Classic & Vintage Car Insurance

Why choose Howden for classic and vintage car insurance?

When it comes to sourcing classic and vintage car insurance policies for our clients, we at Howden pride ourselves on doing the heavy lifting, so they don’t have to. Thanks to the great relationships we have with our selected panel of standard and specialist insurers, we make the process of comparing various insurance policies, on your behalf, easy and straightforward. What’s not to like?

As a motor insurance broker, we also acknowledge that each policy needs to be as individual as its owner and their classic or vintage car, and that’s why we provide a bespoke, personalised service, focused on getting to know you and finding out exactly what you want from your cover.

Ultimately, just know, whether you need to make a claim, purchase a new car policy, or renew an existing one, we’re here to help.

Benefits of working with Howden:

• We’re driven to save you time, money, and hassle
• Personalised guidance backed by local expertise
• Chat to your local broker, within your community
• Insurance cover tailored to your needs
• We're there for you when something goes wrong

How does classic car insurance work?

Classic car insurance works by assessing risk differently to standard car insurance, focusing on vehicle condition, usage and ownership.

Rather than assuming daily use, insurers look at how often the car is driven, where it is stored and whether it is supported by another main vehicle.

Key aspects

• Limited usage
  Most policies are based on lower annual mileage, reflecting occasional use.
• Second car requirement
  Many insurers expect the classic vehicle to be a second car rather than your primary mode of transport.
• Vehicle condition
  Cars are often expected to be well-maintained and kept in good or excellent condition.
• Specialist valuation
  Vintage vehicle values may be agreed upfront rather than relying on standard price guides.

Benefits of classic and vintage car insurance

Classic and vintage car insurance is designed to protect cherished vehicles that are driven less frequently and cared for more carefully than everyday cars.

• Cover tailored to specialist vehicles
  A classic policy recognises that vintage vehicles are often maintained to a high standard and driven responsibly.
• Agreed value options
  Many classic car insurance policies allow you to insure your vehicle at an agreed value, helping to reflect its true worth rather than market depreciation.
• Lower mileage allowances
  Policies often take limited annual mileage into account, which can positively affect premiums.
• Suitable for hobby and leisure use
  Classic car insurance is typically intended for social, domestic and pleasure use rather than daily commuting.
• Designed for enthusiasts
  Owners who belong to a classic car club or keep their vehicle in secure storage may benefit from additional flexibility.

Can I get classic car insurance?

Most drivers can get classic car insurance if both they and the vehicle meet certain criteria.

Typically, insurers look for experienced drivers with a clean or limited claims history. You may also be asked to confirm that you have access to a second car for everyday use and that your classic vehicle is stored securely when not in use.

Eligibility varies between insurers, which is why comparing classic car insurance quotes can be particularly helpful.

Levels of cover

Classic car insurance is available in several levels, allowing you to choose protection that suits how your vehicle is used.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive classic car insurance offers the highest level of protection. It usually covers accidental damage to your own vehicle as well as third party damage, fire and theft. Comprehensive cover is often chosen for higher-value or fully restored vehicles where repairs could be costly.

Third Party, Fire and Theft

This level of cover protects against damage you cause to others, while also covering your vehicle if it is stolen or damaged by fire. It can suit owners who want a balance between cost and protection without full comprehensive cover.

Third Party Only

Third Party Only is the minimum legal requirement. It covers injury or damage to others but does not insure your own vehicle, making it more suitable for lower-value classics or vehicles used very occasionally.

How much is classic car insurance in Ireland?

The cost of classic car insurance in Ireland varies depending on the vehicle, driver and level of cover.

Premiums are influenced by factors such as:

• Mileage limits
• Vehicle age
• Agreed value
• Storage arrangements
• Whether the car is a second vehicle.

However, because classic cars are often driven less frequently, premiums can be competitive compared with standard car insurance.

Is classic car insurance cheaper?

Classic car insurance can be cheaper than standard car insurance, but this depends on how the vehicle is used.

Lower mileage, careful ownership and limited exposure to everyday driving risks can reduce overall risk. However, premiums may increase for rare or high-value vehicles where repair costs are higher.

Comparing classic policy and specialist policy options helps ensure costs reflect how the vehicle is actually driven.

 5 tips for reducing your classic car premium costs

There are several practical steps that can help keep classic car insurance premiums manageable:

1. Limit annual mileage
   Lower mileage limits often result in lower premiums.
2. Secure storage
   Keeping your vehicle in a locked garage or secure facility can reduce risk.
3. Maintain good condition
   Well‑maintained vehicles are generally viewed more favourably by insurers.
4. Join a classic car club
   Membership of a recognised classic car club may support your application.
5. Choose the right cover level
   Avoid paying for protection that does not match the vehicle’s value or usage.

How to get a classic car insurance quote

Getting a classic car insurance quote is about sharing the right details so your cover accurately reflects how your vehicle is owned, stored and used.

When requesting classic car insurance quotes, insurers will usually ask for information such as:

• Vehicle details, including age, condition and estimated or agreed value
• How the car is used, for example limited mileage, leisure driving or event attendance
• Storage arrangements, such as whether the vehicle is kept in a locked garage
• Ownership details, including whether the car forms part of a collection or is a second car

Howden Insurance can support drivers by sourcing classic car insurance quotes that reflect vehicle value, usage and ownership. Speaking with a broker allows you to explain these details clearly, helping to ensure your classic policy is accurate, appropriate and suited to how you enjoy your car.

Keen to read more about insurance policies and how they work? Visit our Howden Blog!

*Note: This is a marketing article from Howden Insurance. The information in this guide is accurate at time of publication. This content is provided for general information only and does not constitute financial or insurance advice.