Selling a classic car online successfully hinges on meticulous preparation, strategic pricing, and high-quality presentation. The core process involves gathering all documentation, determining a fair market value, choosing the right platform, and creating a compelling listing with professional-grade photos and an honest description. Rushing this process is the most common mistake that leads to a car sitting unsold or selling for less than it's worth.
Your first step is arguably the most important: documentation and valuation. Gather every piece of paper you have—the title, maintenance records, restoration receipts, and any original factory literature (the "build sheet"). This paperwork, especially for a numbers-matching car (where the engine, transmission, and other major components are original to the vehicle), significantly boosts value. For pricing, don't just guess. Consult valuation tools from Hagerty or NADA Guides and research recent sales of similar models on Bring a Trailer or Hemmings. This research provides the data needed to set a competitive, realistic price.
Next, select the right platform. General sites like Facebook Marketplace can work for more common classics but may attract less serious buyers. Dedicated classic car auction sites like Bring a Trailer are excellent for unique, high-quality vehicles and create a competitive bidding environment. Hemmings is a longstanding authority ideal for a wide range of classics. Your choice should match your car's rarity and value.
The listing itself is your sales pitch. Photography is non-negotiable. Hire a professional or use a high-quality camera. Shoot on a clear day, against a neutral background. Capture every angle: the complete exterior, interior details, the engine bay, the trunk, and—crucially—any imperfections or areas needing work. Honesty builds trust. In your description, tell the car's story. Mention its history, notable features, recent work, and what makes it special. Avoid hype; stick to facts. Finally, be prepared for inquiries. Be responsive, knowledgeable, and willing to schedule a pre-arranged, safe inspection for a serious buyer.
| Valuation Factor | High-Value Example | Impact on Price |
|---|
| Originality (Numbers-Matching) | Original engine, transmission, and body | Can increase value by 30-50% or more |
| Documentation | Complete ownership history, restoration receipts | Increases buyer confidence and value by 10-20% |
| Condition (Concours vs. Driver) | Concours: show-ready; Driver: mechanically sound but with flaws | Concours can be 2-3x the value of a Driver-quality car |
| Rarity and Desirability | 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda vs. a more common model | High-demand models can command auction premiums well above guide values |
| Recent Major Service | Full engine rebuild, new paint job within last 5 years | Justifies asking price, assures buyer of minimal immediate costs |
