I had a great & painless experience buying a car from John at Cardiff Classics this past weekend. Bought a beautiful 2007 MB SL550 off the lot and instantly fell in love with the car. John and office manager Katie referred Penfed as my credit source and I was approved immediately for 100% financing of an 11 year old car! On the first evening of ownership driving my new car to San Marcos, I saw that the Check Engine light along with an SRS warning appeared on the instrument panel worrying me that his car was not everything that I was told it was. I took the car to European 101 in Solana Beach so Adam could detect these problems with his scanner. I had called John at Cardiff Classics, who spoke with the owner Tom who was out of town and they offered to work with me to overcome any buyers remorse created by these two warnings. I own a business in Cardiff and I love doing business locally with small independent businessmen. Cardiff Classics won my confidence and I would highly recommend their fine cars and services. Most importantly, their ethical business means of displaying customer goodwill is trustworthy. Please consider Cardiff Classics when investing towards your next vehicle purchase. I'm glad I did! Steven King Cardiff Reef Wealth Management, INC. read more

Tom and his team get the job done and are very easy to deal with. I was referred to Cardiff Classics from a "real deal" local shop. Tom knows his stuff and made a few moves on the car, all things I wish I would have come up with. Anyways, bring these guys a legit Car and you can say "goodbye" to it. read more

Cardiff Classics - Car Dealers Near Me - Encinitas, California

Total scam artist. Sold me a complete lemon of a truck. It's actually relisted again for sale on their website for more than I paid for it. 55k for a Green/white cheyenne k10. Don't buy it ! The description is a lie. It hasn't been fully restored!!! Its an oil leaking rust with bondo throughout the entire body, the white 2 tone isn't even paint, it's a vynal wrap. The rust has also been painted over. Thr guages in the dash do not work, the turn signal isnt even present on the steering column and the AC does not work. They were forced to take it back and give my bank the money back because I refused to transfer it to my name. Tom discouraged me from coming out there to pick the truck up myself because he knew I wouldn't buy it if I had seen it 1st. My mistake for taking his word, he is 100 percent a lier !!!! Do not buy anything from them without seeing it 1st hand and in person. Inspect every aspect of the vehicle from top to bottom before you give them a cent !!!! I will follow up on every site that allows me to give an honest review from one end of the internet to the other to warn people of this shoddy scam artist. Also.... read the Google reviews, I was not their 1st victim!!!!!!!!!!! Below I have provided the photos from their website and the photos of the truck from when I recived it. Also the vehicle description from their website. All lies. It's relisted at $55,000 read more

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I recently had a similar experience as many others. The Salesman is rude, bitter, and darn right nasty. He's looking for a fight. It was actually kind of shocking. Like, what's with this guy. At last count I have owned over 50 cars. My next car will not come from this place. I can spend my money elsewhere. read more

I would definitely use them again. They did exactly what they said they would do, and got the job done. Actually, they got it done after a larger place in LA couldn't. Thanks Tom and team. read more

Although I have yet to buy a classic car here, I truly enjoy driving by or walking by and looking at the incredible selection of truly fine motor cars. I almost feel like I'm looking at Bill Harrahs car collection in Reno. I'm sure he would buy a ca here. They have all flavors too. Rolls, Bentley, Corvette, Jaguar, Mecedez, etc. Always something new to look at everytime I go by. Stop in or just drive by, costs nothing to look and you will be wowed too. read more

A great dealership in North County San Diego with a very eclectic inventory. You never know what will show up on the lot. Brent is a very helpful and knowledgeable salesman, and Jose knows how to detail with the best of them. read more

Cardiff Classics - F430 @ Cardiff Reef - Car Dealers Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Take this for what it's worth... from Seth. (My feelings about your comments)...from RogerG It always amazes me when someone posts their comments in a socalled constructive criticism way. I have such a difficult time understanding the person's reason for doing so. What did your critical comments prove? Did it help Cardiff Classic's image in your estimation, or did it simply amplify your self importance. As the old saying goes, "He is a legend in his own mind" seems to fit your comments perfectly. As for me, each time I pass by Cardiff Classics, it amazes me how wonderful and pristine the store and the vehicles appear to be. They rekindle so many wonderful and nostalgic memories for me and I thank the Cardiff Classic's ownership for doing the job so well. The Cardiff Classics Store represents the best in my thoughts each time I pass by. read more

I always look forward to a Cardiff Classics drive by . They have a SUPER eclectic blend of high end gems. This place will get any motorhead's juices flowing!! These guys know their cars, know their worth, and know whats up! read more

Loved looking at the cars in this place over the years and just went in to see what they had available. The guy in the office invited us to come up to the top and have a look. There was one car with a cover and we simply picked up the cover to look what it was. He came out and blasted us for picking up the cover and proceeded to be very rude. Told him he never told us to not touch and he began arguing with us. I just sold my business and was looking for a classic car to buy. I will never set foot in this place again. He could of just asked politely and left it at that. Can't imagine buying a car from this guy and having a problem. read more

