subject: Vintage and Classic Car Rentals [print this page] Vintage and Classic Car Rentals Vintage and Classic Car Rentals
Hiring a vintage or classic car for that special occasion? Whether it's for a wedding, a birthday surprise or a pure nostalgic trip down memory lane there are a few things you should consider.
Can I drive that car?
Vintage and classic car rental companies stipulate more requirements than normal car rental companies. Drivers must be at least 25 years of age and no older than 70. There is usually a minimum of having driven for at least 2 years and often it can be as many as 5 years. The driver must have a relatively clean driving license, minor convictions may be overlooked but these are purely at the discretion of the rental company and they may decline. Any convictions for dangerous driving will not be considered.
Older cars have their own idiosyncrasies; the rental company may require you to show competency and will be watching to see how you handle each aspect of the car from steering to gear change. They may decline to rent a specific model if they don't think you can handle it appropriately.
How much does it cost?
It will depend on the age, condition and marque of the model. Old cars come under three different categories: Veteran, manufactured before 1903; Vintage from 1903 1933; and Classic which tend to be over 15 years old. Veteran cars tend to be mainly showpieces in museums or private collections so are not generally available for rental purposes.
Depending on the age will determine the level of personal security the car will have and this will have an impact on the classic car insurance which the renter will pass onto you. For example, after 1969, cars started being made with the ignition key in the steering wheel which locks the wheel too when the ignition is switched off. So, vintage and classic cars after that period may be cheaper to rent as they have a layer of security which earlier cars don't have.
Most classic and vintage car rental companies do offer fully comprehensive classic car insurance. It may be a stipulation of the hire company to accept them. Your cover should include: damage to the rented car (Collision Damage Waiver); damage to any other car involved and all passengers as well as drivers and any fire and theft that the vehicle may be subject to. Read your policy to ensure it covers all of these and that it will cover all of the costs, as some comprehensive classic car insurance policies will only cover a percentage such as 80%. And if you consider the full cost of a classic or vintage car then even 20% of a vintage car to pay for can still be very expensive.
