Like a classic car, this recipe is timeless. (2024)

FAQs

Can I drive my classic car every day? ›

Yes, it's possible to use a classic car as your daily driver. The car must be roadworthy if you're going to use it frequently, which usually means more maintenance and repair.

For insurance and registration purposes, the age of a classic car, in most cases, is at least 20 years old but not more than 40 years old. If you are going to register it (and insure it) as a classic, it should have been kept to its original design and specifications.

Ask yourself this: Do you still enjoy your classic car? If it's been years since you did anything with the vehicle, whether that means driving it or working on it, and you don't feel like that pattern is going to change anytime soon, you might as well consider selling it to someone who will enjoy it more.

Classic cars can be a risky investment. Even if you purchase a model that significantly increases in value after you buy it, you may still put more money into it with repairs and maintenance costs. Additionally, collector trends are unpredictable, so you can't bank on a specific model dramatically increasing in value.

So classic car insurance companies will often set a limit that usually ranges from 3,500 to 10,000 miles per year. Enclosed storage: You'll likely be required to prove you have an enclosed space (garage or storage) to protect your classic vehicle from the elements and theft.

Note that classic cars can break down more frequently than modern cars. It's not so bad if you only take your classic car out for a spin for short drives on the weekend, but it can be a pain if you're a fan of taking long, cross-country trips.

If you collect vintage cars, you may wonder how mileage impacts the overall value of your classics. Like with vehicles in general, your classic car mileage has a direct negative impact on its overall worth — the higher the mileage, the less your car will be worth.

Classic cars are not being banned, but it's likely the next few decades will see a shift that may eventually present a challenge for classic car drivers. This includes increased availability of electric car charging points and decreased space at fuel stations for traditional petrol and diesel pumps.

It's a simple fact that classic cars are more susceptible to overheating than modern-day automobiles are. There are many factors that contribute to this problem.

However, if you need to leave your car parked for a while, fear not, as it can generally sit without driving for about two to three weeks without any major issues. During this period, the car's various components can handle the inactivity.

Are classic cars more to insure? ›

Classic car insurance is usually much cheaper than regular car insurance. According to Baily Insurance Agency, a classic car policy costs around $200 to $600 annually. If you own an abnormally expensive vehicle, your rates may be higher. In contrast, regular car insurance usually costs over $1000 per year.

Hagerty's data refutes the belief that younger people are less interested in owning classic or collector vehicles than previous generations. For example, 53% of Gen Z, 57% of millennial and 49% of Gen X respondents were “very interested” in owning a classic car.

You should drive your classic at least once a month so the tires, belts, and other components don't wear out from lack of use. And besides, you bought the car to have fun with it, so taking it for a spin every now and then is a good thing.

To feel a bit more in-tune with your car, our Pasadena area Toyota dealership recommends that you drive your car every two to three weeks to ensure that you don't end up with a dead battery, flat-spotted tires, or other issues that can be caused by letting a car sit parked for weeks.

Classic cars generally are not equipped with anti-lock brakes, stability control, and other accident-avoidance features. They may not handle as well as modern vehicles and generally require more distance to stop.