Identifying Antique Autos
Whether you are interested in looking at antique autos for your own enjoyment or you are interested in purchasing one for yourself, it is important to know how to identify an antique auto. Fortunately, this is not difficult to do since there are some very clearly stated characteristics that any auto must have in order to be identified as an antique auto.
- By definition, an antique auto must be at least 25 years old. Knowing the year that the car was made in is one of the easiest ways in which to determine if it really is an antique. The year can be confirmed by looking at the authentic title, registration or repair documents.
- Most antique cars are larger, taller and bulkier than today’s cars. They also had rounder edges and rarely did they ever have any pointed or jagged angles. These characteristics will help you determine a car’s relative age.
- Cars that were made 25 years ago didn’t have seatbelts, power steering, airbags, fog lamps or air conditioning. If seatbelts were present they would be wide and brown in appearance for the front row and none would be present in the backseat.
- Some distinguishing features of antique cars include much bigger engines, side running boards, as well as headlights and rear-view mirrors that are very round.
- Consider consulting an expert. There are many different organizations, such as the Antique Automobile Club of America and the National Hot Rod Association, that employ such experts in order to advise their members on their car’s value. Your other option is to talk to a mechanic or an antique car broker who specializes in antique autos. These people can help you identify the make, model and year of an antique auto. They can also help you determine its value and whether or not it is a good investment.
- Attend road shows, as well as classic car museums and exhibits to improve upon your knowledge of antique autos.
- Purchase a pricing guide (i.e. “The Gold Book”) to help you identify the features of an antique auto.