How to find cheap classic car insurance prices online

There are a number of things that you can do, to cheap classic car prices find insurance. For example, you have a 1950s car that you plan to at least a little in the course of the year to go, but you know not, whether you it or not should ensure. If the price of repairs to normal everyday cars can be sometimes expensive and base part of premiums on replacing or repairing tell car insurance companies that a more expensive policy for classic cars?

If I only plane ride less than a thousand miles a year why I need to insure the car? These are just a few of the questions that deal with classic car owners, when comes the time for them to get car insurance. Some people don't know that there a difference in the insurance of the daily automotive and the old classical vintage cars; It however is a big difference in the way in which the policy is set up, and in particular the price!

The first, what you need to do if cheap classic car automobile insurance to try will identify the insurance companies in your local area, their classic cover. This is important, because if you go you simply for each insurance company with a quote from a standard automobile insurance, offer more than likely will be more expensive. If on the other side will find you a company, the vintage car cover will provide will then receive the best and more accurate rate. The most classic insurance company simply a price on the car, which corresponds to current value of the vehicle less depreciation. This means that the lower your price get the car, the more you.

Most insurers for these classic cars give you the chance of a deductible for collision and comprehensive coverage. If this is the case, there is nothing that you reduce your rate what you, can do reporting. However, there are auto insurance companies out there, which allows you to choose, how much in the deductible should therefore it is important always to look around.

If you find one such company, they have with you quote a higher deductible. The reason for this is that the most classic car owners have usually another vehicle, which they rely for transportation, so a higher deductible in the case of an accident will be not so bad. If you do not drive your car that much decreases the probability of an accident and thus save you have raised money for a deductible may never have to pay. It is important to note, however, that you need to increase only the excess if you can afford.

Another great thing about classic car insurance, you can save some money is the flexible covering that allow for some companies. In contrast to standard policies, where you can receive only discounts if you are a low mileage driver, you can create the policy here to suit your needs. The most classic car owners drive only to prevent their cars up to a thousand miles a year, because they are very picky about the conditions and the normal wear and tear on the car. For these people, the classic car car are much cheaper than for those who frequently travel insurance. Those people who "often" drive are usually the people, the a bit more than 5,000 miles for their vintage every year (mileage would pay allow a person for a low mileage discount without a single problem) which is nothing. These people need a little more pay simply because they are a bit more than the others, which brings a higher risk of accidents on the road.

Another great thing can drive down the cost of your classic car insurance would be the safety of your car. As you will see many classic cars on the road, not the type of such vehicle are those who have a high level of theft necessarily. Regardless of this statistic insurance companies assign at a lower rate, if you protect your car from theft. Make sure that you keep your classic vehicle in the garage of the public. If you park it out there for some reason you verify that you have an alarm and a wheel lock are a good idea if you want to leave the vehicle unattended.

Classic car insurance policies are not expensive and in some cases, also you can these guidelines to your normal standard directive. The less you drive, the less is your policy. Make sure that you have insurance to show that you you sure reward a preventive driver that meets the eye always security and it. So go and shop around to make sure that to get you the best deal! And never try to it, to do that you two will pay a classic car under a standard policy to assure, because if an agent allows you, or even three times the value of what is a classic car insurance!

The # 1 way to get the cheapest classic car insurance prices to found shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies side by side. Be sure and with an independent car insurance agent that can represent many different companies and find low-cost one vintage car insurance. Compare auto insurance quotes now to go!

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Unrestored classic car insurance

Classic cars are highly valued and appreciated for their unique charm and rallies and special events are often used to the car. For purposes of insurance see that restored most insurance and not wiederhergestellten vintage car clear. Which are the restored classics are renovated and a new look during the unrestored, that those are kept in their original form. The latter will be replaced in the original form of the factory and nothing or changed. If not wiederhergestellten vintage are in running order, they can be covered by insurance. There are many insurance companies in the United States that insurance coverage provide such unrestored oldtimers, if the owner owned the original invoice and the certificate of title. If the owner has taken pictures of the unrestored oldtimers in over the years, the chances are, it always assures better. Amount in such cases to keep covering the renewal or the value has increased. In General, is the cover for unrestored oldtimers, are subject to the location of the car increases. This is because the owner has estimated value on these vehicles.

Viewed unrestored oldtimers as a good investment and therefore the owners of the vehicles concerned can always more than the amount of the claim at the end. The insurance for these vehicles allows the insured retained the salvage option. Windscreen and window is made the car which in addition to the comprehensive recovery service for the full breakdown available.

