When does a car become a classic car?

When thinking about classic cars lots of images spring to mind of wedding days and old films. However, when does a car become a classic car?

It is defined differently by different people. In the UK there is no official definition however we can use the tax they are eligible to pay as a guide. All cars built before 1 January, 1973 do not have to pay annual road tax and are classed as a ‘historic vehicle’. The definition of a classic car by the HM revenue and customs for company taxation purposes is ‘a car over 20 years old and having a value in excess of £15, 000’.

The Antique Car Club of America defines an antique car as 45 years or older and a classic car as 20-45 years old.

The Car Club of America uses a slightly different definition. If the car was produced between 1946 and 1985, was highly priced when new and was made in limited quantities then it is regarded as a classic. This strict definition isn’t followed by everyone though and most regard this as a ‘full classic car’.

Now we’ve got the definition sorted there are many ways to find out more about classic cars and enjoy them. There are many car clubs in the UK and around the world specialising in classic cars. One of the most famous is the Classic Car Club of America. If you have a classic car you can register but even if you don’t you can attend events.

There are also many UK luxury car clubs where you can either meet up with like minded people or have certain amounts of days where you can drive classic cars!