If you’re in the process of tracking down classic cars for sale, it can feel a bit like trying to find a needle in a haystack – so what are your options?
One way or another, purchasing a classic car is an investment. For some, it represents a lifelong dream and a big item on their bucket list, while for others, it’s approached pragmatically as a long term tool for wealth generation. Either way, there’s a special little kick that owning a classic car delivers and can only be explained properly by those who have one in their possession.
According to Money Mag, investing in cars is an asset class that has quietly risen 467% in just ten short years. As many have seen, vehicles can double in value in as little as twelve months providing that you choose the right model and the condition that the vehicle is in. However, just because a car is ‘old’, doesn’t mean it’s a worthy investment as a classic car. Not all vintage models were made equally, and the care that classic cars receive over the years can very much influence their final sale price and overall value.
As such, the classic car market in Australia has low spreads and volatility, but with high liquidity. The prices are barely affected by supply and demand, as there’s simply not enough classic vehicles still around, especially those considered to be of both high value and high quality. However, if you find yourself in the market for a classic car, it can be difficult to know where to start – so what are your options?
Four Ways To Buy Classic Cars In Australia
If you find yourself in the market for a classic or vintage car, the process is not quite as simple as taking a stroll to your nearest dealership. Buyers can often get a swift reality check when it comes to just how limited particular models are, and often see them get snapped up quite quickly – even from interstate buyers who haven’t even laid eyes on the model.
However, if your search for classic cars for sale is only just beginning, the good news is that there are generally four avenues to choose from in Australia. Like most things, each option has their own unique sets of pros and cons.
Online Classifieds – For anyone buying a second hand vehicle of any make and model, the first port of call is usually online car sale portals. While some are specifically tailored to automotive sales such as CarSales.com, other broader options include the likes of Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace. Classic car sales through these avenues are usually from private vendors though, and offer no follow up service or guarantees after purchase.
Car Auctions – Buying at a classic car auction is often regarded as cheaper than buying privately or from a licensed motor car trader, but it carries more risks and is best suited to people who know their way around an engine. As a general rule, the auction house will not let you take the car for a test drive – so you should inspect it thoroughly. Online car auctions also have their own set of rules too, so make sure that you read the fine print before committing.
Car Shows And Swap Meets – For those wanting to buy and sell classic or vintage cars, parts, collectibles and related materials, car shows and swap meets are places that even the most serious of collectors will generally go. These styles of meets are often grouped by manufacturer such as Holden or Aston Martin, so if you really have a clear vision in mind about the type of classic car you’re looking for, they can offer buyers somewhat of a shortcut.
Classic Car Dealer – While not all dealers have ethical business practices, finding a reputable classic car dealer can be a gamechanger for the savvy investor. Buying through a dealer removes some of the pressure associated with a classic car purchase. Not only does the dealer understand the nitty gritty and all of the unique things that come with classic cars, but it also provides buyers with an extra level of protection after the sale.
If you ignore the potentially financial appeal, there’s still something special about being the proud owner of a classic car in this day and age. Unsurprisingly, it’s not just the revheads that love the iconic vehicles of yesteryear. Iconic cars don’t only appeal to car lovers, but also attract those passionate about engineering, design, art and yes, history. Before cars were built for efficiency and speed, it was about the experience, style, exclusivity and ultimately, craftsmanship – making them timeless, works of art.
View Classic Cars For Sale From Classic’s Garage
Meeting a fellow vintage auto enthusiast can feel a bit like finding a needle in a haystack, but rest assured that Classic’s Garage understands the thrill more than most. Having spent forty years collecting anything and everything from matchbox cars to hub caps, he’s successfully followed his passion to source, collect and stock beautiful and low mileage classic automobiles from around the world. With extensive experience in the automotive industry, it was only a matter of time before Wayne expanded on his love of vintage, iconic vehicles to share his knowledge and passion with the public.
Although his passion is for automobiles built before 1978, with a particular love for Buicks, Cadillacs, Lincolns, Oldsmobiles and even Fords, Wayne is just as passionate about the stories of the owners. Just like the cars, he has found that his fellow classic car enthusiasts all have wildly different attractions and logic behind their passion or hobby, and this often translates into how the car is presented. If it’s even remotely different, rare or just plain unusual, Wayne will overcome the relevant logistical and geographical challenges of bringing the cars to his showroom in Australia.
Classic’s Garage is a showroom conveniently located at Seventeen Mile Rocks, that specialises in the restoration and sales of vintage automobiles. In fact, he’s got a medley of fully restored models in stock right now, which can be viewed online via Wayne’s Collection. If you’re on the hunt for Brisbane classic cars – quite simply, Wayne is your man. If you would like to arrange a viewing or inspect any other of our classic vehicles, please get in touch with us today.