The insurance company for unrecovered Oldtimer contains typically mileage option of 1500/3000/5000/7500.They also cover as this unrestored cars to take part in demonstrations provide a rally. Because the unrestored oldtimers are sometimes used in weddings, the insurance covers also wedding car hire by the day or year.

See the unrestored classic car insurance is to pay a different amount intended for discounts on the premium. These reductions are however limited to experienced riders, members of the recognized classic automobile clubs or Institute of advanced motorists.

Unrestored classic car insurance is aimed at maintaining the value of old cars by keep protected against any potential damage and loss.

Classic Car Insurance car insurance, UK provides detailed information about classic car insurance, American classic classic car insurance, classic car of insurance quotes and more. Classic car insurance is connected with exotic sports car insurance [http://www.e-sportscarinsurance.com].

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Classic car insurance - a beginners guide for new classic owners

If you have purchased you just your first vintage must not only where, but also how is it to assure.

As the owner of a classic car makes it not, if you good working Ford Capri 3 litre from 1970 a beat up old Morris minor from the 1960s or an elegant Jaguar E type in green drive, it is essential that you best find British race Oldtimer insurance cover for your beloved engine, which includes your individual risks to prices, break not the Bank!

If you a classic car before it is important to know there fundamental differences between what as a standard car insurance policy is known and the coverage under one as classic, a specialist car insurer defined have no owners.

The first thing to establish is whether your car for cover under a classic policy. A way to do this you could the previous owner is wondering whether it was covered with a vintage car insurance and the insurance.

Different car insurance companies have different definitions for the age and type of vehicles that can be covered by this type of coverage.

What could easily be covered with a single source can be excluded from another. Fortunately the most online vintage make cover this information on the first page of their Web sites, so it is to easily surf around and assess your suitability with various insurance companies.

You should check both the eligibility of age of the car in question, and also whether policy restrictions are driving circumstances for your, such as your age, which would you prevent coverage.

The large differences between the a standard directive and that of the vintage specialists is offered in such a way that you your classic car, and above all, how much you drive it. The large established insurers and price comparison websites provide coverage for older cars, but calculated an additional premium because of his age. It loads the premium if expensive as spare parts for the vehicle type are known.

In particular, they are offered only the current market value to replacement if the car of a default policy is covered and a depreciation of his is, if you claim.

With a standard car insurance for compensation such as basis for the value of the car is taken from often guide by the market value at the time of a claim, usually one of the price/magazines such as Britain's glasses set. The amount will probably get you a write-down on the current market value of your car become is an annual incident. Inevitably, if you a classic car and contractually, to make sure a standard policy, the true value of the car this leads to evaluation and insurance. Also probably not the salvage will give you and a classic car be repaired often can because the cost of the repair to the insurer is not economically viable as a write-down.

When you buy a specialist vintage car is policy you a choice of either an agreed assessment of classic cars value or a directive on the basis of market value offered.

An agreed assessment the amount the insurance company will pay is of a claim results in a letter. This is a major benefit of insurance classic specialist policies, because this ensures that you not only properly fall, but receive also the specialized repair services that require your classic take advantage should. It should be noted that even agreed evaluation guidelines may change and you should ensure that the value for a given period to fluctuations in the fair market value is ensured.

Vintage cars, the insurance policies are therefore tailored to the needs of cars as collectibles and effectively the assessment rate for the State of the car is a factor.

The other main difference between the standard and classic policy is in such a way that you can use your car under the terms of the agreement. Originally developed this type of car insurance for drivers, much use not your classic cars.

All classic car have includes a limited mileage clause directives only the vehicle for an agreed amount of miles per year. Depending on which specialist car insurance companies use, there is a limit how far you can drive your classic. Some providers will cover but many specialists who offer provider now only a few thousand miles a year under the directive cover, up to ten thousand miles a year. These guidelines reflect the fact that many riders use modern classics as their main mode of transport.

As with all car insurance, it is important to compare covers and prices when shopping around. There classic insurance many specialist online today and many specialized systems, which are aimed at certain traditional owners. Compare you premiums offered by these that the price comparison websites, but if you want to avoid disappointment, you must have a claim, make sure you, the difference in the policy are included.

The Internet has very easy to compare classic car insurance made it previously only by specialist car insurance broker in the high street. You will find it provides special offers and tailor-made systems for your specific type classic with the search after your model classic car insurance.

