ACC Auctions

Archive for the ‘Blog’ Category

Turned Down By Bring a trailer? Look to ACC Auctions!

Thursday, July 2nd, 2020

Turned Down By Bring a trailer? The downside of the mighty classic car auction site

 

acc auctions

Online classic car auctions are the new trend in the collector car industry.  Since 2019 a number of new auction sites have launched to rival the likes of ebay and bring a trailer.  For years those 2 have been the authority in the online classic car world, but the introduction of sites like our own ACC Auctions is turning out to be a great positive for many who have had terrible experiences with bring a trailer.

While they lead the way in number of users and bidders for the moment, the BaT experience comes with a lot of negatives.  As a seller you should absolutely explore your options when it comes to selling a vehicle by way of online auction.

I tried to list a car with bring a trailer but was turned down?

Being the most popular also means heavy volume of demand.  BaT is said to receive much more volume of request for auction listings than they can currently handle and end up only accepting a very small percentage of listings submitted.

At ACC Auctions we rarely will turn down a customer who is wanting to try to auction their vehicle.  Even with a growing number of requests, we are not going to stand in your way of finding a potential buyer.  With our hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors, we believe that your buyer could be out there and it is worth a shot to try to reach them.

My listing was accepted, but now they want me to sell it for NOTHING!

The number one complaint about bring a trailer and even with hemmings auctions is that once your listing passes their “tests” and is accepted to auction, you then need to negotiate your reserve price with them.  This ends up being a deal breaker for the majority of sellers because both sites believe they know the value of your car better than you do.  They also do not care what you have into the vehicle, they will only run the auction if you price it at or below what they believe is market value for the vehicle.  In most cases this means that the sellers end up actually taking a loss on the sale.

At ACC Auctions, we allow you to set your own reserve and give you the option to reduce or remove the reserve at any time during the auction.  You know what you need to get out of the sale and we are happy to try to get that for you.  Worst case is that the bidding does not get to the level you need and you can choose whether to accept the highest bid, or just hold on to the vehicle and try again to sell it down the road.

I finally agreed on a reserve price but now I have to wait 3 to 4 weeks for my auction to go live?

Due to the high volume of demand for listings this also means that even after you pass all of their tests and agree to their pricing, you then need to wait nearly a MONTH for your auction to begin!  In the majority of cases this is impossible to manage, especially for dealers who need to pull the vehicle from public view once the auction is scheduled.

AT ACC Auctions, we have the fastest turnaround time in the business, we will get your auction listing ready and scheduled within a few days.  Meaning that from start to finish the entire process will be done within 10 days of your initial contact with us!

I have another buyer interested but now that my auction is scheduled I cannot sell the vehicle?

In a move right out of corporate America, sites like bring a trailer lock you in to selling your car with them, once the process to list is complete.  This means that during the 3-4 week waiting period for your auction to start, you cannot sell the vehicle outside of the auction.  You also need to remove the vehicle form being advertised at all during this time so that they have the exclusive listing of your vehicle.

At ACC Auctions, we simply do not believe in this…  This is your vehicle and if you happen to have another buyer willing to buy, we encourage you to make the deal.  especially in the case where you are a dealer and someone comes into the dealership ready to buy your car, we will NEVER ask you to turn down a sale.  Auctions are gambles, and yes you could potentially get more during the auction that you are being offered in person, but we feel that you should strike while the irons hot!  While you wait for your auction to begin at ACC Auctions and even during the live auction, we encourage you to keep the vehicle listed for sale wherever you would like to.  The more eyes on your listing the better, and we trust that while the auction is live or upcoming that you will direct interested parties to the auction to purchase the vehicle.  However as stated before, if someone just wants to buy the vehicle outside of the auction, at ACC Auctions we say DO IT.  with BaT or Hemmings auctions they say NO.

My auction buyer did not follow through on the purchase?

For years, the knock on auction sites like ebay and bring a trailer has been that the high bidders end up not following through on their purchase.  So while you might get some great bids during your auction that result in a Reserve Met status, that doesn’t mean the car is 100% sold.  And the frustrating part about this is that bring a trailer and other sites will still count this as a SOLD vehicle to fluff their numbers.

At ACC Auctions we have several safe guards and checks in place to ensure our buyers are ready to purchase and are serious about following through.  We also are careful about how we post sold auctions.  We are often much more involved in finalizing the sale between the buyer and seller and have seen a very high success rate with sales actually being closed!

FINAL WORD:

While ACC Auctions is not YET neck and neck with the level of registered bidders that sites like BaT has, we offer a fantastic alternative to “the giant”.  Contact us anytime with questions about our process or to inquire about submitting a vehicle for auction.

888-472-9696

[email protected]

https://www.allcollectorcars.com/place-an-ad/ 

And don’t forget to check out the live auctions!  https://www.allcollectorcars.com/classic-car-auctions/auctions/

 

The Ultimate Guide to Classic Car Storage and Maintenance

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020

The Ultimate Guide to Classic Car Storage and Maintenance

 

Obtaining a classic car is only half the battle. Obviously, buying one isn’t the same as getting a Ford Explorer or Honda Civic. You can’t just visit your local dealer and pick the vintage automobile that catches your eye. You need to put in a lot of work to find the classic car of your dreams. But the work doesn’t end there. You’ll need to put a lot of effort in taking care of it too.

