CarCollectors.tv

Let’s face it, most people buy collector cars because of their passion for cars or an emotional attachment to a specific model or even to a specific car. Some cars have a story.

How would you like to own the same model car as the very first car you ever bought as a youngster? How would you like to own the actual car a famous movie star like Cary Grant drove? How would you like to own the car used in a famous Hollywood movie?

Buying collectors cars is emotional. However, you are giving your hard-earned money in exchange for your pleasure so let’s get serious for a second. When purchasing anything that’s been around for a while, sometimes over 20 years, you must study its history. Cars, like any product, wear and tear with time. You must dig up facts and records in order to understand what your future darling car has been through during its lifetime.

Talk to the previous owner of the collector car in question. Write down and bring a list of questions with you for the meeting. In fact, if buying collector cars is something you want to do regularly, create a predetermined checklist of things to look into. Check off what’s been answered satisfactorily. Ask for real paperwork like certificates of authentication and historical servicing records.

Have an independent inspection performed by your trusted mechanics. Ask him or her to look into any possible mileage fraud. This is when sellers turn back odometers on an old car to make it seem like it doesn’t have as mileage as it really has.

Lastly, of course, take the collector car out for a test drive. Get to experience the car – feel it move and get comfortable with it before you take it home. If everything checks out, buy it and drive your new baby home. Congratulations!