What is a classic car? A journey into the heart of classic automobiles
- Nicolas ROHMER
- May 9
- 2 min read
At Rohmer Youngtimers Selection (RYS), the passion for beautiful mechanics isn't limited to the '80s or '90s... It goes back even further, to the roots of automotive history. And in this universe, one word frequently appears: classic car .
But what exactly does that mean? When can you call a vehicle a classic car? And what distinguishes it from other categories? We'll explain everything to you.
A term from other countries… but well established in Europe
The word "Oldtimer" comes directly from German, where it simply means " old car." But be careful: In several European countries, this term has a very precise definition.
In France, people tend to talk about a collector's vehicle , but the term "vintage car" is still widely used, especially among enthusiasts, vintage car experts and fans of European imports.
How old is a classic car?
A vehicle is considered a classic car if it meets the following criteria:
Age : Generally, he must be at least 30 years old .
Condition : It must be left in its original condition or restored respecting the original.
Use : It is often used for leisure, collecting or event participation and not as an everyday car.
In France, this corresponds to the definition of a collector vehicle , recognized by the term “collector’s card”.
Vintage car, youngtimer, classic car… what are the differences?
Vintage car : Vehicle over 30 years old , often produced before the 1980s.
Youngtimer : Vehicles between 15 and 30 years old , often from the 1980s to the early 2000s.
Classic car : A more general Anglo-Saxon term that often refers to any old car with character.
At RYS we work on the border of these worlds, between old prestige and classic driving pleasure .
Why is a classic car special?
It's not just an "old car." A classic car is a rolling testament to its era . It embodies technology, aesthetics, and the art of living . It's also a vehicle whose value increases over time due to its rarity or history .
Every classic car is unique . And every enthusiast who owns one wants to preserve a mobile heritage that goes far beyond a simple rolling object.
At RYS, classic cars are not forgotten
We are fortunate enough to be able to assist our clients in finding, selling, or advertising older models such as the 1937 Lancia Ardennes or the 1960 Facel Vega Excellence . Rare, exceptional vehicles straddling the border between museum and road.
In summary
A classic car is a vintage car over 30 years old , preserved in its original spirit, an object of passion, of transmission and sometimes... of investment.
Do you have a classic car to sell, have it appraised, or are you looking for a unique model? Contact RYS – Rohmer Youngtimers Selection . We look forward to discussing a shared passion with you.
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