Should I Sell My 1956 Chevy Bel-Air 4 Door Hardtop and get another unique ride?

(2011-01-08 21:55:45)

1. Code-Face Says: My car looks fully restored at first glance. The interior is flawless, with the exception that the Old AM radio isn't hooked up, and the heater doesnt work. The Exterior has some rust in front of the back bumper under the trunk lid. It has its origional 265 V8 w/ slimjim automatic transmition. It will crank up and run but not dependably. I only paid a few thousand for it because I bought it from a relative and I've had to do about 2000 in repairs so far to include a $980 brake job because the brakes went completely out. When I bought the car I expected it to be a quick fix and then a good dependable unique ride. After $2000 in repairs and counting I am beginning the second guess this. What would you do?

2. just call me Buzz Says: Unless you hate the car and have a different old car you are interested in, NO, it's not a good idea.

You may make a few bucks on this one because you may have gotten in for less than it's value, but as a rule of thumb, you lose every time you turn over a classic car.

You never get all of the money you have invested back out of it. So, the next one will not be a good investment.

3. Murcie_LP640 Says: The '56 isn't exactly unique, and unless you're made of money restoring cars is not really a good idea in the first place.

Sell it, buy something cheap from the 90s and come back to a vintage muscle car when you think you have the cash to do it.

4. mccoyblues Says: All vintage cars are money pits. They all require constant maintenance.

5. mustanger Says: If by "Unique Ride" you mean another old car then you won't be saving anything. Restoring an old car is expensive regardless of the make, although some are more expensive than others. I restored a 1940 LaSalle Coupe back in the sixties and it was my only car for several years. I drove it cross country several times while I was in the Air Force. I have also restored a couple of old Mustangs and even drove one as daily transportation for several years. Restoration is an expensive hobby.

6. Howard L Says: Based on these Hemmings asking prices for 56 Bel-Airs you could sell it today with it's problems for a tidy profit depending on how much a few thousand is. Whether you sell it as is put it into good running condition you'll probably come out ahead.

Me, I'd sell and look for a more interesting car. Chevys are too common and I think their prices are inflated because of the nostalgia factor. So many people had one or wanted one. I never did.