Classic cars in Florida are the best choice for hobbyists who want their vintage cars in peak condition. Because of the state’s temperate climate, classic cars in Florida are not subject to the harsh environmental conditions of those in the northeastern and western states. Even the highest quality body work and paint jobs can be ruined by the elements, and environmental conditions can be extremely difficult to predict and control. Here are a few of the pitfalls you avoid when you buy classic cars in Florida.

Cold Temperatures – bodies, coolants

States on the upper east coast are often subject to extremely cold temperatures which can wreak havoc on restored automobiles. For instance, car batteries are always less efficient in the cold. While newer cars’ batteries may stand up well in freezing temperatures, older models often fail to start.

Also, older cars’ coolant systems are less advanced than those found in automobiles produced today. Even with modern antifreeze and lubricants, old transmissions can easily become clogged and sluggish. Finally, cold temperatures – as well as frequently changing temperatures – can shorten the life of tires by causing them to expand and compress. Replacing parts on contemporary vehicles is expensive enough, but finding parts for classic cars can cost a fortune.

Snow

Frequent snows in cold states greatly increase the risk of rust on classic cars. Many collectors prize their automobiles’ authentic steel bodies, but metal can easily corrode when it comes into contact with water. Snow can hit warm cars, melt, and cause a great deal of winter-time rust damage.

Road Salt

Most states with high annual snowfalls also have effective salting teams for clearing their roads. While road salt certainly makes streets safer to drive on, it can be horrible for restored automobiles. Salt acts as a catalyst in the chemical reaction between iron and water, accelerating the rusting process on original steel car bodies. Any classic car that’s been heavily driven in the snow has likely suffered more than its fair share of rust damage.

Extreme Heat

The dry heat of dessert states is horrible for both the look and performance of classic cars. Exposure to the hot sun causes paint to fade, peel away, crack, and bubble. Even the upholstery of cars can fade or become excessively dry in high temperatures.

As for performance, the cooling systems of older cars are often ill-equipped to handle extreme heat. The hoses which feed essential lubricants and coolants to the engine and other critical components can crack or melt during the hot summer months. Classic cars from extremely hot states often require additional work and replacement parts to mitigate such heat damage, and they may even need entirely new paint jobs.

Dust and Sand

The excessive dust and sand found in dry climates can easily damage a classic paint job. Over time, small particles can scratch away paint and gloss, causing a car’s color to fade. Dust can also make its way into the engine and other critical components. Classic cars which have spent years or even decades sitting in dry states may have accumulated a great deal of dust damage.

Avoid these headaches and get a restored automobile that will look and perform the way it’s supposed to. Buy your classic cars in Florida – the perfect weather is as good for vehicles as it is for people.