Buy oldtimer?

You should take this into account when purchasing

Who doesn't want to drive and enjoy a true classic. Super fun of course, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you want to buy an old-timer. It is important to pay attention when purchasing any 'experienced' car, but an old-timer needs extra attention. The range is often a lot more qualitative and there are also cars in between that you should not buy, because they are beyond your knowledge and skills. To avoid disappointment, we are happy to help old-timer enthusiasts on their way. 

Buy oldtimer? Seek advice first

When buying a classic car it is very important that you take enough time to orientate yourself and to get advice. Due to the sometimes wide or scarce range, it may take longer before the perfect old-timer is found. If you already know what you are looking for, it is important to gather as much information as possible, so that you know exactly what to look for and get to know the type of characteristic 'pain points'. 

You can do this in different ways. Try to get in touch with someone who already has the model you want. Become a member of the relevant brand or type club. Visit classic traders and trade shows. However, be careful when searching for information in more general forums. There is quite a bit of chaff between the choirs, that you can only divorce if you are already reasonably well introduced. Fortunately, the forums of brand and type clubs are usually monitored.

Viewing and test drive

And then you have found a nice classic car and made an appointment for a viewing. The most important tip when viewing a classic car: bring an expert. A critical person who is not emotionally involved in the purchase. Because love makes blind. If there is anything that you have doubts about, then you should better continue your search. Because 'there is always another'. 

Take a long test drive to get the engine up to temperature. During that test drive, accelerate and brake hard, also make a number of sharp turns. Grab a speed bump with care. Look for smoke from the exhaust: white is coolant, blue is burnt oil. Black is general malheur (or an 'old' diesel). Strange engine, steering or suspension reactions can be easily fixed. Or not. 

If you cannot find an expert, you can always go to an independent garage by car before purchasing. Such a universal garage thoroughly examines the car for hidden defects. This costs between the 100 and 250 euros and can prevent a lot of misery.

Also important: check the vehicle documents and the chassis number.

Insurance

With an old-timer it is very important that you choose good car insurance. Go for the 'fire and theft' option. A classic on active license plate is not covered by your household insurance. In addition: with an old-timer, the chance of a breakdown or other types of damage is just a little higher. 

We take the FBTO Car insurance as an example. Here you can choose from modules and you have a lot of freedom of choice. You can take out a car insurance policy here that fits your needs perfectly. For example, choose the module with breakdown assistance in the interior. In this way you are always assured of help if your new love breaks down unexpectedly. At FBTO you also have the option to choose the damage repair company after a claim. This is handy, because there are companies that specialize in repairs to vintage cars. 

After the purchase

Once you have taken out car insurance, and the car is transferred from the name of the previous owner to yours, then it's time to start driving in your new classic car. 

What is important when you step into your new classic car is that you pay attention to your driving style. Where many people with current cars don't take a cold engine into account, warm-up is crucial for an old-timer. The engine and especially the oil of an old-timer must be fully warmed up before you can start giving a solid gas. 

The maintenance of an old-timer is also very important. In addition, old-timers often do not have the technological gadgets such as ABS, therefore it is still important to keep a distance with the person in front of you. 

Many people put their oldtimer in the garage in the winter hibernation. Make sure that the battery reaches a dropper and that a dose of ethanol killer / gasoline stabilizer has been added to the fuel before 'going to sleep'. 

In short; Buying an old-timer requires a little more knowledge and probably also time, but at least more passion than buying a new car. 

In brief. To prevent misery it is good to have one specialist take it to the viewing and the test drive, or to take the car to an independent garage for purchase. You will also probably have to adjust your driving style a little, but when you have done all this you can enjoy a car that runs on emotion instead of on electricity. 

Are you curious about what it's like to drive an old-timer? Be inspired by the people who talk about their old-timer passion.