Classic Cars Search Tips

There are no shortages of websites that show classic cars for sale. Between private seller classified ads, classic car dealer ads, auto auction ads, it can be almost overwhelming.

Where do you start? Here are some tips that will help sort through the process.

First, zero in on what car you are looking for, or at least in a range of years. For example, before I bought my "62 Corvette, I was looking between 1958 and 1962. That narrowed the field. Then after some time I decided I wanted the "62, and it got a lot easier!

Next, you need to know what condition of car you want. Show car, project car, solid driver, etc. Formal ratings range from Excellent to Parts Car, and each is priced accordingly.

So, if you want a "good" condition 1967 GTO convertible you would be getting a car that probably needed some work, mostly minor, had been either well maintained or had a decent restoration at some time (not recent). The car as it exists would be a solid driver and probably not too hard to get into "Very Good Condition" (near perfect, great driver).

With this information, next go to some of the many dedicated vehicle sites - just type in 1967 Pontiac GTO in Google and start reading. Once such site is http://www.gtoalley.com/. Tons of information on the standard options, VIN number decoding and things you should now.

Many of these sites have books for sale that have great detailed information that a lot of professionals don't even know. Pick up one or two. It will be money well spent.

Based on the above, you are now armed and marvelous, as they say. You should have an idea form the various price guides what the relative values are for your car. If you have not posted on any forums looking for your car, now is a good time to start. You'll get some good information.

The next decision is how far geographically you will search for your car. Some will only look in their back yard; others have no problems with distance. Decide your preferences and plan accordingly.

If you find a listing from a private seller, rejection is your friend. Sounds odd, but you need to quality him / her as a legitimate seller quickly or move on.

• How much do they know about the car? You should be armed with VIN, Trim Tag and rear axel numbers so you can quickly determine how original the car is - or that the seller really doesn't know.

• Do you have a lot of pictures that show detail? If not, then ask for more. If the seller hedges, then they may not actually have the car. Digital cameras are cheap and there is no reason why several more can be taken. Their version of "good" may not be the same as Hemmings Motor News.

• Does the seller have the proper documentation and authentication? For example, GM cars had Protecto-o-Plates, a metal credit card like plate glued into the Owners manual with VIN, Trim Tag & Drive train Decoding. When the car was taken in for service, the dealership would take an impression. How can they prove the car is authentic?

• If the seller wants a deposit or he will sell the car to someone else, then that's a red flag for me anyway. I understand having skin in the game, but sending someone a few hundred or thousand dollars site unseen is not realistic. If they car seems okay, then agree to have it inspected. Once you get the inspection, you can make a decision. First, you'll know that the seller really has the car! Second, you'll know what it is worth. It may cost $200 for you to walk, but better than buying the wrong car.

• When contacting dealers, go through the same questions. They should have all the information at their finger tips. Once thing to realize is that many dealers purposefully do not update their inventory. They may show your car for sale and when you call - oops - it' sold. They will offer to find one for you though. Your call. If you get a good feel it may be worth it. DO NOT enter into any exclusive agreement where you are obligated. Bad idea.

• If using ebay - all the above applies. There are scams everywhere and you need to be careful.

Don't want to spend the time dealing with the flakes and scammers? Let Your Dream Car Finder do the heavy lifting. We know cars, where they are, and can find and deliver your car to you with no hassles.