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Klassische Auto Insurance Brokers

Classic car insurance is a special type of insurance for people with collector vehicles available. These types of cars include antiques, classics, cars and replicas among other species. There are usually special insurance, providing classic car insurance. These companies have their own agents or otherwise, a broker may also these types of measures.

Typically, a car insurance broker has information on all types of insurance available on the market. If a vintage car owners to the agent is a regular car insurance company, he or she may refuse to insure the vintage. The reason for this is that not many regular companies insure vintage. Therefore an insurance broker is the best person to approach for a comprehensive price vintage car comparison.

Another advantage of going to a broker is that he or she impartially are offered comparison of the prices of many companies. On the other hand, an agent for a particular company have only details of the undertaking concerned. An insurance broker Oldtimer also knows the specific needs of the owner of the car and different concepts can explain how limited mileage car insurance or no claims cheap car insurance.

A classic car insurance broker helps the car owner you choose from the best policy on the basis of many factors. These factors are kind of car, use, location, drive listed age of drivers and age and value of the classic car history of owner, number of drivers. The next important task of the broker is the car owner of the right amount of deductible that must be chosen. A deductible is the amount that the owner has to pay in the case of the use. Higher the excess, the premium is lower, and therefore chooses the right deductible option is of crucial importance for the car owner.

If broker compare excellent offer, some basic information about Web pages or other sources, it is advisable before approaching to collect the broker. This allows for better understanding of the terms and conditions and the car owners of the budget for the procurement should determine.

Classic Car Insurance car insurance, UK provides detailed information about classic car insurance, American classic classic car insurance, classic car of insurance quotes and more. Classic car insurance is connected with exotic sports car insurance [http://www.e-sportscarinsurance.com].

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How to Find the Best Auto Insurance For a Classic Car - Tips For Finding Cheap Antique Car Insurance

How can one find the best auto insurance for a classic car? Is it even possible to find cheap antique car insurance? Classics cars can be well worth the sometimes pricey cost of upkeep and storage - there is no need to have to pay more for insurance coverage than necessary. Read on to learn some of the things that you should know before you purchase a classic car auto insurance policy.

Who hasn't turned their head while driving down the road to get a better look at a classic or collectible car? We're enamored with the lines of the car as well as its pristine condition. But the detailed attention in maintaining a classic car's flawless appearance and operation is not only to draw admiring looks, it is also necessary in order to keep up the market value of the car. For this reason, along with others, specialized classic auto insurance policies were developed to meet the needs of classic and collectible car owners.

Another reason (a very important reason), for insuring your vehicle as a classic or collectible is the greatly reduced cost of classic car insurance relative to standard auto insurance. Standard auto insurance can cost as much as 200%-300% more than classic auto insurance. So, what is the biggest factor that causes such a great disparity in price between classic auto insurance and standard car insurance? Generally, collector vehicles are driven on a limited basis (the garage is where they are usually found). As a result, the risk of accident and loss to collector vehicles is considerably lower than the risk involved in vehicles that are regularly driven.

DOES YOUR VEHICLE QUALIFY?

The following is a list of classifications for collectible cars.

Antique cars - 25 years or older

Custom cars - 1949 to present

Classic cars - 20-24 years old

Collectible cars - 15-19 years old

Exotic cars - less than 15

Street rods - Pre-1949

This is the standard listing for those cars that are considered eligible for classic car auto insurance, but certain cars may be accepted at the discretion of the insurer. Sometimes, classic car insurers will customize an insurance policy for a particular vehicle.

WHAT ARE THE RESTRICTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH COLLECTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE?

To keep collector auto insurance rates low, certain usage limitations are placed on the insured vehicle.

Cannot be used for everyday use. This rules out using it to drive to work, run errands, or go out for that bite to eat. Under a classic car insurance policy, car usage should be limited to driving to and from car shows and the occasional parade.

Cannot be driven more than 2,500 miles per year. 2,500 is a fairly standard number among insurance companies that offer classic coverage, but there are some insurance companies that have mileage plans that allow up to 5,000 or 6,000 miles per year. This increased mileage limit was put in place to accommodate those drivers who like to take their cars to distant car shows. Of course the premiums are greater.

Must be kept in a locked garage. A locked enclosed trailer will also do, but a carport will not meet the grade even if you live in a gated community with a security guard. (The weather is also an enemy of the classic car). Some policies might stipulate that a car cannot be left unattended in a parking lot. This means leaving your car in a motel or hotel parking lot might present a problem.

WHAT CONSIDERATIONS SHOULD BE KEPT IN MIND WHEN CHOOSING CLASSIC AUTO INSURANCE?

