Duffy's Collectible Cars Blog - Your Trusted Collector Car Store For Over 25 Years.

By: Clint Landis, President

 
When it comes to buying a classic car, there are really three distinct directions a buyer can choose.

1. Individual Owners 
2. Auctions
3. Collector Car Dealers

Certainly, as a dealer in the collector car industry for nearly 30 years, we believe buying from a reputable collector car dealer is the best way to go. Let me just go through the advantages of buying from a dealer vs. the two other options and then you can, of course, decide for yourself.

The key advantages of buying from Duffy’s vs. an individual owner or an auction include:

At Duffy’s, we have a wide selection of cars from the 1920’s to the 1980’s. That makes it easy to find what you’re looking for and not have to flip through endless car magazines and on-line ads. Of course, an auction has a wide selection as well, but you have to get there and make very quick decisions - which isn’t always the best way to make an informed decision.

At Duffy’s, you know EXACTLY what you’re buying. Our professionals decode the car completely so you know the original color and interior of the car and you know if it has the original drivetrain. With individuals and auctions, this can get tricky. Sometimes individuals don’t have the expertise to decode properly (you frequently need a hoist to do it right). With auctions, you have to be very careful. We have purchased cars at auctions marketed as #’s matching engines and found them to be incorrect. We have also spoken to individuals who have recently had the same problem. You really have to check these things yourself at the auction but you have little time and inadequate facilities to thoroughly understand what you’re buying. It’s a risk that sometimes pays off and sometimes does not.

At Duffy’s, we have been around for nearly 30 years and we thoroughly inspect each car and can even offer our optional 3 month 3,000 mile Gold Seal Warranty. You just can’t get this from auctions or individuals.
At Duffy’s, we price our cars at fair market values. At auctions, you can get into bidding contests and in the heat of the moment pay to much for a car.

At Duffy’s, we understand the market values for collector cars and we’re proud of our cars and our prices.
Certainly there is more than one way to buy a collector car. Personally, I purchased 2 cars from Duffy’s prior to coming to work here. I did so because I didn’t have the time or expertise to chase down exactly what I was looking for. In the end, I got exactly what I wanted and sold my cars for more than I paid down the road. It was a great experience for me and I’m committed to making it a great experience for you. So give us a call and don’t miss the specials we have below, it’s a great time to take advantage of some great sale prices at Duffy’s.

BUYING A CLASSIC CAR
Written By Jon Bratton

Buying a classic car is a vastly different experience than purchasing a typical late model vehicle. Let’s go through some of the key factors in selecting the right classic car.

STEPS FOR BUYING

1. Determine how you’ll be using the classic car. If it’ll be used as a daily driver there is no need to find a “show condition” vehicle. If you plan on entering classic car competitions or just want something nice to cruise in on a beautiful summer day you’ll have to find something that fits your needs. If you know the model you are interested in, narrow it down to 2 or 3 years (e.g., Mustang 1965-1967). This will help with your search. If you don’t know, research what changes were made each year and what suits your needs/wants best. Buy a car that excites you!
2. Check with local classic car clubs for any people who own, or have owned the type of classic you are interested in. They may be able to help you determine what to buy and what to avoid. These people will also be a great way to enjoy your new purchase later in cruises, shows, and touring.
3. Purchase from a reputable dealer. How long have they been in business? Do they have references? If you cannot go and look at the vehicle and you choose to buy from an individual, verses the reputable dealer, have a vehicle appraiser look at the car. They may be able to tell if its been in an accident, or if the engine, transmission or other vital components are not original. Research your appraiser before you hire their services. The reputable dealer will disclose those items.
4. Ask lots of questions. In my years of experience I have learned that everybody looks at a car differently and have different expectations. Order a used vehicle history report like Carfax on the car if it is 1986 and newer. This can be completed online.
5. BUY IT! Unlike a late model dealership there is only one car not a whole showroom full of the classic car of your dreams. You cannot go and order another one. When you find a classic car in the shape you want it , buy it! You have done all your homework, asked all the right questions, now is the time to realize your dream.

TIPS
• Buy a classic car with full service records or one that has been checked out by a mechanic. This will give you some added peace of mind.
• If you buy something fully customized, rare or imported, be prepared to pay more for parts and labor. In many cases you’ll have to get parts custom made which can be very expensive. You may also be able to buy used parts from someone who is “parting out” a similar model. You can check online auctions for general availability of such parts. Duffy’s Parts Department may also have the parts you are looking for.
• Drive the car and look at it in person. This is the best way to make sure you like it, especially if it’s your first classic car.

WARNINGS
• Check that the VINs (Vehicle Identification Number) match. Verify that the VIN on the car’s title matches the official VIN tag on the car. The official VIN tag is typically located at base of the windshield, but in older cars may be in the driver’s side door sill or in the engine compartment. If they do not match then the vehicle may have been in a severe accident. VIN problems are also signs of bogus classics and stolen cars. Be very careful in this part of the buying process. Ask for a copy of the title before you send any money.
• Beware of internet scams. There are many unscrupulous individuals out there trying to sell a “bogus car”. The old adage “if it looks too good to be true” it ususally is.

Buying a classic car should be an enjoyable experience. The chase of looking for and finding that dream car is part of that experience. Duffy’s Collectible Cars can alleviate the worries and hassles of buying from unknown individuals. We check our cars from bumper to bumper so there are no suprises. We want to make sure each and every customer is happy. Now….”What is keeping you from buying a classic car of your dreams?” Call us toll free at 1-877-670-3937 or email us at sales@duffys.com to start driving your dream.