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Have a passion for “old” cars? While you fuel your penchant for these classy creations, or look forward to getting your money’s worth out of a restoration, it helps to know the difference between antique, classic and vintage cars, as the differences can often be subtle and tricky.
Antique cars: Cars are labeled ‘antique’ when they have passed 45 years of age and are maintained in their true, original state, without modern updates or modifications. Most cars produced between 1880 and 1920, prior to World War I, fall in the category of antique cars.
Classic cars: The differences between antique and classic cars can be minute, but it is typical that for a car to fall into the “classic” category, it must be between 20 and 40 years old. They should retain all original parts, and have had no modern updates or modifications made to them.
Vintage cars: Cars born between 1919 and 1930 fall under the genre of vintage cars. In order to maintain “vintage” status, however, these types of cars don’t necessarily have to maintain all of their original parts. Vintage cars often have upgrades and modifications, but are more easily recognized by their manufacturing dates rather than the body styles.
Whatever category a car falls into, if it is labeled as “vintage”, “classic” or “antique”, chances are it’s worth a great deal of money, especially if it has been well maintained or restored.
It requires extensive research to successfully purchase a car in one of these categories, strictly because there are so many available today that are not what they seem to be. Making sure you’ve researched your potential purchases before going to auction or a sale of any kind is always a good idea. You should know exactly what type of car you are looking for, you should be aware of how to recognize non-original parts, potential damage and bad restoration jobs. You should also research the value of cars extensively so you don’t overspend and lose your chance to make money on a restoration.
Whatever type of car you plan to acquire, Classic Auto Insurance can assist you in procuring and maintaining your classic car with a number of affordable collector car insurance policies to choose from. Classic Auto insurance will protect your investment with one of their antique, classic or vintage car insurance plans, tailored to meet the needs of you and your collection.
Sources:
http://www.squidoo.com/the-classic-and-vintage-car-collector
About the Author
Drew Yagodnik is Vice President of Classic Automobile Insurance Agency, Inc. Classic Automobile Insurance Agency has been protecting collector, classic and exotics since 1992.
