first classic car or your fourth. Here is a list of frequently asked questions and answers so you can feel supported when shopping for a classic car.
Classic cars are typically 20-40 years old, although some experts say a minimum of 25 years old. Antique cars are at least 45-50 years old. Vintage cars have historical significance and were produced during the first half of the 20th century, often before 1940. However, every seller, appraiser, insurance company, and state DMV can have thier own definitions.
Owning a classic car can bring you satisfaction and pride because you have a desirable item that onlookers envy. It can also bring you warm feelings if you associate the vehicle with a beloved person or period of your life. Buying the right classic car can also be a wise financial decision because it can become a lucrative asset over time.
Like any investment, a vehicle can unexpectedly depreciate in market value or become damaged — which can leave you with nothing to show for your costly purchase. It can be a target for thieves and vandals if not stored securely. Some buyers don’t consider the hefty ownership costs. Because of this, you can fall out of love with the vehicle and start seeing it as a burden or a hassle, especially if you bought it impulsively.
Do your research to find a model that will hold its value, is easy to maintain, and doesn’t suffer from frequent mechanical issues. Scour online reviews and forums for owner testimonies. Consult valuation guides and resale records. Find a trusted local mechanic who knows how to work on the model. Check the availability of replacement parts. Decide if you want an all-original or restored model. You should love the car you’re buying, so consider a model with special sentimental value or that originates from your favorite decade, country, and brand.
Consult valuation guides that gauge the model’s average market value based on its age and condition. Ask enthusiasts online or locally who know what a reasonable price would be. Get the vehicle appraised and inspected before agreeing to buy it; if the seller refuses to allow that, consider it a red flag! Don’t get ripped off by a scammer who wants to swindle you.
If not properly maintained, an older car can have engine problems like stalling, overheating, and noxious exhaust. The vehicle can struggle when reaching high speeds and be hard to drive. Rust may be deteriorating the body and paint. The brake system and suspension can also be decaying. Underlying electrical problems can cause the lights, starter system, and radio to fritz out.
Rely on an expert to do the shopping for you! The collector’s car market can be a jungle to someone inexperienced, so have a professional navigate the process with you. Avoid working directly with private sellers or auctions, which have the highest chance of selling you a dud. Instead, seek a classic car dealer or consignment service like Show Cars of Boca Raton; we have the expertise to know a deal when we see it — or a rip-off. Plus, we have the connections to procure cars from reliable sources and have them meticulously inspected.
Trust Show Cars of Boca Raton with your first classic car purchase. We can help you on every step of the process, including locating and transporting that vehicle from anywhere in the continental United States. Contact us for more information.
When is a car considered a “classic”?
Classic cars are typically 20-40 years old, although some experts say a minimum of 25 years old. Antique cars are at least 45-50 years old. Vintage cars have historical significance and were produced during the first half of the 20th century, often before 1940. However, every seller, appraiser, insurance company, and state DMV can have thier own definitions.
What are the benefits of owning a classic car?
Owning a classic car can bring you satisfaction and pride because you have a desirable item that onlookers envy. It can also bring you warm feelings if you associate the vehicle with a beloved person or period of your life. Buying the right classic car can also be a wise financial decision because it can become a lucrative asset over time.
Are there any risks to buying a classic car?
Like any investment, a vehicle can unexpectedly depreciate in market value or become damaged — which can leave you with nothing to show for your costly purchase. It can be a target for thieves and vandals if not stored securely. Some buyers don’t consider the hefty ownership costs. Because of this, you can fall out of love with the vehicle and start seeing it as a burden or a hassle, especially if you bought it impulsively.
How do I decide on the right classic car for me?
Do your research to find a model that will hold its value, is easy to maintain, and doesn’t suffer from frequent mechanical issues. Scour online reviews and forums for owner testimonies. Consult valuation guides and resale records. Find a trusted local mechanic who knows how to work on the model. Check the availability of replacement parts. Decide if you want an all-original or restored model. You should love the car you’re buying, so consider a model with special sentimental value or that originates from your favorite decade, country, and brand.
How do I know I'm getting a fair price on a classic car purchase?
Consult valuation guides that gauge the model’s average market value based on its age and condition. Ask enthusiasts online or locally who know what a reasonable price would be. Get the vehicle appraised and inspected before agreeing to buy it; if the seller refuses to allow that, consider it a red flag! Don’t get ripped off by a scammer who wants to swindle you.
What common issues plague classic cars?
If not properly maintained, an older car can have engine problems like stalling, overheating, and noxious exhaust. The vehicle can struggle when reaching high speeds and be hard to drive. Rust may be deteriorating the body and paint. The brake system and suspension can also be decaying. Underlying electrical problems can cause the lights, starter system, and radio to fritz out.
What is the best way to shop for a classic car?
Rely on an expert to do the shopping for you! The collector’s car market can be a jungle to someone inexperienced, so have a professional navigate the process with you. Avoid working directly with private sellers or auctions, which have the highest chance of selling you a dud. Instead, seek a classic car dealer or consignment service like Show Cars of Boca Raton; we have the expertise to know a deal when we see it — or a rip-off. Plus, we have the connections to procure cars from reliable sources and have them meticulously inspected.
Trust Show Cars of Boca Raton with your first classic car purchase. We can help you on every step of the process, including locating and transporting that vehicle from anywhere in the continental United States. Contact us for more information.
