Locating classic cars through the classifieds in newspapers and automobile magazines may be the easiest way but not the most fruitful. Though the trend is growing, very few owners really advertise their classics. Car clubs are approached informally to spread the word around but more often than not the influential members get the first choice to add the worthwhile ones to their already-large collection. This is one reason why so few cars get the attention and the exposure they deserve. The cars would be served much better in the hands of more enthusiastic owners who can focus better on the one or two they have.

Vintage and classic car shows and events are sometimes a good place to find a classic. However, deals are seldom struck as the enthusiasm of the occasion makes people indecisive. Make your intention clear and pursue the matter at a later date if you're serious. Towns that were popular during the days of the 'Raj' or the capitals of the large erstwhile princely states are likely places where cars might turn up.

Or, if you have the time and inclination, a trip through small mofussil towns may reap some rewards. Car dealers and workshop mechanics (the older the better) are usually the best bet for information on where a car may be found. Of course, the lead can take one into blind alleys and through much hairpulling but the end result can be truly satisfying.

Interestingly, for auto archaeologists, the place with the most interesting hoard, even today, remains Kolkata with a large number of cars for sale. However, locating them requires some ingenuity. Rajasthan, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh have been gone through with a fine toothcomb, with no bargains here.

Bangalore has a very active group of hobbyists who even have a number of marque clubs affiliated to the main club. Proper records and information on cars in and around the area can be found with them. There are also quite a few auto restorers, each specialising in a particular marque. MG is the most popular marque and the maximum number of MGs in India can be found here.

Bihar, Chattisgarh and towns like Allahabad, Lucknow and Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh still have some cars.

South India may have had fewer cars originally, but today there are more collectors there than in North India. The difference is that these collectors pay higher prices for cars, which are also in a better condition.

By and large, collectors hold information on the whereabouts of vintage and classic cars which are for sale close to their hearts and only a slip of the tongue may get you a tip.