968 Ferari 365GT 2+2 GTH

Classic exotic cars can be a great investment, and many older models can be a treasured part of anybody’s luxury collection. However, if you’re out to buy a classic car, and want to get some use out of it, it’s worth keeping a few things in mind when you’re at the dealership or meeting the owner. More than a few people have been stung, or have seen their investment depreciate due to overlooking these simple tips.

 

Make sure it’s clean

This may sound like an obvious point, but there’s very good reasoning behind it. If the car is clean and in good condition when you buy it or go to see it, this means that it has been cared for and respected, and is likely to be passed on without any hidden problems. Furthermore, clean cars are easier to inspect – you’ll be able to notice any flaws, evidence of accidents or paint jobs, or other problems without much difficulty.

 

Fewer owners, better value

A low number of previous owners suggests one important thing when it comes to classic cars: pride of ownership. Cars with problems, or those which perform badly, tend to be passed from owner to owner pretty quickly. Beautiful, classic examples of workmanship have a tendency to be treasured for a long time.

 

Look beneath the surface

It’s relatively easy to wax and polish the body of a classic car up to look as good as new, and there are many bespoke services available which can do just that. Cleaning up an undercarriage, however, is hard work – it’s far less easy to disguise rust, or cracks, or damage on the bottom of a car. Do make sure you take a look at what’s going on down below – if there are obvious problems, make your excuses and take your money elsewhere!

 

Consider usage

There’s a fine line to tread here: on the one hand, you want a classic car with a relatively low mileage, which has been gently used in order for you to get more out of it. However, trophy cars, which have remained on display in garages for years, develop all sorts of problems due to the fact that the engine isn’t used at all. Further to this, the suspension is usually quick to go on stationary cars, and interior rust builds up, too. Make sure you ask the right questions, and get the information you need to make your decision.