My Daily Driver



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by Bobby McCarthy
Copyright (c), 2003, My Daily Driver -- All Rights Reserved

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.

A little research into your own state's vehicle registration rules can save you a few unpleasant monetary surprises. In addition to the DMV expenses, there are also the safety and emissions inspections. Emissions testing, in particular, has changed the way I consider which old car to buy. Although each state is different, more and more states are requiring emissions tests on cars older than 15 years. This may cost you some unexpected cash to legally drive your car. Again, do the research and make sure you have budgeted for these expenses. Trust me, there's nothing worse than having to take the bus while your vintage car sits in the driveway waiting for you to earn a couple of more paychecks to put it on the road.

Ok, you have your budget, you have researched your state regarding 2001 vehicle rules and regulations, now let's go shopping! Hold your horses. This I cannot stress enough. Be patient. I'll repeat that for those of you not listening, be patient. Regardless of how high or low your budget is, rushing into the purchase of a vintage car because you just gotta have it, usually results in a bad experience. Not always, but more often than not. In addition to being patient, try not to be too specific. What I mean is, while you may have a particular year, make and model in mind, look at everything within your price The Big '3'

range. Some of the best cars I have owned were not at the top of my list when I began my search. For instance, if you really want a 1966 Chevelle, don't be opposed to checking out 1966 Buick Skylarks or Specials, Oldsmobiles or Pontiacs. Some folks have a real aversion to specific makes. They think that all Fords "suck" or all Chevys or all Mopars or, well you get my point. I have never felt that way. I do have my favorite "styles," but that has more to do with vintage rather than the manufacturer. If it's a good solid safe car and turns a few heads, I'll drive it.

Ok, you have your budget, you have researched your state regarding 2001 vehicle rules and regulations, you've got a wider variety of cars you will look at and an open mind, now let's go shopping! But, where do you look? Now, I have found cars both through a diligent search and by dumb luck. It has taken me months to find just the right affordable car and I have had cars practically fall in my lap. Methods of searching for Searching online

the right car really depends on your available resources. The Internet is a terrific resource. There are dozens of auto classifieds sites, many containing images of the cars. While it is easy to search via year, make, model and dollar amount, although it is sometimes difficult to find one within driving distance from your home. Be patient. Most of the popular "Trader" magazines are also a good source. Many of these are geared to a specific region of the country and have an Internet site for an easier search. Even most large newspapers have an "Antique Auto" classified section. Also, check regular auto classifieds. Just because we think a car is vintage doesn't mean the folks selling it do. You would be surprised the interesting vehicles I have found listed between the Camry's and Taurus's.

Try to see as many of these cars as you can. I have found that he folks selling these are open with information regarding their cars, even if you have made it clear that you do not intend to purchase it. I have even had one seller inform me of another classic car for sale in his neighborhood. So, take your time and enjoy the search. Someone once wrote that the journey can be more enlightening than the destination. I think they were right on track.

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