Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

Robert · Joined: 30 Jun 2009 Posts: 2

Hi guys!

I'm looking to purchase my first classic car but quite frankly I have no bloody idea what I'm doing.

I have ~£1000 to spend give or take, and I'm looking for something to spend a little bit of time on here and there, to learn and to enjoy my time spent with the car.

Here's where you guys come in. What could I get for £1000? What should I be looking for and where? I've been looking at Minors, Beetles and Heralds, but others would be fine too. I'd like something with parts that are easy to find, not hugely expensive, just something I'd use on a weekend, travelling maybe a maximum of maybe 1,500 miles a year.

All advice would be greatly appreciated.
Robert.

Rick · Site Admin Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22840 Location: UK

Hi Robert

Any of the mainstream 'classic' cars would be a good starting point, the Minor is a perfect example of a car where parts, new and secondhand, are both plentiful and (usually) not too pricey either. Best bet is to buy something in decent nick to start with, and already on the road - ie the best you can find in your budget. Re-commissioning one that's been off the road for some time usually costs quite a bit, and involves a fair amount of work as things tend to deteriorate when left standing for more than a few months. At least with a car that has a long MOT, you're hitting the ground running and hopefully it'll just need ongoing tlc from that point onwards, rather than large scale work.

Others you could consider include the A40 Farina, A35, Standard 10, 100E Ford, Hillman Minx, Wolseley 1500 or how about something like an old Series 2 Land Rover?

Some other things to consider:

- do you need 4 doors, or will 2 be enough?
- where will it be parked overnight - drive? garage? street?
- does it need to be economical?
- do you envisage using it on motorways ever?

rgds, Rick
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PAUL BEAUMONT · Joined: 27 Nov 2007 Posts: 1281 Location: Barnsley S. Yorks

I reckon that you are on the right track.
Minor, A30/35, Herald, Real mini, 2CV, beetle, whichever takes your fancy.
£1K wont get you a lot though so make sure that if it needs fixing you have the capability to do it.
Paul

Robert · Joined: 30 Jun 2009 Posts: 2

Rick · Site Admin Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22840 Location: UK

I'd be inclined to find out what shows are coming up in your area, then have a proper look at a few cars "in the metal" to see which you prefer.

RJ
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Uncle Alec · Joined: 14 Jan 2008 Posts: 734 Location: Manchester

If you can wait until November, spend a day (or even better, two days) at the NEC Classic Car Show. It's not cheap to get in, but you'll see probably the largest selection of vehicles on show, you'll pick up vibes re. the owners' clubs, and if you know where to look you'll find some bargain cars offered.
Mind you, if I were you, I would spend a bit more and buy a Riley RM. Maybe a two-tone blue one with 8 months MoT.

Ghost · Joined: 20 Apr 2009 Posts: 75

I see Rick has mentioned the Morris Minor. Some years ago I bought one based on the thickness of the parts book alone! It's possibly better supplied than some more 'modern' cars. I would think the Ford Anglia 105E is good, or it was some 15 years ago when I last owned one and for the same reason, it's popular and with a strong following.

I'm not sure if £1000 is a working sum, it's 12 years since I bought any car, classic or modern! But with classic cars such as the Minor prices are steady at best, perhaps falling. So putting extra money into the purchase price might be cost effective in the long run.

victor 101 · Joined: 03 Apr 2009 Posts: 446 Location: East Yorkshire

Would't advise buying from ebay unless you can check it over first, I bought my Victor of ebay and it looked fine. Oh dear!

andycars · Joined: 03 Dec 2007 Posts: 239 Location: South Wales

You may get more for your money by considering more modern classics e.g. pre-73 Hillman Avenger, Vauxhall Viva, Morris Marina, etc.
Try having a look on some of the Owners Club websites - some have a "cars for sale" section you can access without being a member.

Nic Jarman · Posted: Tue Jun 30, 2009 10:00 pm Post subject:

Midgets are easy to find, parts are easy to get BUT TAKE A MECHANIC WITH YOU. Rust in the wrong places can be very expensive and that is true for any car. Do not believe the " Its been restored" line. Keep it simple and DO NOT get ambitious. Minis are a good starter but watch the rear sub frame - TAKE A MECHANIC. Good luck and hope to see you here with your classic.
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