Condition Rating Scale for Classic and Collectable Cars
This scale is the common guide used in the classic car industry to rate the standard of quality in classic vehicles. This scale goes from a #1 (top condition), to a #6 (parts car). Most guides within the industry use this standard.
1) EXCELLENT: Restored to current maximum professional standards of quality in every area, or perfect original with components operating and appearing as new. A 95-plus point show car that is not driven. In a sense it has become an object of art. It is transported to shows in an enclosed trailer, and when not being shown, it is stored in a climate-controlled facility. There are very FEW # 1 cars.
2) FINE: Well-restored, or a combination of superior restoration and excellent original. Also, an extremely well-maintained original showing very minimal wear. Except for the closest inspection, a #2 vehicle will take the top award in many judged shows.
3) VERY GOOD: Completely operable original or older restoration showing wear. Also, a good amateur restoration that is all presentable and serviceable, inside and out. Plus, combinations of well-done restoration and good operable components; or a partially restored car with all parts necessary to complete it and/or valuable NOS parts. This is a “20 footer”, meaning that from 20 feet away, it may look perfect. In general, most of the vehicles seen at shows are #3’s.
4) GOOD: A driveable vehicle needing no or only minor work to be functional. Also, a deteriorated restoration, or a very poor amateur restoration. All components may need restoration to be “excellent” but the car is mostly usable “as is.” This is a driver. It may be in the process of restoration or its owner may have big plans for the car, but even from 20 feet away, there is no doubt it is in need of a lot of help.
5) RESTORABLE: Needs complete restoration of body, chassis, and interior. May or may not be running, but isn’t weathered, wrecked and/or stripped to the point of being useful for only parts. This car needs everything. It may be operable, but it is essentially all there and has only minor surface rust, if any rust at all. Although a challenge for the restorer, it won’t have him doing a lot of chasing for missing parts.
6) PARTS CAR: May or may not be running, but is weathered, wrecked, and/or stripped to the point of being useful primarily for parts. This is an incomplete or greatly deteriorated, perhaps rusty, vehicle that has value only to sell the parts or for other restoration projects.
Deborah West
Car Broker