We’re currently seeing technology advancing over the years and at a rapid speed, especially within vehicles. We’ve recently been introduced to driverless innovations, surround sound, heated seats and even self-parking vehicles. However, vintage cars can never be beaten for many people, as they’re designed differently, their flowing lines and curves are unlike the cars that you see today. Driving them alone, is completely different too, they require more manual work from the driver, which is why they’re favoured. Working with Acorn Stairlifts, Global stairlift retailer, we take a closer look at classic cars from around the globe…
Ford Mustang
The American Mustang, was originally manufactured in 1864, and the sixth generation of it 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 manufacturers wanted the model 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.
Value of today: £6,500 – £70,000 depending on model, condition and age.
Fiat 500
The Fiat 500 symbolises Italy, just like the Vespa and many tourists who want to explore the country, hire the 2007 version of the car. 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 car was originally designed to be small and affordable for everyone, and then the brand went on to produce other successful models over time, such as the elegant 525, economical 514 and the SuperFiat. The original Fiat 500, commonly known as Topolino, was launched in 1937. It stood out from competitors with a lowered aerodynamic nose profile whilst others had a flatter grille. Fiat went on to produce two further models of the 500, one in 1957 and the other in 2007.
Value of today: £4,000 – £50,000 depending on model, condition and age.
Mini
The British Mini is Iconic Britain, just like Buckingham Place and the familiar red double decker buses, Alec Issigonis originally penned the idea of the Mini on the back of a napkin 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 purpose of the motor, was to give passengers plenty of legroom whilst being under 10ft long. Achieving this, 80% of the car was devoted to passenger and luggage space. Since the boot was smaller, Mini came up with a solution to maximize 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.
In order to fit the compact engine into the vehicle, it needed to be placed on its side to allow it to be slid into the smaller, which the concept is still being used today when creating small 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.
Value of today: £1,000 – £40,000 depending on model, condition and age
Volkswagen Beetle
It still a mystery 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.
Originally built with strength in mind more than beauty, it’s iconic look is what make it sought after today. 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.
Collectors of Beetle, receive cars of different power depending on when the car was manufactured. Originally made with 24 horsepower, the model underwent many engine enhancements which left the car with a horsepower of 57 by 1970.
Value of today: £1,000 – £40,000 depending on model, condition and age.
A lot of collectors take pride in restoring classic cars – they often strip the entire vehicle apart and put it back together with revamped parts. The prices of each model range massively due to the quality of the vehicle, the mileage and the model — which one takes your fancy?
