Classic cars occupy a unique storage category. They're often worth more than modern luxury cars, but their value depends heavily on originality and condition—factors that storage directly affects. A classic with original paint and interior commands a premium; one with sun-faded paint and cracked vinyl is worth significantly less. Storage choices compound over years of ownership.

Many classic cars derive significant value from original components:

• Original paint (even with imperfections)
• Original interior materials
• Original chrome and trim
• Period-correct accessories

Once these degrade, "restored" versions are worth less than "survivor" cars. Storage that preserves originality protects value in ways that don't apply to modern cars.

Classic cars weren't built with modern materials:

• Single-stage paints (no clear coat protection)
• Natural rubber seals (degrade faster than modern synthetics)
• Chrome without modern rust inhibitors
• Leather without modern UV protectants
• Carburetors and fuel systems not designed for ethanol

These materials need more protection than their modern equivalents.

When a 2020 car's dashboard cracks, you can get a replacement. When a 1967 car's original dashboard cracks, you're either living with it, buying expensive NOS (new old stock) parts, or settling for reproductions that affect value.

Classic cars attract specific theft patterns:

• Targeted by collectors (willing to steal specific cars)
• Parted out by criminals (classic parts have value)
• Insurance recovery often incomplete

Security isn't just about preventing casual theft—it's about protecting against informed criminals who know what they're looking for.

What it offers:

• Temperature control (55-75°F typically)
• Humidity control (under 50% RH)
• Specialized security
• Often concierge services (battery maintenance, periodic starting, detailing)
• Insurance-grade facilities

Best for:

• High-value classics ($75,000+)
• Rare or irreplaceable vehicles
• Cars with documented original paint/interior
• Long-term storage (years)

Cost: $400-1,000+/month in Atlanta

What it offers:

• Enclosed building protection
• Better security than outdoor
• Reduced UV and weather exposure
• Not climate-controlled (temperatures fluctuate)

Best for:

• Mid-value classics ($25,000-75,000)
• Cars that are already restored (not preserving originality)
• Medium-term storage (months to a year)

Cost: $150-350/month in Atlanta

What it offers:

• Roof protection (UV, hail)
• Open sides (weather exposure reduced but not eliminated)
• Standard facility security

Best for:

• Driver-quality classics (meant to be used)
• Cars already showing wear
• Budget-constrained situations
• Owners who will check and maintain regularly

Cost: $75-175/month in Atlanta

Non-negotiable:

• Gated access with individual credentials
• Perimeter fencing in good repair
• Adequate lighting
• Limited access (who else can get near your car?)

Important:

• Camera coverage
• Audit trails of access
• Management presence or monitoring

Ideal:

• Facility specializing in valuable vehicles
• Other classics/collectibles stored (indicates serious clientele)
• Alarm systems
• Active monitoring

Always:

• Keep minimal valuables in the car
• Document condition with dated photos
• Have appropriate insurance (classic car policies, not standard auto)
• Keep ownership documents secure (not in the car)

Consider:

• Hidden GPS tracker
• Kill switch or battery disconnect (already good for storage)
• Steering wheel lock (visible deterrent)

Classic cars need more careful preparation:

Modern ethanol-blend fuel is terrible for classic fuel systems. For storage:

• Fill with ethanol-free fuel (available at some stations) if possible
• Add fuel stabilizer
• For carbureted cars, consider draining carb bowls for long storage
• Never let fuel sit for extended periods untreated

• Check coolant condition and protection
• Fix any leaks before storage
• Older cooling systems are more prone to corrosion

• Fresh oil before storage (old oil contains acids)
• Check other fluids (brake, power steering, transmission)

• Treat rubber seals with appropriate conditioner
• Check weatherstripping condition
• Note any seals that are hardening or cracking

• Disconnect or use maintainer
• Classic car batteries drain faster (older electrical systems)
• Check electrolyte level on non-sealed batteries

• Over-inflate slightly for storage
• Consider putting the car on jack stands for long storage (prevents flat spots, takes weight off springs)
• Old bias-ply tires are particularly prone to flat-spotting

• Classic interiors are attractive to rodents
• Remove all food, seal any openings
• Consider mothballs or repellents (don't place directly on surfaces)

Search "classic car storage Atlanta" or "collector car storage Georgia." These facilities specialize in valuable vehicles:

• Often affiliated with car clubs or enthusiast communities
• May have waitlists for premium space
• Ask for referrals at car shows and club meetings

Some RV and vehicle storage facilities offer indoor options appropriate for mid-value classics:

• Verify enclosed building is actually enclosed (not just covered)
• Check who else stores there
• Assess security realistically

If you have a garage and it's climate-suitable, home storage has advantages:

• Immediate access
• You can monitor constantly
• No monthly cost beyond your mortgage

But only if the garage is actually suitable—many aren't.

Oxford RV Storage offers covered storage that can work for driver-quality classics where maximum protection isn't required. For rare, high-value, or originality-documented classics that need climate control and collector-grade security, you'll want to explore dedicated collector car facilities in the Atlanta area.