Top 5 Places to Find Classic Cars for Sale in the UK: A Guide for US Buyers

Are you a classic car enthusiast in the United States looking to expand your collection with a unique British gem? The UK is a treasure trove of vintage automobiles, and with West Coast Shipping handling the logistics, importing your dream car has never been easier. Here are the top five places to find classic cars for sale in the UK:

Can you buy a car in Europe from the US?

Certainly, you can purchase a car in Europe while residing in the US. The procedure includes buying the vehicle abroad, organizing transportation to the export terminal or airport, shipping it by sea or air, and clearing US import customs. The good news is we handle everything apart from purchasing the car.

Keep in mind that to import cars to the US, your car must either meet the 25-year rule, show or display law, a track-only car, or must be an unmodified car that is returning to the US.

Top 5 Best Websites to Buy Classic Cars in Europe:

1. Classic Trader

Classic-Trader is a pan-European marketplace specializing in classic and vintage vehicles.

Why it's great for US buyers:

• Wide selection of classic cars from across Europe, including many UK-based sellers
• Detailed listings with high-quality photos and comprehensive vehicle descriptions
• Option to filter searches specifically for UK-based vehicles
• International buyer-friendly with multi-language support

Website: Classic-Trader

2. Auto Trader

While primarily known for modern cars, AutoTrader UK also has a substantial classic car section.

Why it's great for US buyers:

• Huge database of vehicles, including a dedicated classic car category
• User-friendly interface with advanced search filters
• Mix of private sellers and dealerships, offering a range of pricing options
• Ability to set up alerts for specific makes and models

Website: Auto-Trader

3. Car & Classic

Car & Classic is one of the UK's largest online marketplaces dedicated to classic and vintage vehicles.

Why it's great for US buyers:

• Extensive selection of classic cars from various eras and price ranges
• Detailed search options to help narrow down specific requirements
• Regular features and articles on classic cars, providing market insights
• Easy communication with sellers through the platform

Website: carandclassic.com

4. ClassicCars.co.uk

This website focuses exclusively on classic vehicles, making it a go-to resource for vintage car enthusiasts.

Why it's great for US buyers:

• Streamlined browsing experience with only classic cars listed
• Mix of private sellers and specialist dealerships
• Comprehensive listing details, often including vehicle history
• Option to save searches and receive email alerts for new listings

Website: classiccars.co.uk

5. Pistonheads.com

Piston Heads is a popular automotive enthusiast website with a robust classifieds section for classic and performance cars.

Why it's great for US buyers:

• Strong community of car enthusiasts, often resulting in well-maintained classics
• Extensive forums where you can ask questions about specific models or the buying process
• Diverse range of classics, from affordable projects to high-end collectibles
• Regularly updated listings with a good turnover of vehicles

Website: PistonHeads.com

Tips for US Buyers:

1. Research import regulations: Familiarize yourself with US import laws, especially the different types of import laws.
2. Budget for import: Factor in shipping, import duties, and transporting the vehicle to your door. Get an instant rate on everything using our Car Import Calculator.
3. Verify the car's condition: It is recommended to hire a vehicle inspection services done by professionals located near the vehicle Europe.
4. Check for rust: The UK's damp climate can be harsh on cars, so pay special attention to any rust issues.
5. Consider right-hand drive: Remember that most UK cars are right-hand drive. Ensure you're comfortable with this setup in the US. It does make for a unique driving experience!
6. Leverage West Coast Shipping: Take advantage of the expertise in handling the shipping and import process to make your classic car dream a reality.

How much does it cost to import a car from the UK?

The cost to import a car from the UK to the US can vary depending on the location of the car in the United Kingdom,  the purchase price of the car, shipping costs, import duties, and where we will deliver the car in the US.

On average, you can expect to pay between $2,750 to $3,250 for shipping in a container from the UK to the US. Import duties are generally around 2.5% of the car's value, plus the additional port fees. Get an instant rate to import your car from the UK, including import duties, by using our Car Import Calculator.