 

Maintaining your classic car is not just about making sure that your car looks just as cool as when you first bought it. There’s a lot to be done to protect your classic car’s condition, more than just keeping it indoors and wiping it down with the softest cloth possible. If you have decided to buy or you’re a new owner of a classic car, figuring out what needs to be done to keep your vehicle in pristine condition throughout every season can be a challenge. To help you out, we’ve constructed this in-depth guide to ensure that your car’s appearance and performance remains beyond compare.

 

Basic Classic Car Maintenance

If you thought a modern car needed attention, it’s nothing compared to a classic car. Below are the essentials to classic car maintenance.

 

Check the Tires

Make sure that your tires are in good condition. These can warp if a car is not driven for long periods of time. To prevent your tires from breaking down, make sure to drive your car at least once a month. You don’t need to drive far. A quick spin around the block would be enough to ensure your tires stay good. If you don’t have time to drive your car, you can jack up your car, leave it on blocks or a ramp, and remove your tires. Make sure to let some of the air out before storing them in a dry place.

 

Aside from checking the tires themselves, don’t forget to inspect your car’s rims. These are susceptible to rust and corrosion which can weaken the structure of your rims. This is not something you want to happen to your classic car, even more so if you have custom rims. Cleaning and polishing your wheels regularly can help prevent corrosion.

 

Check the Engine Oil

Just like a modern car, your vintage automobile requires regular checkups when it comes to the engine oil. Make sure that the oil is topped up and that there are no leaks. Change the oil and filter regularly as well.

Run the Engine

Driving your classic car is the key to ensuring that your classic car is always in good condition. Running your engine every couple of weeks is an option if you don’t want to drive it or if it’s the wrong season. Leaving your car parked for long periods of time can lead to fluids, seals, and tires to dry out or break down. When you run the engine, the fluids get to circulate while the battery recharges.

 

Monitor fluid levels regularly

 

Aside from the engine oil, you need to keep an eye on the various fluid levels that could easily cause damage to your engine. These fluids include the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. You want to make sure that there is a lot of antifreeze. You also need to check the fluid levels of the brakes and clutch systems. Make sure that there are no leaks. If you are planning on letting the car go un-driven for months, you should make sure to still change the fluids regularly by draining out the old and replacing it with fresh fluids.

 

Pay attention to the battery, grease, and hoses.

 

Look for corrosion in the battery. Take note of the acid and water levels. Disconnect it if you’re planning to place the car in storage.

 

Some classic cars feature grease nipples which means that you will need to inject grease regularly to keep them lubricated and minimize wear.

 

Don’t forget to inspect hoses for external damage such as splitting and bulging. These parts are critical to your car’s brake and clutch systems.

 

Cleaning your classic car

 

To keep your car’s paintwork in good condition, it’s important that you wash it regularly. This prevents the accumulation of dirt and dust that could damage the car’s exterior. Cleaning the car after a drive is also necessary, especially if you take it out during cold weather where the salt from roads can stick to your car which can damage the paint, metal, and even the interior of the car. Make sure to wash the wheels well, vacuum the interior thoroughly, and hose the undercarriage as well as the sills. Don’t forget to wax the car from time to time to protect it from dirt, grime, and weather. Just don’t overdo it (every few months will do) to prevent damaging the paint. One last thing to note is moisture. Make sure that all moisture has dried off before placing the car back in your garage.

 

Pro tip: when you’re washing the car, the only tools you’ll need is a soft rag, a bucket of water, and a car wash soap.

 

Storing a Classic Car

Where you put your baby is as important as how you treat your baby. There are several rules you need to keep in mind whether you’re storing your classic car.

 

  • Don’t store your car in a location where there’s dirt or gravel as it can store moisture. Moisture, as we’ve already mentioned, can cause rust and the degradation of your car. It can also cause mold to grow inside the car.
  • Your car should be protected from extended exposure from sunlight. This can cause your paint to fade fast which can make your vintage car look old, instead of classic. The heat will also cause the interior of your car to “bake” which can result in the fabrics to fade in color while plastic and vinyl parts will start to become brittle.
  • In the same way that the sun is dangerous to your car, extreme cold can also cause damage. It can cause your wipers to freeze as well as bring moisture and condensation which can result in rust and mold.
  • Ventilation is key. Keeping your car windows slightly open can promote air circulation which prevents condensation. It also keeps your car from getting that musty smell. This is especially true if you use a car cover. Note: don’t use a tarpaulin or other types of plastic sheeting to cover your car as these don’t offer breathability which can result in condensation, rust, and mold.
  • Disconnect the battery. Even when not in use, batteries continue to eke-out power. To conserve the charge in your car battery, it’s important that you disconnect it. In addition, make sure to turn over the engine every couple of weeks for at least 10 minutes to recharge the battery.
  • Treat rust spots using a lubricant of high quality. Minor rust spots are inevitable with classic cars which means that you need to keep them in check. Regular applications of lubricant can help prevent the rust from spreading.
  • Make sure to inspect your car every few weeks. Look at the condition of the tires, if there has been any deflation. Check the brake and clutch pedals to see if there are problems in the mechanisms.
  • Fill the tank and change the oil. An empty tank is susceptible to condensation which can cause your fuel tank to rust. Keeping it full will reduce the chances of moisture building up inside it and make sure you are cleaning the fuel injectors as well. Changing the oil and the filter can also prevent premature rusting inside your engine. Make sure that all the other fluids are topped off as well.
  • Do a thorough cleaning before you place your car in long-term storage for the winter. Dust and debris that is left on your car while in storage can damage the paint. Dirt and crumbs inside the car, on the other hand, can attract pests. After washing, make sure to lubricate the door and hinges and block off the exhaust to prevent pests from using it as an entry point.

