In these turbulent financial times investors are increasingly turning to classic cars. Many are not even enthusiasts. Their purchases are purely based on the fact that sort after models represent the best safe haven for their surplus cash.
As experienced motor traders you’ve probably already spotted the trend long ago. Being involved in the trade day to day you also have a distinct advantage over these novices. You’ve far more chance of encountering a hidden gem in the market!
Our expert has selected 10 vintage vehicles, of varying values to suit all types of budgets. These classics should provide strong returns if you’ve spare capital to sit on for a period of time.
When you come to cash them in, your patience will be well rewarded!
Best of British – five great starter classics
AUSTIN MINI/CLUBMAN (1959-2000) £2,600-15,500
The original mini and very popular. Good fun to drive, if you can get into one. A number are being re-shelled and command a premium, also beware of imitation Mini Coopers!
Photo soucre: www.carsaddiction.com
MGB/B GT (1962-1980) £3,250-15,000
The MGB roadster and BGT are extremely popular. More recent rubber bumper models are not so popular and therefore cheaper to buy, however they can be converted to chrome bumper specification relatively easily. It has the biggest spares market in the classic car field. Chrome bumper models are the best buy; many have had new body shells, mainly on the soft-top models and can fetch a premium.
MORRIS MINOR/TRAVELLER (1948-1970) £3,750-8,000
Simple, unassuming and apparently everlasting, the saloon and Traveller estate provide high class yet classless motoring for all. Make sure the wood is rot free on the Traveller.
TRIUMPH HERALD/VITESSE (1959-1971) £2,000-5,000
Triumphs Herald/Vitesse saloons and convertibles are easily maintained and really cheap, again watch out for that ‘Rust Bug’.
TRIUMPH TR6 (1969-1976) £11,000-16,000
Not as popular as the earlier TR4 but less expensive. A ‘proper’ British sports car with good spares and specialist support.
‘Best of the rest’
Alfa Romeo 75 (1985- 1992) £3000-10,000
Alfa Romeo was in a strange place at the time with no new models, so the 75 looked even weirder than the 1970’s Giulietta on which it was based. But Alfa gradually refined it, making this the finest handling of all its transaxle cars. The last rear wheel drive Alfa until the new current Giulia. If you can find one, a late unmolested 3.0-litre manual is a stormer, it must be rust free however.
Ford Lotus Cortina MK 1 (1964-1966) £23,000 – 70,000
It only came in one colour, originally, white with a green stripe down the sides and across the back, very rare beast. Sporting a 1600cc Lotus twin cam engine, aluminium boot, bonnet and doors, this was the really hot saloon of the 60’s. Now to be seen in classic saloon car races at Goodwood and Silverstone. Auctions are a good source for these but take someone who knows the car, as there are some fake ones out there!
Alfa Romeo Duetto Spider Series 1 (1966-1969) £25,000-30,000
Pure Italian design, the later series spiders have gained ground in the last 12 months, but the one to have is the Series 1 Duetto Spider. This Italian roadster known by most as ‘The Graduate Spider’ adds even more to its charm.
Austin Mini Cooper S (1963-1967) £25,000-50,000
The original sixties Mini is a classic that’s always been the favourite with buyers. The current favourite is the Mk1 Austin/Morris Mini Cooper 1275 S. They also came in 970cc for racing and 1071cc, very rare and expensive. Some cars have been re-shelled, again watch out for fakes.
Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evolution (1991-1993) £40,000 – £70,000
Originally introduced late in 1987, it’ll celebrate its 30th anniversary this year. The later Delta Integrale Evolution, Evolution II and Final Edition models are the most sought after. They’re the best and most exotic, now seems like a good time to buy.
Photo source: www.bestcars.uol.com.br
Porsche 928 S4/GTS (1987-1995) £60,000 – 90,000
The 928 has been the poor relation for far too long and the reason for that is simple: it’s not a 911. So don’t overlook the front-engine 928. It’s got a long way to appreciate and 2017 could be the year it finally gets the respect it deserves. The one to go for is the S4 manual.
The golden rule is that whatever you do, do not jump headfirst and snap up the first one you see. This advice is given frequently by people who have made this mistake but sadly it is often ignored by those too eager to get their hands on their dream car.
The reality is that you will undoubtedly find a better example if you hadn’t have rushed in and you will be mighty glad you didn’t.