New Year, New Classic – Why You Should Buy a Classic in 2024

We don’t usually need an excuse to buy a new classic but seeing as today marks the beginning of 2024 we thought we’d discuss some reasons to do exactly that. If you’ve taken a perch on the old fence and are in two minds whether or not to pull the trigger and dive into classic vehicle ownership we’ve put together five compelling arguments for getting involved and buying a classic in 2024. We’re nice like that and with so many vintage, classic, retro and modern classic vehicles to choose from here at Car & Classic, including this stunning Ferrari 250 GTE, we make it easy for you. Not only that but we’re trusted worldwide to deliver a safe environment in which you can bid, offer and buy with confidence. So what are you waiting for?

For the Hobby

Owning and running a classic car or bike is a fantastic use of your time. Period. Forget golf, or stamp collecting, or whatever it is non petrolheads get up to in their spare time, buy a classic instead. Classic cars is where it’s at. From cleaning and polishing to spannering and modifying the entire spectrum of classic vehicle ownership brings so many rewards. It can be a stress-beater, you can learn new skills and become more self-sufficient and you can meet and engage with new like-minded people. Who knows, you may even discover your new BFF…

For the Craic

Speaking of which, the social aspect of owning a classic is a huge draw. Whether a catalyst for car park convos or as a reason to become part of a club or scene, classic cars bring people together. What can start as an innocuous online forum post about the correct grade of oil to use in your Triumph Herald‘s engine, for instance, can quickly snowball into a fully fledged membership to a car club. Classic car people are a friendly bunch, generally speaking, so if you’re looking to make real human connections (something that can be difficult in today’s remote, disconnected world) then buying a classic car or bike can totally bridge that gap.

For the Money

Classic cars and bikes, if purchased shrewdly, can reap financial rewards too. Our The Time is Now series highlights which cars to buy now that will provide a decent return on investment in the future. We have years of experience and data up to the eyeballs to allow us to determine with a great deal of accuracy which models are ripe for the picking. The money you put into a classic is not wasted money, it’s an asset. For those looking to save a few pennies, too owning and running a classic car can be way cheaper than buying or leasing a new one. Not only that but keeping an old car on the road is generally less expensive and kinder to the environment in the long run than a brand spanker. And going back to the hobby aspect mentioned above, classic cars and bikes are easier to work on yourself, broadly speaking, so money can be saved on maintenance and repair bills too.

For the Competition

There are so many events, races and competitions out there for classic vehicles. From hill climbs to club level trials and autotests there really is something for everyone and getting into motorsport is a lot easier than most people think. All you really need is a suitable classic. Not only does competition provide yet another opportunity to socialise with like-minded classic car and classic bike fans but it also provides ample opportunity for you to improve your driving skills. You may not be the next Ayrton Senna but nailing your braking point and perfectly clipping that apex will forever be euphoria inducing.

For the Soul

The fact is old cars are better than new cars. The simple pleasure of driving a classic is its own reward. It doesn’t matter if it’s a ratty old Morris Minor, a supercharged pre-war Bentley or a modern classic fast Ford, classic cars make you feel good. From the appreciative wave from a pedestrian to the knowing nod from another driver passing you on the other side of the road, owning and driving a classic is nourishment for the soul. New cars are boring, soulless clones. To quote Thierry Boutsen: “they provide sensations, not emotions”. Classic cars excite, they stimulate. They’re evocative. You can’t say that about a brand new Kia. Buy a classic.