Questions & Answers from
Tom Krefetz of Classic Showcase
QUESTION 1 from Jack T. in Mesa, AZ:
I am retired and have always desired a beautiful British classic not unlike what I have seen in your inventory. Is now a good time to purchase a blue-chip collectible classic given the state of the economy?
Tom's Answer: Purchasing a high-quality classic car is not only an excellent investment, but an enjoyable asset to have as well. While there are no guarantees with investments, the last decade has shown tremendous appreciation growth for many classics such as Jaguar and Porsche. Furthermore, many investors with an appreciation for rare, valuable commodities have made the high-end Blue-Chip collectible cars as a valuable part of their portfolios; and in addition to appreciating investment values, many collectors may even find that their greatest reward from the hobby comes from the experience of simply owning and maintaining the vehicle!
QUESTION 2 from Roger S. in Burbank, CA:
My E-Type has been off the road for nearly 20 years, and I have been considering having Classic Showcase perform a comprehensive restoration to the car. Dependability is my main goal, as I am not interested in showing the car at this time. Is now the "right time" to have a service such as this performed?
Tom's Answer:
Yes, absolutely - and here's why: the costs of materials and parts involved in restorations and servicing continue to rise; as such, time is of the essence. XKE values have remained stable over the last several decades, coupled with the fact that it is getting more difficult to find restoration-worthy examples.
QUESTION 3 from Gerald A. in Lake Tahoe, CA:
I am a long-time British car collector from the Bay Area of California that has recently retired and relocated to the mountains of Lake Tahoe...I have a collection of a dozen classics that I am interested in consigning, but would very much like to see go to the proper home. Does your company assist in the selling of entire collections such as this?
Tom's Answer: Yes. We have decades upon decades of professional experience to assist you with the proper marketing of your collection and will ensure that it goes to the right market. Our team has extensive experience in marketing these special cars to a network of worldwide collectors who are just as passionate about the hobby as you are. In addition, we feature numerous other avenues of exposure, including our complimentary quarterly newsletters, videography and photography services, a vast database of passionate collectors, and also work with numerous clubs and related organizations to help stay abreast of market conditions and follow trends. We can accommodate whatever your marketing goals may be, with a tailor-made package created just for you and your vehicles. We are completely committed to marketing your vehicles to the proper parties that will cherish these cars, just as you have.
QUESTION 4 from Diane S. in Chicago, IL:
Hello, I have 1962 Jaguar Mark II that belonged to my father for many years and am interested in getting a cosmetic restoration to the car; a friend who is in a local Jaguar club and serious about the hobby recommended Classic Showcase to perform such a service. What is the next step in starting this process?
Tom's Answer:
Thank you for inquiring about our services! Many of our clients and customers are located out of state and country, and routinely and regularly ship their vehicles to us for restorations, annual servicing, and Concours preparation; Our team has decades of experience in these endeavors and will guide you through the entire process. We'll begin by finding the right transporter for your vehicles, then immediately perform a detailed 4+ hour evaluation upon arrival. We'll then supply you with a detailed report along with pictures that will discuss our recommendations for your vehicle. We inspect and test-drive all vehicles before returning to their owners, to ensure their pride and joy is running, driving, and operating as it should.
QUESTION 5 from Pete M. in Memphis, TN:
I have an XK-150 and noticed that it is hard for me to steer my car when I am in the middle of parking it. Can I add power steering to the car? I also have a bench seat in the car, but would far prefer bucket-style seats...are these kinds of modifications possible?
Tom's Answer:
Yes, electric power steering is an option that can be added to your XK-150. You can even adjust the sensitivity, and it’s a great product. We do not recommend you install it yourself. We recommend a professional install it for you.
Bucket seats will give you a more controlled, and comfortable ride. They can be trimmed in any color you want, and more foam can be added for extra padding, or we can even make a lumbar support pillow for the passenger's back.