Autobarn Classic Cars

Autobarn Classic Cars is a classic car dealership, consignment house and collector car storage facility in Concord, North Carolina, about 10 minutes north of Charlotte Motor Speedway. It operates from the Gibson Mill complex and sells a broad mix of American and European collector cars. This profile summarizes what the business and public records say about it. It is not affiliated with Classic Cars Arena.

Who they are

According to the company's website, Autobarn was started by a couple of Charlotte-area car collectors, and its stated mission is to give owners a simple way to market a collector car to a mass audience. The Better Business Bureau lists a business start date of June 9, 2006 and names Joe B. Liles as the owner. The company's own site says it has been in the classic car business for more than 21 years, which fits that timeline.

How the business works

Autobarn mixes dealer sales with a large consignment operation. Many of the cars on its floor are owned by private sellers who bring them in, and the company says it handles the phone calls, emails and negotiations. It says it advertises on selected automotive sites and social media, and it can help arrange shipping to the buyer's location. Buyers can also ask about financing help, an extended protection plan and insurance through a partner, and the site lists a service center, detailing and a Car Finder request form.

What they sell

The showroom is described as an indoor space of about 80,000 square feet that includes sales floor and storage. The company says the stock runs from investment-grade classics and muscle cars to exotics and custom builds, with restored American cars, European classics and performance collectibles all in the mix. A recent featured listing was a 1961 Austin-Healey 3000. Because the stock changes constantly, check the current inventory for what is on the floor.

Consigning a car

Autobarn publishes its process. Owners schedule an appointment and bring the car with a clear title, a driver's license for every owner on the title and the VIN location, and the car should be showroom ready. The company says consigning is free with no hidden fees, and that its commission comes from pricing the car above the amount agreed with the owner. That structure is the dealer's own description, so confirm the agreed net figure in writing. Our guide to classic car consignment fees explains how these arrangements usually work.

Storage and events

The facility doubles as indoor storage. The company lists about 60,000 square feet of secured storage with a security system, reinforced roll-up doors and a fire sprinkler system, plus a wash and detail bay. Call for rates and availability. It also offers a 1,700 square foot club room that car clubs can use, free of charge once an event is approved.

Reputation

Autobarn is a BBB Accredited Business, accredited since January 2021, with an A+ rating. The BBB page shows one complaint closed in the past three years. The company is also listed on major classic car marketplaces. As with any dealer, evaluate the individual car, the paperwork and any inspection report before buying.

Visiting Autobarn

The showroom is at 320 Sign Dr NW, Suite 100, Concord, NC 28027. The website lists hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Phone numbers listed are 704-788-2765 and 800-650-1055. To see more cars nearby, browse North Carolina classic cars for sale.