Classic, modern classic & project car buyers
Freephone 0800 206 2208Classics come with their own rules and their own paperwork. Here's a plain-English guide, and what helps when you sell to us.
Historic
The historic vehicle tax class is a rolling 40-year exemption: from 1 April each year, vehicles built before 1 January forty years earlier can apply. So from 1 April 2026, vehicles built before 1 January 1986 are eligible. A car in the historic class pays no vehicle tax but still has to be taxed each year, and it can't be used commercially. If your V5C shows the historic class, it's simply part of the car's record.
MOT
Most cars over 40 years old don't need an annual MOT, as long as they haven't been substantially changed in the last 30 years (for example by a new engine of a different type or major chassis modifications). The keeper declares this when taxing the vehicle. Even an exempt car must be kept roadworthy, and many owners still choose a voluntary MOT, which is a useful record if you have one.
Dating
A classic that has been imported, or that lost its original registration, can be given an age-related registration by the DVLA. That usually needs a dating certificate from a recognised owners' club or the manufacturer. If your car has one, keep it with the history file. If the car is on a Q plate, tell us: it's still bought, but it's part of the story.
Heritage
For many British cars, a Heritage Certificate from the British Motor Museum confirms the original specification, colour and dispatch date. Other manufacturers and clubs offer similar records, such as Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust certificates or a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity. These support originality and matching-numbers claims, so mention them if you have them.
History
With a classic, the paperwork can matter as much as the paint. Old MOT certificates, invoices, restoration photos, magazine features, previous V5s and letters from earlier owners all help show what the car is. Please keep the file together and hand it over with the car.
Imports
Many American and European classics in the UK were imported. If yours is on UK plates with a V5C, we buy it just like any other classic. If it's still awaiting registration, tell us what paperwork you have, such as the US title and import documents, and we'll explain the options.
It is a rolling 40-year rule. From 1 April 2026, vehicles built before 1 January 1986 can apply for the historic vehicle tax class.
No. We buy classics with or without an MOT, exempt or not.
Tell us the situation. We'll need proof of ownership, and we'll explain what's possible.
It can help confirm originality, but it isn't required. Tell us what you know about the car's history.
Tell us. Originality is one factor among many, and modified classics are bought too.