Lancia price spike
Manufacturer’s support helping to drive up values
Is London still the global centre of the old-car movement?
I wouldn’t say London is the global centre but it’s definitely a leading market place. There’s arguably a concentration of world class dealers and restorers and it’s traditionally a stop-over for most cars moving between Europe and the USA. Events and restorers just outside of the city create an amazing environment with a lot of opportunities and qualified support. Being 40 minutes from Heathrow helps bring in business too.
Has the top end of the market changed in any way during 2018?
The top end of the market has stabilised on most models, with a growing difference between run-ofthe-mill examples and exceptional ones. As usual the recommendation is to buy the best of what you like. Great spec, great history and great condition are ever so important. This has always been the case but recently it seems that standard cars are really struggling to find new owners. There are some real bargains out there for people that quite simply want the pleasure of driving and owning one.
Did any makes or models see an increase in interest this year?
Lancia, of course! With more and more events welcoming rally icons and an Official Certification programme, serious enthusiasts and collectors are finally comfortable in acquiring these amazing cars. Purchasing a historic race car is not an easy task as they usually come at a premium and have very specific features, but there’s a good selection of specialists like us out there, promoting original cars.
Do events such as the Goodwood Revival help bring customers to your door?
I wouldn’t say that, but it surely is a great opportunity to bring everyone together and have a couple of fun days watching these masterpieces going full chat. Historic vehicles would not be so valuable if there were no opportunities to enjoy them.
Have investors left the market?
Speculators may have very well left the market but those inverstors with a specific interest are definitely still supporting the blue-chip market. More brands offering an official certification scheme has been a great help for the values and to consolidate what is effectively a defined pool of manufactured vehicles.