Just got a call from my Father in VA that I have been one of a few appointed people from his church(small) to help out on a donation problem.
A elderly gentleman just donated 9 cars to the church to sell for a donation to the church fund. The general condition of the cars are either restored, partially restored, or need repair(2 of them). They consist of the following:
1- Model "A"
2 1929 Chevrolets
1 1931 Chevrolet
2 - Early year Ford Thunderbirds with both tops and all accessories. They didn`t give me exact years but the with both tops makes me assume they are real early models and the mention of opera windows.
1- 55 Chevy
1- 53 Ford
1-early model MGB

They plan on starting the cleaning out of the barn mid Nov and taking inventory, cataloging loose parts, repairing flat tires and etc to prepare for sale.
My question is where is a good source to get values on the cars, parts and etc due to varying condition, rarity and etc. The last time they were looked at the lowest value priced on one of these was 3,000 dollars so I assume they are good condition at the least. The area where they are located in VA is in th boonies to say the least so I`m pretty doubtful there are any locals that deal in this. I was chosen for my ability to work on the mechanicals of the cars but really have no idea of what these older models are worth. Any online, published or links to any sites would be greatly appreciated in this area.
I wish they were just giving them away because I would LOVE to have one of those early Thunderbirds. If its a good enough price or I can work a deal out with the church for one I may have to get it as a weekend project toy

Thanks Guys

 

Having completely restored a bone stock 1953 chevrolet, i can tell you that parts for old chevy are everywhere. I have 21,000 in my chevy and it pays off when shows roll around
My advise--if the 55 chevy is a truck-get it. It would be even better if it has the original 265 V-8. The 55 chevy is easy to get parts for. If you have a frame and a cab, you can buy every other part needed for a resto. I mean anything from rechromed bumpers to weatherstripping, bed panels to original colored spodemetor needles. I would love to have a 55 chevy so if its a truck, that would be a good investment if youve got the time and money set aside for it.
you can also get parts for the 31 chevy also.
If you have ANY questions on old trucks, i have plenty of info to share. Email me at;

bigpat_98@hotmail.com

 

NADA and Kelley Blue Book both have websites

 

You could spend a few weeks on eBay noting how much similar condition models are going for right now. You'll also be able to find any parts you need there.

There are 52 Model A auctions and 65 collectible T-Bird auctions right now.

 

The first year of the T-Bird was 55. My uncle just sold a mint '57 a year ago for around $35,000. Just to give you an idea of what they're getting.

 

Grab a Hemmings off the magazine rack. One of the best guides on prices of parts for antiques and classics.

 

I agree with Dennis. Pick up a copy, there will be 10 to 20 of everything you have to sell in there and probably at least one of the same year, same options, same color.

Here is their web, not as much info as the hard copy but, they do have a Board like this one with about 1800 members.

http://www.hemmings.com/

 

Also try www.hmn.com and www.classicar.com. Both great sites.

 

Thanks for all the help, and links and guides to look at. I forgot about the Hemmings books on these.
Hopefully one of the T-Birds or the 50s cars are in good shape or in partially restored shape. I`m already thinking project car to buy and work on. They said today I could get first dibs on one if I help to get them all sale ready and running then maybe we could work out a deal of some sort . Looks like I know where all my spare time is going to be spent for awhile...playing in the barn!!!

 

You know, this is the kind of thing classic car fans always dream about. Finding something squirreled away in a barn somewhere. You're living their dream!

Keep us informed. A lot of us love these old cars and if we can't have one of our own, we sure do love to hear about them.

 

UPDATE

Its been a long time since I last mentioned these cars but here is a example of what they look like. This car is the first 100% completed car we did. It just came back from a top repair and is being driven by my father at this time. All of the other vehicles, except 1 are close to this shape.
Have an offer from a car club out of state to come look at them and maybe buy the whole lot of them and the parts scattered throughout the barns. Still can`t believe the guy just donated them to the church to sell for building fund. Found out he didnt want his son in law to get ahold of them recently....guess its another reason maybe not to **** of the in-laws.

Hopefully we can get the Thunderbirds out and start them next.