Factors to Consider When Buying A Classic Car Project for Restoration

Vintage Landrover
A photo collage of a classic land rover (L) and its restored version (R).
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@ArcherMishale

Kenyans are increasingly hoping on the trend of buying old project cars for restoration. 

While this trend is particularly fueled by the beauty and allure of a classic car, many often end up making impulse decisions and end up regretting. 

However, Kenyans.co.ke spoke to car expert Miller Kyalo, and Alex Mwanzo, a partner at Space ya Magari, for insights on the factors to consider for anyone interested in purchasing a classic car. 

Wagen Beetle
A photo of a fully restored 1980 Volkswagen Beetle at a past classic cars' event.
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@ArcherMishale

Budget 

Both Kyalo and Mwanzo agreed that budget is a key factor to consider when purchasing a classic car for restoration

"You need to first consider the financial aspect of the investment. Your budget will determine the kind of project you embark on," argued Miller. 

In agreement, Mwanzo adds that "when looking at the budget, you should take the technical expertise and access to spare parts into consideration." 

According to Mwanzo, some parts of these classic cars are not available locally and therefore importation costs are a key factor to consider. 

Choice of the Car

Considering that people buy project cars for different purposes, it is important to take into consideration the choice of car to buy. 

According to Mwanzo, people buy classic cars for personal use; for business such as hiring them out for music shoots or weddings; and even to sell them off at a profit. 

"What type of car do you want to restore?" Miller asks adding that it is important to remember that the older the car, the more difficult it is to restore it. 

"This is because finding the right mechanic who understands the car and the right parts for the car can be difficult."

A vintage BMW e36
A photo of a vintage BMW e36 being restored by Alex Mwanzo
Alex Mwanzo

Time Factor 

Both Miller and Mwanzo worked on several restoration projects and consider time an important factor for successful restoration projects. 

"Restoration is a full-time job. You need to be ready to spend not just money but also time on the project," Miller warned. 

However, Mwanzo noted that Kenyans need to only embark on these projects if they enjoy the tedious work involved. 

Due Diligence 

According to Miller, it is important to carry out due diligence on the documentation of the old project car before buying it for restoration. 

"This will help with obtaining approval from the various government agencies" he noted.

You also need to do due diligence on the mechanic you engage in the project. Do they have a proven track record of restoring cars? This helps prevent them from selling you hot air and once you sign the contracts, they fail to deliver. 

Mwanzo warned against cutting corners because such moves will come back to haunt you in the future.  

Pros and Cons of the Project 

There are very many advantages of buying old project cars for restoration. 

For Mwanzo, classic cars are conversation starters, they have sentimental value and status symbols. 

"However, they are neither fast nor efficient and often have safety issues as they lack all the features of modern-day cars," he revealed. 

Miller, on the other hand, noted that in such projects there will be people who will want to race you, hit you, or even steal some part of your car for whatever reason. 

The vintage Rolls-Royce Austin Princes Antique Classic during a 2013 showcase.
The vintage Rolls-Royce Austin Princes Antique Classic during a 2013 showcase.
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