The definition of a classic car and how to keep it roadworthy

Classic cars are defined based on age, quality of original production, popularity, value and condition. Classic car clubs, insurance companies and vintage car collectors all have their own way of determining whether a car meets the criteria to qualify for classic car status.

The definition of the noun 'classic' means: of very high quality, of recognisable excellence. The exact words used when classifying old car models. 

The condition of a vehicle of historic interest (VHI) is rated according to the cars roadworthiness, whether the body and undercarriage are free from rust, interior upholstery is fully intact, engine runs and it matches the original design.

The UK Department of Transport announced in 2018 that all vehicles 40 years and older be exempt from an annual MoT. These cars were classed as Vehicles of Historic Interest. Exemption also based on car being in the same original manufactures specification.

Make your classic car roadworthy

A question frequently asked is how to find parts for older model cars. Owning a classic car and wanting to keep it in it's original condition is only fun if it is roadworthy. The replacement of parts is, for most cars inevitable. Knowing what parts are available is a good start. Fortunately the internet is a wonderful! thing as It connects you to auto enthusiasts including those selling parts for classic and vintage cars.

If you choose to modify or upgrade, do so wisely and with caution. Parts likely to need replacing:

• Convert outdated drum brakes to disc brakes for safe driving. Drum brakes tend to wear out quickly, so although they offer good stopping power they can become unreliable. They also require frequent cleaning. Modern stopping power is important!
• Upgrade the suspension
• Power steering is a good option for cars that are driven often. If you no longer have the physical power to steer an old classic then it is a good idea to do this conversion for a smooth, safe and reliable drive.

Maintain the condition with a classic car rust proofing

Rust protection to your classic car is a great way to ensure that corrosion doesn't creep in through cavities to the bodywork or attack the under carriage.

Dinitrol classic car rust proofing kits contain all the products needed to to rust proof any size vehicle. Rejel also sell top-up rust proofing kits for older cars where there are signs of corrosion that need treating 

To use the litres kit you require an air supply of 4-6 bar pressure. The rust proofing kit includes the following products:

DINITROL ML3125 Cavity Wax 500ml aerosol spray or litres can - Particularly suitable for use on old vehicles where corrosion is evident. Design for application on internal and external vehicle surfaces. It won't crack, chip or peel offering lasting rust protection.

DINITROL 4941 underbody wax 500ml aerosol can or litres - a superior self-healing underbody product which will not dry out or flake off. When applied hot to a clean, dry surface, it adheres to both painted surfaces and those coated with a layer of PVC or similar material. Zinc, rubber and plastics are completely unharmed by the product.

Extension Spray nozzle (600mm long) for aerosol can