Classification: Collectible automobiles can be basically classified into three types Veteran (pre-1919), Vintage (1919-1930), and Classic (milestone models after 1930, segregated into pre- and post-war period). Nowadays, however, newer automobiles also attain the collectible tag under the Modern Classic genre.
Most of the veteran and vintage cars were steered into the sub-continent by rulers of the erstwhile princely states. These prized chariots weathered well over the years, thanks to the pampering they got in the nizams garages. But with the collapse of these principalities, many a classics were picked up by European and American collectors, who offered out-of-the-world prices for these gas guzzlers which the next-generation owners saw no use of.
Many good machines were shipped out before a belated legislation could put a stop to this car drain. But some Indian collectors did make most of it by quietly adding one car after another to build up fabulous collections. Eminent car historian and restorer, Manvendra Singh of Indore once remarked: There are some 150 Rolls Royces that came to the Indian shores before Independence; most are now likely to be in a condition that defies recognition.
The point I am driving at is simple. While you can undoubtedly go on a wild chase for a Spirit of Ecstasy protruding from a rust heap, your chances of picking a cheaper but equally lovable classic automobile are much higher. These cars were imported in fairly large numbers over the years, and, even if they dont make the grade of the Bentleys and the Mercs, some among them can be labeled as classics. Lets then concentrate on these more earthy delights rather than shoot arrows at the moon, .
Sourcing: Apart from the four metros, Bangalore and Hyderabad claim a large chunk of collectibles. But these cities have more eagle-eyed collectors too, and the car that you spotted today may not be there for the asking tomorrow. Other pockets include the former French-ruled territory of Pondicherry which boasts some of the best Citroens and Renaults ever made. It will not be easy to convince their proud owners to part with them. Some of the erstwhile royalty have also firmly held on to their cars (the Gondal collection, for one). But there are others who feel these heirlooms are a waste of space. I was stunned to hear that the Studebaker that the Maharaja of Travancore drove (and I worshiped from the roadside) for 15 years and kept in mint condition, was sold for a piddley Rs 30,000 to an NRI!
Cars less known for their classic value are, understandably, easier to find. Lets start with the Volkswagen Beetle. It can very well be the right car if you just want a page from the automobile history in your garage. Spares are available if not cheap, but in most cases, these cars are still runners. The name Morris Minor may raise some eyebrows here, but, designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, this car represented the renaissance of the British industry in the post-war era, and is now considered a classic all over the world. Think of it a good Minor can still be bought for less than Rs 15,000. Spend a little more and you have a classic worth its tag.
If you want some more breeding in your vintage roadmachine, there are some Austin Sevens, Eights, and a good number of Ford Model Ts waiting for saviours to give them a new lease on life. I have also spotted a good number of the much-loved MGs sitting in garages in India. If you spot one, just close your eyes and buy it. The legion MG owners clubs overseas can help with information about restoration and availability of spare parts.
Also, there are post-war American classics to choose from. These cars, complete with the huge fins and thirsty V8 engine blocks so characteristic of the fifties, can be easily spotted. Chevrolets, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs, Plymouths and Fords form this brigade. While most of these gas-guzzling properties were doomed, some are back on the road albeit with Matador diesel engines! Once you decide to buy such a car, trace the whereabouts of the original engine since these cars are not worth much without it. Yet another American classic is the war veteran Jeep built by either Ford or Willix. There are many such specimens in our country, and can easily be recognised by their low bonnet height as compared to the M&M built Jeeps. These vehicles sport the legendary performance-oriented Hurricane petrol engines. Restoring this breed is comparatively easy since many segments can be sources from the Mahindra parts bin.
The hunt: The most important thing with collecting cars is that you must have, besides a genuine affinity for these masterpieces, truckloads of patience. And if you can couple this with pecuniary support to help the cause, then it is time for you to kick off the hunt. It can start from your neighbourhood raddiwala. If you see a wire wheel or a Plymouth mascot on his wall, ask him where he sourced it from. He may lead you to a decrepit junkyard, which might turn out to be a veritable treasure trove when you unearth the MG TB convertible minus the wire wheel that you saw at raddiwalas place!
A rather direct approach is to tap other collectors. There are many who give up half-way through the restoration and want to sell the entire car. A workshop doing the restoration is a good source and you may suddenly find a easy car to work on. Dont hesitate to spend a trifle more on a good car:you can save many headaches that would result if you pennypinch at the time of purchase.
The visit to the site where the automobile rests is very important. It will reveal how the car was kept over the years. Do not stumble at the banyan tree that has grown through its floor that car may still have all the important aggregates like the engine and gear box intact. Feel under the wheel arches for rust damage. And then check the engine bay for any sign of oil the more oil there is, the more restorable is the engine. Match the engine and chassis number to check the authenticity. If you are satisfied that you will not find a similar car in a better condition, then just go-fer-it.
Gone are the days when you could find a heap of metal, offer a price to put scrap merchants to shame and walk away with a restorable automobile. Now, the owner of vintage wheels has imbibed the habit of bidding for a lakh or two offhand just in case the buyer bites. A careful enumeration of the poor state of the automobile (which tells the owner that youve studied the market well) and the probability of no buyers for it, may bring out a more realistic price offer from the owner. If not, repeated visits with hard cash will. Remember to get all the spare parts, down to the nuts and bolts, that he might have they will prove invaluable, once the restoration process starts.
Restoration: Car restoration is a thankless job. That is exactly why there are very few who have mastered the art in our country. Procuring spare parts, original drawings, and the correct paint, do not go hand in hand with the word budget. If youre determined to get rich dividends on your investment, operating on a shoestring budget is akin to committing financial harakiri. Opt for a complete, no-holds-barred restoration instead, which will not only make the car roadworthy but also inject fresh longevity into the car. A perfect restoration job might cost much more than what you have spent on the base car. But with time, the price of the car will only go northwards.
However, if you are the sort who loves automobiles, you will never be parting with your souped-up darling! Thats the downside.
