Classic cars are having a renaissance, capturing the hearts of a new generation of enthusiasts. Our latest research has revealed that there suggests to be a marked increase in the number of younger people turning towards classic cars.
Our internal data uncovers an increasing number of younger classic car owners, aged 25 to 39, opting for classic car insurance. So far this year, there has been a 16% rise in these drivers insuring a single classic car with us, compared to the same period in 2023. This increase reflects a significant cultural shift, where a new generation is not only cultivating an interest and appreciation for classic cars but also becoming owners themselves.
Further supporting this trend, we recently surveyed over 800 classic car owners where we found that 40% of respondents have noticed a growing number of young people interested in classic cars.
The impact of social media
Social media plays a pivotal role in sparking younger generations’ interest in classic cars as 42% of classic car owners reported seeing more classic car content on social media platforms recently. This digital exposure is beginning to make waves in the industry, as nearly a third of respondents (29%) have observed an increase in classic car influencers across social media channels.
With platforms like Instagram and TikTok playing a key role in how people discover and explore new interests, the rise in classic car content has naturally captured the attention of younger audiences.
Some of the factors behind this are the visually captivating nature of classic cars and their unique designs which translate well to social media, where striking imagery and engaging videos can quickly capture attention. Furthermore, the community aspect is a big draw in as social media’s interactive nature allows for a deeper connection between classic car fans and potential new enthusiasts. This sense of involvement and belonging helps to solidify their interest and encourages more people to explore owning or restoring a classic vehicle.
Mitchell Brown, automotive photographer and organiser of the annual Mini’s and Milkshakes car show, who also attends the weekly Dub Club meet run by younger enthusiasts, comments: “It’s really interesting seeing the peaks in popularity of what people drive, own, build and take interest in. I’ve personally seen this shine through at the shows I’m involved in and through social media where many younger people show their projects.
“With the rise of social media platforms such as TikTok and YouTube, eager influencers have noticed that documenting the lengthy process of building and restoring an older, classic car is an audience grabber. Seeing the good, the bad and the ugly is something that adds character, life and soul to these machines we call ‘classic cars’.
“It’s exciting to see what the future holds for both classic cars and the younger generation. I’ve noticed from the many shows I attend that more younger people do take a liking to classic cars. Having a fresh set of eyes (and spanners) on a classic is a fantastic prospect, as it can be restored to its former glory or find a new lease of life as something new. Either way, it’s teaching skills along the way and keeping the older machines alive.”
