Brush Up on Classics <i> Before </i> You Collect

It’s sometimes called a hobby or a leisure activity, but car collecting has become a huge U.S. industry in recent years.

In 1991, more than $100 million was paid for antique and classic cars at auctions, and private sales account for unknown millions.

Everybody had a favorite car when they were young, whether it’s a 1940s roadster or a 1960s muscle car. Most collectors simply want to get a piece of old iron for Sunday fun, rather than embark on a huge monetary investment in a museum piece. But getting started can be daunting. If you are considering a classic car, you should decide at the start whether you want a fully restored car or a junker that is just fun to drive.

The cost of buying a car and restoring it to mint condition is far more costly than buying one that is already restored, according to Paul Batista, owner of Batista Automotive of Ontario, one of the nation’s largest auto restoration plants.

It’s not a cheap hobby, but you don’t have to be a millionaire to get started. A number of excellent cars from the ‘60s can be purchased for $5,000 to $10,000, Batista says, but you still need to be wary about not buying junk.

A full-blown cosmetic restoration can run $10,000 to $40,000 and a mechanical restoration can double that amount. A simple engine rebuilding on a classic car can run $12,000.

You are not likely to get rich on a low-cost vintage car. The highest appreciation occurs on cars with already high value--rare luxury cars, experts say.

First-time antique car buyers should find a reputable dealer and avoid making a costly mistake by buying directly from another individual.

Short of buying through a dealer, a buyer should seek an appraisal of a prospective car and an inspection by a classic car shop.

“I have seen so many horror stories where somebody buys a car they thought was restored when they really were buying something that had been destroyed,” Batista said.

Even before you start shopping, start learning the ropes. Two excellent pamphlets are available for novice car collectors who need some basic information.

The first is published by Hemmings Motor News, the world’s largest newsletter for antique car classified ads.

The book, “How to Get Started in the Old Car Hobby,” sells for $3 and can be purchased by mail. The Hemmings address is Box 100, Bennington, Vt. 05201-9980. Hemmings’ newsletters are sold at many bookstores. The firm also publishes the Vintage Auto Almanac for $9.95, which contains information on car clubs around the world, parts suppliers and dealers.

Dave Brownell, editor of Hemmings, advises new collectors to join a local vintage club, decide what type of car they want and then try to find a restored car.

Brownell agrees that a restored car is a better buy.

“The worst way to buy a car is wake up one morning and decide you want a LaSalle just like your father had,” he said.

The other pamphlet, “What Every Collector and Investor Should Know About Automobile Restoration,” is printed by Batista. It can be ordered by writing to the firm at 5642 Mission Blvd, Ontario, Calif. 91762.

The Batista book shows exactly what it is involved in a full restoration of a vintage car.

A Level One restoration involves a complete disassembly of the car and all systems, including the engine, drive train, body and interior.

Plastic filler is not used on the body. And all the parts are restored to original condition.

If you want a classic American car, act soon. Japanese and European investors are snapping them up. Too bad they aren’t buying our new cars too.