Everyone knows a classic car when they see one, even if they can't actually tell you what makes a car a "classic". Most people associate advancing age with classic credentials, but that ignores the existence of "living classics" and future classics.

 

There are few, if any, pieces of hardware as emotive as the car. With the birth of car designers rather than pure engineers, the door was open for them to express their visions for the future. These cars are celebrated here as we look back at what fired the imaginations of yesterday's creative minds.

 

The story of classic and dream cars charts the progress of our own history and experience and these pages are a celebration of that progression and a recognition of the value and importance of these cars in our lives.

 

Have you ever thought about owning a TRUE classic? Something that makes your heart race and pumps adrenalin through your body? There is nothing quite like the feeling of owning a one-of-a-kind, hand-built, prestigious, super-car. AND having the added advantage of investing your money in a Solid, ever growing-in-value item. 

  Like antiques, classic and vintage cars have escalated in value through the decades—like old wine (and women!) they only improve with age. Even a neglected old lady picked up in an old barn somewhere, will reward you with her golden patina during a loving restoration undertaking.

Proof of the popularity of these beauties is the number of Classic and Vintage Car Clubs that are in operation in South Africa and throughout the world. These clubs are promoting the on-going interest in these old classics and also offer technical and general knowledge  sharing, great get-togethers and outings, not to mention all the ‘noggins’!

The nature of the hobby began to change dramatically in the 1980's. Slowly, under the noses of true enthusiasts, market forces took hold as it dawned on investors that really prime machinery could prove a fine hedge against inflation or an appreciating asset. Suddenly, the market hardened as Americans came to Europe seeking prime collectables.

At first, gilt-edged pre-war hardware - Bentley, Bugatti, etc. - set the pace in auction rooms, but by mid-decade, super cars of the 50's, 60's and 70's were hyped on their coat tails. Once-affordable Ferraris, Astons and Jaguar XK's and E-types became "investor" cars, commodities too expense and precious to be driven (which was rather missing the point).

As the auction houses pulled even bigger numbers, hype went into over-drive. Banks and finance companies offered loans to buy classics. The increasing ranks of classic car magazines bulged with advertising. Enthusiasts' gentle hobby was turned into an ugly, cut-throat brawl driven by greed. Many found themselves with cars that were worth more than their houses, machinery they were now too nervous to use.

Today the market is stable again and most cars are where they should be - with enthusiasts and enthusiastic investors. Rare and high-calibre thoroughbred cars - especially those with a racing pedigree or an interesting history - will always be in strong demand.

If you’ve ever been on a ‘vintage rally’, you will know all about the camaraderie, fun and great experiences that happen on these get-togethers - the helping hands extended when you break down (even if it means them losing their place in the race!), the memories shared over a beer/glass of wine at the picnic tables, great food and great friendships forged.

Of course there’s the downside (but not many classic collectors even recognise this as a downside!) of owning an almost 50 year old piece of history, and that’s the constant ‘tinkering’ that takes place—oil leaks, electrical problems, carb settings (most of the modern cars don’t even have carburettors anymore), constant polishing and general pfaffing with all the little items that makes your ‘ol’ lady’ so special!

        

We hope you will find the articles of interest and, once a month, we will feature a very special classic, which you can read about under 'Car of the Month'.

In the Picture Gallery you will find some true beauties.

TARLTON TRACTORS & SPARES

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