What’s the Difference Between Classic, Vintage & Antique Cars?
If you're an automotive enthusiast, restoring an older car can be one of the most rewarding hobbies. But not all old cars are created equal. There's a big difference between just being “old†and being classified as antique, classic, or vintage. Understanding these distinctions is essential if you're planning to restore or own one of these special vehicles.
The General Guidelines
While there’s no universal agreement on what defines each category, there are general standards that most organizations and states follow:
- Classic: Typically defined as a vehicle that is at least 20 years old.
- Antique: Usually refers to a car that is 45 years or older.
- Vintage: Often includes cars built between 1919 and 1930.
These classifications can vary depending on your location, the insurance company, and how well the car has been restored. Even the parts used in restoration can influence whether a car qualifies for a specific title or classification.
State DMV Rules
Many states have their own criteria for determining if a car is considered historical or antique. For example, in some states, any car made after 1922 and over 25 years old is automatically labeled as a historical vehicle. If the car was made before 1965 and has a 16-cylinder or larger engine, it might be called a "Horseless Carriage." These titles usually require the car to remain in its original condition without modifications or replicas.
Cars that are more than 45 years old may qualify as "antique" and need a special license plate. In many cases, these vehicles must be kept as close to their original design as possible, including using original parts whenever possible.
Keep in mind that rules differ from state to state, so it’s important to check your local DMV guidelines. Also, make sure you have the right insurance—classic car policies often provide better coverage than standard auto insurance.
Insurance Considerations
Most insurance companies classify cars from 1900 to 1979 as either antique or classic. Vehicles made in 1980 or later that aren’t modern models are often considered collector cars. These policies usually come with restrictions, such as:
- Limiting where you can drive the car
- Restricting annual mileage
- Controlling whether you can take the car to car shows
It’s important to understand these limitations before purchasing a policy, especially if you plan to use your car for events or travel.
Car Clubs and Organizations
Some car clubs have even stricter definitions. For example, the Classic Car Club of America requires that a car:
- Was manufactured between 1915 and 1948
- Meets high standards of design, engineering, and craftsmanship
- Is fully restored and operational
- Has no modern modifications like power brakes or fuel injection
Similarly, the Antique Car Club of America has similar requirements but with more flexible age ranges, often accepting cars that are 25 years or older.
Understanding Vintage Cars
Vintage cars often overlap with antique and classic categories, but they have their own unique traits:
- Vintage cars were typically built between 1919 and 1930
- They can have modifications or altered designs without disqualification
- Customs, hot rods, and exotic cars often fall into this category, even if they don’t meet the strict definition of antique or classic
If you're working on restoring an older vehicle, you’ll want to know which classification applies to your car. Whether it’s a classic, antique, or vintage model, proper documentation, insurance, and restoration are key to preserving its value and history.
Are you looking for help with your classic, antique, or vintage car project? DaSilva’s Auto Body specializes in restoring these unique vehicles. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your next restoration project.
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