Would You Walk 500 miles?
When it comes to finding your dream classic car, patience and flexibility are your best tools. The right vehicle might not be waiting around the corner—it could be a few hundred miles away. Expanding your search area and being willing to hit the road can make all the difference in finding the perfect match. Here’s why casting a wider net is so important.
1. Classic Cars Are Rare, Especially in Great Condition
Unlike new cars, classic cars are a finite resource. Some models are decades old and become harder to find as time goes on, especially in good condition. Limiting your search to just your local area means you’re probably missing out on hidden gems in neighboring states or further afield.
The reality is, many classic car owners are located in specific regions due to weather or cultural preferences. For example:
Warm climates (like the South or West Coast) tend to have cars with less rust and weather damage.
Certain regions are hotspots for specific brands or models based on their historical popularity.
A broader search ensures you’re exploring all the possibilities, not just the ones within a 50-mile radius.
2. You’re More Likely to Find the Exact Car You Want
If you have a specific make, model, year, or trim in mind, limiting your search area can make it nearly impossible to find. Expanding your search radius to 500 miles—or even more—greatly increases your chances of locating that exact car you’ve been dreaming of.
It’s the difference between settling for something “close enough” and finding the one. Whether it’s a rare paint color, original interior, or specific engine type, being willing to travel makes all the difference.
3. Better Deals Are Out There—If You’re Willing to Look
Pricing for classic cars can vary significantly depending on location. What’s considered rare or in demand in one area might be easier to find and cheaper in another. Expanding your search allows you to compare prices across multiple markets, giving you a better idea of the car’s true value and possibly saving you thousands of dollars.
Plus, some sellers in less competitive markets may be more willing to negotiate, making that long drive well worth it.
4. Avoid Local Market Pitfalls
Shopping only in your local area often means dealing with higher prices or limited options. Local sellers may know there’s little competition and inflate their prices accordingly. By widening your search, you avoid being stuck in a limited market where the best options are overpriced or underwhelming.
5. The Road Trip Is Part of the Adventure
For many enthusiasts, the journey to pick up a classic car is just as memorable as owning it. That 500-mile drive to pick up your dream car? It’s a story you’ll tell for years. Whether you’re trailering the car back or driving it home, the road trip becomes part of the car’s history.
Tips for Expanding Your Search Area
Use National Online Marketplaces: Sites like Hemmings, Bring a Trailer, or Facebook Marketplace allow you to look nationwide, giving you access to thousands of listings.
Leverage Local Experts: When buying from out of state, consider hiring a local mechanic or classic car expert to inspect the vehicle before making the trip.
Be Prepared to Travel: Budget for travel costs—flights, gas, or accommodations—as part of your purchase plan.
Negotiate Before You Drive: Have as many details as possible locked in before committing to a long trip, so you know the car is worth it.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect classic car is a journey, and sometimes, that journey means hitting the open road. Expanding your search area to 500 miles—or more—gives you access to more options, better deals, and, most importantly, the chance to find the exact car you’ve been dreaming of.
So, don’t be afraid to travel. The right car is out there waiting for you, even if it’s a few states away. After all, owning a classic car is about passion—and sometimes, passion requires a little adventure.