 

 

Collector Cars and Coronavirus

Friday, June 19th, 2020

Collector Cars and Coronavirus/COVID-19: What Now?

As we all know, the world is throwing out some pretty unusual curveballs right now. Whether it be operational, personnel, sales, legal and legislative, supply side, whatever, there’s virtually no way that your business or industry has not been affected by the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. Over the last several days, we have reached out and had fairly lengthy conversations with every single one of our clients and at the time of barking this into my mobile device at 10,000 miles per hour, I’m very grateful to report that we have not lost or been furloughed completely by any of them, we are facing no layoffs, we are 100% work from home equipped and we will not be shutting our doors in any capacity. That’s not to say that there still isn’t a fairly significant degree of anxiety out there for us and virtually everybody we work with currently, but once again it breaks down to what we all already know: We are extremely lucky to be able to play with cool cars for a living.

This of course means something completely different than what it usually does. Electing to pass over what most people normally think about when they assume they know what we do on a day-to-day basis, the thing we keep hearing the most, is the word “safe” and fortunately it keeps coming up from different places. Although, we all certainly do have reasons to be nervous considering the situation, here is a couple of reasons why we should all once again be very grateful that we are in the collector car business.

No alt text provided for this image

Collector Cars are Traditionally Financially Safe

During times of economic downturn, collector cars traditionally preform very well. They tend to be far less volatile and much less prone to extreme swings, than things like the stock market during bear years. Additionally, they also offer a level of comfort associated with tangible goods that is to a large degree undeniable. Want proof? Reference basically everything from 2007 to 2014, what things like American Muscle Cars did in the early 2000’s following 9/11 and what those altered demand curves provided for investors therein. Of course, this is not anything that should be considered foolproof. There are certain segments of the marketplace I would recommend nobody the venture into right now. However, if you stick with bread and butter, entry level or easily forecasted up and coming segments, collector cars are a pretty safe place to put your money when everything else is going crazy.

It’s Easy to Buy, Sell and Restore from the Safety of Your Home

This should be prefaced with a bit of an asterisk. As long as vehicle transporters are allowed to operate and the mail continues to run, you can continue buy, sell and rebuild/restore collector cars and acquire what you need to do so very easily. Fortunately, as with most things that generate extreme enthusiasm, the internet and mail order have been the gateway for many years to the collector car business. Many dealers are being allowed to continue to work in a closed-door capacity and deal online and parts distributors and manufacturers are still drop shipping and sending orders through the mail. If you’re looking to sell, in most circumstances, most of the more reputable people looking to buy or help you consign, already have very safe processes and procedures of getting your car from your driveway to their showrooms or their garages in place. Additional services like Bring-a-Trailer or any of the auction houses that are currently transitioning to online events simplify this even beyond that. This is great news for companies who have kept up with modern buying preferences and already have the means in place to accommodate. Couple this with the fact that people are largely contained and without traditional entertainment methods like restaurants, sports and so on available, this may be the easiest time in recent memory to reach your customer base directly and open dialogue. As complicated as this situation is, there are businesses that will thrive in this environment and the collector car business to a certain degree, is already equipped for things like this. Additionally, a larger percentage of people invested in it are more financially secure that in most other industries, which means they can afford to keep playing.

In Many Places the Collector Car Business Has Been Deemed Essential.

At the time of putting this together, and to my knowledge, only one of our nearly 50 clients has actually been shut all the way down by a municipality. Although it is recommended that you check your local laws and keep track of daily announcements from state and local authorities, we’re seeing a lot of collector car-based businesses fall into the loophole of essential, as many automotive based businesses are being deemed as such. This means in many cases you can stay open. Of course, in every organization, people are the greatest asset and by no means does this mean you should put your team at risk, but if you are in an area where you can follow proper social distancing procedures, it seems that right now, it makes a lot of sense to stay open, keep your people fed and keep things moving forward, at least to the best of your abilities.

No alt text provided for this image

Collector Cars Offer a Safe Escape and Low Risk Source of Entertainment 

There are going to be economic consequences from this, I don’t think anybody is debating that. However, if you can take advantage of favorable conditions while this is going on, your recovery will certainly be quicker. We feel this especially holds true for large-scale internet dealers and parts manufacturers and distributors with available stock on hand. Again, there’s no sports, no restaurants and very little new entertainment being created and broadcast, so at some point, people are going to begin to seek ways to wedge themselves away from the social and streaming platforms. Fact is, it’s very difficult to contract things like COVID-19 while engaging in activities like restoring, working on/maintaining or taking short drives in your collector car and if you have something sitting in the corner of the garage, under a cover, that you haven’t had the time to finish, it’s probably starting to look like a good time to push that project from the maybe next weekend file, to the now’s the time file. As recently stated by a gentleman named Axel Catton in a Iso/Bizzarrini group I follow on Facebook:

Remember:

Avoid crowded spaces – Drive your collector car

Keep a safe distance from others – Drive your collector car

Do not use public transport – Drive your collector car

Expose yourself to sunshine – Drive your collector car

Avoid circulated air – Drive your collector car

Stay home from work – Drive your collector car

Maintain a positive and prudent attitude – Drive your collector car

This general type of thinking isn’t only spent on those helping to repair and keep collector cars on the road, but also to dealers. There is a strong potential to take advantage of bored impulse buyers looking for new toys here as well. If you have developed your digital channels thoroughly enough, chances are if you’ve got a small block ’72 El Camino or something similar sitting around and you put it out there, somebody is going to say to themselves “You know, I’ve always wanted one of those and I got nothing better to do, sooooooo….”. The audience is there right now, and they have free time. Are you capable of staying in front of them?

