Reading A Car Map

Confusing, right?

Auction sheets are the heartblood of overseas car buying. Without them, there would be no standardized way of knowing about a car. However, they're not easy to understand (at first). 


Well, since it's always good to know how to do things yourself, we though we'd help you learn how to read the most important part of the auction sheet: the car map.

To give credit it where it's due, this link is great way to learn about auction maps in general:

Reading Auction Sheets

We're not going to reinvent the wheel, so if you want to continue reading, you'll need to skim that link to have an idea of what we're talking about.

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With that out of the way, I'm sure there's one fickle question on your mind:

So, if there are other sites that tell you how to read auction sheets, what's the purpose of this post?

     Lets face it, we deal with old cars. We'll never be selling a car with an Auction Grade of S, 6, 5, or even 4 (for the most part), because cars like that are rarely 25 years old, and if they are they're expensive. It's a little alarming to see ratings that aren't excellent, but we want to clear the air about what you should expect.


Down below are a few examples of good, great, and amazing car maps. You probably already have a good idea of how the cost varies with each level, but a good thing to note is that I'd buy any of these cars (if I had my pants full of cash). Even the 'good' car maps are in great condition given their age.

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Examples of a Good Car Map

There are scratches/dents are all over the car, but mostly on the bottom, and only a few are rated at 3's (which are the ones that are really noticeable). There are some waves, but overall the car is in good condition for its age. Most of the damage is unnoticeable, but it's not immaculate. This kind of car can obviously be in better condition, but also be in much worse condition).
(also, the interior is in very good condition.)

Who can blame someone for driving their GT-R like it's meant to be driven?

While this GT-R is no garage queen, it is in fine condition. Scratches, waves, dents, and a replaced trunk.

Look at it though. Who cares?

Examples of a Great Car Map

The driver side fender and hood has been replaced, there are a few scratches and a couple dents, but overall the body and interior are in great condition. Compared to everyday cars, this NSX is great condition.
(but it's an NSX, who would ever let anything happen to it?)

Oh yeah, bringing out the big guns. Somehow the Land Cruisers that go through the auctions never cease to amaze me. This one has very minimal damage (and barely any miles). For a truck (or any kind of vehicle), this thing is in great condition.

Example of an Amazing Car Map

Good god... As you can see, this Ferrari F348 is in amazing condition. The car map is practically spotless. Usually cars as expensive as this are in a similar condition. Other than the enjoyment of showing such a beautiful car, this is a good example of a high level auction.

I'm just as surprised as you are...

There's not much to say here, because this car map is just amazing. This just goes to show that it doesn't have to be a Ferrari to have a spotless exterior, it just has to be taken care of the right way.

Hats off to whoever owned this Supra.

     The most important thing to do to understand car maps is to walk around you own car. Notice the scratches, dents, and/or waves. Think about what has been replace, and think about how your car would measure up if it was inspected. Put that into perspective, and it will help you realize how to interpret a car map.