What is a Vintage car?

Although this varies slightly by country and industry classification, a vintage car is a car that was built between 1919 and 1930. Anything from 103 to as young as 92 years old. Cars built after 1930 to the end of the second world war in 1945 are considered post-vintage.

What makes a vintage car special?

A vintage car is special because it has exceeded classic car status and survived for a period much longer than a regular classic. Vintage cars generally have a high price tag as they are one of very few left in the world making owning one a real privilege and in some cases, this is reserved for the most wealthy in society.

How do you choose a vintage car?

There are a variety of things to consider when you buy a vintage car, much in the same way you might consider choosing a classic car. It is important to consider a variety of factors when you choose a vintage car. Here are a few of the most important things to consider when choosing a vintage car.

Is the brand the right choice?

Brand often plays a big factor in the value or popularity of vintage cars, choosing the right brand can have a big impact on the cars’ appreciating value. Some cars do make investment other will increase less quickly. Brands like Bentley, Rolls Royce, and Aston Martin for example carry a following, a demand, and a price tag. We are happy to help you source a vintage car globally or a specific brand if you’d prefer.

Does it require restoration?

A project vintage car or barn find can be a fantastic opportunity to own and keep a vintage car, but you need to know the costs of restoration and any contingency that might be required. Some restorations can take years, based on parts, cost and the vehicle. Speak to our experienced team who can help you better understand the restoration process, benefits and drawbacks. We help our customers with all sorts of requests and regularly source Lotus Parts Online and support their Lotus Restoration.

Is it going to be easy to get parts for?

A vintage car can be more difficult to buy parts for and if they need to be made, will your vintage car be as authentic as you want? Stratton Motor Company has 50+ years in the motor trade as such we can help you to find the parts you need, but it is always recommended that you speak to us or your chosen parts company when considering a vintage car project.

Who will service it?

Servicing can become more difficult too! It is not just a case of taking it to your local garage, your chosen classic/vintage car servicing team should be using the very latest kit and equipment on your asset. The experience of our fitters, service engineers, Bodyshop, and customer services team is what makes us exceptional support for our customers and keeps them coming back year after year.

Can you store it in a climate-controlled environment?

Beyond the purchase, service, and maintenance of your vintage car, keeping it in optimal conditions to both slow its degradation and save you money by replacing seized or corroded parts will be the next important decision you make. SMC provides state-of-the-art car storage in Norfolk, for supercars, classic cars, and vintage cars alike.

So which Vintage Car is best?

One that meets these criteria, in our opinion.

One with a strong brand
One that can be maintained
One that you can get parts for
One you can store effectively
One that you can maintain through a servicing partner
One that makes your heart sing
One that conjures nostalgure

Summary

We cannot tell you which car is the best, everyone has a different perspective and affinity, there are of course a variety of brands that we can recommend, but when buying a vintage car you should buy it with both your heart and your head. It is always advisable to buy a brand that you find an affinity with as vintage cars can take a lot of maintenance, care, and attention, therefore, it is important to buy as much with your heart and your head. Choose wisely and if you want some help or advice our team at Stratton Motor Company will be happy to help you make the right decision, with the right information.