Vehicle-Specific Transport
Classic vs. Antique vs. Vintage Car: What Is the Difference?
People use "classic", "antique" and "vintage" for the same cars, but the words mean different things, and the difference matters for registration, insurance and shipping.
The short answer
| Attribute | Common age rule | Where the rule comes from |
|---|---|---|
| Antique | 45 years or older | Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) and many state DMVs |
| Classic | 20 to 40 years old, depending on the club | Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) uses a narrower "Full Classic" list of 1915 to 1948 cars |
| Vintage | Often 1919 to 1930 | Vintage Motor Car clubs and some insurers |
- Antique
- Common age rule: 45 years or older
- Where the rule comes from: Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) and many state DMVs
- Classic
- Common age rule: 20 to 40 years old, depending on the club
- Where the rule comes from: Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) uses a narrower "Full Classic" list of 1915 to 1948 cars
- Vintage
- Common age rule: Often 1919 to 1930
- Where the rule comes from: Vintage Motor Car clubs and some insurers
Why it matters
- Registration. Some states offer antique or historic plates with limits on use.
- Insurance. Collector policies often depend on how the insurer defines the car.
- Shipping. What counts is not the label but the car: originality, value, clearance, whether it runs.
Shipping a classic, antique or vintage car
Many owners choose enclosed transport for collector cars. Read our Classic Car Transport page and Enclosed Auto Transport page. Tell us the year, make, model, modifications and whether the car runs.
FAQ
No. While the terms are often used interchangeably, a classic car and an antique car are not the same. An antique vehicle is generally considered to be 45 years old or older, although the exact definition can vary by state, insurer, or registration authority. A classic car typically falls into a different age range and may be defined by collector car clubs, insurance companies, or enthusiast organizations based on factors such as age, historical significance, rarity, and condition. If you're shipping a collector vehicle, it's a good idea to verify how it is classified for registration, insurance, and valuation purposes.
Yes. Antique and classic cars can be shipped on either an open or enclosed trailer, depending on the owner's preference and budget. Open transport is a safe and cost-effective option that many collectors use regularly. However, because antique vehicles are often rare, highly valuable, or difficult to replace, many owners choose enclosed transport for added protection from weather, road debris, and other outside elements during transit. The best option depends on the vehicle's value, condition, and the level of protection you want during transport.