5 Things to Consider When Buying a Classic Car

Buying a classic car can be tricky business. Stuart Johnston shares five things to consider when searching for that classic car of your dreams.

1. Decide on the car you really want

Check that a reasonable number of examples you might find for sale are within your price range. Then hop on a classic car website or buy one of the classier UK classic car magazines (there’s a good local South African mag available too called Classic and Performance Car Africa) and check out all the other makes and models that are comparable to the car you are after. See if they measure up, in terms of  demand, price, performance, looks, and read all the reports you can lay eyes upon. Still returning to 'The One' that activated that dormant classic-car DNA double-helix? Okay then, do all the research you can on that particular make and model.

2. Check production years and local availability

Familiarise yourself with the various models in the range, and find out via magazines and websites which model is the most collectible. Then find out about all the possible flaws, reliability issues and likely rust spots. The next step is to contact the marque club for your particular make, to check out spares availability. A good reference source for this is a book called Motorheads Diary, which lists hundreds of local clubs in all major centres. Grill the club members via telephone or e-mail, then visit a classic car meet and speak to owners of the car that has you awake most nights. Then find out whether, since they bought one, they are still awake most nights, but thinking about how they might unload the car!

3. Do NOT buy a lemon

Don't buy a basket case, or a partially assembled example, or a highly modified number, unless you are a skilled mechanic with a comprehensively-equipped workshop. You'll also have to be pretty good at panel-beating, upholstery, and have the patience and the money to source various hard-to-get parts. The best classic car to buy is a fully restored one, and don’t fool yourself that you will stumble upon an old crumbling, rusted-out barn-find, restore it back to concours condition yourself, and sell it for a profit. Probably 90 per cent of restored classic cars sell for less than what the owner has spent on them. If your budget forces you to go for a less-than-perfect example of the car you crave so single-mindedly, go for the one that is most complete in terms of trim and bright-work. This means really doing your homework to familiarise yourself on what badging, beading, bumpers, hubcaps, upholstery, etc, was fitted to the specific model you are targeting. Things like bumpers are almost impossible to find for some cars. Hubcaps too.

4. Buying a classic car as an investment

If you are buying a classic car with the idea of it appreciating, the general rule of thumb is to go for the most expensive exotic car you can afford. Just about anything with a Porsche badge on it that is older than 30 years will be a blue-chip investment. However, a car like a Jaguar XJS of the same vintage will not appreciate nearly as fast, if you can sell the thing at all! Lovely car, but it doesn’t have the cachet of a Porsche which is noted for its reliability and the fact that spares are readily available. Most Ferraris 20 years and older will see you recouping your investment, although there are a few  less-desirable ones, like the 400i from the early ‘80s. Muscle cars from the late ‘60s and early ‘70s  are on a roll thanks to massive TV and movie exposure, but don’t overpay! Relatively unsung heroes in this league that are going to appreciate soon are Mercedes SLs from the late ‘70s to 1988. These are the convertible short-wheel-base models, they are still under-valued but their prices are rising quickly so get in now! But go for a well-preserved one, as spares are not cheap.

5. Enjoy the time warp

In terms of buying a more affordable classic car, good buys right now are Ford Escort Two doors, the Mk I and Mk II rear-wheel-drive models, not the front-wheel-drive cars which were dynamically inferior. But some guys are already asking far too much for Mk I and Mk II Escorts, especially the 1600 Sport models. Four-door models are far less valuable. The equivalent Toyota or Vauxhall or Opel from the late 60s to the early ‘70s doesn’t have nearly the same demand as thosr fast Fords. Of course if you have to have one of these because your old man and mom conceived you in one, then go ahead. Buying a classic car is never going to be a completely rational decision. VW Kombi prices are going through the roof right now, especially the split-window early examples. My personal feeling is that most of them are over-priced, because there is such an overseas demand for them. Better to buy a later Bay-Window example (from 1969 onwards), as these too are appreciating fast. Okay, and like any car you buy, make sure you get papers, preferably a current licence disc with the car, and ask for a document from the seller stating that there is no money owed on the car. Then enjoy your classic car, but don’t be disappointed if it feels slow, or handles like an old dog, because, relative to a modern car it will. The idea is to turn back the clock when you hop behind the wheel, and treat it like you would an old lady. Gently, and with respect. Also take a look at these 6 Modern Classic Cars to Consider Buying Today

