In the same way that there is a religion for almost every belief, there is a definition for elderly automobiles to suit every aspiring collector.
A Classic car is an older car, that much we know. The exact definition of Classic however, varies around the world. A Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) statement maintains that a car must be between 20 and 40 years old to be a classic, while cars 45 years and older fall into the Antique Class. Confusingly, the CCCA formal definition is
'... a "fine" or "distinctive" automobile, either American or foreign built, produced between 1925 and 1948...'
a direct contradiction of the general statement. The waters are further muddied by additional subjective criteria including engine displacement, custom coachwork, luxury accessories and so on. Not much firm ground here.
Independently, most states have time-based rules for the definition of "classic" which are used for granting antique vehicle registration, invariably along the following lines
"A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, manufactured at least 20 years prior to the current year which has been maintained in or restored to a condition which is substantially in conformity with manufacturer specifications and appearance."
The Antique Automobile Club of America obviously does not agree with this as it defines an antique car as 45 years or older. Worse yet, none of the above even addresses the classifications of Veteran, Vintage or Brass era cars, all with their own conflicting date ranges. Finally, there is nothing to stop every car club in America from further narrowing or broadening any of these definitions and many do just that.
In short, as Humpty Dumpty said, "A word means exactly what I want it to mean" making it a simple matter to fit every car into an agreeable category. Best not to quibble - just enjoy the splendid hardware!
More views of this event are
here.
The Antique Automobile Club of America obviously does not agree with this as it defines an antique car as 45 years or older. Worse yet, none of the above even addresses the classifications of Veteran, Vintage or Brass era cars, all with their own conflicting date ranges. Finally, there is nothing to stop every car club in America from further narrowing or broadening any of these definitions and many do just that.