When Is a Car Considered a Classic? (2024)

FAQs

When Is a Car Considered a Classic? ›

Classic Cars

A car is considered a classic in California if it's at least 25 years old, was manufactured after 1922, and is of historic interest. When a vehicle in California meets these requirements, the owner can register it as a historic vehicle, which will allow the car to use special license plates.

The requirements from when cars are classic cars. According to ADAC, a classic car is a well-maintained car or motorcycle with collector's and collector's value , which was first registered at least 30 years ago and shows no major defects or signs of wear.

Classic cars are at least 20 years old but not older than 45 years, while vintage cars are 25 years or older. Antique cars are even older, at least 45 years old. Keep these classifications in mind, as it can get even more confusing when searching for cars online.

California describes a “classic car” as a vehicle that is at least 25 years old.

For insurance and registration purposes, the age of a classic car, in most cases, is at least 20 years old but not more than 40 years old. If you are going to register it (and insure it) as a classic, it should have been kept to its original design and specifications.

In the tradition of cars becoming classics at the age of 25 years, we can now say that the 1990s are Classic with 1999 a comfortable 25 years in the distance.

Generally, the more affordable an older used car, the less dependable it is. However, you can find a reasonably reliable used car that's 10 years old. It may not be easy, but it is possible.

Classic car insurance is usually much cheaper than regular car insurance. According to Baily Insurance Agency, a classic car policy costs around $200 to $600 annually. If you own an abnormally expensive vehicle, your rates may be higher. In contrast, regular car insurance usually costs over $1000 per year.

How old is an old car? ›

State regulations and insurance company definitions vary, but generally, vehicles that are at least 20 years old and in good condition can qualify. Vintage cars are typically those from the early 1900s to the 1930s, while antique vehicles are usually over 45 years old.

Many classic cars are growing in market value, especially those with unique stories or limited production numbers. However, not all classic cars appreciate; some models are losing market value due to changes in collector preferences or market oversaturation.

But here's the caveat: in order to qualify for that antique plate, the vehicle must be at least 30 years old (sorry Philip, your S10 won't be eligible for another five years). Years ago, it used to be 20 years or older, but now it's 30 in Florida.

Antique car definition: Antique cars are more loosely defined as being at least 25 to 45 years old, depending on the organization.

Classic cars, which are 20+ years old, are used for just about anything – from pleasure driving, restoration projects and car shows. This classification encompasses a lot of muscle cars and sports cars.

Vintage items are much younger than antiques. These pieces are typically defined as being at least 20 years old but less than 100 years old. The term "true vintage" is a sub-category for items that are at least 50 years old.

A vintage car is one that was manufactured between 1919 and 1930. An antique car is any car manufactured in 1975 or earlier (older than 45 years old). The classic car is a vehicle manufactured in the 1990s or earlier (at least 20 years old).

How old does a car have to be to be a classic? The starting classic car age range can generally be anywhere from a minimum of 10 to 25 years old, but there's no agreed-upon minimum age that categorizes a car as a classic.