Once seen as the preserve of only the mechanically minded, classic cars are becoming increasingly sought after as more and more people realise that they’re great fun, can be maintained by a competent garage and, unlike a modern car, don’t tend to depreciate.

In fact, a good deal of the surge of interest can be attributed to people seeking a better return on their money than savings accounts currently deliver, but unless you’re buying at the top of the market and know exactly what you’re doing, it’s best to view any classic car purchase as something which is going to cost you money rather than make it!

Buying a car that’s many years old – especially if you’re not too handy with a spanner – can be daunting, but for anyone who’s dipping a tentative toe into classic car ownership, there’s plenty you can do to ensure you end up with a peach rather than a lemon.

Before you start trawling the internet and specialist magazines for the car you maybe craved when you were young or spent your childhood being ferried around in, the one essential thing to do is carry out plenty of research. You need to know exactly what model you want to buy and, more importantly, the weaknesses of your desired classic.

Buy the very best condition car that you can afford
If you haven’t a clue where to start, don’t worry – someone, somewhere will share your passion and there are owners’ clubs for the vast majority of old cars. Tap into their knowledge and you will be able to draw on their experience, while another bonus is that you’ll often come across good, well maintained cars that are up for sale by like-minded enthusiasts.

Parts availability is something else to consider. Finding parts, notably interior trim and body panels, for once common cars can be surprisingly tricky and expensive. For example, the 1960s Ford Anglia 105E used to be one of the country’s cheapest cars but a new reproduction wing will cost over £600. Cars like old MGs, Minis, Morris Minors, Triumphs and Fords are probably the most well supported classics, but the golden rule is always buy the very best condition car that you can afford.

As for running a classic, drivers aged over 25 can usually take advantage of special classic car insurance policies and vehicles over 40 years old are also exempt from the annual road fund licence. It’s advisable to add an agreed value on a classic insurance policy and do check to see if any car you’re considering has been converted to run on unleaded fuel – otherwise you’ll need to pour in an additive whenever you fill up to avoid damaging the engine.

Oh, and there’s one other thing you need to budget for – breakdown cover. Old cars do like to have the odd wobbly, but as many classic car drivers will tell you, that’s all part of the fun of owning one!