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How Old Does A Car Have To Be To Be Considered A Classic?

Published in

Jun 05, 2025

A lot of classic car enthusiasts ask the same question: “How old does a car have to be to be considered a classic? While the answer can vary, it needs to be exact. Most experts agree that cars become classics when they are around 20 to 25 years old.

Aside from the age, factors like rarity, condition, and collectability also played a big role in the car’s type.

This article aims to give you an insight into the classic car categories and how they differ from one another.

What Defines a Classic Car?

Aside from the vehicle’s age, there are a few factors that define how a car could be classified as a “classic.”

Age Criteria by General Definition

Generally, a car is considered to be “classic” when its aged between 20-40 years old. This age range is accepted by classic car clubs, insurance companies, and collectors because the car is no longer considered new, but also it's not old enough to be considered an antique. A lot of people see this car as special, especially if its design is unique, which could add to the rarity of the car, its features, and it was popular during its prime time.

For example, a car made in the early 2000s might now be seen as a classic if it was well-built and is still in good shape. These cars may remind people of earlier times, and that is more desirable to own or collect.

Differences Between Vintage, Antique, and Classic

Before you buy or collect an old car, make sure you understand what vintage, antique, and classic cars mean. This will help you choose the right car to buy or to collect.

Classic cars: Usually 20 to 40 years old. Examples include a 1995 Toyota Supra or a 1989 BMW M3.
Vintage cars: These are older, made between 1919 and 1930. Think of the Ford Model A or cars from the Roaring Twenties.
Antique cars: Often over 45 years old. Many people say any car built before 1980 can be called an antique.

Each of these categories has its meaning. Be sure to understand the definitions of each car to help yourself determine which type of car you should collect.

Is a 20-Year-Old Car a Classic?

Well, it depends on who you asked that question to. According to a certain group, yes, a 20-year-old car can be considered classic, but the other groups might have a different opinion.

Collector Perspective

According to the collector's perspective, a 20-year-old car can be considered a classic. Art collectors and fans considered a 20-year-old vehicle as classic if it has historical value or a distinctive design.

Limited edition models, sports cars, or popular luxury vehicles from the early 2000s may now be seen as classics. These cars can gain value over time if they are well-kept, rarely used, maintained thoroughly, and never modified.

Manufacturers' and Enthusiastic Cars' Perspective

Car brand owners and car enthusiasts have their own opinions. Some manufacturers offer special badges or certificates of recognition for old car owners. Car clubs for famous manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Ford Mustang, or Chevrolet Corvette often welcome 20-year-old cars as classic models. In addition, some of the classic car clubs give some discounts or special benefits to the club’s members.

When Does a Car Become a Classic for Insurance?

Many insurance companies have their own rules to determine which coverage is eligible for classic cars. The coverage usually depends on the car’s age, condition, and how the car is used.

Typical Insurance Company

Insurance companies usually define a classic car as a car that is at least 20 years old. The car has to be in good condition and not used for daily commuting. If your car is 20 years old and you only drive it on weekends, you might be eligible for a classic car policy.

Classic Car Insurance Benefit

There are many benefits to putting your car into classic car insurance.

Some of these include:

Value coverage: You and the insurer agree on the car’s value in case it gets damaged or stolen.
Lower premiums: Since classic cars are usually not driven every day, insurance costs are often lower.
Mileage limits: Policies may allow only a certain number of miles per year, which suits classic car owners well.
Special services: Some policies include roadside assistance, help finding parts, or access to restoration specialists.

Classic Car Years Defined by States and Region

Aside from the opinion of classic car enthusiasts and general market collection, the states and regions have their own criteria for a car that can be considered classic.

U.S. DMV Examples

Different U.S. states have their definition of “classic car.” Here are some examples to see.

Texas: A car that is at least 25 years old can get classic license plates.
California: Cars over 35 years old may be exempt from certain emissions tests.
New York: Vehicles over 25 years old are eligible to be registered as classic vehicles.

These rules help classic car owners with benefits like lower registration fees or easier car inspections by the state’s DMV.

International Differences

Other countries also have different rules to determine which one should be categorized as a “classic car,” aside from the United States' role

United Kingdom: If a car is more than 40 years old, it can be considered historic and is excluded from road tax and MOT testing.
Canada: In Ontario or British Columbia (BC), a vehicle can be considered classic or vintage after 25 years old. To note, these rules are different in each region in Canada.

Don’t forget to check with your local authorities to understand how your car is classified, so you don't miss any testing.

Why “Classic” Status Matters?

If your car is considered a classic, it has some benefits that could make it a good choice to keep the “classic” status. In addition, many car collectors look for a well-conditioned classic car. Be sure to keep your classic ride in good shape to maintain its value, so it's not dropping low when you try to resell the car.

Increased Resale Value

One reason to keep your classic car maintained is that you can keep the car’s value high. A well-maintained classic car will have a higher resale value compared to the same year, make, and model that has little or no maintenance at all.

A classic car collector usually looks for a good-looking car with no dents or scratches. Always follow your regular maintenance schedule to keep the car’s parts good, and make sure to drive carefully to maintain its low mileage.

Legal and Insurance Compliance

When a car is considered classic, the owner may get legal benefits and protection, too. Some of these are the benefits of classic car owners. Be sure that you own the original classic car to get these benefits, as these are not eligible for a replica classic car.

Easier registration
Tax reductions
Access to classic car events or shows

Also, some areas allow classic cars to skip certain tests or enjoy flexible driving rules, making ownership easier.

Decode Your Classic Car with Classic Decoder

Plan to buy a used car? Make sure you decode the car first to ensure that the car is legit and has never been through a great restoration process. At Classic Decoder, you can decode any classic VINs to get the actual information of the vehicle.

A VIN check can show you:

The year the car was made
Engine size and type
Place of manufacture
Any past accidents or title issues

The classic car vehicle history report is useful for people who want to restore a classic car accordingly to its original condition and build to ensure that the classic car is well-preserved for collection or shows.

Conclusion

Classic cars are considered so when they're anywhere between 20 and 25 years old, but age alone is not sufficient to name them classics. A certain vehicle is considered a classic when it meets certain considerations, such as design and specification, as well as adding some historical significance.

If you suspect that your vehicle could be classic, then get a VIN check and detailed vehicle history report, and judge carefully and examine carefully how the car can be put into “classic” status.