Owning a classic car or any collector car can be one of the most rewarding parts of life! As car aficionados know, specialty cars provide a slice of pure Americana, interesting history, an exhilarating ride, pure joy tinkering under the hood, and a fair amount of attention! Beyond all that fun, classic cars can also be a fantastic investment. The key to success in that regard is knowing which classic cars increase in value and ways to maintain the value of a classic car investment with the proper care. If you’re ready to take it a step further, there are even ways to improve the value of a classic car. Visit The Vault, where we are well versed in the market value of classic cars and how to turn yours into an even more profitable investment.
Retain Classic Car Value
You can maintain classic car value easily but why not do more? After The Vault is done with your prized possession, you’ll be able to search your car on Nada classic car values, Kelley Blue Book early model guide, Hemmings classic car values, or use the Hagerty valuation tool to find your baby at the top end of the price range. Sounds pretty great, right? So now you’re probably wondering, how do I improve the value of my car? A few simple tips will get you moving toward a more profitable and enjoyable classic car owning experience.
- Check for matching numbers. It all starts with making sure that all parts have numbers matching. This means the engine, transmission, and rear axle should contain original part numbers. For the absolute best case scenario, even the alternator, carburetor, distributor, water pump and cylinder heads all should match the original parts numbers listed for the car.
- Use NOS replacement parts in classic car restoration. If any work is done on the car, restoration or maintenance, it’s crucial to use NOS (new old stock) items or parts that were manufactured during the same time period but have never been used. If NOS items are impossible to find, it’s still an option to salvage parts from used cars of the same year and model.
- Replace the tires. The easiest way to increase the value of a classic car is to replace old tires which serves the dual purpose of increasing safety and improving the overall look of the collectible. As with all parts, it is best to buy tires that are as close to original as possible. If the rims are dented or damaged these should be replaced as well.
- Repair the car body and rubber. Get your prize in pristine condition, starting with bodywork, removing dents and scratches. It seems like a small detail but cracked or faded weatherstripping rubber can ruin your baby’s shine, along with window gaskets and felts, the door rubbers, and the trunk rubber and the hood bumpers.
- Interior classic car care. Replace any interior elements that are worn, cracked, or faded. As with any specialty car, old stock is your best bet for maintaining the value of your classic car.
- Enter classic car shows. One of the most effective ways to increase a classic car’s resale value is by participating in car shows. You can stay local or travel regionally but the bragging rights of a winner go far in the monetary value of a classic car. Winning also indicates that your beauty has been well-maintained and properly cared for.
- Keep detailed records. The more paperwork you have on your collector, the better. Classic car maintenance records indicate that you’ve kept her up as she deserves. Restoration records show everything you’ve replaced, what you’ve replaced them with, and why.
Classic Car Values
If you own a classic car already or are looking to find your next set of wheels, The Vault can help! Our top-rated service department can maintain your classic car and keep those ponies in peak performing condition. If you want to actually increase the value of a collector car, our highly skilled restoration team can get your baby in mint condition in no time. Protect your prized investment, enjoy the ride of a restored beauty, and also make yours one of the most sought-after classic cars out there today!
