Laferriere Classic Cars

Laferriere Classic Cars is a small, owner-run dealer of antique and early classic automobiles based at 6 Lark Industrial Parkway in Greenville, Rhode Island. The business was founded in 2006 by Tom Laferriere of Smithfield, Rhode Island, who says on the company's site that what began as a hobby more than 40 years ago grew into a full-time business.

Who runs it

According to the "Meet Tom" page on the company's site, Laferriere's involvement with collector cars began in 1970, when his father bought a 1939 Packard, and he discovered Brass Era vehicles at age 12. After more than a decade managing operations at a manufacturing facility, he started the company. The site describes it as focused on acquiring and selling historically significant automobiles, and says Laferriere also advises both experienced and new collectors who are building a collection.

What they sell

The focus is pre-war American and European cars. Examples on the company's site at the time of research included a 1911 Buick Model 33, a 1913 Hudson 6-54 Speedster, a 1928 Packard 443 convertible coupe, a 1932 Bentley 8 Litre saloon, a 1934 Packard 1101 Rollston town car and a 1937 Cord 812 Cabriolet. Asking prices listed on the site ranged from about $34,500 for the Buick to $149,500 for the Cord. Inventory changes, so these are examples rather than a current stock list. The company also says it is looking for rare automobiles and motorcycles to acquire.

How the business works

The company lists buyer and seller services, including appraisal and sales representation, along with management and maintenance of private car collections. That suggests cars may be sold on behalf of other owners as well as from its own stock. Owners curious about that route can read about consigning a classic to understand the usual terms, then ask Laferriere directly how he handles fees and where the car is kept during the sale. The site also mentions restoration and repair work and worldwide shipping.

Storage

The company says it keeps inventory and collections in multiple storage facilities in Smithfield and the greater Providence area. If a car interests you, ask where it is located before planning a visit, since it may not be at the Greenville address.

Reputation

The site publishes buyer testimonials, several of which praise Laferriere's patience, honesty about flaws and willingness to arrange inspections. An outside review profile on Birdeye showed 3.7 stars from three reviews at the time of research, with one reviewer positive and another saying they would not recommend the business. That is a very small sample. As with any early car, get an independent inspection, verify the title, and have promises about condition put in writing.

Visiting Laferriere Classic Cars

The address is 6 Lark Industrial Parkway, Greenville, Rhode Island 02828, and the phone number is 401-651-2295. Hours are not published, so call ahead. For other cars in the state, see Rhode Island classic cars for sale.