Replacement Value vs. Actual Replacement

[RedRoad]

Ive been thinking of changing over to Classic Car insurance and have heard of some horror stories when not going with agreed value policies.

The issue I am faced with is the condition of my vehicles. None of them are restored but are survivors and are in preservation status, to the untrained eye they are rust buckets but to me they are rare specimens with desirable options with well earned patina. Out of the dozen or so vehicles I own there are only three I consider keepers. 1972 K20 Suburban, 1965 C10 Carryall, and a 1963 VW Deluxe Bus.

Because I use them as regular daily drivers I am more concerned with actually being able to replace the vehicle regardless of which insurance I end up with.

For the VW finding a replacement in similar condition is not an issue but the cost would be at around $50K

The K20 is a bit more difficult to find in similar condition but at least Ive seen a few for sale in the last year for $20K or there about

The C10 has some nice options and took me the longest to locate even 20 years ago. I think I can find one for around $10K but the options would be the issue (V8, 4 speed, factory A/C, 3.73 posi, 8 seater) even though its the "ugliest"

Ive been lucky by not being in any accidents or losing one to theft but what bothers me is actually being able to actually find a suitable replacement in the event of loss.

I know replacing my rust free, accident free survivors will be extremely difficult at best unless I insure for double current market value especially if I want the same factory fitted accessories/options.

I would like to hear what others have done in the unfortunate situation of loosing a cherished vehicle and if they were able to get an equivalent replacement or did you just take the cash and move on.