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If you’re an automobile enthusiast, your list of dream vehicles would probably include classic sports and antique cars. Each is valuable and unique in their own way, but antique models are harder to come by because not only do you need to find a unit, but you also have to perform extensive restoration to make it look new. If you’re in the market for one, here’s how you can rate its exterior.

How Are Antique Cars Rated?

The standard condition rating used in the restoration industry is from one to six, with the latter being the lowest. Six-rated antique cars are only good for parts and not the best candidates for restoration. Fives may or may not be running, with most—if not all—parts needing replacement or repair. Fours are considered “good” and have major components that are still functioning properly. Most amateur restorations are done on these types of vehicles.

antique carsThree-rated cars are labeled “very good” and are well-maintained and fully operable with limited mileage. These automobiles may even look perfect at first glance but have minor wear on closer inspection. Twos or “fine” antique cars have been meticulously maintained and seen very limited use. These often win top car show awards since the best-rated vehicles are extremely rare. Ones or “show car” units are the cream of the crop. These masterpieces are in the same or even better condition than when they originally came out of the factory. They are never driven and are transported to a car exhibit in an enclosed trailer. They are also stored in a climate-controlled environment when not being shown.

What Should You Focus On?

The exterior or body includes the doors, hood, trunk, top, tires, and trims. You need to check if all body panels are of the same color. The seams where two panels meet should also be even and straight with smooth edges. To check for excessive fillers used in bodywork, try to stick a magnet to any metal part of the body. If it doesn’t stick, then too much filler was used, and you could probably assume that it wasn’t done by a professional restoration shop. The tires, meanwhile, should match the original manufacturer’s specifications, so you need to do a bit of research on the model you’re looking at.

 

If you want to check out some professionally restored antique cars, visit the Charlotte AutoFair in Charlotte, NC. This celebrated biannual event, which gathers 150,000 automobile collectors, buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts, is held in a 150-acre lot. Give them a call at (704) 841-1990 for inquiries, or visit their website to learn more about the event.

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