If you collect classic cars or dream of starting your own collection, there's something you need to know: Sooner or later, you're going to make a mistake. To avoid trouble and suffering, I'll tell you a mistake I made when buying a classic car and you can learn from my experience.
And I'm telling you this because I've been there. One of the first classic cars I bought was a disaster. Not because the model was bad, but because I didn't know what I was getting into.
I look back and laugh today, but at the time it was a severe blow. Not just to my pride, but also to my wallet.
So let me tell you how I messed up, what I learned from it, and most importantly, how to prevent the same thing from happening to you.
The perfect car (or so I thought)
A few years ago, I was looking for an iconic model to start my collection. I wanted something with history, with presence, something that, when seen, would make people say, "Now that's a real car!"
After much searching, I found what seemed to be a unique opportunity.
A 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback. Red, with black stripes, a V8 engine, and a chest-rattling rumble. It looked like something out of a movie.
The owner showed it to me, told me its history, told me it was “impeccable” and that the price was a bargain.
I, excited like a child in a toy store, didn't hesitate for a second.
We paid, signed the papers and the car was mine.
Or so I thought…
The unpleasant surprise
The problem started when I took it to the shop for a general checkup. That's when I discovered that emotion had clouded my reason.
The mechanic looked at me and said: “Dude, we have a problem.” To make a long story short: the car was rotten inside.
The chassis had parts patched up with shoddy welding, the floorboards had rust that had been covered with paint to disguise it, and the engine… well, that V8 roared, but it was on its last legs.
Basically, I had bought a problem on wheels. And the worst part? I didn't see any of that when I bought it.
Why? Because I was too excited and took the seller's word for it instead of doing a thorough inspection.
What I learned (and what you should do to avoid falling into the same trap)
That mistake cost me time, money, and many sleepless nights wondering how naive I had been.
But it also taught me a lesson that I apply to every purchase today.
If you're thinking about buying a classic car, here's what you should do to avoid falling into the same trap I did:
1. Never rely on appearance alone
A classic car may look immaculate on the outside, but hide a mess on the inside.
Fresh paint, shiny chrome, and clean upholstery mean nothing if the frame is rotten or the engine is on its last legs.
2. Mechanical inspection before paying
Before you spend a single cent, take your car to a trusted mechanic.
No "I swear it's perfect" or "look how that engine roars." An experienced mechanic will tell you the truth.
3. Beware of poorly done patches and repairs
One of the most common tricks used by unscrupulous sellers is to cover up rust with putty and paint.
If the car has recently had a restoration, ask who did it, how it was done, and if there are any photos of the process.
If the owner doesn't have clear answers, run away.
4. Research the car's history
Every car has a story. And if that story includes accidents, unusual modifications, or a history at the hands of careless owners, it can be a problem.
Review documents, serial numbers, and search for model information on forums and collector communities.
5. Don't get carried away by emotion
This is perhaps the most important advice.
When you see a classic car you love, it's easy to get carried away with emotion and forget the technical details.
But remember: buying a classic isn't an emotional decision, it's a strategic one.
The mistake cost me, but it made me a better collector.
That Mustang taught me a lesson I'll never forget.
In the end, I decided to sell it and got some of the money back, but the blow taught me something valuable: you don't collect cars with your heart, but with your head.
Today, every car that enters my collection goes through a rigorous process. I don't care if it's my dream model; if it's not in good condition, I don't buy it.
And if you want to start your collection without any headaches, follow these tips and avoid learning the hard way, like I did.
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.