Buyer beware. I gave Cardiff Classics a $5,000 deposit late on a Friday afternoon and told the Salesman (John) that we would work out the details the following week. When we were not able to come to terms, Cardiff Classics refused to refund my deposit. read more

Went into the lot to look at a Shelby I've had my eye on for a while. We were invited up to the top lot to look at the cars. My wife looked under a covered car to see what it was and we were yelled at by a guy I assumed to be the owner of the lot. He screamed at us to get the hell out of there and the exchange became heated. I have never been treated so poorly by anyone in any business. I was a qualified buyer that could have written a check for any car on the lot, including the covered one which allegedly was worth 250k. the heavy set guy that so rudely yelled at us needs to take an anger management course and take his meds. You would have to be out of your mind to do business with this place. Dan B read more

Awful experience. Walked into the lot today and started asking about a Corvette Z06 for the wife who was with me. Big old guy on the lot started selling us on the 650 horsepower motor but when I jokingly commented that it wouldn't beat my 720 HP Hellcat, he got offended and changed on us. As he waddled back to his office he started talking smack and even got heated. Needless to say we're not going to be doing business with this guy and I would suggest he take a course in customer service and manners. Total jerk. read more

I cannot say enough good about this place of business and especially John, who helped us purchase our new 1974 beautifully restored VW van. Not only was John fun and pleasant, he was also knowledgeable and SO helpful. We were in a rush and didn't have time to stay and buy the car that day, and this is when they really went the extra mile. Even though they aren't open on Sundays, John drove the van all the way to our house in downtown San Diego just to be sure it fit into our garage BEFORE we even purchased it! He also had all the paperwork ready to go so all that was left to do was to sign some papers and write a check. We hate the lengthy process of buying a car and he could not have made it easier-- and we absolutely love our gorgeous new, classic ride. It is already the talk of the neighborhood! A great big THANK YOU to both John and the owner of CC for working with us, and reminding us what good service is! It's too few & far between these days and so refreshing when you do come across it. We will come up and visit anytime! I felt like I not only bought a car but made a friend. Thanks John!! read more

Just purchased my dream car from this classic car lot. This is a fun place to check out the great selection of cars, but I was even more impressed by the service. My salesman John was very easy to work with. Like buying a car from a friend not your typical "used car salesman". Katie in the office was very professional and these two together made it painless to part with my cash. read more

I bought a car from Cardiff Classics, Inc. I trusted them as they seemed okay. Big Mistake. They did nothing on the DUE LIST before it was shipped. I contacted BBB (they are not affiliated), then CA Atty Gen Off. In Sacramento, then Dealer Investigations Unit of CA MVD who advised them to give me the title to the car, since I had paid the full amount for the car. The owner Tom, got nasty with name-calling, threats, etc. read more

Great place to buy a quality, cared for and unique car. Owner's is very honest and sincere, I had a good experience. Perfect location right off the 101. Quality dealership... read more

I bought a 2003 Porsche convertible from them for my birthday in May. I really appreciate all the help with my crazy decision making. The owner let me take it to my mechanic to test beforehand which really sealed the deal for me. Great buy and great service. Thanks Mike and Katie for working with me and my husband. read more

What a wonderful place to buy a unique car. The staff there are very knowledgeable, and go out of their way to answer all your questions as completely as possible. I'm not sure where the previous reviewer got their information, but this is one of the most stand up places I have ever done business with. Congratulations on a job well done read more

My 2014 BMW Bergundy convertible is my 3rd car dealing with Tom and John...that Porsche I accidentally bought from them...is the best car I have ever had...John is the salesman...and Tom is the owner. Any questions! I think not...keep your paws off the cars...be polite...Your dealing with very smart Men...Thank you John...I won't get rid of the Healey...now that one is my car....It is like Hitz in the "Great Escape"...Tom is the Man. Chuck Stout read more

We must be dealing with a Jekyll and Hyde. When returning to look at one of the cars with the serious intention of purchasing, the salesman became very annoyed at our asking any questions. He was extremely put out and rude. I have never seen a sales person treat customers like this. If the owners of these cars on consignment could have seen the way he treated us, I'm sure they would take their car somewhere else!!! I totally agree with Pat H. and other negative reviewers. read more

When you go to a high-end, classic car dealer, you might not expect the Maserati treatment when you're buying a three-year-old MINI Cooper. But that's just what I got from Tom and Brent. I couldn't be happier with my purchase or the easy and respectful dealings from these guys. The car is pristine! I drove all the way down from LA to get my car, and I think each of the 100 miles each way was worth it. read more

I've been dealing with Cardiff Classics throughout the years - bought and sold cars throughout the years. I do change cars every year - LOL. They make my expensive hobby very pleasant - I must say! They are very knowledgeable about every little technicality involved and making sure the next buyer takes ownership of a very well maintained high performance vehicle. I highly recommend Cardiff Classics for their expertise, customer service, and product knowledge. Simply put - they are my resource for my love and hobby of luxury vehicles. Thank you for being number one! Jacklyn read more