New Vehicle Sales Summary for April 2015

The National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA) has reported that all domestic commercial vehicle sales were affected by the spread of public holidays in the month of April, while new car sales performed reasonably well over the period thanks to the support of incentive packages. Vehicle exports remained strong. The Ford Ranger sold well to take top spot on the sales chart, beating the Toyota Hilux by a significant margin. However, Toyota is still the best selling car brand in South Africa. Take a look at our New Vehicle Sales Summary below!

New Car Sales Summary – April 2015

  • 44 503 aggregate new vehicle sales down compared to 46 016 units sold in April 2014.
  • 23 615 export sales up by 40.5% (6 813 units) compared to April 2014 .
  • 30 184 passenger car sales down by 1.9% (594 units) compared to April 2014.
  • 12 077 light commercial vehicle sales down by 6% (744 units) compared to April 2014.

Top Selling Car Brands in South Africa –April 2015

Brand Total Sales Market Penetration %
1. Toyota 7 916 (-3 131) 17.8%
2. Volkswagen 7 157 (-1 204) 16.1%
3. Ford Motor Company 6 492 (+2 323) 14.6%
4. GMSA 4 169 (-934) 9.4%
5. Nissan 3 204 (-1 580) 7.2%


Top Selling New Cars in South Africa – April 2015

Model Total Sales
1. Ford Ranger (LCV) 3 095 (-12)
2. Toyota Hilux (LCV) 2 105 (-920)
3. VW Polo 2 012 (+109)
4. Toyota Corolla 1 758 (-89)
5. VW Polo Vivo 1 729 (-1 108)

New Vehicle Sales Outlook

NAAMSA predicts higher export numbers going forward. Marginal volume growth has been projected based on the assumption of slight improvement in the economic growth rate as well as industry stability, stable interest rates and unchanged credit ratings.

Revised Mercedes-Benz G-Class Revealed

The iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class has received a facelift and will offer up to 16% more power with lowered fuel consumption across the range. The facelift includes the introduction of a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine for the G 500 model, with all engines in the range meeting the latest Euro 6 emissions standard. The suspension has been revised and debuts a more sensitive ESP control unit. Of course, there are the usual interior and exterior changes, too. For those looking for something a little more special, Mercedes-Benz will also be offering an exclusive AMG EDITION 463 special edition.

Engine Power for G-Class

The G 500 model will be powered by a modified 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, which featured in the G 500 4×4² concept, with a power output of 310 kW and 610 Nm of torque which will provide 0-100 kph acceleration in just 5.9 seconds.

Other engines in the G-Class range have also been optimised in terms of power and economy. In the G350 d, a 3.0-litre V6 engine offers up to 180 kW with 600 Nm of torque. For the AMG G 63, a 5.5-litre V8 kicks out 420 kW with 760 Nm of torque while a 6.0-litre V12 in the AMG G 65 offers 463 kW and 1 000 Nm of torque.

An ECO start/stop function is now standard on the G 350 d, G 500 and AMG G 63 in an effort to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Offroad performance is maintained with permanent all-wheel drive, a low range gearbox and three differential locks which can be adjusted while moving.

The G 500 can be had with a new adaptive damping system as an option with Sport and Comfort modes.

Styling Changes

Exclusive exterior paint finishes in solar beam, tomato red, alien green, sunset beam and galactic beam will be available with the interior top stitching matching the exterior paint colour. The detachable mirrors, front and rear bumpers, wheel arch extensions, the ring on the spare wheel cover and roof are all painted in obsidian black.