Sure-Fire Outlets for Pent-Up Demand are Coming

As with most “lifestyle” types of hobbies, there is a pretty heavy event/activity component to collector cars. Of course, we know how badly events companies and promoters are being hit right now, but many of the major ones are rescheduling vs cancelling. This means once the smoke clears on this, every weekend for quite a while is going to be like Superbowl Sunday, if you love cool cars. Should you expect a complete and immediate recovery here? Of course not. It is absolutely going to take a while for everybody to get their feet back under them and restaurants and bars will probably see the initial benefits of any immediate pent-up demand scenarios first. However, people will want to see their friends and engage in their passions again pretty early after the leash comes off, they will spend or borrow the money to do so and that should lead to a lessening of any long-term impact felt across the collector car business.

Again, I don’t want to pretend like this isn’t a terrible thing that’s happening and that it’s not very scary in both the long and the short term, but compared to a lot of the other little corners in the economic stratosphere, were in a much safer place than most.

PLEASE, everybody be careful, remain vigilant and stay safe!

No alt text provided for this image

Darin Roberge is CEO of Motorwerks Marketing and is a Marketing and Media Consultant in the Specialty Automotive and Live Events industries. Darin has been named a Business Trendsetter by Arizona Foothills Magazine, is a two-time nominee to Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list and is one of Sports Car Market Magazine’s 40 Under 40. Learn more about Darin at www.MotorwerksMarketing.com

Darin Roberge

Darin Roberge

Collector Car Market Expert & CEO at Motorwerks Marketing

A Guide to Keeping Your Classic Car Looking Good for Longer

Monday, June 8th, 2020

Tips for Looking After Your Classic Car

A Guide to Keeping Your Classic Car Looking Good for Longer

If you own a classic car, it can often feel like you are fighting many battles all at once. From the weather to time itself, several factors can deteriorate the appearance of your classic vehicle. This means that you have to stay on top of your game if you want to keep your car looking good.

Fortunately, this may not take as much work as you would imagine. As long as you follow certain guidelines, you should find it relatively easy to keep your beautiful vehicle in top-notch condition. On this note, here are all the ways you can maintain the appearance of your classic car:

Restore the Paint Job

If you find that the paint on your car has faded, your first step is to ensure that it is restored. Now, technically, you can restore the paint yourself. You will have to start by removing the layer of built-up oxidation with the help of detailing clay. Then, follow this up by polishing it well.

However, you should keep in mind that classic cars can have rather delicate surfaces that need to be treated gently. Thus, if you aren't careful, you may end up doing more damage than good. There is also the fact that the paint may be too faded or chipped for you to restore it by yourself.

It is a much better idea to have a professional handle it. They have the proper tools and skills to restore the paint and do a thorough job. And, if it does need to be repainted, they will be able to match the color perfectly. So, when in doubt, hand over your classic car to the experts.

Keep It Protected

As mentioned, the elements can do quite a number on your car’s appearance. In fact, leaving it outside, uncovered can mar your vehicle’s surface quite a bit. This is why you need to take the appropriate steps to protect it.

First, start parking your car under a covered surface. Keeping it in a garage is the best as you will be able to fully protect it from any kind of weather damage. Not to mention, you reduce the risk of anything putting a dent on the surface as well.

If you do need to leave your car outside – even for a short period – get into the habit of covering it with a car cover. These are often weatherproof to a certain degree and will help to keep sunlight, grime, and debris off of your car. Furthermore, it can prevent bird droppings from landing on the surface when you park under trees.

Wash It Carefully

Even if your car spends most of its time covered, it is going to need to be washed. If you drive it around, it needs to be cleaned even more regularly. Don’t wait for dirt and grime to pile up on the surface – wash it whenever you notice the car getting even a little dusty or dirty.

There is some contention about whether or not you should take your classic car to a carwash. Yes, some professional services use gently cleaning agents and utensils. However, it can be difficult to locate these businesses and even then you can never really be sure how careful they are.

This is why it may be better if you wash your car yourself. Nevertheless, you still need to use soft, microfiber cloths and the gentlest detergent that you can find. If possible, look for eco-friendly brands as they are quite mild.

You should always start washing your car from the top and work your way down. Leave the wheels for last but make sure that they are thoroughly cleaned as well. Always check that the surface has been thoroughly rinsed and that there are no signs of soap suds, bubbles, or any kind of residue.

It is important to wipe down and dry your car thoroughly. Once again, begin at the top and then move downwards. Whenever the towel becomes damp, swap it out for a clean, dry one. Make sure that you get any water that may have flown into crevices as well. This attention to detail can help to prevent your car from rusting.

Finish It Off with Wax

If you think wax is unnecessary, think again! What most people don’t realize is that the best car waxes aren't just about looks, they offer protection as well. They form a protective layer on top of your car paint and prevent it from oxidizing. This keeps the paint intact for longer.

At the same time, the wax will take the brunt of any dirt, grime, or debris that settles on the surface of your car. In this way, your car paint job is less likely to be affected. Therefore, you won’t need to have it retouched or repainted regularly.

There is also the fact that wax can make your classic car shine and help it to regain some of its former glory. So, if you want to show off your vehicle, you have to make it a point to apply a layer of wax whenever it is needed. You can guarantee that it will be well worth your effort.

