Welcome to Chapter 2, where we explore the basics of finding a classic car to buy. While Chapters 3 through 6 provide in-depth guidance on specific buying methods such as classic car dealerships, the internet, eBay, and auctions, this chapter introduces additional resources that often prove invaluable to both first-time and seasoned buyers. We’ll also discuss the importance of parts availability and how to evaluate the total costs of ownership.
1. Additional Buying Avenues
Beyond dealerships, online platforms, and auctions, classic car enthusiasts rely on two other powerful resources:
- Auto Shows:
Car shows are social, relaxed environments where you can blend in as a spectator, avoiding the pressure that can come from a one-on-one meeting with a seller. You can see a variety of models up close, sometimes even spotting a “For Sale” sign. If you’re new to the classic car scene, attending local and regional shows is an excellent way to learn about different makes and models and potentially make lower-pressure deals. - Car Clubs:
If you’re targeting a specific model (e.g., a 1967 Mustang fastback), joining a relevant car club is a smart move. Members may direct you toward cars for sale, offer firsthand advice on ownership costs, and sometimes even help inspect potential purchases. Car clubs can be found online or through local chapters, and most are welcoming to newcomers.
2. Importance of Parts Availability
Even the most pristine classic car will need replacement parts at some point, whether for regular wear and tear or unexpected repairs. Understanding parts availability can help you decide what condition of car to buy, and whether your dream model is practical in the long run. One of my uncles decided to move away from MOPAR vehicles as he deemed parts were always 20%+ more than the same GM part.
- Glass:
Flat glass is typically cheap and easy to source or custom-fabricate. Curved or specialized glass can be far more expensive and may be unavailable for rare models (e.g., certain Studebaker or Packard designs). - Rubber Seals & Gaskets:
While rubber can be custom-made for nearly any car, it can get pricey, especially if you’re replacing all the seals on an older, less common model. - Mechanical Parts:
Engines, transmissions, and other mechanical components for post–World War II models are generally available, either as new old stock (NOS) or through specialty salvage yards. - Detailed Parts:
The hardest components to find often include trim pieces, hood ornaments, knobs, and other small details. These can quickly add up in cost, so take note if they’re missing or damaged on a potential purchase.
Before you start shopping, list out the typical replacement items (e.g., window seals, brake components, engine parts) and research their availability and price. This knowledge helps you focus on cars that won’t blow your budget in ongoing maintenance or restoration.
A Few Handy Parts Websites
- Year One – Specializing in muscle cars from 1960 to 1980, known for its large inventory of performance and restoration parts.
- NPD Link – Offers free printed catalogs for various muscle car models, a valuable resource when inspecting potential buys.
- LMC Truck – Focuses on American trucks dating back to WWII, with extensive parts catalogs for popular vintage pickups.
3. Calculating Total Costs
While the purchase price of a classic car is significant, don’t overlook restoration and maintenance expenses. Document these potential costs before you commit to any specific vehicle:
- Car Purchase: Factor in taxes, registration fees, and transportation costs if you’re buying from out of state.
- Parts & Labor: Even if you plan on doing the work yourself, your time is valuable. Consider the cost of specialty tools and manuals you may need.
- Professional Restoration: If you’re hiring a shop, aim to start with the best-condition car your budget allows. Labor hours at professional rates can skyrocket if the vehicle needs extensive bodywork or mechanical fixes.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Oil changes, tune-ups, brake replacements, and other routine tasks will cost more than on a modern vehicle, mainly due to the relative rarity of certain parts and skilled labor.
- Insurance: Insurance will be a monthly cost after purchase, do you research early on that if it will matter to your budget..
For most first-time buyers, a running, decent-condition classic is the best blend of immediate enjoyment and manageable restoration commitments.
4. Evaluating Vehicle Values
Pricing a classic car can be tricky, as values fluctuate based on market trends, rarity, provenance, and condition. Thankfully, several tools can help establish a reasonable price range:
- NADA Guides – Offers free online valuations, as well as yearly print editions. NADA aggregates sale data from across the country, serving as a decent baseline.
- Hagerty Valuation Tools – Hagerty uses its extensive insurance data to track values, often providing up to five years of historical pricing. This is a free tool that can help identify trends.
- Old Cars Weekly – A paid service providing 30+ years of historical pricing, perfect for anyone doing deep-dive research into classic car market fluctuations.
5. Restoration Considerations
If you plan to restore the vehicle to show-worthy condition, remember that even small surprises can lead to major expenses. Rust damage may be more extensive than it appears, and certain body panels might be out of production. Before you buy, investigate the availability of “donor” cars for replacement panels—or see if reproduction parts exist for your model. As a rule of thumb, the better the starting condition, the less you’ll spend on labor and parts in the long run.
Chapter 2 Conclusion
When you combine practical resources such as auto shows, car clubs, online listings, dealership visits, and auctions with a keen awareness of parts availability and restoration costs, you’ll stand a much better chance of finding the right classic car. Whether you opt for a near-mint survivor or a mild project car, doing your homework now will save you from unwelcome surprises down the road.
In the next chapters, we’ll delve deeper into specific purchasing avenues: dealerships, online platforms, eBay, and auctions. By building on this foundation, you’ll be fully equipped to track down the classic car that best fits your dreams and your budget.
Chapter 1 - Determine What Classic Car You Want