An age-old debate that has dominated many conversations focuses on classic cars. More specifically, what constitutes a classic car? The term classic car can mean something different for different car enthusiasts. However, for car connoisseurs, a classic car is viewed as a desirable vehicle that is no longer in production.
Of course, there are plenty of debates surrounding what the best classic car is. It has led to countless lists of the best classic cars of all time being created, with each one featuring different models and car manufacturers. Despite these lists, many are still uncertain about what constitutes a classic car.
If you are looking for what factors constitute a classic car, keep reading to find out.
Defined By Age
Arguably one of the most crucial factors in defining what constitutes a classic car. However, a car’s age helps determine whether it can be classed as a classic car or not. This is because some car models and makes made in the early 2000s will not be classed as classic cars, despite their age. The average age for a car to be considered classic is 15 years. However, this age varies drastically and also with the car’s value. Some cars that are older, for instance, over forty years, could also be tax-exempt. It is worth checking the age of your car and the model to help you determine whether or not your car is classed as a classic.
How Rare It Is
Similar to the age of the car, another factor that influences the decision on whether a car is classed as a classic or not is the rarity. The rarity of a classic car is that it is no longer in production, as mentioned earlier. It has to be a car that is hardly seen on the roads, and when it is, it is a rare sighting. A rare car could include models like a 1972 Ford Mustang Mach 1 or a 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. The rare sightings and the limited number are what help to make these vehicles classed as classic cars. When spotted on the roads or at classic car shows, it can be a thrilling moment for many car enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
Value Of The Car
A final influencing factor that determines whether or not a car can be classed as a classic is the value. The condition, age and how rare it is will have a tremendous positive impact on the value of the car. With classic cars, when they are kept in pristine condition, it is a rare make and model and the age in the classic car bracket, the value can remain the same as when it was first purchased. Better yet, the value could even increase. Of course, it is common for cars to lose value the moment they are purchased. However, the value of classic cars can remain the same and even increase – making them smart investments.
If You Own A Classic Car
After time researching and using the points mentioned above, the answer might be that you are the proud owner of a classic car. Being the proud owner of a classic car does come with responsibilities. It needs the right maintenance and the ideal environment to help maintain its value. As mentioned, classic cars can be an excellent investment as it is possible for them to increase in value. This is only possible if the classic car remains in pristine condition, which occurs when the owner properly cares for their vehicle. Caring for a classic car is slightly different from owning any other modern-day car, and here’s why.
Properly Store It
Changing weather conditions and other elements can have an impact on the condition of a car. Cars consistently exposed to harsh weather are prone to developing rust. Rust on a car can cause severe damage to the car and its overall appearance. Many classic car owners and experts will heavily advise properly storing your classic car, regardless of the season. It could be storing it in your garage, so it is not exposed to the elements.
Of course, not everyone will have a garage or additional space where they can store their classic car. Consider finding a reputable business that will allow you to store your car for an agreed-upon price. It will provide you peace of mind that your classic car will not experience harsh elements, such as the British winter. It helps to keep any damages and risks of rust to a minimum.
The Right Insurance
Just like with any other car, insurance is crucial. Once your car has been qualified as a classic vehicle, then you can begin the search for the right classic car insurance. Fortunately, there are insurance policies available that cover classic cars. For instance, you could look into getting insurance for your classic car through Lancaster’s website. They are experts in insuring classic cars and can help you find the right policy for you and your classic car.
Insuring your classic car can provide peace of mind that it is protected in the event of anything happening to your car. You can rest assured knowing that you have protection in place to help cover the damages and repairs that need to be made.
Find Classic Car Mechanic
Whilst car mechanics are experts in their field, not all of them will have a wealth of knowledge of the proper maintenance for classic cars. Having this expert knowledge is what is essential for maintaining a classic car and is what you want someone to possess when caring for your car. A classic car is an investment.
It is understandable that you will want someone with in-depth knowledge of the car to check or repair any issues found properly. It will help you to keep your investment in the best condition possible. Additionally, you can ask them for their expert advice on how to properly care for your car, ensuring that you keep it in the best possible condition between visits.
Regularly Check Your Car
Aside from visiting a classic car mechanic, ensure that you are spending time regularly checking your car. This could be checking to see how your fluid levels are looking and topping them up if and when needed. Unlike modern cars, classic cars cannot notify you on a digital dashboard that your fuel levels are running low.
As such, you need to be mindful of how the fluid levels of your car are looking. When taking it out, ensure that you have checked all levels and for any issues before it hits the road. In addition to keeping your car in ideal condition, it provides you with peace of mind that your classic car should run smoothly whilst on the road.
Frequently Start Your Car
Along with regular checks, it is equally as important to start your classic car regularly. It doesn’t mean you have to take your car out for a drive. You can spend a little time one weekend starting your car’s engine to check that everything is running as it should. These regular checks can be incredibly beneficial for your classic car as you can spot any issues and prevent anything from seizing. Allow your classic car the chance to warm up to the temperature it would be if you were to go out for a drive. Doing so will increase your chances of being able to identify any potential issues or hazards.
If you do want to take it for a short drive, look at driving around your neighbourhood. Keep to places where you can easily access help should you encounter any issues with your car. Again, this will give you peace of mind that you will be able to access help should any problems occur when taking your classic car out for a quick drive.
Suitable Cleaning Products
Understandably, you will want the exterior and interior of your classic car to be as clean as possible. It will help ensure that your car remains in the best possible condition, as it is regularly cared for. However, when washing the car, be mindful of the products that you are using. Look for products containing ingredients that will not damage your car’s paintwork. Of course, damaged paintwork, especially on a classic car, could have a noticeable impact on the overall value.
Read reviews and ask experts in classic cars what they would recommend are the best products for washing your car with. From there, you can look at what the best process are to help keep your car looking clean. It will likely be using a recommended shampoo to help minimise any issues with the paintwork and help to prevent any streaks once you have finished washing your car. If you do not have time, be mindful of which car washes you use to get your classic car washed. As mentioned, some ingredients in certain products could have an impact on the paintwork of your car.
The Bottom Line
Knowing that you own a classic car and how to properly care for it will help tremendously in keeping it in the best possible condition.
