We all have our own reasons for doing various things, and the purchase of a classic car of any kind is a great example. There are several major reasons why you might be interested in a classic car, or perhaps even multiple at once, and these baseline purposes will often set the table for your care and restoration needs with said vehicle.
At Andersen Restoration Parts, we're here to help with any kind of restoration or part upgrade needs you may have for a classic car, including sway bar links and bushing sets, suspension kits, and many other options. Here are some of the top motivations for buying one or more classic cars, plus what to think about in terms of vehicle care and upkeep depending on your primary purposes.
For Restoration Purposes
There are several reasons why someone may want to buy a classic car to restore it to like-new or better-than-new condition. Perhaps you have sentimental reasons, such as restoring your first car or a vehicle that reminds you of a memorable time in your life. Or, you may simply love the process of finding a "diamond in the rough" and turning it into a show-stopping beauty.
Whatever your restoration motivations, be prepared for a lot of time, money, and work to get the car into proper working order and looking its best. You'll need high-quality parts, tools, space, and patience—but for many, the reward of a fully restored classic is worth it.
For instance, sway bar links and bushings are common parts that wear out over time and with heavy use, so replacing these with high-quality components is important for proper handling and control.
For Car Shows and Events
Another major motivation for classic car ownership is to show the vehicle at local events, regional shows, or even national competitions. If you plan to show your classic car, everything from the engine to the interior to the exterior paint and chrome must be in pristine, show-ready condition at all times. This means diligent cleaning and regular maintenance using specialty products as well as repairing or replacing any parts that show significant wear.
As you prep your classic car for any kind of show or event, be sure to double check all parts, including sway bar links, bushings, and other suspension components. Even small issues here can affect ride and handling, and judges will notice. With the right care and parts, you can keep your classic car looking its best for shows and events.
To Ride in Style
Some people are simply just major car enthusiasts, and they love the look, feel, and ride of classic cars from a certain era. If you fall into this category, you'll want to find a vehicle in solid working condition, then maintain it well with regular service, cleaning, and replacement of worn parts. While you don't necessarily need a fully show-ready car, keeping your classic in good working order will allow you to get the most enjoyment out of driving and riding in it—whether on weekends, special occasions, or whenever the mood strikes. You might consider sway bar links, bushings, and other suspension upgrades to improve handling for a smoother, more stylish ride.
As Part of a Collection
For some, especially once they've gotten their first taste of classic car ownership, collecting multiple vehicles becomes a passion. If you're building a collection, you'll need to consider space for storage as well as budget for purchasing and maintaining several cars. However, the variety of models and years you might acquire could be a source of great enjoyment, as you explore different makes, models, and eras of classic cars. And of course, when it's time to work on parts or restoration for your vehicles, having a source for parts like Andersen Restoration Parts will be essential to keeping your classics in working order.
As a Regular Buyer, Seller or Trader
Finally, there's an immense marketplace for buying, selling, and trading classic cars, and some people thrive on the hunt for new inventory to buy, fix up, and resell at a profit. If you intend to be a regular trader, you'll need strong knowledge of classic cars and values, as well as trusted sources for buying and selling to succeed. You'll also need to budget for the purchase price of cars, parts, and labor required to refurbish vehicles before putting them back on the market. While risky, it can be a rewarding way to turn your passion for classic cars into a business.
As you can see, there are many avenues into classic car ownership, and all come with their own unique pros, cons, costs, and care requirements. But with a solid plan and reliable sources for parts and service, you can get the most out of owning and enjoying your classic car.
At Andersen Restoration Parts, we have a vast inventory of parts for classic cars from any era, allowing owners to keep their vehicles on the road and show-ready. Contact us or visit our website to see how we can help with your classic car needs.