Be a Careful Driver

Yes, this is an important part of keeping your car in excellent condition. When you drive carefully, you reduce the risk of getting into an accident or scraping your vehicle against another object. Naturally, this cuts down on the chances of scrapes, scratches, and dents.

Similarly, you should be careful about where you park your car. Avoid crowded or tight spaces as there is a chance that someone may swipe past your car when trying to maneuver out of a spot. Instead, pick a wide-open space.

These are the top tips that you need to keep your classic car looking good for longer. Thus, you should make it a point to practice them every day. You will be surprised at how much of a difference this makes.

To find your next classic car begin a new search right here at ACC!  allcollectorcars.com/

10 Most Popular Classic Car Makes at ACC

Tuesday, April 21st, 2020

There are hundreds of thousands of searches performed and pages viewed every month at allcollectorcars.com or (ACC).  Below is a list of our top 10 most viewed and most popular classic car makes.

 

  • Buick – 800+ Buicks for sale now at ACC

1987 Buick Regal 1

History

Buick is one of the oldest automobile brands in the United States, with the first two Buick’s made in 1899 and 1900. However, Buick’s did not become available to the greater public until mid- 1904.

Style

Buick’s early success was attributed mainly to the valve-in-head- style engine, now known as the overhead valve (OHV) engine. Easily recognized by the Buick Trishield symbol and stylish VentiPorts, any Buick vehicle is sure to deliver high performance and premium luxury.

 

  • Ford – 8,500+ fords for sale now at ACC

1970 Ford Mustang BOSS 429 3

History

Started in 1903 in Dearborn, Michigan, the Ford Motor Company is considered the father of mass production and assembly line production. In just 20 short years after beginning vehicle production, Ford was producing over half of America’s automobiles.

Style

Often considered heavier and underpowered compared to the best from GM and Dodge, Ford flipped the game with the introduction of the Mustang. Once the Mustang debuted in ’68, Ford became known mainly for that iconic build in the muscle car market.

 

  • Chevrolet – 11,500+ Chevrolets for sale now at ACC

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 1

History

Founded in 1911, Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, is now a worldwide automobile presence. Commercial production for Chevrolet began in 1913 with the creation of their Series C Classic C vehicles.

Style

Globally recognized by their bowtie logo, Chevrolet has been known for its popular, affordable cars for over a century. Their inventory ranges from subcompact automobiles to medium-duty commercial trucks.

 

  • Cadillac – 1900+ Cadillacs for sale now at ACC

1961 Cadillac Series 62 1

History

A division of General Motors, Cadillac is a major producer and manufacturer of luxury vehicles born out of the remnants of the Henry Ford Company in 1902. Their major selling point was their precision manufacturing and therefore, reliability on the road.

Style

Cadillac laid the foundation for modern mass-produced automobiles by being the first vehicle to offer complete interchangeability of its parts. Cadillac also led the way with technological advances, being the first to offer fully electric systems, the clash-less manual transmission, and the steel roof.

 

  • Dodge – 1400+ Dodges for sale now at ACC

1971 Dodge Challenger 1

History

Originally, Dodge Brothers Company was a machine shop that supplied parts for Detroit based automakers; it wasn’t until 1914 that the Dodge brothers began making complete vehicles on their own. In 1928, they were sold to Chrysler.

Style

Dodge vehicles mainly consisted of trucks and full-sized passenger cars through the 1970s, though it made memorable compact and midsize cars, such as the 1963-76 Dart and “B-Body” Coronet and Charger from 1962-79, respectively.

 

  • Plymouth – 900+ Plymouths for sale now at ACC

1970 Plymouth Superbird 4

History

Produced by Chrysler Corporation, the brand first appeared in 1928 to compete in the “low-priced” market otherwise dominated by Chevrolet and Ford. Plymouth vehicles were a high-volume seller for Chrysler into the late 1990s.

Style

Plymouth vehicles were the highest priced vehicles in the “low-priced” market, but they offered certain features, like internal expanding hydraulic brakes, as standard at a time when Ford and Chevrolet did not provide them at all. For many years, Plymouth vehicles boasted “the smoothness of an eight – the economy of a four”.

 

  • Oldsmobile – 700+ Oldsmobiles for sale now at ACC

1969 Oldsmobile Hurst 2

History

Oldsmobile was a brand of American automobiles founded in 1897 and produced by GM for most of its existence. While a division of General Motors, it slotted in the middle of GM’s five divisions (above Pontiac, below Buick), but was acclaimed for testing groundbreaking technology and designs. When it was shut down in 2004, Oldsmobile was the oldest surviving American automobile marque.

Style

The 1902 to 1904 Oldsmobile Curved Dash was the first mass-produced car made from the first automotive assembly line. It was gas powered with a flat-mounted, water-cooled, single-cylinder engine and could seat two passengers, selling for a reasonable $650.

 

  • Pontiac – 1400+ Pontiacs for sale now at ACC

1967 Pontiac GTO 1

History

Pontiac was a brand that was owned, made, and sold by General Motors from 1926 to 2010. It was introduced as a companion make for GM’s pricier line of Oakland automobiles, but Pontiac surpassed Oakland in popularity and eventually replaced its parent brand entirely.

Style

Early Pontiacs came in a variety of body styles, including sedans (with both two and four doors), coups, sport sedans, and roadsters. They were essentially a 1920s Chevrolet with a six-cylinder engine.