Does the company offer Agreed Value Coverage or Stated Value Coverage?

Agreed value lets the classic car owner and the insurance agent set a value for the auto that does not necessarily reflect the market value for that car. Usually, the insurance agent will have to do a thorough inspection of the car both inside and out and will require photos of the vehicle.

What are the usage and mileage restrictions?

Find the policy that best suits your plans for using the car. Why pay for a plan that covers mileage for 5,000 when you know that you won't even come close to using the 2,000 miles available in a cheaper policy.

Can you choose your own repair shop?

The Mom and Pop shop down the road might do a good job on your regular car and offer the lowest repair bid in town, but do you really want them working on your classic "baby"?

What company underwrites the policy and what is the rating for that company?

You want to be sure that the underwriter has a good track record and is going to be able to fulfill all of their obligations even if for some reason there is a larger than normal influx of insurance claims.

Are there any discount programs available?

A good insurance company should always inform you of any discounts that are available to you, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

Does your insurance offer insurance for classic or modified cars that are under construction?

Some companies will monitor the progress that is being made on your vehicle while it is in the garage for repairs and modifications and allow you to adjust the value of the car as the project continues. Also, this type of insurance covers damages to your auto in case of a catastrophic occurrence such as a fire, or the hydraulic lift fails, or the tool cart falls on your car (with a little imagination the possibilities are endless.)

WHY CAN'T I JUST ADD MY COLLECTOR CAR TO THE FAMILY AUTO INSURANCE POLICY?

You can, but it could be a costly mistake. If repairs are needed you may be forced to accept the lowest repair bid, or if the car is badly damaged, the insurance company could opt to have it totaled. And although a discount is usually given for cars combined under one policy, that discount still may not provide the savings available if the car was insured under a classic auto insurance policy.

Finally, make sure your insurance company has a good understanding of classic cars. In the event that your car is totaled, you want to be able to work with a knowledgeable representative and receive the full value for your car.

COMPARE CHEAP CLASSIC CAR AUTO INSURANCE QUOTES ONLINE

Be sure that you shop around and compare car insurance rates from multiple companies before you decide to purchase. The more you shop the more you may save.

Get started comparing car insurance rate quotes today!

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How to get cheap antique and classic car insurance

When it comes to vehicles, vintage absolutely at the top, with its amazing features they set pyramid are far apart from the rest of the crowd. Unfortunately vintage cars, tend to everything that is typical, the attention to win a decent share of thieves and vandals. In addition because vintage cars are rare and expensive generally, they are many large "major player" offer insurance companies and agents not even insurance for them. But just because it easy to find can be difficult the right kind of insurance for your classic cars that doesn't mean that just to without insurance can go. Many States require that your vehicle be insured, and you can catch heavy fines face, if you drive without adequate insurance cover.

Find the right kind of insurance for your classic car is a little bit of time, and to take a lot of research. More research will be included, if you are set, you will find the lowest available antique and classic car insurance available. There are car insurance companies out there that specialize in insurance options for the antique and classic cars. In addition, there are large car companies offer insurance insurance including antique and classic car insurance, but you have to do a decent bit of searching to find them. A good place to start is with insurance companies like Hagerty, Leland west and Norwich Union, which are all specialize in antique and classic car insurance. It is important that you weigh a lot of different options, because the costs associated with ancient and classic car insurance depending on to what car go insurance vary with wild. It is also important that you determine what each insurance company your oldtimer, appreciate will be to ensure that you insured your car in full. Traditional car insurance values to replace the car costs less all depreciation has experienced it. This is, what distinguishes the antique and classic car insurance apart from traditional car insurance. With antique and classic car insurance, the value of your vehicle is generally a contract between you and the insurance provider. In this way, you lose no serious investment in the event that your vehicle ever in an accident, fraud or stolen and never again had a rest.

