Table of Contents
The Cars Collector’s Handbook is an evolving document but the following is what the author has planned to cover. Anything linked has already been written and is published.
If you have suggestions for stuff that needs to be covered, please email the author directly.
About the Car Collector’s Handbook: Start Here
Cars and Collectors: An Overview
Why Read The Car Collector’s Handbook?
The Idea of a “Collectable” Car
Types of Car Collectors
Reasons People Collect Cars
Oh, Wait — You’re Married? That Changes Everything
What is your “Comfort Price” for an Automobile?
More Horsepower is Better, Right?
It’s 55 MPH From Here Out …
Buying Cars is Easy. Buying Cars is Fun!
Finding and Buying a Cars
Buying Locally
Buying Sight Unseen from a Dealer or Private Party
Buying via Auction
CARFAX Reports: A Used Car Buyer’s Best Friend
Still Looking Good? Time for a Test Drive
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Careful Consideration versus Impulse Buying
Deciding How Much to Pay for a Car
Will that be Cash or Charge?
Playing the Game: Buying Your Way to the Top
Storing a Collection of Cars
Options for Car Storage
Stuff You Never Consider Until It’s Too Late
Offsetting Costs of Leasing Space
Insuring a Collection of Cars
What Every Car Collector Gets Wrong About Insurance
Types of Insurance
Types of Insurance Providers
What Impacts Insurance Costs for Car Collectors
Figuring Out What Your Car is Actually Worth
Issues that Creep Up with Insurance Claims
Ways to Save on Insurance
The Complete List of Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent
Maintaining Your Collection
Cars Need to Be Driven
One Mechanic, Two Mechanic, Red Mechanic, Blue Mechanic
Are You Going to Be Your Own Wrench?
Over-Wintering Cars
Who Knew Paint Was Such a Pain in the Ass?
Do You Need a Trailer? You Might
Cleaning and Detailing
Common Upgrades that Seem Like a Good Idea
Selling Cars is Not Easy. Selling Cars is Not Fun!
As a Rule, Cars Are a Depreciating Asset
The Nuances of Selling Cars
Places to Sell Cars
You Will, Inevitably, Regret Selling at Least One of your Cars
Everything Else …
The Reality of Owning a Car Collection
Managing Auto Shippers Can Be a Full-Time Job
Age-Related Issues
Your Kids and Your Cars
Taking Your Car to the Track
Restoring Cars
Collecting as a Business: Pros and Cons
Tips and Tricks From Experienced Collectors
