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AN EXPERT car dealer who specialises in modern classics has revealed two “golden rules” to enthusiasts.

Petrolhead James Russell of has given his top tips in an exclusive chat with Sun Motors - including “the worst thing you can do” before purchasing the car of your dreams.

James Russell of The Motor Grid is the man in the know when it comes to modern classics
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James Russell of The Motor Grid is the man in the know when it comes to modern classicsCredit: The Motor Grid
The expert believes the best thing potential modern classic car buyers can do is to simply speak to somebody in person and they'll help you find the right motor
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The expert believes the best thing potential modern classic car buyers can do is to simply speak to somebody in person and they'll help you find the right motorCredit: Getty

James, who specialises in helping car fans find and buy modern classics, firmly believes "a little bit of knowledge can be dangerous" when you're researching for your next set of wheels, and advises buyers to "stay away from the forums."

He added: “The forums can be really helpful if you have a very, very specific problem with a car you own.

“But if you go into a forum to try and help you to make a decision on buying a car, it's probably the worst thing you'll ever do.

“But the best thing to probably do is actually speak to somebody in person, and they'll help you find the right car.”

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He also offers a little piece of seasonal advice that could go a long way in helping your beloved motor run for longer.

He said: “I think one of the other really important bits of advice would be for those people who've got a modern classic.

“The worst thing you can do is wrap them up for winter.

“You get so many people who have a car and they'll run it during the summer, every weekend, then they’ll wrap it up from September through to May the following year, and then they'll start it and wonder why it's not running right.

"They don't like it, they do not like to not be moved - they've got to be moved.

"So, you're asking me, how do I winterise my car? You don't. You don't winterise modern classics because they go wrong."

Car expert reveals two 'modern classics' drivers can pick up for under £10k

Meanwhile, James has revealed to us two modern classic motors that drivers can pick up "for peanuts" - including a £3,000 Porsche.

We also previously asked James to pick his "quintessential modern classic sports car", which he believes is the iconic Lotus Elise S2.

James says modern classic motors need to be run throughout the year and not stored away
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James says modern classic motors need to be run throughout the year and not stored awayCredit: Getty
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