What Am I Getting Into?


Date: Thu, 06 Jun 2002

From: "Jeffery Brostrom" <brostrom.j@ghc.org>

I am entertaining the idea of a low-mileage Volvo 1800 as a second car. Something my kids and I could use for a daily short commute. Do you think this is an ill-fated idea? Thanks. Jeff


Jeff - It just depends on you. You will have to be willing and able to do minor maintenance every week and some larger repairs occasionally. If you keep ahead of the game, a good 1800 can serve well as a daily driver.

Weekly maintenance consists of checking these things:

- coolant level

- brake fluid

- oil level

- hose connections, especially fuel hoses

- fan belt

- tire pressures

- clutch and accelerator cables and linkages

- anything that looks too dirty or out of place

In a year's time, you can expect to have to do a couple of larger tasks, such as replacing one or two of the following items:

- water pump

- fuel pump, filter and hoses

- engine oil & filter

- air filter

- transmission oil

- rear axle oil

- suspension bushings, balljoints or links

- shock absorbers

- exhaust pipes or mufflers

- electrical components: light bulbs, generator brushes, fuses, wiring

When you have time, you can choose to do any of the following tasks just for fun or as a way of learning or teaching:

- small body repairs, such as straightening bent chrome or repairing small dents

- finding and sealing leaks in window gaskets and air vents

- repairing non-essential items such as clock or tachometer

- oiling locks and hinges

- interior repairs, such as upholstery or carpet, dash, headliner

I hope this list will serve as a reality check and not a deterrent, although the nature of your question leads me to believe you are not already a backyard mechanic.

Some folks think a classic car can be like a used, but modern, Toyota or Honda. It can't. A classic car is a used car that required weekly maintenance when it was brand new. Add miles and years to that, and you have a car that demands attention. Even if you buy a classic car that is in perfect condition, it will quickly (in twelve months or so) become a mess if you don't take care of it.

A classic car can thrive in a household that sees it as a collectible, where it is coddled and rarely driven. It also can thrive in the household of an automotive hobbyist who sees it as a practical means of transportation, but also as a fulfilling, long-term project.

The bottom line is that a classic car requires care and repair. If you do this yourself, it will be practical. If you must hire others to do the work, it might be more practical to purchase a modern car. -Glenn.


Return to Letters

Return to Purchase Information

Return to front page