PERSONAL CHOICE ALAN ESAM
It's 2021. The world is still in lockdown and thoughts turn to the car I've always wanted. With lots of time to spend on the internet it is easy to become familiar with the marque, the various models and prices. Eventually focus narrows to the model of choice: the Silver Spur. Before long, every example for sale in the UK, as well as others across Europe, is identified. I discuss my findings with my friend Dave Richards who has over 40 years motor trade experience. I'm anxious not to go into this purchase without proper background research, due diligence when viewing and the assurance of a knowledgeable and willing mechanic after purchase. Dave has experience of working on these cars and is willing to provide service as required. He's also keen for us to go together to look at as many examples as possible to make sure that we get a good one.
The first one we see sets the pattern. The photos on the internet look good. Email communication with the private seller gives the impression that it has been well maintained and cherished, and an online search confirms a history of regular MoTs. But when we arrive it doesn't take long to identify crash repairs, corrosion and mechanicalissues that require attention. We make our excuses and leave. The second car is offered for sale by a well-known independent specialist. They are happy to put the car up on the lift and from this perspective we can identify a number of issues and blemishes. When they are attended to it might be a different proposition, but as it stands we say we'll think about it. About now we begin to joke about the need to kiss a lot of frogs to find a handsome prince. We spread the net wider: London, the home counties, Lincolnshire, Yorkshire. We look at cars offered by dealers and by private sellers. We even look at other models that I find less desirable.