 

  • GMC – 600+ GMC for sale now at ACC

1971 GMC C/K 1500 Series 3

History

General Motors Company, otherwise known as GM or GMC, is an American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, markets, and distributes vehicles and vehicle parts. Founded in 1908 as a holding company by the owner of Buick, it is now the largest automobile manufacturer in the United States and one of the largest in the world.

Style

GM vehicles have run the gamut in style and design over the years, transitioning from coupes to full size, hardtops to convertibles, and 2×2’s to full 4’s. They entered the sports car market in 1953 with the production of the Chevrolet Corvette C1.

 

  • Mercury – 500+ GMC for sale now at ACC

1949 Mercury Hot Rod / Street Rod 1

History

Mercury was a division of the Ford Motor Company created in 1938 to bridge the price gap between the Ford and Lincoln vehicle lines. Marketed as an entry-level premium brand for nearly its whole existence, Mercury was discontinued in 2010.

Style

Sized between Ford and Lincoln, Mercury vehicles adopted a 116-inch wheelbase (four inches longer than Ford, 6 inches shorter than Lincoln) with a body six inches wider than Ford. Mercury engines were a 239 cubic-inch version of the Flathead V8, which produced 95 horsepower.

 

This is just a small sampling of the 40,000+ classic cars we have listed for sale at ACC.  AllCollectorCars.com is a nationwide classified site dedicated to classic and collector cars!  Click Here to begin a search > allcollectorcars.com/

Tips for Looking After Your Classic Car

Wednesday, April 8th, 2020

Tips for Looking After Your Classic Car

If you own a classic car or are thinking of purchasing one, there are some simple things that you can do on a regular basis to keep it in good condition and prevent it from showing its age. This is especially important if you drive your classic car regularly and want to keep it roadworthy for as long as possible. Keep these golden rules in mind to make sure that your classic car stays in good condition.

allcollectorcars.com

Get the Right Insurance:

The right insurance policy is crucial to make sure that your motor gets the right repairs in the event of a collision or any other type of damage. Use Quotezone.co.uk, a car insurance comparison site, to compare policies and quotes from over 100 different insurance providers. All you need to do is enter your details on the website and browse the quotes available.

Store Your Car Correctly:

To prevent the metal and chrome work of the car from becoming tarnished or corroded due to bad weather, you should store your classic car in a storage facility or garage that is as free of damp as possible. To provide additional protection from environmental conditions, you might also want to consider purchasing a dehumidifier or storage bubble.

Run the Engine Frequently:

If you don’t drive your classic car on a regular basis, you should start your car’s engine at least once every couple of weeks and allow it to reach a normal running temperature before you switch the engine off. If possible, you should also drive the car for a few miles as this will help avoid issues such as failing hydraulics, battery issues or a sticking brake or clutch.

Leave the Handbrake Off:

Cables can often seize up and no longer release when letting the handbrake off on some older cars. To prevent this from happening, you should keep the car in first gear when parked or use chocks under the wheels to make sure that it doesn’t move if it is parked on a slope.

Disconnect the Battery:

If you need to leave the car for longer periods of time without starting the engine, you should disconnect your battery to prevent it from becoming flat. If that isn’t possible, another option would be to purchase a trickle charger to keep the battery charged over the period that the engine will not be switched on.

Get Regular Services:

Ensure that your car is serviced at least once a year. Many classic cars are exempt from MOTs, so it’s even more important that you check the major essentials at least annually, such as the brakes, steering, suspension, and tyres.

Owning a classic car is a lot of fun, but these cars often take more looking after than most. Along with all of the above, make sure to check all fluid levels regularly – especially oil and water – and top up before driving the car if needed.

 

To find your next classic car begin a new search right here at ACC!  allcollectorcars.com/

How the internet helps your passion for cars

Thursday, March 26th, 2020

If you are reading this, you are probably a hardcore automotive enthusiast who likes to be part of the online car community. Cars can make your adrenaline pump, and hearts beat with joy for them. 

So here are some of the things on the internet that drives our inner crankshafts and develop a further passion for cars.

                                                                                                                                                  

     Photo by Alex Suprun 

Online Car Communities

The car-loving community consists of tens of thousands of people, each of whom is obsessed with cars. They are tied to their vehicles, sports cars, racing, and much more. These groups can be found in almost every state. 

 

Typically, these groups communicate on a group of owners on Facebook, where they can share photos of each other’s cars or on a platform such as Car Throttle. The car community can be like a family if you find the right people.

 

If you want to carry the name “car enthusiast,” there is no entry requirement. A 14-year-old from Canada may have the same passion for cars as a classic car restorer from Croatia, and working on a rugged Volkswagen Golf can be as exciting as cleaning leather seats on a brand new  Audi A3

 

As community members share their stories, build, and photograph, they sparkle with ideas in their fellow gasoline heads and give them something new to work with. With stage figures such as Mighty Car Fashion, Rob Dam, and Shmee150, we will never be without inspiration.

Auto Repairs

There’s so much useful information online now that repairing a DIY car has never been easier. By visiting the right car forums, you can get help diagnosing the problem, learn how to fix it, and find the right parts at reasonable prices. And if you get stuck, you can even get advice from fellow owners and professional mechanics.

 

For “do it yourself” repairs, your computer is your friend. There are excellent general-purpose video resources, useful workshop manuals, and diagnostic assistance for the most common car problems. 

 

There are iPhone apps with car manuals optimized for mobile viewing. If you need help deciding whether to repair your car, there are excellent resources to check the average cost of repair in the workshop and can help you determine if it is worth the time and effort to do it yourself. 

