What Makes a Car Classic?

The Classic Car Club of America, CCCA, is one of the country's largest organizations for individuals who are interested in vintage automobiles.  From its inception in 1952 to the present, the club's focus has been "dedicated to the collection, preservation and enjoyment of the world's finest cars."

The CCCA offers a glossary to help identify the different terms that are applied to cars.  It covers terms that describe the components of the car, such as a mother-in-law seat, as well as the categories to which cars belong, such as antique or classic.

Antique

According to the CCCA, a car that has attained an age of 25 years or more is characterized as "antique."  Some antique cars also fall into the category of "classic."  It is often assumed that antique cars are classic cars simply because of their age.  This is not necessarily so.

Classic

To be considered a classic car by the CCCA, the vehicle must satisfy the follow requirements:

• Manufactured mostly between the years of 1925 and 1948


• Inclusion on the CCCA's list of classic car brands, or marques (brands)

The marques that are chosen to be included on the classic list are considered by the CCCA to be, "distinguished by their respective fine design, high engineering standards and superior workmanship."

The list of classic marques is available on the CCCA website.  The list is coded for identification of those that also fall into the CCCA Classic category.

CCCA Classic/Full Classic

The CCCA has identified a more elite group of classic cars it calls, "CCCA Classic" or "Full Classic."  The manufacturing dates remain the same, but the list of marques is restricted.  Some of the requirements to be included on this list are:

• Expensive


• Manufactured in limited numbers


• Engine displacement


• Custom bodywork


• Luxury accessories