Knowing the different car classifications

Bernshtam
2 min readAug 19, 2021

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Car collecting is one of those hobbies that Gene Bernshtam is passionate about. He knows a classic from an antique, as well as a vintage right off the bat. These classifications are important to him, either for assessing the value or knowing the appropriate type for an occasion. Today, he will teach us how to identify these classifications, as this is something that serious car collectors should know by instinct.

Image source: hubspot.net

Classic cars

These cars are usually between 20–40 years old and should be maintained as close as possible to their original manufacturer’s specifications. Any significant change from its original condition may disqualify a vehicle from being called a classic. As time goes by, cars manufactured in the 1980s and 1990s are now being categorized into the classic. Cars such as BMW M3s, Nissan Skylines, etc., have recently seen high demand.

Image source: classicins.com

Antique cars

Antique cars are often confused with classic cars. But they are much older — 45 years old at least, based on the definition of the Antique Automobile Club of America. Like classic cars, antique cars should be maintained as close as possible to their original specifications. Modern parts are only permitted due to the lack of availability of the original parts, which are already quite rare.

Vintage cars

Gene Bernshtam notes the confusing definition of a vintage car, although, as a rule of thumb, it is usually considered those that were manufactured either between 1919–1930 or 1919–1925. But here’s the thing; vintage cars do not lose their value even if they are modified, unlike antique or classic cars.

Gene Bernshtam currently leads real estate firm Avalon Holdings LLC, which specializes in apartment buildings and mixed-use properties. Aside from consulting services, the company focuses on investment, development, management, and repositioning underperforming assets. Outside of work, Gene enjoys auto collecting, traveling, scuba diving, and weightlifting. For similar posts, visit this website.

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