checks you can make to stay protected

Many of the rules pertinent to buying any secondhand car can be applied to classics and the DVLA recommends starting with the official government advice on gov.uk/checkswhen-buying-a-used-car.

However, unlike the typical used vehicle, historic examples have had at least 40 years in which to be exposed to wear, botched repairs, accident damage and even identity theft. Most of today’s prized classics were considered inexpensive ‘bangers’ by the motor trade at some point in their histories, meaning that past repairs may have been performed as cheaply as possible.

Therefore, taking your time, doing in-depth research and enlisting the help of like-minded enthusiasts and clubs will reduce the risk of postpurchase regret.