The cars of today, are constantly being fixed with the latest technology and modernised design. We’ve been introduced to driverless innovations, luxury heated systems, advance audio system and even self-parking vehicles. However, many believe that classic cars cannot be beaten. They were designed differently – their flowing lines and curves are unlike the cars that you see today. Their drive alone, is different too – original cars required more manual work from drivers, which is why they are favoured. Global stairlift manufacturer, takes a close look at classic cars from around the world…
Ford Mustang – America
The Ford Mustang was originally manufactured in 1864, and the sixth generation of the vehicle is still being sold today. The ‘Stang started the ‘pony car’ craze in America — a collection of vehicles which were affordable, sporty and had a performance-oriented image. This class of the car was aimed towards the younger market, rather than the traditional car buyer and it proved popular. In fact, 22,000 sales of the model were made on its release date.
The model was designed to not be like any other car. This was achieved through its sport coupe silhouette and short rear decks. The generations that came after the ’64 version seemed to become wider and longer in size, yet still remaining as popular.
The original Mustang, is believed to be the models between 1964 and 1972. This encompassed vintage models such as the Boss Mustangs Lineup, Shelby Mustang and the Cobra Jet.
Depending on model, age and condition – the value of them is between £6,500 and £70,000.
Fiat 500 – Italy
Like the Vespa, the Fiat 500 is a great symbol of Italy and the 2007 version of the car gets hired by many tourists to explore the country in style. Fiat has produced many products that weren’t related to the automobile industry, such as aircraft engines and military equipment during World War II. Their first car rolled off the production line in 1900 and, in the same year, their manufacturing plant was established which lead to the production of 24 cars per year.
The Fiat 500 was originally deigned to be small and affordable for everyone, the brand then went on to produce other successful models, such as the Fiat 514, 525 and the SuperFiat.
Depending on model, age and condition – the value of them is between £4,000 and £50,000.
Mini – Britain
The Mini is synonymous with Britain, just like Buckingham Palace and the red double decker bus. Just like a storyline from a movie, the design of the car was penned out on a napkin in a restaurant by Alec Issigonis in 1956. By 1959, the car had been launched, named the Morris Mini Minor at the time (known as simply the Mini ten years later) and it went on to become the best-selling British car in history.
The aim of the vehicle was achieved – to provide passengers with legroom, whilst remaining under 10ft long. In fact, 80% of the car was devoted to passenger and luggage space. Since the boot was smaller, Mini came up with a solution to maximise on space. The company offered the extra option of picnic wicker baskets which fit perfectly underneath the rear passenger seats and were ideal for transporting belongings from A to B.
Innovation had to be used in order to fit company engine, the vehicle needed to be placed on its side in order for the engine to slide into the smaller space – a concept that is still being used today when creating smaller vehicles. Wheels on other cars at the time were generally around 15 and 16 inches, those on the Mini however were a tiny 10-inches to maximize interior space.
Today’s value: Depending on model, age and condition – the value of them is between £5,000 and £50,000.
Volkswagen Beetle – Germany
It’s not clear on why the Beetle got its name. The first time the reference was used in print was in a 1958 edition of Autosport magazine and the use of the term continued to grow. Built either side of World War II, it took a while for the Beetle to gain popularity. Just as the first few cars were manufactured in 1938, the war begun, and the factory was used for war efforts instead. It wasn’t until 1947 when people finally got behind the wheel of the automobile.
It originally built with strength in mind more than beauty, however it’s iconic profile is what attracts people to it. One of the features that many collectors love is the original split-rear window design that got replaced by a single oval window in 1952. Unlike smaller vehicles that were around at the same time, the Beetle accommodated for four adult passengers with plenty of storage beneath the seats and in the boot.
Depending on when the car was manufactured, Beetle collectors receive cars of different powers. Originally made with 24 horsepower, the model underwent many engine enhancements which left the car with a horsepower of 57 by 1970.
Depending on model, age and condition – the value of them is between £1,000 and £40,000.
A lot of vintage car collectors take pride on restoring classic cars – they often strip the entire vehicle apart and put it back together with revamped parts. The old car models in India are a treat for all those classic and vintage car enthusiasts who would like to explore the old cars around the world. The prices of each model range massively due to the quality of the vehicle, the mileage and the model — which one takes your fancy?
