What Makes A Classic Car?
February 2nd, 2009
Ever since Henry Ford brought mass production techniques to the automotive world, Americans have been infatuated with cars. Opening the door for easier personal transportation like no other invention before them, automobiles became not only valued possessions, but also necessary purchases as time passed. Cars created during the early years were status symbols, among other things. Those that survive from the early days are not only status symbols today; they are drivable pieces of history.
In many circles, classic cars are revered and are sought after with a passion by enthusiasts. But, just what makes a car a classic? What defines one old vehicle as more prominent in the eyes of collectors than another?
According to the Classic Car Club of America, a true classic is any vehicle built between 1925 and 1948. To be considered classic, a car must be also considered “fine” or “distinctive.” What sets models from these years apart, in the minds of club members is the fact they were constructed with extreme workmanship and high engineering standards that aren’t always evidenced on today’s production lines.
While other clubs recognize cars outside of the tight year span of the Classic Car Club of America as classics, the earliest models are those that make the grade with the CCCA. Examples of approved classics by this organization include Alfa Romeos, du Ponts, Cadillacs, Buicks and Rolls-Royces.
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