For the AMG EDITION 463 special edition, features include a two-tone instrument panel and two-tone seats in designo leather with side bolsters in carbon-look leather with contrasting top stitching. The seats and door centre panels feature a diamond design with carbon fibre trim and the the door pulls are adorned with nappa leather. The exterior features a steel underguard and AMG sport stripes along the sides of the vehicle. The AMG EDITION 463 rides on 21-inch forged wheels and will be available on the basis of the AMG G 63 and AMG G 65.

The upgraded Mercedes-Benz G-Class will be launched to the international media in the fourth quarter of this year, with South African availability likely in the first half of 2016.

 

Ken Block Joins Clarkson, Hammond & May in SA

Clarkson, Hammond and May Live organisers are thrilled to announce that international rally driving phenomenon and YouTube sensation, Ken Block will Gymkhana LIVE in his iconic 845bhp, modified all-wheel-drive 1965 ‘notchback’ Ford Mustang Hoonicorn as he stars at this year’s event alongside hosts Jeremy, James and Richard in the all new arena show.

In an exciting first for SA and Africa as a whole, Ken – dubbed an “absolute and utter motoring hooligan” – will do what he does best inside the Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg, on the 12th – 14th of June 2015. It will be Ken’s first time on African soil and the only event in Africa on the Clarkson, Hammond and May Live tour, of which tickets are available for 2015 only.

Almost ten years ago, the Internet exploded with the discovery of Ken Block. His consummate precision and rather natty skills at “Gymkhana” has continued to enthral petrol heads, astounded at his unmistakeable talent behind the wheel. Ken began his professional rally driving career in 2005 and has competed at the top of the sport for Subaru, and more recently, Ford. He became the first American driver to campaign for the World Rally Championship and is currently competing in the Global Rallycross Championship, as well as selected FIA World Rallycross and WRC events.

It is perhaps his Gymkhana videos though that have turned Block into a bona fide online phenomenon. “Gymkhana” is an automotive sport that requires drivers to skilfully manoeuvre their cars around a series of cones, slaloms, 180 degree turns, 360 degree turns, figure 8 turns and other obstacles using extreme acceleration, braking and drifting. Ken took this sport and added his creativity and flair and has, to date, created seven jaw-dropping YouTube videos with an impressive 257+ million views over the past 6 years.

Clarkson Hammond and May Live will be taking place at its original home, the Ticketpro Dome in Northgate, and this year’s extravaganza will create a rip-roaring playground suitable for burning rubber with the ultimate motoring menace; Ken Block.

Ken had this to say about visiting Johannesburg this June: “I’m stoked to have been invited by Clarkson Hammond and May to this massive motoring event,” said Block. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with these guys before and it’s always been a lot of fun, I think bringing what I do to an arena format is going to be awesome, and I can’t wait to meet the fans in South Africa. It’ll be my first time visiting the country and I’ve heard they’re passionate about all things automotive, so I think they’re going to enjoy what I’m going to be doing with my Hoonicorn from Gymkhana 7.”

For tickets and more information visit www.clarksonhammondandmaylive.co.za

2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK now available in South Africa

Mercedes-Benz SA has announced that the 2015 SLK roadster is now available to order in South Africa.

Engine Choice

Buyers have the choice of a 2.0-litre, four cylinder engine doing service in the SLK 200 with a maximum output of 135 kW and 300 Nm of torque, some 30 Nm more than the outgoing model. A new SLK 300 replaces the SLK 250, with a 2.0-litre engine tuned to 180 kW (30 kW increase) and 370 Nm of torque (60 Nm increase).

The SLK 200 makes use of a 6-speed manual transmission while the SLK 300 is equipped with a nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard. A 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission can be fitted as an option on the entry-level model. This transmission comes with a DIRECT SELECT lever on the center console as well as paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

If you are after more power, then you may want to consider SLK 350 with its 225 kW / 370 Nm 3.5-litre V6 engine. Or, you can opt for the beast in the range, which is the SLK 55 AMG fitted with a 310 kW / 540 Nm 5.5-litre V8 engine.

