Luxembourg classic cars, the irresistible appeal of retro

When does a car become “classic”?

Classic cars fall within the precise legal framework of the cultural heritage of the automobile.

To belong to the classic car category, a vehicle must be over 30 years old, be maintained in its original condition and the model must no longer be manufactured.

Technical inspection and registration

The procedure for classification as an historic vehicle gives rise to an expert report from the Société Nationale de Circulation Automobile (SNCA).

If you import the vehicle into Luxembourg, you must go to the SNCA for an expert report and for registration, and then submit the vehicle to the technical control at the Société Nationale de Contrôle Technique (SNCT).

Once the status has been obtained, the road tax is reduced to 25 euros a year and the technical control is only required every two years.

It can also be carried out directly at the Automobile Club de Luxembourg (ACL) in Bertrange.

Buying a classic car

Contrary to popular belief, there are classic cars for every budget, in every era, from the Citroën 2CV to the Ford Mustang Coupé Cabriolet and the luxurious Jaguar MK8.

But before trawling through the classified ads, it is important to keep in mind that buying an old car and restoring it requires a larger overall budget than a car in perfect original condition.

The consumer market in magazines, newspapers and on the internet offers the largest choice of old vehicles.

But the best rub shoulders with the worst, so it is better to get advice from an expert eye.

Auctions also offer great opportunities, with often very low prices. But in any case, it is essential to know the rating of the car you are looking for.

In addition, these “ancestors” represent an excellent investment. Indeed, the prices of classic cars have risen by about 400% since the 2000s, far outstripping the rate of growth of works of art and vintage wines.

Your old car every day

To preserve a classic car, the ideal situation is to have a garage and thus keep the classic car protected from the elements.

You will be able to pamper it and beautify it better over the years. Because this type of car is rather fragile, especially in terms of bodywork and engine. Also, spare parts are often unavailable or unaffordable.

Rendez-vous at the AutoJumble historic vehicle exhibition in Kirchberg, which takes place every year at the beginning of March.

Many enthusiasts flock to find spare parts and discover these cars that have left their mark on history.

If you do not carry out the maintenance, overhaul and repairs yourself, you will need to find a mechanic specialised in old cars.

Insurance for classic cars

Good news for enthusiasts of old cars: a “classic” insurance policy often costs less than that of a conventional vehicle.

The owners of these cars are generally more cautious and above all they do not use them frequently.

Axa goes further to support automotive passion by making offers for all collectible vehicles, even those that are not yet 30 years old.

Youngtimers over 15 years of age such as the Clio Williams or the Mercedes C36 AMG can therefore be included in the criteria for classic vehicles.

Finally, be aware that to be properly insured, it is important to have your vehicle appraised regularly to protect it at fair market value.

Meet enthusiasts

You are ready to travel the roads in the heart of nature in the Luxembourg Ardennes or along the Moselle vineyards in complete freedom.

Or, if you prefer to hike historic vehicles and share your passion, take part in one of the LOF breakfasts or the “Oldtimer Day” organised by the Fédération Luxembourgeoise des Associations de collectionneurs de Véhicules (LOF), whose itineraries are designed to offer pleasure to drivers.

For those of you who would like to find out more, you can find all the pictures of these events on the site of Old-Rides, a company specializing in photography of classic cars in Luxembourg.