The absolute best option for you to track when it comes to car insurance for your classic car is called a policy of the agreed value. Before this type is purchased from politics, you have to sit with an agent with the insurance company to get a concrete agreement on the value of your vehicle. If your vehicle ever amounted to or is lost, this is the amount that will be paid by the insurance. This is also the point where you will receive an offer for the monthly payment. Another thing, which ancient and classic car insurance apart from traditional car insurance is the fact that the antique and classic car insurance premiums are generally much smaller than what you are for traditional car insurance numbers. However can you acquire not only all antique and classic car insurance, so before you make sure application should for all of the following criteria qualify:

o many antique and classic car insurance demand that you meet a specific age limit. This is to ensure that the driver on the policy have adequate driving experience and are not in danger of causing an accident. This more difficult it is for young and new drivers acquires automobile insurance, even if they are antique or oldtimer driving vehicle.

o have imposed even a minimum age limit for your vehicle, many antique and classic car insurance to determine whether it an antique car can be seen. The typical limit is fifteen years old, so if your vehicle is less than fifteen years of age you can have difficulty securing antique car insurance for it.

o in order for classic car insurance qualify, there are certain limits as your oldtimer can be used. For example, you need to memory for the vehicle in the park a garage or other form of protective measures. In addition, you cannot use your classic cars for any business purposes. Finally, there is a limit on the number of miles you have on your vehicle every month or year. However, if you go kilometers across the border you can your vehicle in danger of losing its protective insurance. Mileage imposed due to the limit you must be also able to prove that you have another vehicle that is used for normal.

Antique and classic car insurance the best option is by far, if the vehicle you drive can be considered a collector's item. This form of insurance is designed to protect cars, who appreciate over time as a depreciation in value. Your vintage traditionally to insure the most insurance you can, if you reasonably discoverable antique car insurance, but you should expect to pay more monthly bonuses and get much less in a withdrawal settlement if your vehicle is always fraud. This means that if a antique or oldtimer car are traveling and special insurance is available at the local level, absolutely the offer should take you to cost-effectively protect your vehicle without to the heavy investment that went into your valuable possession.

For more information on cheap antique and classic car insurance , visit http://www.InsuranceSalesman.comwhere we have comprehensive instructions on the antique car insurance United States and Classic car insurance for young drivers in the United States

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Oldtimer - elegant, stylish, and oh so Sweeeet

Vintage cars which are one of the most collected and coveted items on the market today. And they should be: vintage cars are not only great pieces of art; You may be also fully functional. Road can even classic cars more steal as a brand spanking new sports car. If you already have a fully restored and shiny Shelby GT-350 H or a 60's saw Thunderbird on the road, probably know what I'm talking about.

What is a classic, anyway?

The definition of what is a classic car is often controversial. Classic car club of America, indicating that the final year for the "authentic" classics is 1948. Still, other experts contend that the term classics on all cars is applicable, the 12 years of age or older.

Some would create even a classification. A favorite is one as follows: 'Antiquity' for cars manufactured from start of car production until 1916; 'Vintage' for vehicles manufactured between 1916 and 1924; and "Classic" for those in 1924 until the not so-far past.

I would not position, what is the correct definition of a classic car. We leave the car philosophers and historians (or for a more proper term, car freaks). There are many more exciting aspects to the collection of classic cars, you should know.

Vintage define generations and genres

If you are a fan of James Bond films, you could by the luxurious and sexy cars were impressed who drove the Mr double-Oh-seven. The elegant Alfa Romeos, classic Aston Martins would not spy, we all love what it without these cars.

And if you diligently Mr. followed bond jobs, you can see that the cars that he used a certain epoch are defined. You can use it, great cars with round edges during the 60, long, pointed rimmed cars during the 70, and of course, macho black sports car during our today's see.

Which made the cars cool was because they made simple are "cool". It is because they carry with them great stories and pieces of history. This is also the reason why it exciting and fulfilling, own a classic car. And the feeling of fulfilment multiplied ten times when you are collecting these cars. It would be not sweet drive wheels which once ran a popular spy?

Owning a classic is no. picnic

But before you head off and click your fingers off, the first website, which will have to sell classic cars, you know that with a big car comes great responsibility. Almost all of these classic cars are already used (and sometimes abused). It would be almost impossible to find one perfect in a mint condition. What you probably see used (and maybe even third or fourth-hand) are vehicles that need a lot of work.

Remember that have or do not collect vintage makes stop buying them. It is a must back its old beauty to invest in a car some time and money restoring. Otherwise, it will be just another piece of junk-e lie in your garage.

So, you must be prepared that present vehicle to a paint job, a car parts installation (seats, carpets, steering wheel, suspension...), and if you want to drive a good engine. And it will not stop there: classic cars need love and care. They must continue its elegance by cleaning, grow and polishing them regularly.

It might be a little annoying, but the rewards are great. Apart from a great scene stealer, a well-kept Oldtimer increases its value as time passes. Once you can horseback riding, vintage Benz tired, you it to sell and profit gain. You must have hard time searching for the buyer to, since there are tons of car collectors looking for much.

