What really matters when buying a classic car
Substance beats looks. Here are the five points worth checking before a purchase — and the costs people underestimate.
A freshly painted classic makes a convincing first impression. What matters, however, is what lies beneath the paint.
First, the structure: floor pan, wheel arches and sills determine the value. Second, the paperwork: without evidenced history the argument will be missing at resale. Third, the mechanics: a rebuilt engine with an invoice is worth more than an unsupported claim.
Fourth, originality: matching numbers and the original colour materially affect the price. Fifth, running costs — maintenance, storage and insurance need to be budgeted every year.
We check these points on every car we take into the collection and state openly whatever cannot be evidenced.