John it was a pleasure speaking with you today and i look forward to doing business with you once I figure out what I want. You guys have some beautiful cars on your lot. read more

What an awful experience!!!! I have been wanting an antique car for a few years. My husband and a friend decided we should go take a look. We were Yelled at for lifting a cover that we all assumed was to protect it from the sun to see what it was. Their name is Cardiff Classics but there is absolutely NO CLASS!! I have never been treated so rudely in a place of business as this. Who ever the elderly man was needs to go in for some serious anger management classes. It wasn't as tho I were a young person just playing around, I am a 62 year old woman who has the means to buy but would never consider doing business with such a classless establishment. read more

Please beware of Cardiff Classics. I restore and collect first gen camaros. I was driving by and saw a beautiful 1969 camaro in their lot. I started checking the car for rust and it was in great condition. HOWEVER, it was listed at 89,999. I was interested in the car but not at that price. I went into the office where the salesman sat, I kindly asked him about the car and if he could tell me more about it. He didn't know anything about it. I asked why the car was going for so much with a non-original motor and if he could get back to me with the info... He started getting snide when he realized I wasn't just a young guy and I knew what I was talking about. He asked me what I thought the car was worth, I said 45,000. He laughed and said, "you're just a young punk ass that doesn't know anything." One month later, they dropped the price of the car over 30,000 dollars and it still hadn't pawned it off on anybody yet. If you are looking for a fair deal on a classic car and do not have a lot of knowledge on them... PLEASE DO NOT COME HERE. There are a lot of crooks down the coast but I do highly recommend Jaimie at Wheels of Steel off Encinitas blvd and Coast hwy. Happy car hunting! read more

Negative if possible! These guys sold me a broken car at a premium price. First off i was tricked by their contract, Next a week later all my check engine lights come on and my catalytic converter is now bad but they can fix it for 800 dollars. Then i find out my heater vents dont even work, more money. The premium audio video system that was in the car, a major upsell point also doesnt work! They wont help with anything , class A scam artist scum bags! they also jacked up my dmv registration costing me more money too. read more

See my original review below. This part is in reference to a "review" that ended up getting filtered (click on "filtered" at bottom of page) Hi Roger... I read my original comments and then re-read your reaction... I'm not being facetious but I'm not 100% sure you are referring to my review. I didn't claim to be constructive. My purpose for writing the review was (as I think Yelp is intended for) to give people the straight poop on a business. I had a real experience there that I relayed because there are a lot of businesses out there that it would be nice to be warned about. I think they present a nice product and it's nice to see what they've got when I drive by... "take it for what it's worth" implies that they might do a bang-up job with their cars, sales, service, etc. but the employee that I spoke to was verbally passing a car off as something that it wasn't. And I have no idea where your accusations about my self-importance are derived from. Sorry!!! read more

We also had a very bad experience purchasing a car from Cardiff Classics. They horribly mis-represented the condition of the vehicle. In order to drive the car safely we had to take it to two specialized mechanics at a cost of $1,800 and still needs more work done on it. One example of mis-representation was the false statement they had the car pre-checked and had all its past mechanical records. All they had was one page of the cosmetic work they did to get the car ready to sell on their lot, e.g.,. new tires. According to car experts this car was over priced by about $6K. They never gave us the promised discount. The never got the required smoke check for the car. The owner was completely detached and not interested. Very poor customer service. I would not recommend anyone do business with this dealer. read more

Buyer beware...I bought a car here, flaws in the car were intentionally hidden, I was told by all staff that the car goes through a full inspection and detail at a local specialty shop before its delivered. The car was delivered with a filthy air filter, badly in need of an oil change and is now leaking oil all over the garage floor. The carburetor is so gummed up the car does not run right and is in need of having the carburetor removed to be cleaned, the car needs of a full tune-up, all things I was promised would be addressed. The car actually was misrepresented as to what it was as a classic car. I fully intend to file a complaint with the BBB and state DMV. For the guy who just does not understand someone writing a bad review, you must be daft. Just because you had a good experience, no one else could possibly have a bad one, what planet or country are you from ???? This is why they have reviews and I stand by what I say and can show you pictures of the oil leak, dirty oil and filter the intentionally hidden damage just to name a few issues with this car. Worst purchase I ever made at the worst dealership I have ever done business with! read more

Very unhelpful. If your doors are open, you should be ready to serve potential customers. The customer service experience today was non-existent. You lost a potential customer and sale. read more

I purchased a Mercedes SL500 from Tom in November. The car is absolutely perfect! No dents, no flaws, no problems. The price I paid was very reasonable, and competitive with other cars I was looking at. Cardiff Classics was very laid back and no pressure. I have to admit that I was hesitant to buy from a small used car dealer. You hear horror stories all the time. All in all, this was a very nice experience, and I will gladly recommend my friend to Tom. read more

I had great experience buying my classic car , Tom went out of his way to make this deal worked and kept his word on the price he gave me. read more