It is a classic car lover in all of us

If you have a car lover, a sentimental generation and genre fan, or just a cool ride want buy classic cars is your best choice. Not only will you get a movement, breathing and you get funky work of art, a really valuable property. Purchase, restoration and maintenance of a vintage car can be a difficult task, but it is certainly worthwhile.

Peter Grizzly is an ancient Oldtimer enthusiasts. He now makes his life by selling classic cars for sale. If you want to own a vintage car, we recommend you first you try luck at auctions. Classic car auction provides a host of classic car makes all at a very reasonable price of Alfa Romeo, Ford, Willys,. Visit http://www.classicvehicleauction.com today!

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Vintage cars - a guide to buying online

Buying a Classic Car requires thought, research and some planning. Classic cars are usually bought by enthusiasts to use and enjoy. It is not easy to make a profit from buying and selling classic cars.

Make a project plan and do your best to stick to it

You may see a tempting classic car restoration project listed in a newspaper or classic car magazine or on the Internet that may only be one or two thousand to buy and could be worth ten times as much once it is restored.

Practically though, have you the skills to carry out the restoration of the chassis, engine, interior, and the exterior ? If you need to find a specialist company to undertake some or all the work your ten times buy price may just come down to zero or very little profit indeed. Indeed in many cases the cost of restoration when added together will exceed the market value of the car. If you plan to keep the car and enjoy using it then this is perhaps an acceptable price to pay but do not expect to be able to sell the car at a profit particularly in todays "credit crunch" economy.

Before you start looking - do you have enough storage space ? Do you have enough working area (remember once stripped down, the bits can take up an awful lot of space). No old car likes to be kept out in the open, not even with a plastic sheet to protect it from the rain, frost and snow and even the worst masochist won't like working out in the open when it is blowing a gale! Lying on a cold concrete garage floor is bad enough but working outside in all elements usually puts a restoration project on hold permanently ! 

Where to look for your classic car.

Look in the your local newspaper, classic car magazines, the Internet or even just take a stroll down your street. There is no shortage of old cars to buy. But what if you are looking for something special? Well, let's face it, these days the easiest place to look is on the Internet.

Go to Classic Lots (link below) and you will find thousands of classic cars from a rusty Mini for £100 to a Ferrari for £500,000. This excellent site also includes all the classic cars available on Ebay.

Once you have identified the car that you want, read between the lines and look at the background of the pictures.You can learn a lot from what is not said as well as the way a description is written.

I am always cautious when it says "selling it for a friend" and yet there is no contact number for the friend so you can make personal contact. When the subject of mileage is omitted from the specification box and the description... why?

Keeping in touch with reality is essential. IF IN DOUBT - CHECK IT OUT!!!! Answer those niggling questions. In the pictures you can see what looks like oil on the ground. Is it from the car you are buying? Is that mud or rust?

Ask yourself four questions. Why do I want the car? How much can I really afford? How far do I want to travel to view or collect it? and then the most important question of all... Do I really know enough about these cars to commit X thousands of pounds on a piece of pretty (or perhaps rusty metal)?

So, buying a classic car on an online auction? Well, I would advise you to adopt the following rules before commencing such an undertaking, and before you make a bid !

Remember if you are the highest bidder (assuming if there is a reserve that it has been met ) and you win the auction then you have entered a legal contract to buy that vehicle (providing the seller has described the vehicle correctly).

Do not expect to go to collect the car and having viewed it to be able to haggle over the price or to walk away. Buyer beware, and if at all possible always view the car in person before you place your bids. If do not feel confident in being able to asses the condition of your prospective purchase take along someone who has the skills to give you an honest opinion of the condition of the vehicle. You may also wish to consider using the AA or RAC who both provide professional pre-purchase inspections - if the seller seems reluctant to allow this inspection walk away !

Viewing the car before bidding

If you have decided to go and see the car then arrange a viewing and if for any reason you can't make it, let the seller know, it's only courteous not to waste their time just as you don't want them wasting your time.

Things to take: a jack, perhaps some axle stands for safety, a torch, gloves and at the very least, a list of points you want to look at.

When you get there take a quick look around. Has the car been kept outside or has it been garaged, this can give you a good indication of the condition you can expect of the body and or chassis. Are there other rotting hulks just lying around, maybe the seller just buys any old junk they can find and try selling it on, not much chance of the car you have come to see having had a service any time recently.

