What is a modern classic car?
For an increasing number of car enthusiasts in the UK, the idea of owning a modern classic offers the best of both worlds. These vehicles combine the charm, character and growing collectability of older cars with the usability and efficiency of modern engineering.
But what exactly defines a modern classic car? Is it purely about age, or are there other factors at play such as rarity, desirability and long-term value? How does owning a modern classic affect your insurance options?
In this guide, we’ll explain what a modern classic car is, how it differs from a traditional classic, and what owners should consider when it comes to finding exactly the right cover.
What defines a modern classic car?
Unlike traditional classic cars, which are often defined by a fixed age threshold, modern classics don’t have a single, universally agreed definition. Instead, they sit in a grey area between standard modern vehicles and established classics. In general terms, a modern classic is usually:
- Between 15 and 30 years old
- No longer in production
- Increasing in enthusiast interest or collectability
While many insurers traditionally consider a vehicle to be a “classic” at around 20 years old, there are many cars older than this that would not be considered classic, and a few that are younger than this which may.
Modern classics are recognised when they begin to show the same ownership patterns as older classics, such as limited use, careful maintenance and long-term preservation. At Heritage, we understand modern classics are often cherished vehicles rather than everyday transport, which is why specialist insurance can be ideal even before a car reaches full classic status.
Key factors to become a modern classic
Age alone does not make a car a modern classic. Several characteristics will typically need to combine to give a modern vehicle its classic status.
Desirability and enthusiast appeal
Modern classics are often cars that were aspirational when new and remain desirable today. This might be due to performance, styling, cultural impact or motorsport heritage. Enthusiast demand plays a significant role in elevating a car from “used” to “collectable”.
Cars with strong brand heritage, iconic designs and/or memorable driving experiences are particularly likely to be considered modern classics.
Rarity and survival rates
Some vehicles become modern classics because relatively few examples remain on the road. Limited production numbers, high attrition rates or costly maintenance can all reduce surviving numbers, increasing collectability. As availability decreases, well-kept examples become more sought after, which can further reinforce the modern classic status.
Rising or stable values
Another common indicator of a modern classic is value stability or appreciation. While most everyday cars depreciate steadily, modern classics, like traditional classics, often reach a point where values level off or begin to rise. This shift often changes how owners view their vehicles; less as functional transport and more as assets worth protecting.
Modern classic vs classic car: what’s the difference?
The main difference between modern classics and traditional classics lies in age, perception and usage. Traditional classic cars are usually over 30 years old and are widely accepted as collectable vehicles. Modern classics, by contrast, are still transitioning into that role.
Modern classics often:
- Are driven more frequently than older classics
- Benefit from improved safety and reliability
- Require fewer specialist parts or restoration skills
However, like traditional classics, modern classics are often:
- Well-maintained in all areas
- Used primarily for leisure rather than commuting
Because of this overlap, many modern classic owners can begin to explore specialist insurance earlier than they might expect.
Key considerations for modern classic cars
Owning a modern classic can change how you insure your vehicle. While some owners remain on standard car insurance, switching to a specialist classic or modern classic policy may offer better value and more suitable cover.
Limited use and mileage
Modern classics are often driven less than standard cars. They may be used for weekend drives, shows or special occasions rather than daily commuting. This lower usage can make them suitable for policies that reflect limited annual mileage. For more on mileage limits, see our guide to mileage limits and classic cars.
Agreed value
As modern classics become more collectable, market values can fluctuate. Specialist insurers will often offer agreed value, ensuring your car is insured for a pre-agreed amount rather than its standard market value in the event of a total loss. At Heritage, we offer free agreed value to our clients as part of their policy.
Specialist understanding
Insurers experienced with classic and modern classic vehicles understand that these cars are often better cared for than average vehicles. This specialist knowledge allows for cover that reflects how the car is stored, maintained and used.
At Heritage, we can design policies specifically for modern classic vehicles. If you’d like personalised advice, get in touch with our specialists at Heritage who can tailor a modern classic car policy to your exact needs.
Modern classic cars: FAQs
There is no fixed rule, but many specialist vehicles begin to be considered modern classics between 15 and 25 years old, particularly if they have strong interest and stable values.
Not exactly. A modern classic is usually newer than a traditional classic and may still feel relatively modern to drive, but it shares ownership and collectability traits with classic cars.
In many cases, yes. Some insurers will offer specialist cover for modern classics depending on the vehicle, how it’s used and how it’s stored.
Some do, particularly well-maintained, desirable or rare models. However, value growth is not guaranteed, and will vary depending on make, model and condition.
They can be, especially if they are driven limited miles, carefully stored and insured on a specialist policy designed for enthusiast vehicles
Have a question? Send us a message
Fill in your details and our friendly team will be in touch with you soon.
If you enjoyed this classic car insurance guide, you might also like:
Get a Classic Car Insurance quote
Do you have a question you’d like to ask us? Send us a message to get in touch. We aim to respond to all queries sent before 5pm the same working day in the week.