FIVE AFFORDABLE FIXER-UPPERS

Heard the phrase ‘rolling restoration’? Well, to be honest, it pretty much sums up the majority of classics most of us love and drive on a regular basis. Just to be clear, these are the cars that are perfectly safe and usable but still have a list of outstanding jobs needing a tick to bring them up to scratch.

Once the last bit of restoration or mechanical repair has finally been completed, you’ll have the opportunity to put the icing on the cake in the way of upgrades, accessories and modifications. Of course, instead of replacing like for like when carrying out a repair you may want to fit an improved or better than new part anyway – that’s OK as it will save you doing the same job twice!

When you hear the word ‘modify’ or ‘upgrade’ don’t make the mistake of immediately thinking it relates to performance, or the way a car handles. Often the most appropriate improvements will make a classic easier to maintain, more reliable or just easier to live with on a daily basis.

It’s easy to see the attraction of buying an inexpensive car in the first place then using it for a bit before tackling its impending restoration. If you’re on a limited budget it gets you behind the wheel without having to wait, so you can enjoy it while prioritising what needs doing. You can spend this time wisely, sourcing the parts you’ll require, sussing out the best suppliers, and learning the tips and techniques that will come in