Classic Cars for Sale in Los Angeles, CA (2024)

FAQs

What are the rules for classic cars in California? ›

The vehicle must be insured as a collector car and must meet one of the following requirements: The vehicle is at least 35 model-years old. (Health and Safety Code section 44011) The vehicle is at least 25 model-years old with historical vehicle license plates.

1960s Chevrolet Corvette

The 1960 Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American classic car that has stood the test of time as one of the most popular and highly sought-after vintage cars in the market.

Classic cars fluctuate in value, but they can appreciate over time rather than depreciate like a modern car does.

California describes a “classic car” as a vehicle that is at least 25 years old. This distinction is made due to the fact that cars built before 1975 are excused from the California Smog Certification Program.

What vehicles do not require a Smog Check? Gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are model-year 1975 and older.

Condition

The most significant factor in determining the value of a classic car is its condition. You could have the rarest car model in the world, but if it's covered in rust and in need of a massive restoration in order to be drivable, the vehicle's value will drop.

Improper storage of a classic car

Avoid dirt and gravel which can create excessive moisture resulting in rust which may degrade your car. Instead, opt for solid flooring with good drainage. Additionally, you're going to want a secured space that is insulated.

Is it OK to daily drive a classic car? ›

Before daily driving a classic car, you'll need to make sure the car is roadworthy with regular inspections and preventative maintenance. Certain steps might help lower your risks on the road, but a classic car may still carry significant safety concerns because of its age.

Many of their designs were inspired by California's custom car culture. The dry and temperate climate in most of California makes it one of the best places in the world for cars to grow old. The mild weather is easy on automobiles, and driving conditions are ideal throughout the year.

California. California has the most people of any state in the country, so it's no surprise that it also has the most classic car collectors.

In California, do you need a front license plate to be street-legal or is a rear license plate enough? While in some states a rear license plate may be enough, for California residents driving passenger vehicles, all cars, trucks, and SUVs on the roads must have both a rear and a front license plate.

California is continuing its push to clean up its air by trying to block more older vehicles from staying on its roads. But unlike earlier versions, classic cars still will be allowed to cruise the California highways.

Simply put, the USA's “25-Year Import Rule” regulates the importation of foreign vehicles into the United States. It stipulates that a vehicle must be at least 25 years old before it becomes eligible for import and deemed street-legal for use on American roads.

Pre-1985 Vehicles: According to California law, pre-1985 vehicles are not legally required to have seat belts. However, it is highly recommended for safety reasons. Modification and Safety: Many vintage car enthusiasts choose to retrofit their vehicles with seat belts to enhance safety.