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Classic Car Collecting, the ultimate ride.

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So, you want to start collecting the ultimate ride - but where do you start? Here's what you should know before you do...

Owning a classic car often holds sentimental value but if you manage the investment correctly you can also be in for future financial gain.

Do your research before you deep dive:

Parts availability: This is important because spare parts will be reasonably priced and more readily available.

Support: There are numerous classic car clubs where you can share your passion for your car with other classic car enthusiasts, get advice or even get assistance if needed.

Investments: Be sure to make the right investment by investigating:

If your choice of vehicle has shown an increase in value since being built. If so, this indicates it's in demand globally and that this demand is likely to grow as the vehicle ages.
The history of its price locally and globally before making an offer.
What other global motoring groups have to say about your choice of vehicle and its demand and supply in the current market.

Here are some definitions of Old Cars that may interest you:

Antique Cars - Built before 31st December 1904

Veteran Cars - Built between 1st Jan 1905 & 31st Dec 1918

Vintage Cars - Built between 1st Jan 1919 & 31st Dec 1930

Post-Vintage Cars - Built between 1st Jan 1931 & 31st Dec 1945

Post-45 Cars - Built between 1st Jan 1946 & 31st Dec 1960

Post-60 Cars - Built after 1st Jan 1961

References:

For more information, visit: http://www.plmotors.co.za/2017/03/01/classification-list-vehicles/

To find out what the top brands are, follow this link http://www.saclassic.co.za/.

As an aspiring collector of classic cars, it is important to do extensive due diligence and thorough market research before undertaking the purchase. Explore the internet, visit reputable dealerships which specialise in classic cars and talk to experts at local car clubs to be sure you'll be making a smart, informed decision.

Careful inspection is important when buying a classic car. Do the obvious inspection yourself, preferably in natural light, to check :

the general condition: of the exterior - for any dents, the condition of the paintwork, misaligned or mismatched panels and for signs of any structural repairs; of the interior - if the seats, upholstery, radio, dashboard, badges and emblems are damaged or not the factory original. To find or replace these items could be rather expensive;
the documentation for: the history of ownership and that the vehicle is registered to the seller, the maintenance history and that the engine and chassis numbers correlate with those of the vehicle and the documentation;
if whole sections of floorboards or body panels are rusted or show signs of having been replaced or repaired. This may cause problems at a later stage and the rust may return, if these repairs were not done by a professional or correctly;
the mileage - as with most used cars, the car is usually worth more if there are fewer miles on the speedometer;
the sound of the engine, for any unusual noises or rattles and to test the brakes by requesting a test drive.

However, it is also imperative to utilise the services of a Specialist Inspector to highlight any defects, or any bodywork or parts that may need attention and the services of a Specialist Mechanic to check its mechanical condition. Local car clubs or classic car dealers should be able to give good recommendations for both.

Take the time and do thorough research and comprehensive inspections to be certain it is a sound investment you will be making.

To get the most from your classic car investment and to spend time with and enjoy the company of like-minded car aficionados, you may wish to attend Classic Car Shows and Events and join your local classic car club. For a comprehensive countrywide list of Classic Car Shows and Events and Classic Car Clubs to choose from, classic cars for sale and for other valuable information on classic cars, visit: http://www.saclassic.co.za/.

Here is a list of Classic Car Clubs in our major centres:

Gauteng

Vintage and Veteran Club Johannesburg: http://www.vintageandveteranclub.co.za/

KwaZuluNatal

Early Car Club Durban: http://www.vccsa.co.za/

Garden Route - Knysna

Garden Route Motor Club - Knysna: https://grmc.co.za/

Eastern Cape - East London

Border Vintage Car Club: https://heyvintage.co.za/01473092/Border_Vintage_Car_Club

Western Cape - Wynberg

The Crankhandle Club: http://crankhandleclub.co.za/contact-us/

Read our previous article here: https://www.hamiltons.co.za/news/agent-qa-popular-areas-to-buy-in-cape-town-from-bantry-bay-to-bakoven/