Standard Equipment

LED daytime running lights are fitted as standard as is a LTE-capable exterior aerial which helps enhance reception and transmission but also improves the performance of the COMAND Online Multimedia system.

Assistance and safety systems include Attention Assist, Distronic Plus and Collision Prevention Assist Plus which includes auto proximity control, collision warning, Adaptive Brake Assist and autonomous partial braking. Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeeping Assist are available as an option.

A key feature on the SLK is the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL which can be lightened or darkened via a switch.

There’s also an optional Dynamic Handling package on offer which lowers the suspension by 10 mm and comes with adaptive damping system, Direct Steer system and ESP Dynamic Cornering Assist.

2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK Price in South Africa

Mercedes-Benz SLK 200 – R645 700

Mercedes-Benz SLK 300 – R720 000

Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 – R851 000

Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG – R1 105 900 

Renault Sandero RS Track Teaser (Video)

*Pictured is the standard Renault Sandero, but we’ve given it a RenaultSport paintjob*

Renault has released a teaser video of its forthcoming Sandero RS which has been developed by RenaultSport. Details remain scarce at this point, but the teaser video does show LED daytime running lights and a revised bumper.

Renault Sandero RS Details

The Renault Sandero RS will take on a more sporty look with aggressive bumpers, larger brakes, dual exhausts, large alloy wheels and revised suspension to live up to its RS name. Other exterior details may include glossy mirror caps and blackened front and rear light clusters.

Engine choice for the Sandero RS is still a mystery at this point, but reports are pointing to the use of a naturally aspirated four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine derived from the Brazilian-spec Duster, which will offer 107 kW.

Unfortunately the Renault Sandero RS will only be produced specifically for markets in Latin America, but you never know. South Africa has proven a good market for the Sandero, Stepway and Duster vehicles and we could receive this performance model.

Here is the teaser video and below that is a glimpse of the Renault Sandero RS on track.

Mercedes-Benz C200 Estate (2015) Review

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a great performer as it’s classy in an aspirational manner, but not snobbish. It’s got plenty of excellent tech and the latest range of Merc’s engines. Now Mercedes-Benz has added the Estate version to the range and in many ways it’s even better than the sedan. We got to grips with C200 Estate for a week’s test drive.

Space Upgrades

As you’d expect the C-Class Estate has more room in the back thanks to the hatch at the rear and lengthened body (it’s 16mm longer than the sedan). That doesn’t sound like much, but when compared to the previous generation C-Class Estate it’s 96mm longer and 40mm wider. The bulk of the gains have been sent to the rear passengers who enjoy 45mm more legroom. It’s definitely spacious in the back and if you’re going to load large items into the rear, the seats now offer three-way split functionality of 40:20:40. Boot space comes in at 490-Litres and once the seats are folded down flat, it opens up 1510-Litres. It’s a long loading space, but it tapers in around the wheel arches which makes it a bit skinny as you push your cargo further into the boot. Our unit also had the optional electric tailgate, which is a good buy, but other markets get this feature as standard.

Durability

The C-Class Estate has the same cabin as the sedan so there’s plenty of nice bits to touch and look at. It’s classy and upmarket with leather, brushed aluminium and lush carpeting. The rear loadbay is carpeted all-round so you might want to invest in some rubber mats if you have a dog that likes getting muddy or partake in outdoor leisure activities.

Engine

We tested the higher powered 2-litre turbo sedan last year (2014) and were suitably impressed. The C200 we have here is a slightly detuned version of that engine which now offers 135 kW and 300 Nm of torque. The power unit is creamy smooth through the rev range and the seven-speed auto is well suited to the turbo engine. Pickup from a standstill is quick and not jerky as we have found in some other Mercedes models, including the B-Class.

