Classic car valuation

How is the value of a classic car determined?

To bring consistency to the way classic cars are assessed, several grading systems have been developed to standardise how condition and quality are evaluated. Two of the most widely used are:

100-point system

Under this system, a classic car is assessed against a 100-point scale based on its overall condition and quality. The final score places the vehicle into one of ten categories, which are then used to guide its valuation.

100 points = Perfect condition

A score of 100 points would indicate that your classic car is in perfect, original condition. It is likely that both the interior and exterior have been professionally restored to the original factory standard or higher.

An example of this quality will usually be valued at the highest possible price for the make and model.

90 points = Excellent condition

A classic car that achieved 90 points will be similar to a ‘perfect’ model, but with some minor imperfections preventing a maximum score. ‘Excellent’ examples still achieve great prices as they’re close to the original factory condition.

80 points = Fine condition

‘Fine’ condition suggests that the classic car is fully operational and its appearance is of acceptable show quality. However, a score of 80 points usually means there are minimal signs of wear, which can occur if the restoration was carried out a few years ago.

70 points = Very good condition

A score of 70 points would again imply that the car is an older restoration. It is likely to achieve this condition if there are more visible signs of wear. If you drive your restored classic car daily, it is likely to be worth less due to wear from regular use.

60 points = Good condition

If your classic car achieves a score of 60 points, it may need some mechanical or cosmetic work. However, classics in ‘good’ condition are still very usable. This grade indicates there are no serious issues, but further restoration could improve the car’s appearance and performance.

50 points = Drivable condition

Drivable condition indicates that the car has some mechanical and cosmetic issues and falls short of ‘good’ condition. Whilst drivable, these cars have succumbed to regular wear and tear.

These examples may be used as an everyday drive and are less preserved than higher scoring equivalents, as they are further removed from the original condition.

40 points = Restorable condition

A classic car that achieves a ‘restorable’ grade will require substantially more work than examples in the ‘good’ or ‘drivable’ categories.

They may need work on the engine, interior, or chassis. As the car needs some heavier work than the above categories, you would expect this to be reflected in the valuation.

30 points = Partial condition

‘Partial’ condition means that a classic car requires more extensive restoration to several interior and exterior areas. The type of work required will usually prove to be both time-consuming and costly.

Valuations in this category will be significantly lower than better-preserved examples. Potential buyers should consider the cost and demand of the required restoration work.

20 points or less = ‘Parts car’ condition

A score of 20 points or less indicates the car cannot be restored to roadworthy condition. These cars are not usually resold as a whole unit, but may be stripped of valuable parts before they are unfortunately scrapped.