FAQ - Questions and Answers
What advantages does the Czech Republic have compared to other Eastern European countries?
The industry of Czechoslovakia/Czechia/Czech Republic/Czech Republic developed during the Austrian monarchy. After the First World War, mechanical engineering, metalworking, textile, glass and shoe industries were among the most modern industries in the world. Even today, the automotive industry is a mainstay of the Czech economy.
What language is spoken in the Czech Republic?
The official language is Czech, which differs from Slovak in pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary. Czechs born after 1990 speak English in most cases. Y. O. R. has German as his mother tongue at home.
What is actually correct - Czechoslovakia, Czech Republic, Czech Republic…?
On January 1, 1993, two new, sovereign states were founded. The successor states of Czechoslovakia are the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. The term Czech Republic comes from the 20th century and was only used in German-speaking countries. The official term used today in German is Czechia.
Can I pay in the Czech Republic with euros?
The national currency is the Czech crown / CZK. The Czech abbreviation is Kč. Euros are only accepted in tourist centers, very often with unfavorable exchange rates. The exchange rate has fluctuated in recent years between 1 € = 22 CZK and 1 € = 27 CZK. Y. O. R. Cost estimates and invoices are issued in euros. Exchange rate fluctuations have no influence on the restoration costs.
Who are historical figures from the Czech Republic?
First and foremost Ferdinand Porsche, Daniel Swarovski, Hans Ledwinka and Tomáš Baťa. Franz Kafka, Sigmund Freud and Adalbert Stifter are still known around the world today.
https://www.google.cz/books/edition/Die_Welt_der_Slawen/1x1AAAAAYAAJ?hl=de&gbpv=0
How long does it take to get to Prague and what connections are there?
Due to its central location in Europe, Prague is easily accessible via numerous road, rail and air connections. The distance between Düsseldorf - Prague is 720 km, Berlin - Prague 350 km, Nuremberg - Prague 297 km and Munich - Prague 382 km. The city of Prague is always worth a visit, regardless of whether you are coming from North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony, Bavaria or Hamburg.
Can you advise me on choosing a youngtimer or a vintage car?
Y.O.R. has many contacts, not only in German-speaking countries, but also in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and many countries in Eastern Europe. We also have connections to various clubs and access to club members' vehicles. This also helps us to procure spare parts.
Are vintage cars from before 1950 different from newer models?
Given today's traffic density and demands on driving comfort and safety, vintage cars from before 1950 are only of very limited use due to their low engine power, 6V lighting, high steering forces and weak braking power. The maintenance and repair costs are also considerably higher.
Does driving a classic car involve preparatory work?
For those who are not technically savvy or do not want to make time-consuming preparations before each trip, it is advisable to stay away from vehicles built before 1950. There are also many vintage cars built between 1950 and 1965 that are completely unsuitable as "daily drivers" and require a lot of maintenance even for occasional trips.
Can I use a classic car as a daily driver?
Yes, in most cases vehicles from 1965 onwards are still suitable for everyday use today. When choosing your classic car, consider the performance of the engine, braking and steering behavior, as well as the heating and ventilation systems. Air-cooled classics are anything but a comfort zone in the cold season.
https://www.classicandsportscar.com/gallery/20-classic-cars-make-surprisingly-good-daily-drivers
What do I have to consider when it comes to the body of a classic car?
One of the most obvious aspects of a classic car is its exterior appearance. Look for rust spots, dents and scratches. Also check the fit of body panels, such as doors and hoods, to determine if the vehicle may have suffered accident damage in the past.
What do cracks in the paint of a classic car mean?
Cracks are not uncommon in historic nitrocellulose lacquers, but in modern lacquers cracks are a sign of poor quality bodywork and/or the use of too much filler to smooth out bumps.
https://www.google.cz/books/edition/Karosserie/1txL0AEACAAJ?hl=de
What do I have to consider in the interior of a classic car?
The condition of the interior provides an indication of the general care of the vehicle. Check the condition of the seats, dashboard, carpets and door panels for wear or damage. A well-maintained interior is often an indicator of a careful previous owner.
What should I look for in the engine of a classic car?
Look for evidence of regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil, checking the cooling and heating systems, spark plugs, air filter and other wear items. Look for obvious leaks, cracked hoses or porous seals. Check the oil; it should be clean and in sufficient quantity. A short run of the engine can also help you detect any unusual noises or oil consumption.
What do you have to pay attention to when it comes to the transmission of a classic car?
Make sure you understand how the transmission works. Be sure to test overdrive or selectable gear ratios and locks. Look for signs of wear, such as jerky shifting, loud noises or leaks. A thorough check can help identify hidden problems. Some older types of transmissions are often expensive and difficult to replace and repair.
Is underbody protection important for classic cars?
