For car enthusiasts, owning a vehicle with heritage and character is a major life goal. Whether you're in Dubai, London, or Riyadh, understanding the distinctions between classic, antique, and vintage cars is essential before making a purchase.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about these car categories — including legal definitions in the UAE, UK, and Saudi Arabia — as well as key buying considerations.
What’s the Difference Between Classic, Antique, and Vintage Cars?
While terms like classic, vintage, and antique often get used interchangeably, they each have distinct meanings globally and legally.
> Classic Cars Definition
Global Standard: Generally, a car is considered classic when it’s 20–40 years old and retains its original factory specifications.
UAE (Dubai)
According to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai, a classic car is defined as:
A vehicle over 30 years old.
Maintained in good condition and classified through a special inspection.
Issued a special “Classic Car” registration plate.
Categories include: Category A (Drive anywhere) and Category B (Drive with restrictions).
UK
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in the UK defines a classic car as:
Vehicles over 40 years old are exempt from vehicle excise duty (road tax).
Must not have been substantially modified.
MOT exemption applies to vehicles over 40 years old that haven’t had significant changes in safety, steering, or braking.
KSA (Saudi Arabia)
In Saudi Arabia, the General Directorate of Traffic classifies classic cars as:
Vehicles over 30 years old.
Owners must register them under a classic car license plate.
Vehicle use is limited primarily to shows, exhibitions, and occasional drives.
> Antique Cars Definition
Global Standard: Antique cars are typically over 45 years old, according to U.S. organizations like the Antique Automobile Club of America.
UAE (Dubai)
The RTA doesn’t have a separate "antique" category distinct from "classic."
Cars over 30 years old are generally classified as classic, whether antique or vintage.
UK
In the UK, there’s no official legal distinction between antique and classic, but within the car community:
Cars over 45–50 years old are often considered antique or historic.
Special insurance and tax exemptions may apply under Historic Vehicle status.
KSA (Saudi Arabia)
Antique cars fall under the same regulatory framework as classic cars.
Owners must register for special plates.
The car must not be used as a regular means of transport.
> Vintage Cars Definition
Global Standard: A vintage car is generally defined as:
Built between 1919 and 1930 (some extend this range from 1919–1939).
UAE (Dubai)
Under RTA Dubai guidelines:
Vehicles manufactured before 1950 fall under the vintage classification.
These cars require special inspection, maintenance standards, and registration as vintage cars.
UK
The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) recognizes:
Vintage Cars: Manufactured between 1919–1930.
Veteran Cars: Manufactured before 1919.
KSA (Saudi Arabia)
The term "vintage" isn’t officially regulated as a separate category.
However, private collectors and exhibitions commonly classify cars pre-1950 as vintage.
They must meet show-condition standards and can’t be used for daily transport.
Factors That Make a Car Collectible
Across Dubai, London, and Riyadh, car collectability is influenced by:
Age: Rarer older models hold value.
Rarity: Limited production or special editions attract higher demand.
Design & Heritage: Cars with iconic aesthetics or motorsport history (like Jaguar E-Type, Lamborghini Miura, or Ford Mustang Shelby GT500).
Buying Your First Classic or Vintage Car: Questions to Ask
What’s your primary purpose: Investment, hobby, or occasional driving?
Are parts and servicing available locally?
What are the local driving restrictions and insurance regulations?
Have you consulted a certified appraiser or specialist?
Maintenance & Parts Considerations
Cars in the UAE, UK, or KSA require different levels of maintenance support:
Dubai has specialized workshops, especially in Al Quoz and Ras Al Khor.
The UK has a larger historic car ecosystem with clubs and certified restorers.
In Saudi Arabia, restoration services are growing, especially in Riyadh and Jeddah.
Insurance for Classic, Vintage, and Antique Cars
Different regions have their own frameworks:
UAE:
Specialty insurers offer classic car policies separate from standard car insurance. Insurers like Oman Insurance and RSA provide coverage options tailored for collectible cars.
UK:
Specialist insurance providers like Adrian Flux or Lancaster Insurance offer classic car policies with agreed value coverage, mileage limitations, and breakdown cover.
KSA:
Insurance options for classic cars are limited but growing. Consult local brokers or specialized agencies in Riyadh and Jeddah.
Quick Comparison Table: Region-Specific Definitions
| Category | UAE (Dubai) | UK (DVLA, FBHVC) | KSA (Saudi Traffic Dept.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Car | Over 30 years old | Over 40 years (Historic Tax Class) | Over 30 years old |
| Antique Car | Not separately defined | Over 45–50 years (community term) | Included under Classic Car rules |
| Vintage Car | Pre-1950 | 1919–1930 (Vintage), Pre-1919 (Veteran) | Pre-1950 (community classification) |
| Special License | Yes, RTA Classic Plate | No, but Historic Vehicle status | Yes, Classic Plate |