The allure of collector cars goes beyond the aesthetics—it’s also the value that comes with them. If you happen to have such a vehicle in your garage, you could be sitting on a small fortune. However, retaining or increasing its value also has a price in terms of money and effort. Here’s how to do it.

How to Maintain or Boost the Value of Your Collector Car

1. Restore Closely to the Original

Vintage or classic autos derive their value from being as authentic as possible. A classic ride with mostly original parts can fetch a higher price in the market than a similar model with replacement components. Enthusiasts look at the numbers on the engine, transmission, rear axle, and other essential parts. If the figures match with each other and the ones listed for the particular make and model, it means that the vehicle is as close to the original as it can get.  

2. Keep Modifications to a Minimum

When you’re restoring an old car, it’s not unusual to get modified or customized parts as viable replacements for damaged ones. However, doing so may bring down the value of your ride dramatically. Remember that collectors want to keep the vehicle in its original state and good working condition.

Instead of using newer parts, scout for new, unused stock components or those manufactured in the same year as your car. Try salvaging components from vintage autos with the same make and model that are no longer running. It may cut through the value but usually not too much.

3. Stick to a Strict Routine Upkeep

After restoring your classic ride to its near-original state, it’s time to focus on maintaining it. Unlike its newer counterparts, vintage vehicles require stricter routine upkeep to at least retain their value in the market.

Give it a good wash and wax at regular intervals using only the recommended products to minimize scratches and scuff marks on the paint job. Take it out for an occasional leisurely drive to keep the motor running smoothly. 

4. Maintain Proper Documentation

For a collector car to have top-notch value, it must have the necessary paperwork. This is proof that your vintage auto has been well-maintained. A detailed record will also show the amount of restoration work done and brief explanations for parts with inconsistent numbers. As such, it can be your leverage once negotiations start.

Follow the above tips when you plan on getting the most value out of your classic ride. If you want to put your collector cars on display, there’s no better place to take it than the Charlotte AutoFair. This four-day, bi-annual vintage auto show brings together collectors and antique car enthusiasts from North Carolina and all parts of the country. Call (704) 841-1990 or visit the website to learn more about the car exhibit.