SEMA Report Reveals New Data on Classic Car Market

SEMA Report Reveals New Data on Classic Car Market

More consumers and businesses report that they are modifying classic cars with modern parts and technology.

SEMA Market Research has published a new report titled, “Classic Cars, Modern Markets” revealing new data on market sizing, purchasing habits and vehicle usage of classic car vehicle owners and explores how modern consumers feel about, work on and engage with their fellow enthusiasts about classic vehicles.

With more than 9.4 million pre-1990 vehicles estimated on the road today, more consumers and businesses report that they are modifying classic cars with modern parts and technology. While a significant number of consumers and businesses continue to restore classic cars to their original factory specifications, a growing number are customizing the vehicles to include upgraded engines with enhanced performance, increased efficiency and modern-day comforts (a practice often referred to as “restomodding”).

“Classic cars and trucks have been a key part of the specialty automotive aftermarket since it began, and for many people who own older vehicles, fixing them up or modifying them into something new is a passion project that can span decades,” said Gavin Knapp, director of market research for SEMA. “This report will help businesses understand this unique customer base, how to reach them, and where the current and future opportunities are for the vintage and automotive restoration aftermarket.”

The report, which researched classic car owners and businesses, found:

  • A growing number of businesses (62%) see restomodding on the rise and, on average, say that half the work they do on classics is part of a restomod job
  • Younger classic car owners are more likely to seek a restomod build, with 38% of owners under 45 going for a restomod, compared to 22% of older owners
  • Owners tend to view a classic as a long-term investment, with 44% saying they want to keep the vehicle forever
  • While 50% of owners use their classic vehicles for running errands, classic vehicles are much less likely to be used as commuter vehicles with 15% of classic car owners doing so (compared to 64% of the general population)
  • 80% percent of classic owners are comfortable doing at least some of the work on their vehicle on their own
  • Unrestored ‘60s muscle cars and pony cars remain popular barn finds among collectors, but the emerging market for ‘70s and ‘80s vehicles represent an important opportunity
  • Despite loving old-school cars, classic owners are not shy about going online to learn and shop for parts – especially younger owners

To learn more about the current state of the classic vehicle market and where the opportunity is for your business, download the “Classic Cars, Modern Markets” report for free at sema.org/market-research.

You May Also Like

CIF Announces National Coatings & Supplies/Single Source as Repeat Annual Donor

This marks National Coatings & Supplies/Single Source’s fourth consecutive donation at the First Responder tier.

The Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) announced that National Coatings & Supplies/Single Source has committed again to the CIF Annual Donor Program, marking their fourth consecutive donation at the First Responder (highest) tier.

Introduced in 2021, the Annual Donor Program was designed to bring needed recurring resources to the foundation so it can deliver on its mission to “answer the call” when those in the industry have been impacted by catastrophic events such as wildfires, hurricanes, flooding or COVID.

CCG Acquires Square One Systems, Coyote Vision Group

For over 40 years, Square One Systems has delivered effective solutions to collision repairers centered around analytics, collaboration and accountability.

Keene Auto Body: Since 1928

Ensio Piispanen immigrated from Finland to the U.S. and founded Keene Auto Body in 1928.

AASP/NJ Announces Winners of NORTHEAST Show Bodywork Bowl

The competition featured 70 competitors showcasing their skills in welding, painting and estimating.

Consolidator Report

Consolidation news from the week of April 15.

Other Posts

People on the Move

Recent personnel news that has appeared on bodyshopbusiness.com.

Top 5 Stories of the Week

A recap of the top five stories on bodyshopbusiness.com during the week of April 15.

Crash Champions Appoints Industry Veteran to Board of Directors

Barrett Callaghan brings two decades of industry experience to Crash Champions from Shift Technology and CCC Intelligent Solutions.

Marine Corps Veteran Joins Maaco Family

Quincy Land, owner of the newly opened Maaco in O’Fallon, has 20 years of dedicated service as a gunnery sergeant in the Marine Corps.