11th May 2016, 13:06

Don't agree with almost all of your comment. Define long periods. I have had cars for decades with minimal annual mileage. If you drive a car for 20 minutes straight every 2-4 weeks it should serve you well. You do not need to be on an interstate to open a thermostat.

Neglect is another matter. New cars are not immune to accelerated wear from dusty road conditions and extended fluid changes. I have bought elderly individuals' cars. Many are meticulous and save every single receipt. They hear a noise or something doesn't seem right. And it's at a shop. They often sit and wait while they are fixed. They are retired. I know this as I had a relative with a shop. I bought one that stands out a 1990 Bonneville from a gentleman with cataracts. He simply could no longer drive. A really great car. If you do shop for one, check the records. Some of the nice people I met liked their cars well enough to even name them! These are cream puffs.

I have been trying to buy a 1970 Chevelle Convertible from an elderly lady for years. A one owner car just a small block automatic. My guess is a grandchild will end up with it. But she knows I love this car. Very clean and I know how well it's kept up. These are the type of cars to find. Ask your parents that go to senior centers if any of their friends may be selling a nice one. I agree, pass on ones sitting in a back yard with tall weeds growing around them. I would still rather find a well kept low mileage one than 100000 miles plus to start out with. I have cars with low annual miles that are fine. Fluids are fresh. My main concern is brakes, flat spotting of tires and even clutches depressed. And drying out seals. A brief run a couple of times a month works well. Using a battery maintainer keeps them completely charged. A couple dryer sheets in the cars to deter mice. Which I never have had. Always good to go.