Accessorize

By David Scott

We have been personalizing our sports cars since the first ones rolled out of the factory, each owner adding their own little touches. Some of these add-ons made the cars quicker, while others added some practicality. Either way, they all made the cars as unique as the owners driving them.

A slew of accessories can still be purchased for your favorite classic. Sometimes, however, the hard part is just figuring out where to start.

Mirror

Side-view mirrors didn’t become a federal requirement until the 1968 model year, so up until then owners and dealers got to make their own choices. The popular options are still available, including the stem-mounted Lucas style, as well as the popular bullet-shaped model. Often less than $50 each.

Wind Wings

Interior too windy for you and your companion? A period-correct solution still exists. No drilling required, either. About $70 to $105 depending on application.

Steering Wheel

They might not have always come from the factory, but a wood-rimmed steering wheel just seems so right in a British classic. Moss carries steering wheels from both Moto-Lita and Tourist Trophy. Starting under $300 plus the hub.

Key Fobs

The cheapest, most basic ring will do a fine job of keeping your keys together, but doesn’t your classic deserve something with a little more class? Cloisonné and leather key fobs still look the part. Usually less than $10 each.

Shift Knob

Cloisonné-topped shift knobs in either walnut or vinyl still look and feel great. Plus installing one couldn’t be easier: screw off the old one and then spin on the new one. About $25 each.

Badges and Bar

It’s amazing how some chrome and cloisonné can instantly tell one enthusiast so much about another—favorite race track, car club affiliation and even heritage. About $20 to $60 per badge, about $100 for the badge bar.

Lights

Today’s auxiliary lights can put the sun’s power on your front bumper, but they’re not going to look right on a chromed-bumper classic. You want something with just the right amount of chrome. Starting at less than $100 per pair.

Tonneau Cover

Keep out the leaves, twigs and prying eyes with a tonneau cover. Fabric choices include British Everflex vinyl—a perfect match for the original pieces—as well as Sun-Fast canvas. About $300 to $700.

Luggage Rack

For decades chrome-plated tubular steel trunk racks have helped make weekend getaways possible. Choices include replicas of both the factory optional racks and the Amco offerings. About $250 to $400.

Exhaust

Give your favorite classic a bit of a snarl with a sport exhaust. Options include heavy-gauge steel and polished stainless. Starting around $300.