 

Bring it to your car with a loaded video tutor or walk in front of you. Watch and read the instructions several times to feel comfortable. However, keep your technology ready in case you need to make a step reference. 

Design Your Own Custom Car

If you are looking for something more unique than a standard car, you have many options to create a car that truly reflects your personality. The internet allows you to customize the cars before and after purchase.

 

You do not need to be a car engineer to create your car. Many fantastic companies help ordinary people to create unique vehicles. 

 

A famous company is Kindig It Design, located in Utah, which specializes in customizing classic cars and adding unique touches to existing cars. You can get custom-made paint jobs, flat door handles, and any other type of large or small modifications. 

 

If you hope to create a retro car with a modern design, Deco Rides can be a great choice. This company specializes in vehicles that blend the graceful lines and vintage glamour of the 1920s and 1930s with modern technology and productive tools of today. You can work with them to make the car of your dreams come true.

 

You can also create your custom car with after-sales accessories. It is a great way to change the look of your current car without investing in a brand new car. The accessories can be as simple as seat covers and car organizers, or as sophisticated as super exhaust systems and custom-made paint jobs.

 

Depending on how much time and money you want to invest in this project, you can dramatically change the look and performance of your car.

                                                                                                                                                       Photo by Jasper Geys

Car Dealerships

Buying a car has become much easier and cheaper because you are dealing with dealers online. You can call, email, or text the sales manager at your online dealer to make sure the car is in stock, schedule a test drive, and get an overview of the price. 

 

After the test drive and car selection, you can do the rest of the deal (including financing and negotiation) online or by phone while still working with the internet team. 

 

In some cases, the dealer will even deliver the car to your home or office. It will help you avoid delays and sales delays at the dealer’s financial and insurance office.

Let us say that you have a rare classic or stunning sports car, but it is time to sell it. These could be places. ACC Auctions checks all the cars they put on the site before listing them, so this site is full of traffic enthusiasm. 

allcollectorcars.com | ACC is one of the most popular places to list a car. It is an easy-to-use interface that relies on a huge number of buyers, and this is the reason to put it at the top of your list.

The Convenience Of Online shopping 

Car parts and everything you might need for repair and regular maintenance of your vehicle is listed in a convenient and extensive online catalog. Innovative search – by name, product ID, or OEM number will help you easily find auto parts.

 

You can choose the best-suited payment method from many different options. Do you have any questions? Support specialists are always at your service. Choosing and buying auto parts is now a pleasure!

 

Customers not only will save money, but also time. There is always a huge number of spare parts available. There are also fast ordering process and fast delivery. 

Online Car Auctions

Are you interested in buying a car on an online auction? You are not alone. If you have thought about buying a used or classic car online, now is the time to do so. Many consumers think about the same thing and then make a decision.

 

The available cars are waiting for you online, but you need to know what sites to visit to buy cars, and many sites are not worth your time at all. 

 

To Sum Up

The internet is a great place to spend time, ask for advice, and even boast about your trip. There are many things online that can help motivate and manage your passion for cars. We have touched on some of them. 

 

However, the internet is continually evolving with new initiatives that can help your passion for cars to grow even more.

 

Thank you for reading now find your next classic or collector car right here at ACC!  https://www.allcollectorcars.com/   and don’t forget to also check out ACC Auctions (Online Classic Car Auctions)

St. Mary of the Knobs Corvette Raffle

Monday, March 16th, 2020
St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church was established in 1823 and is the oldest parish in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis.
Both our Church Ministries and School benefit from the proceeds of our Corvette/Cash Raffle.
We are blessed to be able to hold our 5th Annual Corvette/Cash Raffle this year.
Win a 2021 Corvette or $75,000 Cash, your choice.
Only 9,000 tickets will be sold
Tickets are $30 each or 4 for $100.
Buy tickets BEFORE APRIL 15 and you’ll be entered to WIN $1,000 and still be in the main drawing.
Call 812-923-8192 to order tickets or visit us at
and send along with payment to
St. Mary of the Knobs Corvette Raffle
5719 St. Marys Rd
Floyds Knobs, IN 47119

Shipping A Car Vs Moving It On Your Own

Wednesday, February 26th, 2020

Moving across the country is a great new adventure that creates a lot of excitement and memories. It will teach you valuable life lessons, put you on an emotional roller coaster, and challenge you in every way possible

 

Moreover, it will transport you from your current city to your new, faraway home. And the question is, how will you get there? Is it better to fly or drive to your new home? And how do you get across the country by car? Should you send it or drive it yourself?

 

To find the answers to these questions, you need to consider all the pros and cons of all available options and choose the one that best suits you in terms of time, budget, and personal preferences. 

 

When it comes to delivering a car across the country compared to driving it, your decision will be influenced by a few things: 

 

  • The actual distance to your new home 
  • The time you have to make your move 
  • The cost of transporting your car (compared to the cost of driving across the country)
  • The level of convenience that you desire.                                                                           

   Photo by Markus Spiske

Therefore, to make the right choice that suits you, be sure to consider the following factors when wondering whether to drive or ship your car across the country.

Driving distance

When trying to solve the dilemma of driving your car across the country against shipping it, you should calculate the total driving distance. Not the distance in a straight line between the current city and the new one, but the actual distance on the road between them. 

 

When you know the exact mileage you will have to drive, make sure you also carefully study the specifics of the route. For example, the terrain, road conditions, typical traffic patterns, and road amenities.

