
Published: 14/02/2018
From British icons MINI to American legends Ford, our variety of classic cars covers a wide range of vehicles.
So, what is a classic car?
There are no set criteria when it comes to classic cars and everyone seems to have their own definition of what constitutes a classic. Many describe a classic as a car that is 40 years or older, however, some companies will define a classic as anything over 15 years old that has technical or nostalgic merit.
At Copart.co.uk you’ll find classic vehicles that date as far back as the early 30s such as the 1933 Hillman Minx, right up until cars that were produced in the mid-90s like the Rover MINI Italian.
Why are classic cars so popular?
Style and character – Classic cars, especially those produced in the early to mid-part of the 1900s have certain characteristics that are not easily found in modern cars today. When you see classic cars on the road, they often attract a lot of attention for their unique sense of style.
Driving experience – It’s true that modern cars offer more gadgets and are arguably more comfortable than older cars. However, if you are a true car fan, the driving experience in a classic car is unbeatable, allowing you to feel far more engaged with louder noises, smells and stronger vibrations.
Financial savings – According to Gov.uk cars that were produced more than 40 years ago are now eligible for zero-road tax which could save you a considerable amount of money each year. Especially those which are at the slightly more modern end of this spectrum.
Value – As a general rule, classic cars do not depreciate in value as much as newer cars do, especially if they have been well maintained by their owners. And of course, if the models become rare, you could expect their value to increase significantly.
Who should buy a classic car?
Due to the variety of classic cars on the market, it really isn’t a one size fits all.
The older, more unique cars would be more suitable for an experienced repairer, garage, or perhaps a classic car enthusiast who has knowledge of classic models and knows how to source rarer parts.
However, the level of wear or damage to a classic vehicle should also be considered when deciding whether or not to take on this challenge.
Regardless of this, restoring a classic car to sell on could be a very rewarding challenge if you have time and budget to dedicate to it.
What to consider
Due to the age of classic models, it’s expected that they would have covered a significant amount of miles/usage in their time, and therefore wear. We recommend checking the vehicle over in person so you can check the appearance of a classic model, and if you see areas in need of repair, make sure you are able to source the parts required.
Parts can be sourced using our BreakerBid4U service, or via our sister company U-Pull-It who hold two breakers yards.

1933 Hillman Minx
Lot: 47851097
CAT: U - Used Unrecorded

1993 Rover MINI Italian
Lot: 24373638
CAT: U - Used Unrecorded

1973 Volkswagen Type 2
Lot: 25499268
CAT U - Used Unrecorded
How to buy a classic car
Not a Member? Register Now
To bid on classic vehicles in our convenient online auctions, you will need to register as a Copart Member. Registration is easy, just head over to our registration page to get started today.
Once you submit the registration form, you will be sent a confirmation email containing your login information.
Please ensure you send us the following:
Please note: You will not be able to bid on vehicles until the above steps are complete and your account has been activated.
Already a Member?
View our wide selection of classic vehicles today to start placing your bids
References
Ed Wiseman. (2017). What exactly is a 'classic' car?. Available: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/features/classic-car/. Last accessed 14/02/2018.
GOV.UK. (2018). Historic (classic) vehicles: MOT and vehicle tax.Available: https://www.gov.uk/historic-vehicles/vehicles-exempt-from-vehicle-tax. Last accessed 14/02/2018.
Jay Paterson. (2014). The pros and cons of owning a classic car.Available: https://www.thecarexpert.co.uk/pros-and-cons-of-owning-a-classic-car. Last accessed 14/02/2018.
Rob Hull. (2016). Which classic cars blossomed this year and which will rise in value in 2017? Our expert picks ten of the best. Available: http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/cars/article-4036690/The-classic-cars-forecast-rise-value-2017.html. Last accessed 14/02/2018.
Popular Topics
- Copart's Expanding Network with More Auctions and More Vehicles
Copart has recently announced a significant enhancement to...
- Member Success Stories – Eddie's VW Polo
Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of vehicle revival...
- Practical Picks: Affordable Cars with Low Maintenance Costs
Why low car maintenance costs matter...
- Copart UK's Top Four Favourite Cars to Modify
Rev your engines and buckle up because today, we're diving headfirst into the world of car mods...
- Winter Wonders: Car Restoration Projects
As winter blankets the British landscape, petrolheads across the nation gear up for a season of precision and passion...
- Member Success Stories – Porsche 911
In our exciting new series showcasing the incredible car restorations...