Classic cars are a sight to see! They can also be referred to as a collector car. This is often because they aren’t produced anymore, but beyond age, what defines a vintage vehicle? After all, there’s so much more to a classic car than its manufacturing date. Regardless, you will need some type of classic car insurance because car maintenance remains an important aspect of these cars.
With this in mind, it’s time to get to the bottom of vintage vehicles and their unique qualities. What qualities make a classic car special and unique from its modern counterparts? That’s where BrokerLink comes in. Read on to learn more about classic cars and what makes them stand out.
Describing a classic car
First, what is a vintage car? A vintage car is a vehicle manufactured between 1919 and 1930. It can either be in its original working condition or, more commonly, restored to drive on today’s roads. A classic car club might enjoy breathing new life into the vehicles.
Vintage cars are sometimes called classic cars. However, the two are not the same. Vintage cars do not have modern features like air conditioning and power steering, and they are not as common as classic cars. As a result, they are considered rarer and more valuable than their counterparts.
Vintage cars are antique vehicles that are much older and lack the features of modern cars (air conditioning, power windows). However, there are benefits to giving up these aspects if you are an avid collector. It’s important to note that these cars have certain qualities that not every historic vehicle has. Next, we will explore the unique attributes of this type of historical vehicle.
Qualities of a vintage car
Not be confused with a classic car or an antique car; a vintage car has a couple of unique qualities. If you’re considering purchasing this type of classic car, you should look for these aspects. Here’s what you need to know:
Age of car
As mentioned earlier, this type of collector car is considered vintage if it was made between 1919 and 1930. It is characterized by brass fittings. Think of these vehicles as an early version of a horseless carriage.
Interior and exterior features
When you buy a collector car that falls into this category, you should look for certain interior and exterior features. Here are some defining characteristics of cars from this time period:
- Brass fitting or radiators
- Bigger than usual wheels
- Bench style seats
- Gasoline-powered engine
- Lack of roof
- Minimal safety features, including no seatbelts
Times were indeed simpler back then. A classic car fitting this description and having the other qualities listed is likely vintage.
Vehicle usage
The chances are you won’t see a vintage car that hasn’t been modified driving down the road due to the lack of safety features. However, car shows and exhibitions will proudly show them off to visitors. They are collector cars that are either held or restored by car enthusiasts, such as those in a classic car club.
Value
Unlike classic cars, vintage cars do not lose their value over time. Because cars from the time known as the “Brass Era” are less common than their counterparts, they are more valuable. Some vehicles can be sold for millions of dollars at auction houses. In contrast, a classic car will not appreciate in value and is more likely to be readily available depending on the model. Despite this, finding a cheap classic car is often challenging.
Buying a veteran car from this time period is often a big investment, which isn’t necessarily for everyone. That’s why there are also options for antique cars and classic cars. In the next section, we will learn more about these types of vehicles.
Exploring classic cars and antique cars
Now that we understand the qualities of vintage cars, it’s time to learn more about their counterparts. Classic vintage might not be for everyone, and that’s okay. It’s important to think about the costs when insuring any type of classic car, and you have to qualify for it. With this in mind, let’s learn more about classic and antique cars:
Classic cars
Let’s provide a brief overview of classic cars. A classic car is usually between 20 and 40 years old and notable for its historical value. These vehicles are special because they have designs that aren’t present in modern vehicles and represent what cars have looked like throughout history. People who appreciate nostalgia will be interested in these cars.
Antique cars
Now, antique cars have their own qualities that make them stand out. An antique car is a vehicle that is 45 years or older and made after 1930. It offers significant historical value and provides a glimpse into the early years of motor vehicles. Think of these vehicles as the transition period between vintage and classic cars.
Understanding the difference between classic, antique and vintage vehicles is essential. Although prices may vary depending on the age and condition of the vehicle, collector cars come at a premium. That’s why knowing what you’re looking for matters. Your car’s classification can help you determine if it is up-to-par with modern daily drivers or is simply a collector’s piece.
Insure your vintage vehicle with BrokerLink!
Modified cars need car insurance, and vintage vehicles are no exception. If you modify your vintage vehicle to drive on the road, you will need insurance. You will also need it if you’re a collector using it as a display piece to protect against theft and damage. Vintage cars have their own unique insurance policy, and an experienced broker can walk you through the process of getting one.
Understanding insurance policies for these vehicles can be challenging if you’re a new collector. At BrokerLink, our team is knowledgeable about vintage vehicles and is happy to help you choose an insurance company and policy that suits you. Do you own a vintage vehicle and want to protect it? Contact BrokerLink today to request a quote.
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