10 Little-Known Facts About the Iconic Corvette

By Mike Thies, Certified Vehicle Appraiser

For over 70 years, the Chevrolet Corvette has stood as an enduring symbol of American automotive excellence. From its humble beginnings in 1953 to the high-performance beasts of today, the Corvette has cemented its place in history. While many enthusiasts know about its…

The 2024 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, now under the stewardship of Hagerty, marked a significant milestone in the event's storied history. Held from February 29 to March 3, 2024, at The Golf Club of Amelia Island and The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, this year's concours seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, attracting enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals from around the globe.…

The 2023 Werks Reunion was on site at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, held on March 3, 2023, was a resounding success, attracting over 700 Porsche vehicles and thousands of enthusiasts. This event, organized by the Porsche Club of America (PCA), has become a cornerstone for Porsche aficionados, offering a unique blend of camaraderie, automotive excellence, and a celebration of the Porsche marque.…

The History of SEMA’s Battle of the Builders

SEMA, founded in 1963, has been a cornerstone of the automotive aftermarket industry. Its annual show in Las Vegas is the premier trade event for showcasing the latest automotive innovations. Recognizing the need to highlight the creativity and technical expertise of custom car builders, SEMA introduced the Battle of the…

The Ridler Award: A Pinnacle of Custom Car Building

The Ridler Award, bestowed annually at the Detroit Autorama, stands as one of the most prestigious honors in the world of custom car building. Recognizing exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, the award has elevated the art and science of custom car design. Its history and significance offer a profound insight into the evolution of car culture and the dedication of its creators.…

Why Use A Professional Mechanic to Start A “Dead” Car

by Mike Thies, Certified Vehicle Appraiser

Luckily, “Dead” in this case doesn’t mean gone forever.  It refers to a car that may have been running fine at some point but has been left unattended, not started, for an extended period.  Museum cars, family estate probate, life demands; the reasons fill a long list of how this can easily happen.  Members of the International Vehicle Appraisers Network encounter this fairly…

Are Collector Cars a Good Place to Park Your Money?  By Mike Thies

In the world of investments, the idea of parking your money in tangible assets has always held a certain allure. Among these, collector cars stand out, blending the excitement of ownership…

Are Electric Vehicles Ever Going to Be Collectible? (Maybe Electric Exotics?) by Mike Thies

Rimac Nevera

The automotive world has always cherished collectible cars, from classic muscle cars to vintage European models.…

The Heart of the Show: Why Local Car Shows Thrive on Charity

Local car shows have long been a staple of community life, bringing together enthusiasts and the curious alike to…

The Future Of The Collector Car Hobby

The collector car hobby has long been a passionate pursuit for enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty, history, and engineering of classic automobiles. As we look towards the future, the hobby stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Despite challenges such as changing demographics, economic shifts, and environmental concerns, the outlook for the…

Nostalgia, Speed, and Family Fun: Exploring the Historic Sportscar Racing's Mitty Event at Road Atlanta

Nestled in the heart of Georgia's countryside, Road Atlanta stands as a beacon for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. For decades, this iconic racetrack has been home to some of the most exhilarating racing events, but none are quite as celebrated as the Historic Sportscar Racing's Mitty event. In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into the rich history of the Mitty, exploring…

In Georgia, the safety of children in vehicles is a top priority, especially after an accident. According to Georgia law, parents and guardians must adhere to specific regulations regarding child car seats following a collision. Understanding these laws is crucial for ensuring the continued safety of children in vehicles.

Georgia law mandates that if a motor vehicle collision occurs and a child safety seat is…

Supply Chain Problems with Classic Car Mechanics

By Mike Thies – Certified Vehicle Appraiser

The shortage of automobile mechanics to work on classic cars is a growing concern among collectors and enthusiasts. Classic cars require a unique set of skills and knowledge to maintain and repair, and there simply aren't enough trained professionals to keep up with demand. Let’s take a closer look at the…

The Origins of American Concours d'Elegance and Their Love of Brass Era Cars  by Mike Thies

Concours d'Elegance is a French term meaning "competition of elegance" and refers to a showcase of historic and/or classic automobiles. They have a long and rich history, with roots that can be traced back to France in the early 1700s. The first Concours d'Elegance was held in the gardens of Versailles, and it was a competition to determine which horse-drawn carriages were the most stylish and…

Get Your Diminished Value!  By Mike Thies

Diminished value refers to the loss of a vehicle's value after it has been in an accident, even if it has been repaired to its pre-accident condition. This is because a vehicle that has been in an accident, regardless of the extent of the damage, is considered less…

Collector cars, also known as classic cars or antique cars, are often viewed as a source of nostalgia and a symbol of the past, but they do not typically contribute to the carbon footprint in the same way that modern cars…

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Top 10 Tips on Making Money at an Auto Swap Meet

by Jeff Zurschmeide

"One of the Pacific Northwest's most prominent automotive journalists, Jeff's swap meet…