Classic car valuation: how does it work?

Classic cars are often an enthusiasts pride and joy, but if you think it’s time to sell your classic car, you’re in the right place. Whilst we can provide an instant valuation for all cars up-to 20 years old, it isn’t as simple to value a classic. To ensure we give you an accurate valuation we will need you to email the details of your vehicle to wbac-valuations@webuyanycar.com:

  • Your registration plate

  • Make, model and specification

  • Transmission

  • Mileage

  • Service history

  • Number of previous owners

  • Any damage

  • Any work completed on the car

  • Detailed photos

  • Your name

  • Your phone number

  • Your postcode

30 second car valuation

 

How much is my classic car worth?

 
Classic car show

When it comes to selling a car, getting an accurate estimate can often be slightly trickier with a classic vehicle than a common, modern vehicle. Pricing a classic car accurately is very important and we want to ensure that we provide an accurate valuation for your vehicle. Classic cars are often valued based on their condition, the current market conditions and how much restoration is required, if applicable.

 

The 100 point system

 

This system will grade your classic car out of a possible 100 points; this is based on the quality and condition of the vehicle. The car will then be placed into one of the 10 categories to come to a final valuation.

  • 100 Points = Perfect condition

    A score of 100 points would indicate that your classic car is in perfect, original condition. It is likely that the car has been professionally restored, both the interior and exterior, to the same or higher standard of quality expected when the car was first produced. A classic car of this quality would be valued at the highest possible price for the make and model.

  • 90 Points = Excellent condition

    A classic car that achieved 90 points would also be in great condition. However, there will be some minor factors regarding its restoration that make it almost perfect and prevent a full score. It would still achieve a great price as it is almost as it were when it originally left the production line.

  • 80 points = Fine condition

    Fine condition suggests that the classic car is fully operational and its appearance is of acceptable show quality. However, a score of 80 points would mean there may be minimal signs of wear, which can often occur when the vehicle hasn’t had restoration work done for a while.

  • 70 points = Very Good condition

    A score of 70 points would again imply that the car is an older restoration. It is likely to achieve this condition if there are more visible signs of wear. If you drive your restored classic car daily it is likely it may be worth less due to the effects of regular use.

  • 60 points = Good condition

    If your classic car achieves a score of 60 points it would indicate that it may be in need of some mechanical or cosmetic work. However, it is still very much drivable. Good condition means there are no serious issues but further restoration could be done.

  • 50 points = Drivable condition

    Drivable condition indicates that the car will again have minor issues in terms of mechanical and cosmetic work. A score of 50 points though could suggest that your classic car is your primary form of transportation and is likely driven daily. You would expect it to be of less value, as it would be further removed from its original condition.

  • 40 points = Restorable condition

    A classic car that achieves 40 points or restorable condition would require much more work than a car in a good or drivable condition. However, this score would also indicate that your classic car would not require too many parts, as vehicles of this rating usually need work on the engine, interior or chassis. As the car needs some heavier work than the above categories you would expect this to reflect in the value.

  • 30 points = Partial condition

    Partial condition means that the classic car requires more extensive restoration to several areas both interior and exterior. The type of work required for this category would prove to be both time-consuming and costly. Again, your car would be worth a lot less than the higher point categories due to the restoration work needed. If you were to resell then potential buyers would have to keep this in mind.

  • 20 points or less = ‘Parts Car’ condition

    A score of 20 points or lower would mean that the classic car is considered un-restorable. These cars aren’t usually resold but instead stripped of any valuable parts and then unfortunately scrapped.

 

The six category system

 

Once you are familiar with the above categories you will be able to see the relationship between the two systems. This system is based on the 100 point system and vice versa.

  • Category 1:

    Cars marked 90 points & above or excellent to perfect condition in the 100 Point System.

  • Category 2:

    Cars marked 80 – 89 points or fine condition in the 100 Point System.

  • Category 3:

    Cars marked 70 – 79 points or very good condition in the 100 Point System.

  • Category 4:

    Cars marked 60 – 69 points or good condition in the 100 Point System.

  • Category 5:

    Cars marked 40 – 59 points or restorable to drivable condition in the 100 Point System.

  • Category 6:

    Cars marked 39 points or less or partial to parts car condition in the 100 Point System.