A look under the vehicle can tell you a lot about its condition. Look for rust or damage to the frame, exhaust system and shock absorbers. Rust is also a big problem here, as it can affect the safety of the vehicle. Fresh underbody protection is not a sign of rust-freeness. Often, botched work, rust and holes are hidden from the eyes of the TÜV and potential buyers under thick layers.
How does the cooling system work in classic cars?
In most cases, classic cars do not have a self-contained cooling circuit. Therefore, pay attention to the radiator level and coolant. Make sure that the water pump is tight and running quietly. Also check that the cooling thermostat and the radiator fan are working properly.
What do I need to consider when it comes to tires and rims for a classic car?
Check the condition of the tires for cracks, uneven wear or worn tread. This may indicate problems with the suspension or alignment. The rims should not be damaged and must fit the model.
Can the electrics in a classic car cause me problems?
Yes, many and expensive problems. Test all electrical components such as headlights, indicators, dashboard lights and radio. Check the condition of accessible cable connections and fuse boxes. Electrical problems can be difficult to fix and indicate larger hidden problems. A cable fire can lead to the total loss of the classic car.
What else do I need to pay attention to when buying a classic car?
Chrome and other attachments are particularly important when buying a classic car. Chrome is susceptible to rust, especially if it is damaged or chipped. Check all chrome surfaces for signs of rust. Many classic cars also have painted attachments. Check these for their condition and originality. Replacing chrome is expensive. If there is damage, don't forget to negotiate the purchase price.
https://www.google.cz/books/edition/Der_perfekte_Kauf_Oldtimer_Youngtimer/aJBAnwEACAAJ?hl=de
How important is the history, the documentation of previous restorations and the previous owners of a classic car?
Check to see if there is a complete history that includes repairs, previous owners and any restoration work. A professionally done restoration can increase value, while a poorly done job can lead to future problems. A vehicle that has changed hands frequently could indicate problems that are not immediately apparent.
Should I insist on a test drive in my dream classic car?
A test drive is essential. Pay attention to the driving behavior, noises from the engine and transmission, the function of the brakes and the steering. Unusual driving behavior can indicate major problems. White smoke from the exhaust is an indication of leaks in the cooling system. Bluish smoke indicates incorrect adjustment of the carburetor or injection stops, dark to black smoke indicates increased oil consumption due to high engine mileage.
Should I obtain market value and price comparison when purchasing a classic car?
Find out about the market value of your desired model. Prices can vary greatly depending on rarity, condition and originality. A comparison with similar vehicles can help you determine a fair price.
What does “Matching Numbers” mean?
For many collectors and enthusiasts, the originality of the vehicle is of great importance. The so-called "matching numbers", i.e. matching serial numbers of the engine and chassis, can significantly increase the value of a classic car. In general, check whether important parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, the transmission and other essential components, are original.
What is the supply of spare parts for classic cars like?
Before purchasing a classic car, research the availability of spare parts and general maintenance requirements. Some classic cars can be expensive to maintain due to rare spare parts or special maintenance requirements.
Should I seek an expert opinion when purchasing a classic car?
Don't hesitate to take a professional along for an assessment, especially if you are unsure. A professional inspection can avoid costly surprises. Y. O. R. will be happy to advise and help you in the search and selection of your classic car!
How can you estimate the restoration costs of a classic car?
The restoration costs of a classic car or a youngtimer can only be estimated or based on experience of Y. O. R. Classic car workshop. Only after the paint has been removed from the body can the true condition of the sheet metal be seen. Investing in a complete restoration can also make sense if you have a strong emotional connection to the vehicle. These classic cars can bring back the feeling of your youth.
Are vintage cars a good investment?
Please note that the increase in value of classic cars has known no limits for years, but not all models follow this trend. Properly restored and well-maintained vehicles can prove to be a good investment in the long term. And they are definitely fun!
https://www.google.cz/books/edition/Verm%C3%B6gen_und_Luxus/mLnqngEACAAJ?hl=de
I can't find the right classic car for me. Can you help me?
Y.O.R. has many contacts, not only in German-speaking countries, but also in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and many countries in Eastern Europe. In addition, there are connections to various clubs and we also have access to vehicles belonging to club members. This also helps us to procure spare parts. No matter whether you have a weakness for Porsche, Wartburg, Bentley, Borgward, Mercedes or Jaguar. And if you want something exotic, such as Panhard, Walter, Singer, Tatra or Aero - then you are also at Y. O. R. in the right place.
https://www.google.cz/books/edition/T%C3%9CV_Rheinland_Handbuch_Oldtimer/iu_yjwEACAAJ?hl=de
Should I buy a started or abandoned classic car restoration project?
Be very careful with such classic car projects. It is almost impossible to check whether the parts are complete or missing. The same goes for the quality of the work already carried out, the materials used and the spare parts. And be careful: a large box full of all the screws from the classic car is evidence of amateurish restoration work. You pay for the sorting and allocation of the screws, not the seller!