How to Buy & Sell Muscle Cars

Muscle cars are typically cars manufactured between 1963 and 1974, when automobile manufacturers put large, powerful motors into light cars. These cars have become the most desirable--and most recognizable--classic automobiles. Buying and selling these cars can become a full-time profession, and the average automobile aficionado can determine the value of a muscle car in about a half hour.

Instructions

1

Locate a muscle car. Most of these types of cars, like Camaros, Mustangs and Chargers, are readily available in most automotive selling markets. The trick is to find the models with large engines, and upgraded option packages that make them more valuable. Many models of muscle cars were based on sedans and coupes that came in a variety of engine sizes, and the more powerful motors are typically worth much more than their slower counterparts. The local newspaper or auto classifieds are the best place to find muscle cars, as older owners don't use the Internet for selling them, but some very good deals can be found on online auction sites, such as eBay. Live auction houses can be useful, but they typically require a dealer's license, and catching a good deal there can be a challenge because of the "old pros" that frequent them.

2

Authenticate the car's options. Unfortunately, many owners will sell "clones," or standard cars with upgraded engines and paint to make them appear as genuine muscle cars. While these cars are still relatively valuable, they are not factory equipped with the options that make them true muscle cars. These can be spotted by the aftermarket parts, such as air cleaners, hoses and belts that did not come stock, or by the "matching numbers" for the particular model. "Matching numbers," otherwise known as vehicle identification numbers (VIN), are the serial numbers that came imprinted onto the engines and frames of original muscle cars, and they should match. If they do not, then the engine is probably not original, and could indicate a clone. Other clone indicators are seats and interior coverings, consoles and radio equipment that did not come with the option packages that the VIN number specifies.

3

Determine the rarity and resale value of the muscle car. Rare options, such as tilting or telescoping steering wheels, convertible tops or extreme motor options, can increase the car's value substantially. Odd color schemes, or interior fabrics can also make a muscle car more valuable. The Kelley Blue Book series has become the standard of car prices, but most editions only go back a few years. The best way to determine the value of a classic muscle car is to research the model's prices online at the National Automobile Dealers Association website (Nada.com), or online auction sites. The going price for the car in the actual market is a much better determination of the value than the guides, so check car sale sites also.

4

Inspect the condition of the muscle car, and the amount of work it will take to resell it. Some cars have been left unrestored, or have been restored years ago but have deteriorated. Parts for these cars are at an all-time premium, and locating the specific parts required may be expensive. Check all fluids, inspect the interior stitching and fabric condition (including the headliner), and get up underneath the car and inspect the frame, bushings and drivetrain. All should be in good to very good condition; if they are not, then the car will be devalued at auction or when sold.

5

Decide if the car is to be sold at auction, or to an individual buyer. This can weigh heavily when buying the muscle car, as only the "cream of the crop" will usually make a profit at auctions. Muscle cars that have not been maintained, or are not original, will sell better to individuals locally. This can be important when buying a muscle car, and will determine how much of an investment must be made.

6

Locate good shops and parts suppliers. When fixing up a muscle car, a competent shop with reliable parts suppliers is a critical step that most resellers do not account for. Sometimes a muscle car will need a few things fixed to make full resale value, and doing these repairs correctly will increase the reputation of a seller.