5 Common Mistakes When Buying a Classic Mustang

Buying a classic Mustang is an exciting experience for any car enthusiast. Whether you’re planning on buying a First Gen or a Fox Body, the purchase process is often fraught with potential pitfalls that can ruin the experience if you’re not careful. In order to start your classic Mustang restoration journey on the right foot, it’s important to get the right car, at the right price, from the right seller. Here are the top five mistakes you should avoid when buying your first classic Mustang.

1: Taking On Too Big of a Project

While it may seem like a satisfying challenge to transform a dilapidated Mustang into a showpiece, it's crucial to be realistic about your capabilities and resources. Overestimating your mechanical skills or underestimating the restoration cost of a severely deteriorated vehicle can turn your dream project into a financial and logistical nightmare. Before committing to a purchase, you should take inventory of your available resources and skills. If you're not a professional mechanic, it's best to start with a car that's in relatively good condition to get the most out of your restoration experience.

2: Limiting Your Search Locally

Many buyers restrict their search to a close radius around their home, often missing out on better deals or more suitable options. Especially in states prone to rust, like Pennsylvania or Ohio, looking for a Classic Mustang outside your local market can yield Mustangs in better condition or at more reasonable prices.

The logistics of picking up a purchased Mustang from a different state can be challenging. Utilize options like renting a U-Haul, hiring a transport service, or enlisting a friend's help to mitigate some of the headache. Ultimately, the time and money you’ll save by finding the perfect deal will likely help you more in the long term than avoiding the hassle of transporting a new purchase upfront.

3: Buying Sight Unseen

Never purchase a classic Mustang without seeing it yourself or having someone you trust inspect it. Photos and videos can be deceiving, intentionally or not. An in-person inspection can reveal issues that are not apparent in pictures. If the seller is reluctant to facilitate an inspection, it could be a red flag that they're hiding something.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of scammers out there ready to rip you off. Inspecting the car is one of the best ways to avoid scams and ensure you’re getting what you paid for. It can also be a good opportunity to meet the seller and ask questions about the Mustang’s history and find out more about where it came from and how well it’s been cared for.

4: Settling for the Wrong Car

While it’s important to keep factors like price and availability in mind, settling for a subpar classic Mustang will often lead to dissatisfaction later in the process. You might think you'll be happy with a different model or engine, but the reality is that these compromises can lead to regret and a lack of connection with the car.

Hold out for the Mustang that truly matches your desires, whether it's a specific model, body type, or engine configuration. This will help your restoration project feel more personal to you and help improve your investment in completing the goals you laid out.

5: Skimping on Research

A classic Mustang is a significant investment, so thorough research is key. It’s important to understand exactly what you want, be it a Fox Body or a first-generation Mustang. Some great ways to research are to engage with car clubs, online forums, and car shows. When you find a potential purchase, verify its history. Use VIN decoders to confirm its originality and ensure it hasn't been improperly modified or misrepresented.

Be sure to research the value of the Mustang you want to purchase as well. This will help ensure that you get a fair price. It’s also important to know what parts came stock on the Mustang you’re researching. This will allow you to identify any aftermarket additions or replacement parts before you make a purchase.

Empower Your Classic Mustang Restoration with High-Quality Parts

Purchasing a classic Mustang should be a well-considered decision. Avoiding these common mistakes can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling ownership experience. Remember, the goal is to find a classic car that not only represents a piece of automotive history but also brings you satisfaction in your restoration journey.

If you need help restoring your classic Mustang, we have all the parts you need to get started. Check out our huge selection of replacement and aftermarket parts and ensure your classic Mustang restoration is a smooth and enjoyable experience.