How to Inspect and Buy a Classic Car

Create a list of questions.

Call the owner and fire away. How long has he or she owned the car? What is the owner history? What repairs have been done recently? What is the car's condition? Is there rust? What repairs are needed? If you are satisfied by the answers to these questions, arrange for a test drive.

Call your mechanic. Tell him or her you may want to bring in a car for a pre-purchase inspection. Make a tentative appointment.

Inspect the car carefully before you drive it. Check for rust and body damage. Check the fluids, the belts, and the hoses. Look for leaks.

Test-drive the car. Was the car started before you got there? Ask the owner to start the car and watch what comes out of the tailpipe - blue or black smoke isn't good. During the drive, be aware of any sway in the front end. Does the transmission shift smoothly? Does the car have power? Does it pull to one side when you use the brakes?

Ask to see repair records and all documentation. Be suspicious of an owner who can't provide any records.

Bring the car to your mechanic, who will often find things that you overlooked. This will give you added leverage when it comes time to make an offer. Consider the purchase carefully if the car needs a lot of work.

Make an offer in line with the price guide. Keep in mind that this car is for fun. You don't need it. Be prepared to walk away if the owner won't make a fair deal.