This engine/gearbox combination really shines out on the freeway when you can let the C-Class Estate cruise at 120kph at 2000rpm and take care of business. If you fit the C-Class Estate with Distronic Plus and steering assist you barely have to drive at all. It’s simply a case of setting the cruise speed, keeping your hands on the wheel and it will maintain speed, and turn bends for you as well.

Ride and Drive

Much like the C-Class, the Estate rides beautifully on tarmac. There’s a choice of air suspension or standard steel suspension, but both ride very comfortably. The air suspension setup does have a self-levelling system that makes it a touch better at comfort and handling, especially when loaded. The C-Class Estate cushions potholes and ridges with just about zero feedback to the cabin.

Steering is light around the centre position and weights up differently depending on the speed, but it does a respectable job of making you feel comfortable in the car’s abilities. It’s a pleasure to drive in everyday circumstances and long journeys, but if anything it doesn’t quite have enough excitement built in to make you want to unleash it over a mountain pass or string of bends. Most C-Class Estate owners aren’t looking for those kind of kicks though so in its natural habitat it’s just about perfect.

Verdict

While South Africans tends to go the SUV route rather than Estates, the C-Class Estate may just be the best C-Class. There’s added practicality and space thanks to a big loading area and I think the rear end of the Estate looks better than the sedan. The rest of the Estate is as per the C-Class so if you feel the styling and space enhancements add up to the R35 000 premium the Estate garners over the sedan, then it’s a great buy. On that note, Mercedes dealers have been known to bargain a bit on their prices so you might not even have to pay all that much extra.

Second Opinion

I immediately fell in love with the C-Class Estate the moment I sat behind the wheel. The interior quality is just superb and the detailing is top-notch. The seats support you well and the interior gadgetry is both intuitive and impressive. Out on the road, the C200 Estate glides along in effortless silence and responds with fervor when it’s required. The C200 Estate is a truly wonderful car to drive. Then there’s all that space, which makes the C200 Estate that much more versatile. If you have a family and enjoy travelling in the lap of luxury, then the C-Class Estate is well worth consideration. – Gero Lilleike

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate Price in South Africa

There are three derivatives of the C-Class Estate available starting with the C180 at R471 231. Our C200 Estate Auto starts at R512 352 before options. The top model is the C250 BlueTec diesel that begins at R586 400.

We Like: Looks, comfortable drive, practicality, and superb tech

We don’t Like: Not the most dynamic to drive

Also consider: Audi A4 AllRoad, Volvo V60

See a comparison between the C-Class Estate, A4 AllRoad and V60 here

Mercedes-Benz C200 Estate Quick Specs

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate

Drag Race: VW Golf R vs Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG (Video)

There have always been a few hot hatches to choose from if you’re the sort of person who enjoys torque steer, hatchbacks and small, turbocharged engines. The Opel Astra OPC, the VW Golf GTi, and more recently cars like the Audi S3 and BMW M135i are just a few of the choices you have.

But at some point the game changed. Manufacturers worked out how to extract extraordinary levels of power from these small engines (without them exploding) and the result of this was that front-wheel drive couldn’t cope with all the added power.

And so the hot-hatch-smiths took to all-wheel drive and now we have a whole new generation of small, fast, relatively affordable sports cars, offering 200 kW+. And the unlikely king of all of them is a Mercedes-Benz.

Yes, for its first ever hot hatch, Mercedes-Benz told its AMG engineers to conceptualise the car whilst under the influence. Well, that must be the only way to explain an engine that produces 265 kW from just 2.0 litres of displacement.

But they were very sober when they designed the epic interior, and the computer system which launches the A 45 AMG 4Matic off the line, named “Race Start”. It is the absolute nemesis of traffic light racers around the world.

However, the Mercedes comes in at an eye-watering R659 717, compared to the Golf 7R’s price tag of R525 900.

The Golf R doesn’t have quite as sophisticated a launch control as the Mercedes Benz, and so would immediately be at a disadvantage notwithstanding the 59kW power difference. But it is lighter and is known as a bit of giant slayer, as earlier in the day we had seen it destroy the Subaru WRX STI.

