Picked up from Hagerty (US) website is a valuation tool for the 948cc Triumph Herald Convertible – complete with detailed descriptions of the criteria looked for in making these valuations. This criteria could be used when looking to purchase a Herald Convertible, Saloon or Coupe or indeed any classic car. Apologies in advance for the american spellings.
Condition #1 vehicles are the best in the world. The visual image is of the best car, in the right colors, driving onto the lawn at the finest concours. Perfectly clean, the car has been groomed down to the tire treads. Painted and chromed surfaces are mirror-like. Dust and dirt are banned, and materials used are correct and superbly fitted. The one word description for #1 cars is “concours.”
Valuation: $15,800 (£10,400)
Condition #2 cars could win a local or regional show. They can be former #1 cars that have been driven or have aged. Seasoned observers will have to look closely for flaws, but will be able to find some not seen by the general public. The paint, chrome, glass and interior will all appear as excellent. No excessive smoke will be seen on startup, no unusual noises will emanate from the engine compartment. The vehicle will drive as a new car of its era would. The one word description for #2 cars is “excellent.”
Valuation: $10,400 (£6,850)
Condition #3 cars could possess some, but not all of the issues of a #4 car, but they will be balanced by other factors such as a fresh paint job or a new, correct interior. #3 cars drive and run well, but might have some incorrect parts. These cars are not used for daily transportation but are ready for a long tour without excuses, and the casual passerby will not find any visual flaws. “Good” is the one word description of a #3 car.
Valuation: $6,400 (£4,215)
Condition #4 cars are daily drivers, with flaws visible to the naked eye. The chrome might have pitting or scratches, the windshield might be chipped. Paintwork is imperfect, and perhaps the fender has a minor dent. The interior could have split seams or a cracked dash. No major parts are missing, but the wheels could differ from the originals, or the interior might not be stock. A #4 car can also be a deteriorated restoration. “Fair” is the one word that describes a #4 car.
Valuation: $4,100 (£2,700)
The ‘average’ price is coming out as $6,884. (£4,535)
Other interesting things to note is the prices are quite static and have been since 2008. 2007 saw a good increase in prices, with the ‘spike’ levelling out since then. The highest ‘peak’ for a Condition 1, 948cc Convertible was in January 2011 where the price reached $16,200. (£10,675)
https://www.hagerty.com/valuationtools/HVT/VehicleSearch/Report?vbe=92190
US $ to UK £ exchange rates correct as of Nov 2015.
