If you’re considering investing in your first antique car, you likely have a few questions on your mind. Whether it’s about cost or maintenance, the vintage automotive experts at Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA in Mecklenburg County, NC, have the answers you’re looking for. Before committing to a car, consider a few things first.

Top 3 Antique Car FAQs

What Costs Should I Consider?

Aside from the value of the car, there are other costs you need to consider when buying an antique car. With a vintage vehicle comes the more obvious expenses, such as maintenance and restoration. Other costs to consider are insurance and license plates specific to antique cars, the price tag associated with delivering or picking up your chosen vehicle from the seller, and the cost of parts. The rarer your new car is, the harder it will be to find replacement parts, which will ultimately increase their value as well as their price.

Where Should I Store My Antique Car?

Antique car owners want to preserve their vehicle’s value, and properly storing it and protecting it from environmental damage will go a long way toward that goal. If you don’t have a garage or covered parking spot, you’ll have to invest in a storage space. There are storage facilities specifically dedicated to keeping vintage cars safe, and they often will offer service and maintenance options as well.

If an Antique Car Has a Small Price Tag, Will It Cost More in Repairs?

Several factors contribute to the price of an antique car, including its make and model, year, rarity, mileage, and condition. If you come across a car you’re interested in that seems to be priced far below its value, that doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with it. To be safe, hire a professional to do a presale inspection so that there are no surprises.

How Often Do Antique Cars Require Maintenance?

Vintage cars require a significantly greater amount of maintenance than modern day vehicles. You’ll need to drive your car around the block a few times and give it a good wash at least once a month. Before starting the engine, you must always check the car’s oil as well. If your car features driveline components, they’ll need to be lubricated every few months. Coolant flushing and brake fluid replacement require a little more technical knowledge and need to be addressed once a year.

Hornets Nest Region, AACA, puts on the Charlotte AutoFair every spring and fall, where thousands of antique car enthusiasts gather at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. As the perfect spot for buyers and sellers to meet, this event usually attracts over 150,000 people. For more information on getting your admission ticket and which vendors will be attending, give them a call now at (704) 841-1990 or visit their website.