At JD’s Auto Restoration, we love cars. Classic, antique, or muscle, every vehicle holds something of the automobile’s mystique. You might be asking, what’s the difference between a classic and an antique? What makes a muscle car unique? Let’s break down the Difference Between Antique Classic and Muscle Cars?

Difference Between Antique Classic and Muscle Cars – Classifying a Car

Before we understand the differences between cars, we must know the differences in classification. Classic car clubs define what makes a classic, antique, and muscle car, and these are usually what we think of in terms of these types of vehicles. However, state DMVs and insurance companies often have their classifications, which are essential for insurance and licensing. We’ll be discussing the contemporary definition of these classifications. Refer to your state and insurance company for how they classify your specific vehicle. 

What’s the Difference Between a Classic and Antique Car?

With that out of the way, let’s look at the classification of Classic and Vintage cars first. This classification is determined primarily by the age of the vehicle. While you can get modern cars that “look” classic or vintage, that is not the same thing as classic or vintage. 

Vinyl is suitable, but it will never be leather. 

Vintage cars were manufactured between 1919 and 1930, which is a general rule, and some models and makes ended their vintage classification in 1925. Importantly, vintage cars are still considered vintage even if they have had significant modifications. 

Classic cars generally have an age range between 20 and 40 years. While vintage cars can (and often do) have significant modifications done to them and still be vintage, the same isn’t true for classic cars. Classic cars should not be altered from their original design, and repairs and maintenance should keep them accurate to their original factory form. 

Difference Between Antique Classic and Muscle Cars – What Gives a Car Muscle?

The classification of muscle cars isn’t about age; it’s about form. A muscle car is an American-made, two-door sports coupe with a powerful engine, often a V8. Muscle cars came about with the high-performance sports cars of the 1960s, so none of them are old enough to be considered vintage cars. However, a muscle car can be a classic, usually called a classic muscle car, if they are old enough to classify as a classic. 

Not all muscle cars are classics, however. Muscle cars are still in production today, and some of the best of 2022 https://www.carmax.com/articles/modern-muscle-cars still sport some of the classic designs of their predecessors but with a smoother, more modern, streamlined approach.

Are You Looking for Repairs or Body Work for a Classic, Vintage, or Muscle Car in Huntingdon Valley, PA?

If you want a new paint job, need body repairs following a collision, or wish to restore a vintage, classic, or muscle car, contact us to schedule an appointment. We service various makes and models and can help make your vintage or classic car look as beautiful as it did on the showroom floor.