Take a walk around the car and look for the tell tale signs of sagging which could indicate suspension problems or perhaps chassis problems. Do the doors and panels line up correctly, another indication of chassis problems or perhaps the car has had a bump at some time. Is it even one car or was it once two? Any repairs? Have they been completed well or have the repairs been bodged? Do the tyres match? What condition are they in? Check for rot in the body or in fibre glass cars/panels, look for stress cracks. Check the areas which are most prone to rot ie. arches, sills, doors, boot and bonnet. There are many different types of panels that can be used to effect repairs on a car and because of this the quality of repairs can vary.

Check inside the car. Windows, front and rear screen, are any of them leaking? Is the headlining damaged or dirty? Lift the carpets where you can, check for water and any rot, maybe even holes in the floor? Check the floorpan and joints, don't forget inside the boot, the floor and spare wheel area. If you are happy so far with the body etc. try the engine (you did check all around the engine compartment didn't you?). Will the engine start from cold? If the engine is already warm perhaps the seller is trying to hide something, maybe cold starting problems, maybe he had to get a jump start or a tow just to get it going? Listen for any knocks, look for smoke. If you see blue smoke on startup that quickly clears it could mean the valves are tired and leaking oil into the combustion chambers. If the smoke does not clear that could indicate a very tired engine, something that will have to be added to the budget, not only for investigation but for the repairs.

Clouds of steam on startup could indicate a blown head gasket or even a cracked cylinder head. Remove the radiator cap and look for "goo". It is cross contamination and a good giveaway of cylinder head problems. Black smoke, probably just an over rich mixture but could just as easily be a worn carburetter.

Knocking. Well, it could be for a number of reasons, light tapping on the top of the engine could be a worn camshaft or a small end on its way out. Knocking from underneath could be a big end bearing breathing its last. An expensive repair. A rumbling noise could be a main crank shaft bearing on its way out, yet another expensive repair. Check the various hydraulic fluids and water levels. Look for any stains around the compartment and on the engine. Does the radiator smell of anti-freeze? Is there any oil lying around? Not a good sign. Keep the engine running for a while, some problems won't show up until the engine is warm. If the car is driveable, take it for a spin. How does it "feel" on the road, does it "pull" to the right or left? Is the clutch "spongy" or firm? Does braking throw the car into oncoming traffic? (eek!) Wiggle the steering wheel, any clunks? When you accelerate does the car lurch in any particular direction?

OK so far so good. Now, the car may be 20 or 30 years old so it is not going to have all original parts. Brake shoes, clutch, spark plugs, points etc.. if they are the original parts, they are not going to be working very well by now! But seriously, if you are looking at an older car, does it have any of the original panels? Is the interior original? These points can add value to the car but the seller may try to pass off parts which were made last year in China as "original parts".

Check the paper work. Does it have all of the required paperwork with it? Check the logbook, a very good place to start and don't be fobbed of with "We have just moved house and can't find it at the moment, I will post it on to you..". Never buy a vehicle without a logbook unless you know exactly what you are doing. It is also useful to have any old MOT certificates and any receipts are good as well.  

Valuing classic cars.

How much to pay? Well, the actual value of a classic car will vary considerably. It depends on condition, make, model, year and of course, what is it worth to you? Just how much would you pay to have that special car sitting on your drive at home?

Be realistic! Just because you can isn't a good enough reason to buy a chassis of a 1926 Rolls Royce if you have no idea where to get the rest of the car and no idea of what to do with the parts if you can get them. Providing you followed the advice above on checking the car over, you should have a good idea of whether you are bidding for a car you can drive away or one that will take months before it even has wheels.

If you read the magazines, talked to the owners club and browsed the Internet to get a good idea of what your aimed for car is selling for, then you should have a price in mind that you will pay for the car depending on its condition.

Most classic car insurance policies include an agreed value based on the market value of the car. At the end of the day, it is up to you and your budget. If you feel happy with what you have paid for your car then that is all that matters.

The basic rules for Internet Auctions.

Identify what you want - and have some idea how much you want to pay. Set a budget

only you know what you can afford to spend, or borrow. Use classic car magazine price guides and real adverts to see what your classic will cost to buy. Ideally hold back 10 percent to cover any unexpected problems. Calculate running costs by looking at mpg figures. Get insurance quotes: classic cars can be covered on cost-effective limited-mileage policies and are often surprisingly cheap to insure. Remember also that pre 1972 vehicles also have no road fund licence to pay. Talk to owners about how costly your classic will be to run.

Join the owners club. A huge resource of expertise can be found in owners clubs. Not only will they have some of the best looked-after cars but they have huge amounts of knowledge on the subject of buying and running your chosen classic. They often have cheap insurance and parts schemes, too.

