Classic Lady Motors is matchmaker for classic cars

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Matchmaker on Wheels Classic Lady Motors Connects Buyers and Sellers in Lake Norman and Beyond

Deborah West is a modern-day matchmaker . . . for classic cars. With 18 years of experience working with classic car buyers and sellers, the Cornelius resident and owner of Classic Lady Motors has served as an automotive matchmaker for classic car enthusiasts from Lake Norman and points much farther down (or up) the road.

West keeps a database of classic car collectors looking for buyers, and buyers looking for their perfect car. She also helps sellers market their vehicles without having to use an auction or showroom. Through her global marketing expertise and the buyers network she has honed over nearly two decades, West has built a reputation as solid as the classic cars that she calls “rolling works of art.”

The Louisiana native got started in the business after September 11, when businesses were making cuts. After being let go from her technology sales position in Illinois, she started selling antiques, jewelry and other items on eBay. When a neighbor approached her about putting his rare classic automobile on her site, she was game.

After that car sold, she thought to herself, “I’d like to sell more of these cars. This is fun.” Her neighbor was more than happy to put his ten-car collection in her hands, since the internet had proven to be cheaper and more efficient than driving to an auction, getting a room, trailering the classic car, and everything else that goes into traditional sales.

After moving to Cornelius in 2003, West bought a 1970 Cadillac DeVille convertible, drove around to cruise-ins, and offered to help people sell their classic cars. Within four years she was managing 150 automobiles.

People are emotionally attached to their cars— especially the classics. One of West’s favorite transactions was when a couple flew in from California to buy a 1955 Dodge Lancer to celebrate 50 years of marriage. The Dodge was Deborah West matched this 1955 Dodge Lancer with a happy couple celebrating 50 years of marriage.

identical to the one the husband owned when the couple was dating. West recalls, “When he got in the car he said, ‘Honey, this is great. I feel like I’m pulling up to your grandfather’s farm and picking you up for our first date.’” And just like that, the match was made.

For West, who also works as a realtor with Allen Tate Realtors, the stories behind the cars keep her job from feeling like work. “I’ve sat down on many front porches with the sellers just to hear their stories.” — By Grace Kennedy, Photo of Deborah West by Dr. Andy Pipas.