Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[john-saab]

I am writing to a few previous owners of my car to see if I can find out a little more on it's history.
I have tracked them down using the electorial register and want to approach in a way that won't seem too demanding.
The plan is to include a photo of the car and want to make it clear that the request is totally without malice. It will start with a "i'm the current owner of reg No.... and i'm researching the cars history.
How would you word it to make it friendly, non demanding but get the most information..i will enclose a SAE so they don't even have to pay to reply..
Any hints, tips, ideas?
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Rust Junky & oil addict.

[Bitumen Boy]

I reckon it would be a good idea to give some details - not too technical, obviously - of the work you've done on the car and, perhaps, how long you've owned it. It'll go a long way towards convincing people that you're a genuine enthusiast and that can't be a bad thing.

[clan chieftain]

Or even a photo of you with the car.
If the car is in good condition you could complement them for the way they have looked after it and that you will maintain it to a high standard.I would imagine that most people would be only too glad to give you the information you need............Good luck..........Larry.
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The Clan Chieftain

[Rick]

Don't forget to offer them a spin around the block, if they're ever in your area. I can't imagine anyone being offended by an approach, at worst they might be indifferent, but I suspect most people would be willing to help.

RJ
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Rick - Admin
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[john-saab]

Thanks for the input.
A forum member has sent me a version of a letter he received and it's exactly what I was looking for..brief, polite and informative.
The offer of a drive will be included but i'm on the south Coast and my car spent most of it's life in Liverpool so i'm guessing they won't take the offer up.
One small issue that worries me..one owner had the car for 10 years andI really want to hear from her BUT..the address used on the old registration document is different to where she lives now...100's of miles away. Do you think she will get a bit upset that 20 years later someone has "tracked her down"? Is that a bit too much?
The 1st owner looks to have passed away but the 2nd & 3rd owners look to be husband and wife, they are still at the same address.
The 4th owner was SAAB dealership who passed it onto someone (after 2 months) who only owned it for 8 months so i'm not sure I will get in touch with those owners
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Rust Junky & oil addict.

[baconsdozen]

I've often thought of doing this.My Rover was stuck in a barn for nearly twenty years,I suppose realistically some of the previous owners might have passed on.
Best of luck,I hope you find out something about your car.I think making sure they understand you are genuine and will not write again unless they ask and wont share any details with anyone would be worthwhile.

[peter scott]

In my limited experience I've had more success by phoning than by letter.

Peter
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https://www.nostalgiatech.co.uk
1939 SS Jaguar 2 1/2 litre saloon

[Uncle Alec]

Try to get a member of the owners' club living near them to pop round in his.

[heathelect]

Dont forget to add your phone number, I had a call from a 75yr old man who had bought my car originally and a long chat on the phone.

[peter scott]

For what it's worth..

http://www.scottpeter.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/New%20page%2017.htm
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https://www.nostalgiatech.co.uk
1939 SS Jaguar 2 1/2 litre saloon

[Rick]