Classic car prices on the continent have been slipping in the last two years but the tail end of 2024 has seen a return to form. We headed to InterClassics to take the market’s pulse and hear from its specialists.
ealers around Europe are suggesting that the uplift in classic car sales from 2024 is set to continue in 2025, with last year’s InterClassics show in Brussels seeing a strong market performance.
The success at InterClassics seems to reflect car enthusiasts’ evolving tastes and interests, particularly within the modern classic world.
Wouter Van den Avont of FunCars in Belgium said: ‘We’ve noticed a clear shift in the market, particularly towards vehicles from the 1980s onwards. These cars are uniquely appealing because they combine classic charm with modern reliability and engineering advancements. FunCars has seen big interest from the USA, too, particularly with classic Porsches and some cars even being sold unseen.
Wouter Van den Avont also told CCW that provenance is a key factor driving interest, regardless of the ebb and flow within the classic car market – cars with documented service history and originality will always a distinct edge. Wouter said: ‘Enthusiasts value the story behind the vehicle and want the confidence that comes with a car that’s been well-maintained and cared-for. Wouter also added that quality always sells despite market trends: ‘Cars that are well-maintained, original, and backed by a solid history will always attract interest, regardless of market fluctuations. While some preferences may shift, the shared passion for preserving and celebrating automotive history ensures that there’s always demand for truly exceptional vehicles.’
The scene is positive for buyers, too, with some dealers suggesting that the market now shows less evidence of investor purchases and more classics falling into the hands of genuine enthusiasts. Nicolas Nelson from DriveCity in Belgium said:‘The market is going back to real collectors, not the investors, with most buyers looking for unrestored examples. With restorations, the charm goes away.’ Nicolas also suggested that high mileage shouldn’t always bring negative connotations, suggesting that the younger generation are more inclined to look for low-mileage examples: ‘A Ferrari with more than 110,000km on the clock won’t devalue; equally nobody usually asks the mileage of an Aston Martin because it is relatively common to re-build those engines. If you buy a low-mileage car, you’re stuck with a car that will maintain its value if you don’t drive it or lose value if you start using it.’
As the European classic car market continues to flourish, one thing is certain – condition is the key factor among buyers worldwide. Alphons Ruijl of Dutch dealership, Auto Ruyl BV, said: ‘Customers are always looking for the best quality cars with condition making all the difference.’
Good dealers are also showing care for future classic car enthusiasts, suggesting that legacy is increasingly important in keeping our hobby alive for years to come.
Stephane De Smedt of SAGA Belgique added: ‘We need to take care of our buyers or they’ll disappear. We’ll lose our hobby if we don’t sell or take care of the next generation.’
Thanks to: Wouter Van den Avont of FunCars
www.funcars.biz/en/