We recently got asked can I use a classic car every day, here’s what we think…
A prospective customer asked us if they could use the particular classic American car they were interested in as a daily driver essentially it was their opinion these things should be enjoyed not just sparingly used and spending most of their life locked away or undercover. For sure I would agree getting use of your classic car, enjoying it and being out on the road is a great thing to do. After all, it’s not just about working on your car or looking at it but enjoying the drive. Classic cars typically are from an era with less technology, the drive is raw and fun. As an example, there really is nothing quite like the sound of carburettor petrol engines with a V8 bang underfoot.
The reality there is no rules as to how much you drive your classic car or truck. It’s yours and its up to you. Assuming you have the correct insurance, MOT, tax and so on why not. There are however some practical considerations. First of all your classic might not be as fun in all weather conditions, cold days, snow days and rainy days offer harder starts and hazardous driving conditions. Cars built over 20 years or so ago tend not to have the safety features we are all used too and it can just be hard work. Doing the 7am drive to work in icy conditions with 40 year old heaters barely defrosting your windscreen and 200 bhp on a rear wheel drive car with drum brakes and no power steering actually isn’t much fun.
Fuel economy can also be a consideration big American V8 engines aren’t exactly economical and even smaller European engines from pre 2000 aren’t exactly designed for motorway commutes. We all accept our passion isn’t necessarily friendly on our wallets when it comes to fuel but you could easily double or triple your weekly fuel bill when compared to modern equivalents.
The other issue is who or what is in the vehicle. Loading cars up regularly with kids and dogs and cargo is going to take its toll on the condition of the interior and again whilst its yours and you can’t be judged its worth considering that regular use will takes its toll mechanically and cosmetically. This is the trade off on use, enjoyment and investment. Classic car prices are rising, your car is an investment and most cars will increase in value.
When all is said and done, its yours and you do what you want to do and what we’ve said above is purely our view. Enjoy and love your car a=however much or little you drive it!
