If there's one thing every car enthusiast knows, it's that this passion doesn't start out of nowhere. It's born deep in the heart, with the first roar of an engine that raises goosebumps, with the smell of gasoline mixed with grease, and with the early mornings spent watching car auctions on TV. And it was no different for me. I'll tell you that now. How I started my vintage car collection.
The first car is never forgotten
I remember it like it was yesterday. I was still a kid when I saw a Maverick GT in a friend of my dad's garage. Orange, with black stripes, a V8 that shook the ground when it fired up. My heart raced. I knew I'd own one of those someday. But until then, I had to fight for it.
Years later, when I finally managed to save some money, I went after my first classic. You know that endless search? I spent hours on forums, Facebook groups, and vintage car shows. Until one day I saw a 1979 Opel Commodore advertised. Beige, brown interior, immaculate dashboard. It was love at first sight.
Cheap is expensive (and how I learned this the hard way)
I bought it with excitement running high. The car seemed to be in perfect condition; the owner swore it was "impeccable." But, my friend, anyone entering this world must learn to differentiate a well-maintained car from a problem on wheels.
It wasn't long before I discovered leaks, patched wires, and a bodywork disguised with varnish. Had I been fooled? Perhaps. But I prefer to think it was my baptism of fire into the world of vintage cars.
I spent the next few months learning what "taking care of a classic" really means. I started visiting specialized garages, made friends with mechanics, and learned how to find original parts. This Opel taught me everything I needed to know before investing in any other car.
The moment my vintage car collection became a reality
After the Opel, there was no turning back. I got the hang of it. I knew where every bonus I earned was going: the next car.
That's how I found my second classic, a 1973 Dodge Dart. Blue, original upholstery, impeccable dashboard. This time I did more research, took it to a mechanic, and had a complete overhaul. When I drove it for the first time, I felt the same excitement I felt when I saw the Maverick GT as a kid. It was official: I had a collection.
What I learned (and what you should know before you start)
If you're also dreaming of building a collection, here are some tips from someone who's learned the hard way:
- Never buy on impulse. It may be a beautiful car, but if it has a wrecked engine, you'll end up spending twice what you paid for it.
- Take a specialist with you. Don't trust what the seller says. Inspect every detail.
- Research parts and maintenance. There are cars that seem like a good deal, but finding parts can be hell.
- Be prepared to spend time and money. An old car requires love and patience. But when you rev it and feel that roar, it's worth every penny.
- Join the community. Forums, groups, and events are the best places to learn and meet people who can help you.
Today, my collection includes some of the cars I've always dreamed of. And best of all, each one has a story, a triumph, and an experience I'll never forget.
If you feel this same passion, then welcome to the club. There's no cure for the classics bug, and honestly, I don't even want to be cured!
And you? What was the car that made your heart beat faster for the first time?
Passionate about classic cars for as long as he can remember, Javier Montoro has dedicated his life to the search, restoration, and preservation of true gems on wheels. With years of experience purchasing, restoring, and maintaining vintage vehicles, he shares his knowledge, stories, and lessons learned on this blog.