WHEELER Dealers host Marc Priestley has revealed his “golden rule” to make a profit on a classic car.
The TV star shared his top tips for maximising your money but emphasised that owning a vintage motor has “more to it”.
The joy of buying, restoring and selling on old vehicles is the focal point of Wheeler Dealers but, sadly, is also a dying art.
As such, Marc emphasised the importance of making sure that any restoration you take on is a passion project and not just a money-making exercise.
Speaking exclusively to Sun Motors, former F1 mechanic Marc (known to fans by his nickname Elvis), said: “I always feel it’s a bit more than just buying a car that you think will make a profit.
“You have to have some sort of passion for that car.
“The journey of restoring a classic car is a proper rollercoaster.
“If you’re just doing it for nothing more than the profit, you probably won’t get to the end of that journey.”
He explained that if you have a “real love” for the vehicle you are working on then you’re much more likely to make it through the “ups and downs” that come with the process.
However, if you do find the right car for you, then it’s vital to take steps to make sure you make the restoration easier for yourself.
Marc added: “Find a car that has the type of jobs that you have the skills to be able to do.
“That’s what will get you through the really tough times, of which there will definitely be some.”
If restoration is not for you, though, Marc’s co-star Mike Brewer was helpfully on hand to share his advice for buying a more recent used motor.
Mike urged drivers to “arm themselves with knowledge” to make sure they get the best deal.
He said: “Know more than the person selling the car.
“It’s really easy days, there’s lots of information online.
“Whether it’s a sports car, an SUV, a convertible, whatever it is there will be someone out there who has been down that path before.
“And if you have no mechanical nous find an Elvis…to go with you and go and check the car out for you.”
It comes after Mike revealed his list of three “modern classics” that you can sell at a profit this year.
