Classic Cars

Classic cars are on the rise as more and more people are turning to older cars as a better investment than more traditional alternatives like savings, property and yes even pensions!

So are there any opportunities out there for a classic car investor in a rising market where cars like the Ferrari 308 sold for over £80,000 at Silverstone Auctions – see here?

Well the answer is yes, there are still undervalued classics out there that if bought right will yield a good return over the next few years.

Here are my top predictions:
– Jaguar E-Type Series 2 (2+2 and FHC)
– Mercedes SL R107
– Porsche 964 Carrera 2
– Jaguar XJS (pre 1993 facelift convertible)

The E-Type Series 1s are fetching massive prices at the moment – over £200k for early ‘flat floor‘ models and regularly into the £100k + for OTS (Open Two Seater) examples.  So the much undervalued Series 2 is the next best alternative for people that can’t afford the earlier models and will benefit from Series 1 rise.  A year ago or so you’d see 2+2 examples for around £20k, however, fast forward a year and you’ll already looking at £25k + and they are still rising.

The Merc SL is one of the prettiest cars ever made and bullet proof too.  Also they can be used as daily drivers that make them very versatile and family friendly.

Of course the Porsche 911 has always been a motoring icon, and the 1990s ‘993’ model has seen big increases in prices over the last couple of years due to their shape, quality build and being the last in the air cooled line of engines.  Two years ago you could have had your pick of coupe models with manual gearboxes, however, now you’ll be lucky if you get one for £30k.

Lastly, the XJS has suffered decades of abuse, however, now people are starting to see the beauty of these cars and low mileage convertibles are nudging £20k.  So early 1990s coupe models are the ones to watch – good examples are around £6k-8k and are the ones with the biggest scope for growth.

However it’s not all about money – classic cars are meant to be enjoyed and used regularly.  So whatever you decide to invest in please make sure you do what they were meant for… driving!

So what’s next? Well choose the car / model you’re interested in and do the research.  Talk to owners, join forums and clubs and learn as much as you can about the car as possible.  That way you’ll know what to look for and how to spot a good investment compared to a potential money pit!  Then it’s all about finding examples to go and see – here’s how to do it and get there before other people do:

– set up a ‘Followed Search’ on eBay with email notifications switched on
– set up a search on PistonHeads for the make / model with email notifications
– set up a ‘saved search on AutoTrader with email notification too
– check Trade Classics everyday to see new listings

Happy hunting and remember to read our blog on how to buy a classic car for tips on what to look for to make sure you buy the best example for your money – click here to read the article.

EMMA JONES

This article was written and published by Emma Jones.  Emma works for Trade Classics as an in-house journalist and copywriter and has many years’ experience in the classic car sector.  Why not write a reply on this article below – she’d love to hear your thoughts on her thoughts!Also, don’t forget to check out the classic cars for sale here on Trade Classics.Google+