Take precautions when buying classic cars
There has been a resurgence in retro chic cars from the 70s and 80, with sales of the new breed of classics reported to have risen by 23% in the last 12 months. This is supported by an HPI survey into dream cars of the eighties which reveals that the Reliant Regal of ‘Only Fools & Horses’ fame is a hot favourite. Indeed, there are some 8,000 Reliant Robins still on our roads today.
The new breed of classics may well be considered more “naff” than nifty by many, with the Ford Granada topping a recent poll of the UK’s comeback classics. However HPI is urging buyers to take precautions when buying classic cars, paying close attention to mileage and bodywork. Now in its 70th year, HPI holds an unprecedented volume of used car history information, including details on write-offs and stolen vehicles, outstanding finance, even CO2 emissions. In addition HPI’s National Mileage Register boasts over 125 million mileage discrepancies, making it the most comprehensive mileage database in the UK.
“Television shows such as the BBC’s ‘Ashes to Ashes’ earlier this year brought a revived interest in more contemporary classic cars such as the Audi Quattro and Ford Capri,” explains Nick Lindsay, Director of HPI. “Our survey of 80s cars put the Porsche 911 in the top spot with 29% of the votes, with the Audi Quattro coming in close behind on 28%.
“Whether used car buyers are opting for the quirky Citroen 2CV or the more stylish Triumph Stag we advise them to make sure they conduct an HPI Check for peace of mind. With older vehicles, mileage is a crucial aspect to consider, but our Check offers a mileage check as standard.”
Lindsay concludes, “Although buyers need to approach older cars with care, they may not be old bangers. In fact, there are many benefits to older cars, not least of which they can be easier to maintain and repair. Our survey shows that many of these vehicles are highly desirable classics and our extensive database will reveal if your dream car is all it’s cracked up to be. HPI is the ideal place to turn if you are thinking of reliving those glory days.”
Consumers need to remain vigilant and the only way buyers can arm themselves with the fullest possible picture of a vehicle’s history is by performing an HPI Check to make sure all is exactly as it seems.
| 
Print version | 
Email to a friend | 
View other articles
Related categories: Audi Citroen Classic car Ford Used cars and aftermarket
