Best classic cars for first-time owners

Have you always dreamed of owning a classic car but other things have got in the way? Just remember, the longer you wait, the higher the demand for the best-kept examples, which means higher prices.

Whatever your tastes – whether for sportiness, economy or sheer practicality – there’s a whole world of classics out there just waiting to be discovered. So what’s stopping you?

If you’re delaying a dream purchase because of a lack of mechanical experience, never fear!

One of the best things about joining the classic car club community is all the advice fellow classic owners are willing to share.

There will always be someone to ask about maintenance or spares, so don’t ever feel like you’re on your own!

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite classic cars for first-time owners thanks to their ease of maintenance, readily available parts and investment potential.

Just make sure you’ve got the right insurance policy for a classic car in place when you do sign on the dotted line.

Let’s take a look at some of the best buys for novice owners.

MGB Roadster

Possibly the ultimate first classic sports car, the pretty and practical MGB has great appeal.

It’s got a straightforward spec, it’s easy to work on and provides a characterful driving experience. In addition, it has brilliant parts availability and club support.

Values for Britain’s most popular sports car can vary hugely, with the earliest roadsters in tip-top condition fetching close to £20,000, whilst the rubber-bumper version produced from 1974 onwards can start at £3,000 or less. So, plenty of scope for different budgets.

Citroen 2CV

This French motoring icon was launched in 1948 and in production for over 40 years!

The good old Deux Chevaux with its distinctive design is economical, fun to drive and full of charisma.

Thanks to its two-cylinder engine, unique styling, go-everywhere suspension and full-length sunroof, the 2CV is a lot of fun and remains a relatively affordable buy.

It’s great for first-time owners with a superb support network of clubs and specialists on hand.

Ford Anglia 105E

With its American-influenced styling, the 105E was perhaps the most distinctive Ford to come out of the 1960s.

The initial standard and deluxe models were soon joined by the more powerful Super, as well as estate and van versions, providing Ford with sales of over 1 million units.

In recent years, values have climbed for Anglias as comparatively few were preserved at the time.

However, if you choose an Anglia in good condition you’ll be buying a car with years of life left in it, is easy to work on and reasonably cheap to maintain.

Mazda MX-5

This ever-popular two-seater is a great first-time choice, combining charming styling and a superb driving experience with usability and amazing value for money.

Just keep a close eye out for rust before you part with any cash.

Mini

The iconic British classic is no longer the obvious choice for those looking for the most affordable classic.

Nowadays even the lower marques are commanding high prices in tip-top condition, although at least you’ll end up with one of the most fun-to-drive classics on the road.

If money’s a bit tight but you still want the Mini experience then perhaps look at a 1990s Cooper.

Morris Minor

Yet another design classic, the 1948-71 Minor saloon still offers excellent value.

While the rarer Traveller, Tourer and commercials have seen prices rising, it’s still possible for enthusiasts on a budget to pick up a Minor 1000 from the 1960s if you look hard enough.

Porsche 924

The original affordable Porsche, the 924 was produced from 1976 to 1988 and was the car maker’s first road-going car to have a front engine, rear-wheel drive configuration.

While it might not have the cachet of the 911, the 924 makes a superb introduction to Porsche ownership.

Values are rising, but you can still pick up an excellent affordable car with superbly balanced handling and a decent four-cylinder engine without remortgaging your house.

Triumph Herald

There are several contenders from Triumph for this list but we can choose only one.

The Herald is a classic saloon of the 1960s, with a nimble driving style and an amazing turning circle.

Built in vast numbers the Herald enjoyed a long life, with well over half a million produced between 1959 and 1971.

If your budget can stretch a little further, the eye-catching Convertible or Coupe versions are worth looking out for.

Volkswagen Golf MkII

The second-generation Golf arrived in 1983 and now proves popular for fans of the decade.

While 6.3 million units were produced the ultimate version is inevitably the 1.8 GTi, a car that’s following the original in terms of rising values.

However, you can get better value if you settle for one of the more sedate four-door versions.

Volvo Amazon

One of the best-looking, best-built and most robust classic saloons of its era, Volvo’s Amazon first went on sale here in the late 1950s.

With a fine record of reliability and rust resistance any Amazon is a popular classic buy now, with cars in good order available at reasonable prices.

Top tips for first time buyers

• Keep focused – make sure your classic is fit for purpose if you also need it to be an everyday drive.
• Invest in a garage – older vehicles don’t appreciate being out in all weathers and a garage will give you space to tinker. Depending on where you keep your car make sure you keep your classic car insurance details updated.
• Get an insurance quote – check what classic car insurance is available before buying and what requirements your insurer might set (limited mileage).
• Research, research, research – the more research you do the better you’ll know what you’re getting yourself into. Make a list of the common problems and have it handy when you go for test drives.
• Join an owner’s club and attend classic car shows and exhibitions – the best way to gain more knowledge and get valuable advice and maintenance tips is to talk to enthusiasts. They’re also a great way to find out about cars on the market.
• Get a discount on classic car insurance if you join a club – ask the team at Lancaster Classic Car for details.
• Set yourself a budget – remember older cars will need more maintenance in the long run so keep this in mind before you blow the budget up front.

Choosing classic car insurance

If you’ve taken the plunge and purchased your first classic car, congratulations! Now it’s time to get it insured.

For over 35 years the team at Lancaster Classic Car have worked with carefully selected underwriters to offer classic car enthusiasts both comprehensive and bespoke insurance solutions.

Using our vast expertise and knowledge of the car industry, we’re able to quote for virtually every classic car available.

Call our team today to get a specialist insurance quote.