And so we lined up these two hot hatch warriors on the start line of a standard quarter-mile drag strip and dropped the flag. Can the Mercedes justify that massive price tag? Or will the Golf 7 R embarrass its German counterpart?

For a full comparison, spec by spec, click here:

Volkswagen Golf R vs Mercedes Benz A 45 AMG Specs

VW Golf 7 R Mercedes Benz A45 AMG
Price R525 900 R659 717
Engine 2.0L 4-cyl turbo petrol 2.0L 4-cyl turbo petrol
Power 206 kW 265 kW
Torque 380 Nm 450 Nm
Fuel economy 6.9L/100km (claimed) 7.1L/100km (claimed)
0 – 100kph 5.0 seconds 4.6 seconds
Top speed 250kph 250kph

VW Golf 7 R vs Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG

Toyota Fortuner Buying Guide: New & Used, Pricing & Rivals

The Toyota Fortuner has been an enormously popular vehicle for some time now in South Africa, comfortably dominating the bakkie-based SUV market. Based on the formidable Toyota Hilux, and sharing those engines, the Fortuner is the go-to choice for those looking for a large SUV on a budget.

But, are there better options out there?

We squeezed the latest Fortuner into our studio to take a good look at the current offering, much of which hasn’t changed since 2011. So, if you’re looking at a second hand Fortuner on our site right now, the car in this video is essentially what you’ll be buying.

We cover the interior features, the weird third row of seats, the diesel engine options and then of course, the pricing.

At this point, we thought it best to introduce the Fortuner’s rivals, in the form of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and the Nissan Pathfinder.

In the video you’ll find pricing for the Fortuner and its rivals, both new and used, based on real cars available for sale on our site.

Let us know in the comments below if you have had any ownership experience of any of these vehicles, or if you’re currently looking at buying one, new or used.

Toyota Fortuner D-4D 4×4 Auto Chev Trailblazer 2.8D 4×4 LTZ Auto
Price R537 500 R569 800
Engine 3.0l 4-cyl turbo diesel 2.8l 4-cyl turbo diesel
Power 120kW 144kW
Torque 343Nm 500Nm
Fuel economy 9.8l/100km (claimed) 9.5l/100km
0 – 100km/h 12.3 seconds 10.6 seconds
Top speed 170km/h 180km/h

 

Toyota Fortuner D-4D 4×4 Auto Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.5 DI-D 4×4 Auto
Price R537 500 R499 900
Engine 3.0l 4-cyl turbo diesel 2.5l 4-cyl turbo diesel
Power 120kW 131kW
Torque 343Nm 350Nm
Fuel economy 9.8l/100km (claimed) 8.5l/100km
0 – 100km/h 12.3 seconds 12.0 seconds
Top speed 170km/h 176km/h

 

Toyota Fortuner D-4D 4×4 Auto Nissan Pathfinder 2.5dCi LE
Price R537 500 R666 300
Engine 3.0l 4-cyl turbo diesel 2.5l 4-cyl turbo diesel
Power 120kW 140kW
Torque 343Nm 450Nm
Fuel economy 9.8l/100km (claimed) 9.0l/100km
0 – 100km/h 12.3 seconds 10.7 seconds
Top speed 170km/h 186km/h

Toyota Fortuner Buying Guide Video

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Price in South Africa

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was revealed late last year and is set to take the fight to the BMW X6. The GLE Coupe can be expected in South Africa soon as local pricing has now become available.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe will be available with three variants including the entry-level GLE 350 d that will offer 190 kW and 620 Nm, the GLE 450 AMG with 270 kW and 520 Nm of torque and the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S with 430 kw and 900 Nm of torque.

You can get more details on the Mercedes-Benz GLE here and we will provide further details as and when more information regarding the local lineup becomes available.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Price in South Africa

Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 d – R1 006 574
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG – R1 110 057
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S – R1 876 111