Business booming among classic cars.

IT'S been a tough year for new-car sales - but business has been booming on the classic motors scene.

A well-preserved classic car has proved a better investment than money in the bank in these troubled times, and top-notch examples have increased massively in value.

Andy Rouse, manager of the upcoming 2009 Classic Motor Show, says: "A well-restored and maintained classic isn't a risky purchase in terms of depreciation, and it's a lot more fun and far better looking than a bank statement!" The event, being held at the Birmingham NEC from November 13-15, is the place to start looking for a classic. There will be hundreds of traders present, and Rouse says experts will happily pass on their knowledge to anyone new to the nostalgia-motoring scene.

But many people simply like to turn up and browse, or take in the authentic settings that enthusiasts stage around their cherished wheels - as evidenced by the surge in visitor numbers over the last two years.

The November 2008 event saw a 9% increase in the gate, and dealers sold more than 20 classic cars as the banking crisis began to gather pace.

For 2009, the old-timer British luxury saloons out in force will draw the crowds - these are the more sedate, V8-engined cousins of America's raw-muscle cars.

For more information on the 2009 Classic Car show, go online to www.necclassicmotorshow.com. Adult ticket prices range from pounds 16-pounds 23 depending on the day.