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SCMP Reporter

How do you get hold of a vintage car?
The Classic Car Club of Hong Kong publishes adverts for cars for sale in its quarterly magazine. As not many come on the market in Hong Kong, most people source classic cars in Britain, New Zealand or Australia. Search the internet and classic car magazines. But beware of buying a car that you have not seen in the metal.
How easy is it to find a specific car?
If you are looking for a particular model and year, you will be very lucky to find what you are looking for. But buyers who are more flexible should be able to find a classic car reasonably easily.
How much can the range in prices be? 
Classic Car Club members own vehicles that have cost them anywhere between HK$5,000 and more than HK$5million.
How difficult is it to keep them in condition and what's the maintenance cost? 
If they are run regularly then there shouldn't be a problem, which is why the Classic Car Club holds monthly Sunday morning drives around the New Territories. It keeps the oil circulating in the engines. Maintenance costs depend on the car; a set of brake pads for a Mini would obviously be a fraction of what it would cost for a Ferrari.
Do they need regular repair work? 
It is sensible to have them serviced each year.  Cars that are a few decades old will inevitably have problems, so owners should undoubtedly join the Automobile Association - you will need them.
Do most collectors like to tinker with their cars themselves? 
Not in Hong Kong. It is too hot to fiddle under the hood and most owners lack the space and comfort of a private garage. The club has a few  mechanics specialising in the older models and who are familiar with the problems usually encountered.
Do much older cars need converting to run on modern-day fuel?  
Yes. We put an additive in the petrol to preserve the valves in the engine. If your car is from the late-1970s or earlier, you will need to add this.
What are the issues with insurance and red tape? 
If you are importing a classic car there are many hurdles to clear with the Transport, Customs and Environmental Protection departments and so on, for the first registration tax and road tax. The Classic Car Club offers members advice on this; the Automobile Association can also provide the full service.  Buying locally is no problem. Insurance is reasonable, but you still pay the full year's road tax for a car that is used only once a week.
How well does their price appreciate?  
It depends how much someone is willing to pay for the car you are selling. If lots of people want it and it is the only one in Hong Kong, then name your price. But if you buy a classic with the goal of only making money, you may be disappointed. You must maintain, garage and drive the car to keep it in top condition. Let it deteriorate and the bills will start to roll in.
Why would someone sell a classic car? 
Maybe they're moving overseas, bought a bigger or better one, or perhaps they've had to call the Automobile Association one time too many.
What's the best way to look after them?
Drive them each weekend. Do not leave them sitting in the garage for months at a time.



TIPS FOR THE ASPIRING COLLECTOR