Most Popular Classic Car Models

Classic cars encompass all automobiles that satisfy certain conditions for it to be called as such. These conditions are generally vague, as people have different opinions on what may be considered classic. A car with a timeless, elegant design and powerful engine can be reasonably thought of as a classic, but all the same, rarity and demand are the biggest factors. Thus, the characteristics that determine this type of car are still hazy. That's why over the years, several groups have devised some ways to organize the seemingly ambiguous definition of these cars. While they are still unofficial, it helps to know the features common in these popular classics, and know what makes them a favorite among collectors.

The Factors that Help Define a Classic Car

Engine - These cars are usually powered by high-performance engines. However, there are some automobiles with relatively slower engines, which are recognized as classic.

Coachwork - Intricate coachwork is a common feature among classics.

Luxury accessories -

The accessories or optional parts that go with the vehicle are also a factor. These may include clutches and power brakes.

Year the Car was Manufactured - Age is always a consideration in determining whether an automobile is a classic or not. For a certain vehicle to pass as one, it has to be manufactured around the late 1940's to 1980's. Thus, a classic car's age should be 25 years or older.

An Example Of A Few Classic Cars

Here are some of the most popular classics that are widely recognized by not only car aficionados, but your everyday person as well:

Corvette - this classic sports car was the first one to come as a convertible, and while it didn't sell well at first, and had to undergo some restyling, it became an extremely popular classic among American consumers.

Chrysler New Yorker - this was Chryslers most popular model and helped them forge a brand name among American car manufacturers from the late 30s well into the next several decades.

Austin A40 - this was a popular mid-size car produced in Britain in the 50s and 60s, and was both reliable and classy looking.

The Value of a Classic Car

When a classic car drives by on the road, you cannot help but to stop and admire it. They are breathtaking, unique, and coveted by many. For some people, a classic can bring back memories from their youth and for others it inspires a dream to own one of these fine cars. Classics do not come cheap and you will pay a pretty penny to own one, especially if it has been restored. So what makes a car a classic and why are they so valuable?

A classic can be defined as a car that is twenty five years or older, but this is a very vague classification for a classic. There is more to it than simply the age of the car. Older cars that were really popular during the time they were manufactured can now be classified as a classic. Old cars that are hard to find because they are rare or were limited editions are often called a classic. A lot of muscle cars, rare, and limited edition models are often classics.

The value of a classic increases as the desire to have one goes up. There is an inverse relationship between desirability and rareness and the amount of value they are worth. Limited editions are often the most valuable classic because a lot of people want them but there are few available. Some common classics that are widely available because they used to be in mass production are less valuable.

Askmen.com came up with a list of the ten most expensive classic cars. To make the list, the cars had to be at least twenty years old and had to be on the market for a "quantifiable amount." Here is the list of expensive classics and the value that was compiled by askmen.com starting with number ten.

10. 1956 Ferrari 860 Monza - Valued at $2.5 million
9. 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza Spider Corsa - $2.53 million
8. 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster - $3.63 million
7. 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 - $4.07 million
6. 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe - $4.4 million
5. 1932 Alfa Romeo Tipo B - $5.6 million
4. 1962 Ferrari 330 TRI/LM - $6.5 million
3. 1931 Type 41 Bugatti Royale - $8.7 million
2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO - $16.6 million
1. 1954 Mercedes W 196 - Valued at $24 million

As you can see, these classics are worth millions of dollars. If you have a rare or limited edition car in your garage, it could be worth millions twenty years from now.

How To Get Classic Car Parts

In the old days if you were looking for a classic car part you would have to drive from one wrecking yard to another, having to search each wrecking yard yourself. How times have changed, now every wrecking yard has a computer that will not only tell the computer operator if that classic car part is available, but also where to find it.

So now you can sit in the comfort of your own home and search the world for the part you are looking for. Most often times the definition of a classic car includes the numbers that were produced, since this figure has a direct relation on its classic value.

How to Find Classic Car Parts -The Internet

The internet is definitely the place to begin when you are searching for a classic car part. You will be able to search the world for this part but in some cases you might want to keep the search area close to home because of the size/weight of the part. Most of the people advertising parts for classic cars on the internet have a web page that allows you to search by year, make, and model.

How to Find Classic Car Parts - Your Local Newspaper

Since an engine or transmission can be very heavy, finding one close to home that you can pick up might save you a lot of money. Another comfort from buying locally is that you are able to inspect it with your own hands.

How to Find Classic Car Parts - CraigsList

Craigslist has become one of the most popular ways to buy or sell anything. The very successful goal of the company is to eliminate the middleman and thus give everybody concerned a great deal.

How to Find Classic Car Parts - E-Bay

E-Bay has become the largest middleman in the world, by taking just a little commission from the seller. E-Bay has a very nice feature that allows the looker to see how each E-Bay provider has provided for his customers over time.

Classic Car Clubs and Associations

Another great source for finding classic car parts is to join an organization like the "Antique Automobile Club of America." By joining the oldest and largest automobile historical society, you gain instant access to the thousands of members who might have the part you are looking for.

On the other hand, if you specialize in one brand of car you might be better served by joining the club that only deals with your particular brand of car. Just think of the enormous possibilities that exist within an organization where everyone owns the same car: the sharing of common information not only you but all members of the club.