Advice for a classic virgin?

[03Dnotforme]

As someone with an interest in good design and all things aesthetic I have recently become disillusioned with paying large amounts of money for increasingly dull cars that lose value year after year and spend most of their time doing 2mph in city traffic. And so, at a time when I wish to change my car the idea of buying a classic car has become very attractive to me.

I've looked at pictures of classic cars over the internet and in magazines and next weekend I will take my first hesitent steps towards a dealership (Clandillon Classic Cars in Celbridge).

The only tiny problem is that I know nothing about cars.

So, here's where I was hoping this forum could help. Is there anything to avoid? Will maintainance cost me both arms and legs? Am I mad?

Obviously I'm looking for something pre '74, not necessarily sporty, perhaps an old Jag or Daimler.

[Beetlejuice]

I agree with you totally. Buying a new car every couple of years is a waste. People will put themselves into serious debt just to have the latest registration. (I like your nickname by the way , 03D not for me - very clever ;) ).

With regard to running a classic car there will be more maintenance involved than a modern car. But ifyou arewilling to learn the basics that shouldn't be a major problem.

However, the current situation in Ireland regarding insurance maybe yourmajor stumbling block. As far as I know, at present it is not possible to get insurance for a classic car for "everyday use" i.e. as your only car.
Currently the only way to insure a classic is as a second vehicle i.e. you must have another vehicle insured as your main car.
You could call the following insurance agents to check it out ;
First Ireland 01-8820800
Majestic Financial Services 01-8392026
or Carole Nash Insurance (the biggest insurer of classics)

If can overcome the insurance hurdle, the next thing you need to dois"doyour homework" regarding possible cars you may buy -
Get in touch with some of the classic car clubs and talk to vehicle owners,
Check up the prices of the model(s) you want,
Also worthlooking at is this UK site on classics - www.oldclassiccar.co.uk - it has a lot of info on various aspects of ownership.

Finally, one important thing to remember is - Buy the best example of car that you can afford !!!
Otherwise you could end up with a black hole - moneywise !

One model worth a look is the Volvo Amazon.
They seem to be popular as "everyday classics" in the UK.

Best of luck,
Beetlejuice.

[03Dnotforme]

Thanks Beetlejuce for your comprehensive response. It's encouraging to receive positive comments instead of the more familiar raised eyebrow and doubtful smirk when I mention the idea to friends and colleagues.

The second car thing shouldn't be a problem as my wife & I currently have two cars and I'm sure I can transfer my wife’s insurance to me. I will talk to the insurance companies you mentioned when I have a better idea of what I would like to drive.

www.oldclassiccar.co.uk is indeed an excellent site, particularly (for novices like me) the 'How to Buy a Classic' section ( www.oldclassiccar.co.uk/classic_car_article1.htm ) and the photo archives.

Your mention of the Volvo Amazon prompted me to buy this months Practical Classics magazine as it features an article describing a trip through the Welsh countryside in the very same. And I must sing the praises of that publication too. The Buyers Price Guide includes details on years, type, engine size, speed, acceleration, MPG, parts availability and price ranges on hundreds of classics grouped by manufacturer.

I think that I may well be happily on my way to becoming a Classic Car Nerd.

Thanks again for your excellent advice.

[Phil]

Hi 03Dnotforme,

Just reading your thread and taught that maybe the moderator of this section might be of help to you.

His name is Paul Kanters and his website is Classic Cars Ireland (http://www.welcome.to/classiccarsireland). There might some information there to help you out.

Also there is The Classic Motoring Group (http://www.irishclassiccars.com/).

Hope that is of some help.