If your are contemplating the purchase a classic, vintage or old car as a source of
transportation, I have some useful information about getting started. I don't know if I
would qualify myself as a vintage car "expert." I am not an auto mechanic nor am I a
used car salesman. However, I have owned and driven five vehicles that were at least 15
years older than the dates on the registration stickers adhered to their license plates.
In addition, I have been associated with countless other vintage cars that friends,
family and or neighbors have driven. Meaning, I would either be sitting in the driveway
with a beer while someone wrenched their old car or they would be having a beer while I
wrenched.
With this in mind, I have amassed a considerable wealth of knowledge pertaining to the
obvious. Unfortunately, realizing your budget is the first step. Yeah, yeah, I know I
sound just like your father, but listen to the voice of reason. Being realistic about
the actual finances in hand makes the whole search and purchase process a pleasant one.
Knowing what you have to spend will also greatly narrow the field of potential cars
you'll need to sift through. Once you have determined your budget, factor in any
additional expenses you will encounter. For instance, tax and title. Some states have
gotten wise to the old "$500" on the bill of sale for an old car. The folks at the DMV
may check a list called, "Of particular Interest." If your car is on it, you will pay
the taxes for the highest book value of your make, model and options, regardless of what
your bill of sale says. You can dispute this, but you still need to pay the taxes first,
dispute later.
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Each month My Daily Driver publishes articles regarding these old cars we drive.
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"Yeah, yeah, I know I sound just like your father, but listen to the voice of reason. "
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