Investing in Classic Cars: What You Need to Know

For many people, owning a vehicle is an absolute necessity, but newer cars are typically not the best investments. Cars will begin to depreciate as soon as they are driven off the lot, but that all changes once the vehicle hits a certain age. For those who enjoy working on vehicles, antique cars can be an excellent investment. If you are ready to delve into the world of classic cars, then read ahead for a quick look at some tips you can use to make the most out of your money.

Look for Historical Importance
Just because a car is old or attractive does not necessarily mean it is a good investment. Buyers who want a great return on investment need to find cars that have a history to them. This includes vehicles designed by famous individuals such as Carroll Shelby. You might also want to consider cars that have been made famous by old movies or TV shows.

Don’t Overestimate Your Skills
One of the most common mistakes that car buyers make is overestimating their skills. Anyone can learn to restore a car with enough time and energy, but the process can be lengthy and expensive. Unless you are an experienced mechanic, you will most likely want to look for vehicles that are mechanically sound. Minor cosmetic work can easily be fixed, but the engine and transmission should be solid. It is also important to thoroughly search the vehicle for any signs of rust. Few things will bring down the price of a vehicle as dramatically as rust damage.

Showroom or Daily Driver?
Just because a car is meant to be used as a daily driver does not mean that it isn’t a good investment. As a general rule, daily drivers are cheaper and easier to obtain. This makes them excellent entry-level investments for those who have never purchased a classic car. Showroom vehicles, however, are an entirely different matter. The value of a showroom car is often determined by obscure factors such as matching VIN numbers and period-specific colors.

According to the Historic Automobile Group International, the market for classic cars has done better than almost every other collectible including coins, stamps, and traditional artwork. Hopefully, these few tips will help you find a car that will make the most out of every penny you invest into it.