The Austin-Healey Sprite or MG Midget is a good choice as a usable classic and would be a sensible starting point for a novice classic owner as it is easy to maintain.

May 1958 saw the launch of the Austin-Healey Sprite in Monte-Carlo and the launch photograph was re-enacted by the Austin-Healey Club at the 2008 Classic Motor Show at the NEC, Birmingham, UK.

During the model life the Spridget developed steadily but was never a fast car in standard form. However the availability of inexpensive tuning parts made it a popular choice and gave it a successful competition record.

Sound knowledge is key to successful purchase of a classic car. Know the car, price ranges or specification, and set up provisional car loan and insurance arrangements.

Thorough Research and Expert Specialist Support Are Sound Insurance

Many checks needed when buying a classic automobile are the same as those that should be made when purchasing any used car. Due to the age of the vehicle and the cost of correcting faults the checks should be more diligent than for a modern car.

Except for most pre-wars cars there is not a standard definition as to what constitutes a classic car. Does it matter that there is no clear view?

For very old vehicles, typically built before about 1930, there are clear definitions. Vintage (before 1905), Edwardian (1905 to 1918) and Veteran (1919 to 1930) all have formal, and widely accepted, definitions. It is similar elsewhere with Classic and Full Classic in the USA.

Few books out of print for twenty years get a second chance. Fortunately Culshaw and Horrobin has; Veloce are to be commended for republishing such an important work.

A Review of The Definitive Guide by David Culshaw and Peter Horrobin

Specialist classic car insurance is recommended when insuring cherished vehicle as owners' needs are very different from those insuring modern automobiles.

Commuting and Everyday Use; Considerations For Running a Classic Car

Classic cars, especially younger ones, can be viable everyday transport. However the driver does have to be aware of limitations and have realistic expectations.

Cars benefit from frequent use particularly when it is long enough to bring everything up to temperature. Short trips cause disproportionate wear and tear on all systems from the battery to engine lubrication so using a classic car every day appears an attractive option..

Choice of Classic Car for Everyday Use

The younger the classic the more like a modern car it will be. Everyday use needs a model that can keep up with modern traffic especially in terms of acceleration, braking and cruising speed. Many cars from before the 1970s were not happy cruising at typical European motorway speeds of 70mph or more for extended periods; many early post-war cars would barely reach that speed.