Everyone,

My elderly mother-in-law is ready to part with a fantastic vintage vehicle, which she bought brand-new in 1955. I will not mention the details here, as I'm not clear on what the rules are. What I'd like is suggestions/opinions of the best way to market it.

My brother-in-law will be handling the sale, and I'm not sure if he's up to going the Ebay route, so what other approaches do y'all suggest?

Thanks!

Clover

 

A one-owner vintage vehicle in good condition can command huge money given the right make/model and the right audience and the right marketing. You might want to contact several auction houses (like Barrett Jackson) to get some ideas. Also try some exotic/specialty car dealers like Symbolic -- if they like the vehicle, they can floor it in their showroom on consignment. Also check websites like the collector car site on Autotrader.com for similar vehicles. After doing all these things, you should get some general idea of its value and then you can decide what to do.

fwiw, I don't think ebay would be a proper venue for such a vehicle.

Do your homework and take your time!

(Can't wait to hear what it is! :smile: )

 

It depends on the type of car it is. Does this car have a large following? If so, message boards such as these may exist for this car. Hemmings Motor News is a good resource, as is the on-line version.

 

Not sure if this is kosher, but here's the info: 1955 X140 MC Jaguar Roadster. It's black with black leather interior, and it was totally restored about 12-15 years ago. I'd have to look at her records to see when that was done...and she has all the manuals and complete maintenance records, too! Get this: 52,883 original miles!!!! HA HA HA HA HA!!!

This is so classic: she only drove it locally in Pacific Palisades, and rarely, up Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu! Hubby says she would drive him to elementary school in it once in a while! :smile: I have ALWAYS coveted this car!!! It is spectacular!

Thanks for the great suggestions! I sure appreciate it. I am so attached to the car that it's painful for me to see her sell it. The end of a wonderful era, for sure.

Clover

 

Clo,

First contact the Jaguar owners club in her area, I'm sure there is a local chapter. (Maybe this link? http://www.lajagclub.com/) An XK 140 is a very special beastie, that would best be served by other like minded keepers. (Even Roy has forgiven the cat that mauled him, so we know that these people exist.) Perhaps the shop that restored the Jag should be contacted too, as it is probable that the owner has a list of patrons who are interested in such a vehicle. I would avoid the auction route for two principle reasons: 1) It's currently a "muscle car" market, fine European sporting machinery is just not properly appreciated by the guys looking to re-live high school in GTOs, Mustangs, and 442s; and 2) too many cars lacking provenance are typical auction queens. You have a unique vehicle here with a one-owner, low mileage history. That in itself is worth a premium to a knowing buyer. Too bad I collect MGs and not Jags.

MGC

 

Wow (former '56 XK140 Hdtp Cpe owner here).

Old XK Roadsters in good shape have been known to fetch big bucks - esp. if it's a "rust free" car.

Good luck!!

 

:smile: Thanks, everyone, for all the great suggestions! I'm forwarding all the info over to my brother-in-law, who will be handling the Jag's sale. And she has ZERO rust! She's been covered and in a carport since Day One. And the paint is still pristine. I know we'll find someone who will love her and care for her properly!


Clover

 

The Jag sold within twelve hours of being listed on Craig's List (and no picture)! Sold to a collector who flat-bedded it out, showing the proper respect for the gorgeous beast!

:smile: Thanks to everyone who offered suggestions for how to market her. :smile:

Craig's List ROCKS!

Clover

 

Great to hear that the Jag has a new, sympathetic and appreciative keeper.

Clo,

Time to celebrate with a some of Napa Valley's finest.