The condition of a classic car can vary significantly across different price ranges, even for the same make and model. For instance, a car priced at £5,000 will not be in the same condition as the same make and model priced at £10,000, just as the £10,000 example will differ from one priced at £15,000.
These price differences typically reflect the car's overall condition, which includes the quality of previous repairs, bodywork, paint work, interior condition, engine, gearbox, suspension, and originality. They also account for any repairs or maintenance needed now or in the near future.
Higher-priced examples may have undergone professional restorations, have lower mileage, have a well documented history, or remain closer to their original factory specification with fewer modifications.
The cars I sell are generally in the more affordable range of the classic car market. This isn’t a negative reflection on the cars themselves but rather a realistic representation of what to expect at this price point.
As such, they are ideal for enthusiasts who don’t mind, enjoying them as they are, or investing a bit of time, effort and money into ongoing maintenance or improvements to bring them to a higher standard, if that’s what the new owner aspires to.
Classic cars are rated on a 1–6 scale to classify their condition and determine value. This system, introduced in the mid-1970s by publisher Chet Krause, replaced vague terms like 'good' or 'fair,' which often led to disagreements.
Under Krause's numerical rating system, lower numbers (1-3) indicated higher quality and higher numbers (4-6) indicated lower quality. Let's take a more in-depth look at each of these classifications.
A perfect original vehicle with components that either look like new or operate like new or a perfectly restored vehicle in the same condition. This is a show car that's rarely driven.
An original that is considered to be in 'excellent' condition or well-restored though not quite at the level of a classic vehicle rated at number one. The vehicle should be well cared for and displays minimal wear and tear.
A vehicle that shows a good bit of wear, yet still operable. The vehicle is presentable for an amateur restoration though it wouldn't quite meet professional standards.
A vehicle that can still be driven though it likely needs minor work (such as a brake job). The vehicle is likely a poor amateur restoration or a restoration that has deteriorated over time. The car is still usable 'as is' but it certainly needs work.
The vehicle is in need of a complete restoration regarding the interior, chassis, and body. The car may or may not run. Despite this, it's still in good enough condition that it can be restored.
As the name implies, the vehicle is in a state where it's only useful for parts and nothing else.
Despite the classic car rating system providing a structured way to assess vehicle condition, it ultimately comes down to personal opinions and interpretations. While the 1–6 scale offers a general guideline, there is often debate over where a particular car should be placed within the system.
Ultimately, while the numerical grading system is a useful tool, it should not be taken as a definitive guide. Buyers and collectors should still rely on their own research, expert opinions, and personal inspections before making any decisions.