 

Once you know how far you need to go and what driving conditions are expected, you can work out how long it will take you to get to your new city and how much fuel you will need (considering the miles per gallon your car receives). 

 

The numbers that you get are very likely to determine your choice.

Time Considerations

How long does it take to get across the country? A road trip through the states can take from a couple of days to about a week.

 

If you move from coast to coast and drive across the country alone you’ll have to stop more often to travel safely when you can’t take turns with another driver.

 

It may not be possible for you and your partner to take so much time off work, or for your children not to go to school for so long. 

 

Even if you and all the members of your family have time to travel, you may prefer to spend it on settling into a new home and exploring new surroundings rather than traveling.

 

However, if you have a lot of free time, enjoy driving. If you want to see as many countries as possible, a road trip to your new home can feel like a vacation and a time of family connections. 

Cost Efficiency

Most people want to choose the most cost-effective route when moving, especially considering any move can be quite expensive. So, is it cheaper to ship a car or drive it across the country?

Cost of Driving Your Car to New Location

Driving is generally considered the most economical way of transporting the car across the country. However, this is not always the case. 

 

When calculating the cost of travel around the country, you should consider not only the cost of fuel but also the cost of road charges and parking, food and accommodation, car maintenance, etc. 

 

You can take a few snacks with you. Still, if you drive this far, you’ll probably have to spend the night and dine in restaurants or buy ready-made meals on the way. Therefore, unless you plan to stay with friends or relatives, road meals and hotel accommodation will add a few extra bucks to the total cost of your move. 

 

You should also consider the wear and tear on your car. After all, your journey through rough roads will put extra miles on your vehicle, and not to mention the fact that you may get a flat tire, have an accident, or require a tow on the way. All of these will result in further costs.

Cost of Shipping Your Car

The cost of shipping your car around the country will depend on the size and weight of your car, the type of insurance you want, and the rates of the road transportation company you choose to transport your car. 

 

However, the amount you will pay to have your car delivered across the country will not be the only expense. If you are not driving, you will have to fly (or take the train) to your final destination. 

 

Therefore, you will have to pay for the plane tickets for you and each member of your family who would otherwise travel by car. 

 

You may also need to rent a car for a while until your car is delivered. You will also not be able to bring your personal belongings with you. Therefore, your chosen shipping company will have more items to move around. 

Other Options

When searching for the cheapest way to deliver your car across the country, you can consider other options than using a car shipping company. Here are some other options:

Delivery By Rail 

For longer distances, rail transport is a little cheaper than traditional freight transport (you can save about $ 100 when transporting your car from coast to coast). 

 

However, if you want to send the car by train across the country you should know that it can be somewhat difficult to find an open slot on a certain day since rail transport is primarily designed for car dealers moving dozens of vehicles at a time.

Hire a Driver 

Some people drive cars around the country for money, so you can hire someone to take your car to your new home for you. You can use professional driving services or hire a student who needs extra cash. 

 

However, consider hiring someone you know personally and make sure that your car insurance covers any accident or theft while someone else is driving.

Safety

The safety of your car is another important consideration when you think about whether you should drive or send your car across the country.

Driving a Car

Driving long distances will put a lot of strain on your car. It’s not just wear and tear from excessive mileage, but also the consequences of the weather (extremely high or extremely low temperatures, heavy snowfalls, thunderstorms, icy roads, etc.) that you need to worry about. 

 

However, more importantly, your car will be exposed to a range of threats and safety issues. These include factors from car malfunctions to traffic accidents, from traffic jams to car theft, etc. Such troubles and setbacks can happen quickly and become very costly.

Shipping a Car

Transporting a car across the country can save it from accidents, wear and tear, and from adverse weather conditions. 

 

Professional road carriers have the necessary equipment and are used to dealing with all possible contingencies. They have received specialized training, CDL certification, as well as gained extensive experience in managing all kinds of situations that may arise on the open road. 

 

Professionals have many miles of driving experience and know the safest routes to take the car. Moreover, all professional road carriers provide adequate insurance.

 

Note: Most road transport companies put cars on trailers in the open air, where bad weather and other road hazards can easily affect them. If you want your vehicle to be better protected from elements, you can ship it in a closed truck for an extra fee. 

 

Even though the cost of the transport is about 50 percent higher, it may be worth it if you are transporting a high-end car or moving in the middle of winter.

Convenience

You will probably want to choose the best way to transport the car that is most beneficial for you and your family.

Driving a Car

A trip to your new home will provide maximum comfort to your children and pets. (you will be able to stop often, play games in the car, etc.). It will also give you the opportunity to visit nearby historical sites and attractions, which will help relieve stress from moving and turn your move to an exciting adventure. 

 

You will also be able to bring with you all your essentials and valuables, which can reduce the final cost of the move. Just make sure that your car is serviced before you travel.

Shipping a Car

When transporting your vehicle across the country, you will need to prepare your vehicle for transport and attend a pre-shipment inspection. 

 

And that’s all. The road carriers will take care of everything else. You won’t have to stress about traffic conditions, traffic problems, parking problems, hotel stops, etc. 

 

You won’t have to take extra leave from work and spend your days behind the wheel. You will arrive at your destination quickly and effortlessly, and you will have time and energy to unpack, set up a new home, explore new surroundings, etc. Your car will be delivered to your door (or to a terminal in your new city).

The Verdict

Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you need to weigh up the options carefully and choose the one that is suited to your specific situation. 

 

However, if you have more cars in your family than licensed drivers, the only acceptable solution is delivery.

 

SBR Corvette Raffle
LoadingLoading Ad