Get an anorak ! No really - buy some books on your chosen classic, read magazines and become a classic-car bore. Research on the Internet and visit Classic Car Shows to talk to owners. You can never know too much.

Select a range of examples available... and do not let the cash burn a hole in your pocket. There are thousands of cars for sale every day so be patient, if it is not there today, it will be soon.

Check the sellers location - are you prepared to travel to inspect and then collect the car if you win the auction. Do you need to consider the cost of having your new pride and joy collected by a car transport service or could you hire a trailer and collect it yourself ?

Check out the seller. Read all the feedback for the last three months, negative feedback should ring alarm bells Ring him/her and get to know about your seller. Why is it being sold etc. Things like "Why are you selling the car?", "Does it come with any spare parts?", "How long have you had it?", "Is there any rot?", "Does it have any history?" MOT's, receipts etc. can be helpful for the rebuild. If you know any specifics about the car you are enquiring about then ask any of the questions you feel you need answers for. It could save you a long drive and time away if you have the necessary information before you leave.

If a vehicle has less than 3 months MOT ask the seller if they would be willing to send the car for a fresh MOT - to correct an MOT failure could be expensive.

In the event of a car being sold as an MOT failure, ask the seller to specify the list of failures, then give your local garage a ring and ask them to give you a quote for the work that needs to be carried out. this will give you some idea of the costs involved in getting the vehicle through its MOT It will save you time and money in the long run, no point in bidding on a vehicle that is going to be to costly to put back on the road.

Keep copies of all emails sent and received between you and the seller. they will come in handy if a dispute or conflict arises over the description of the item or any promises the seller makes you.

Check if the seller is a private individual or a dealer - there are many people who buy junk from car auctions and then simply try to pass them off as their own vehicles for a quick profit.

If the seller is a trader passing themselves off as a private seller and they are willing to lie about their status what else are they willing to lie about!!

If the vehicle is being sold by a private seller, ask them how long they owned the vehicle for? is the logbook registered in their name and at their home address? if it is a genuine private sale, then the answers to the above questions should be yes!! if the answer is no to any of the above walk away.

A few examples of the excuses usually given by traders posing as private sellers for not having the vehicle registered in their name "I bought the car for wife/husband or family member and they don't like it" "insurance to high" (people will usually always get an insurance quote before buying a car)"wife/husband did not like the car" "too big or too fast" or "they failed their driving test" "I bought the car as a stop gap"

ring any bells? I am sure you have heard at least one of the above and I have heard them all.

Remember it is a Legal Requirement to register a vehicle in your name regardless of how long you intend on keeping the car.

A reputable trader should and will disclose the fact that they are a trader, remember if you buy through the trade they may have certain obligations to rectify any problems with the car.

In the event that you have bought the car without prior inspection, before you go to collect the car, print out the item page and take it with you. If the seller has mis- described the item in anyway, you will have proof in your hands to argue your case.

If buying from a private seller, always meet the seller at their home address which should match the address the car is registered at. If there is a problem at least you will have an address to go back to. Do not agree to "meet on the Tesco car park as it will be easier than finding my house "

When you go to collect the vehicle if you are unsure about the vehicle or the seller walk away. Never part with your hard earned money until you are satisfied.

Once you have handed your money over, you will not be able to get it back! If you have not viewed the car do not pay prior to collection, if you do you will have little choice but to take the car away or lose all your money.

What's the worst that can happen if you walk away? the seller will give you negative feedback. its better to have one negative feedback than a car which is going to cause you lots of problems and cost you time and money. You can always argue your case with the online auction site and you may get the feedback comment removed.

As a winning bidder you have a legal obligation to complete the transaction,however the seller has a greater obligation to be honest about themselves and the item they are selling. If the seller has misdescribed the vehicle and you do not complete the transaction they are very unlikely to take legal action against you for not completing the deal. Remember however if you simply change your mind and walk away without good reason the seller may take steps to recover the money from you.

The basic rules apply even if you are buying from a trader or private seller if something sounds to good to be true then it usually is !!!

I hope that you have found this guide helpful and that using this advice when purchasing a classic car online will help you to avoid the pitfalls and hopefully you will end up with a classic car to use and enjoy over the coming years.

Andrew Lack - A Director of the Lancashire Classic Car Company Brook Classics. I have been buying and selling Classic Cars via Internet Auctions for over ten years so am well qualified to give advice in this field.
http://www.brook-classics.co.uk
http://www.classic-lots.co.uk

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