Buying a classic car
Buying a classic car starts with knowing what you want it for and how you will buy it. This guide compares buying from a dealer, a private sale and an auction, then covers the checks and payment.
How I have bought mine
My own cars were bought from dealers, apart from one I found online and bought privately. Some work on a few of them was done under the dealer's warranty. The private car needed work, but I knew that when I bought it. As a youngster I spent a lot of time in auction rooms with my brother, who bought cars there.
Decide what you want the car for
Touring, shows, occasional fine-weather drives or a project all point to different cars and different conditions. Be honest about how much work you want to do yourself.
Dealer, private sale or auction
Buying a classic car from a dealer
A dealer may offer a warranty and preparation before sale. You also have stronger consumer rights when you buy from a trader than from a private seller. Check the current position with Citizens Advice.
Private sale
A private sale gives fewer protections. See the car at the seller's address, and check that the name and address on the V5C match.
Auction
Auctions have their own terms and charges. See buying a classic car at auction.
Checks before you buy
- The V5C details, and the VIN or chassis number on the car against the paperwork.
- The MOT history on GOV.UK and the vehicle information held by DVLA.
- The history file, looking for evidence behind each claim.
- An inspection by someone who knows the model.
- A test drive from cold.
Paying safely
Never pay a deposit for a car you have not seen. Be wary of escrow and courier stories. See classic car adverts for how these scams work.
After you buy
Have insurance in place from collection. Check whether the car qualifies for the historic tax class, and plan where it will live with the storage guide.
Model guides
My reference archives each have a buying guide for the model: Triumph Stag, MG T-Series, AC Aceca, Jaguar E-Type and Jaguar Mk2.
Questions people ask
Is it better to buy a classic car from a dealer or privately?
A dealer sale gives you more legal protection and often a warranty. A private sale gives fewer protections, so the checks matter more. Either can work if you know what you are buying.
What checks should I do before buying a classic car?
Compare the V5C details and the VIN or chassis number with the car, read the MOT history on GOV.UK, go through the history file, have it inspected and take a test drive from cold.
Should I get a classic car inspected before buying?
Yes, by someone who knows the model. The marque clubs can often suggest a specialist.
How do I pay safely for a classic car?
Never pay a deposit for a car you have not seen. Be wary of escrow and courier stories, which are common in scams.
Sources: GOV.UK: check MOT history; GOV.UK: vehicle information from DVLA; Citizens Advice: buying or repairing a car.
Checked 19 October 2026