Vintage, classic, antique or just plain old? How do you know the difference, and just when does an older car become a precious classic car? The fact is that it usually relies on who you ask, as different collectors, car clubs, and nations as well as insurance firms have varying methods of determining if an automobile qualifies as a classic one. According to dictionaries, the word ‘classic’ denotes to something, that over a period of time is considered the utmost quality, is exceptional, and is one of a kind, based on this characterization, the main characteristics of a classic car are age, condition and uniqueness among other vehicles. The amalgamation of these features will decide if you’ve a classic vehicle or if you’ve a precious classic car.

It’s a Classic

For a vehicle to be known as a classic, it should be over twenty years old, in good condition and true to the original design. So, age is an easy concept to grasp, but what does good condition entail? The car should be roadworthy, the body must have no corrosion, the interior must be intact without tears in the upholstery, flooring or header fabric, and the engine must run. Finally, the car should match the original factory design as closely as feasible. Any one of these factors by itself won’t qualify a car as a classic; all 3 elements should be present.

It is a Valuable Classic

Now that you know what constitutes a classic vehicle, it is time to learn what makes it a valuable classic car. There’re 4 basic considerations when determining the worth of a classic car:

1. Condition: A classic car in good state is worth more than a classic car that doesn’t run.

2. Rarity: How many were manufactured? How many are left?

3. Popularity: The more popular the car, the greater the demand, and the greater the demand, the higher the value.

4. Model Quality: When it came off the production line, was it considered cheap or luxury?

How valuable your classic vehicle is relies on how many, or which, of these standards it meets. For example, a limited production luxury car in immaculate condition can be really valuable. A highly popular, less expensive car where only a few are left can also be very valuable. By the same token, an extremely rare car in rough state could also be of great value.

So, when does an old vehicle become a valuable classic one? When it meets the standards outlined here.

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