Where to Find Old Cars for Sale

I love the smell of old metal. And when I see an old car for sale, I enjoy letting my mind wander and imagine the history of the car. Who might have ridden in it? The places and history this old car must have seen. I also revel in that moment where I find an old car for sale in the least expected spot. Most of all, I cherish the rare statement coming from the owner; "If you can haul it, you can have it!"

However, to arrive at this point you must find the old car for sale and establish some idea of its value to allow you to be prepared to negotiate.

First, how can you locate these old beauties? There are several different methods, from technical and efficient, to good old shoe leather. I prefer the latter, the entire experience more rewarding in my point of view. You can use the obvious: classified ads, car shows and the internet. Alternatively, you can "ask around", which is my favorite method.

If you are just starting out in the classic car hobby, I recommend visiting a few car shows that specialize in older classic cars. It does not need to be a large arena style show. As a matter of fact I recommend you steer towards the smaller shows. The car owners at these local shows will have more availability to talk with you. Be sure to ask questions. These people love to talk about their cars, and will be a treasure trove of local information. Most towns over a population of five thousand residents will usually have some type of local car show at least once per year.

The internet is a wonderful resource. It can fill your head with images of your dream car, and being to give you an idea of the values of these old cars for sale. You can search the current offerings, and in some cases see the price for which the car actually sold. This price will establish the true value of the cars, because it is the price people are willing to pay for it. If you do decide to make an offer on that perfect beauty, keep one thing in mind. If you are buying from an owner not living near you, factor in the cost of transport. Shipping a car can cost from a thousand dollars and up.

My personal favorite method of finding an old car for sale is to look around. I know, not overly scientific, but I love the experience. Try this; drive to a rural area and a sunny day. Slowly cruise down the gravel roads and peer into the fields. You might be surprised at what you find. Then in the afternoon stop into a little local café, or bar and start asking. You might be surprised at what you find. Moreover, when you talk to the owner on that beautifully lit afternoon, you might hear my aforementioned favorite sentence; "If you can haul it, you can have it!"

Next, you must decide on your budget. To do this you will need to have an idea of what type of old car for sale that interests you, and what condition you are prepared to accept. The least expensive will usually be advertised as "parts car", or "project car". At this level you might pay as little as five hundred dollars or maybe even free. Be prepared however, this old car for sale will require MAJOR repairs and an extensive investment in parts. The next step up is usually termed as "running" or "good runner". This usually means that the engine and drive train are working, but The body, frame and or interior will most likely need a great deal of attention. Next is "repaired" or "restored". Do not confuse these two terms. Restored means that the car has been restored to as close to the original condition as possible. This may include custom-machined parts. Repaired or Mint condition means that it is in very good condition, but may or may not have all original parts.

Dependent upon the model of car, a fully restored or completely original vehicle will cost anywhere from twenty thousand to a hundred thousand dollars. Repaired or in good condition you should expect to pay five thousand dollars and up.

Get out there and find that old car for sale, treat it right, and turn it into the beauty it once was. Then drive this work of art down the gravel roads on a sunset Sunday, and find your next gem.