Comparing Classic Car Insurance Companies

7.jpg

Classic car insurance comes from a smaller group of companies than everyday auto insurance, and their policies differ more than the headline price suggests. Two quotes with the same premium can pay out very different amounts after a total loss. Here is who sells it and what to compare.

Who sells classic car insurance

  • Specialist collector-vehicle insurers and agencies. Companies such as Hagerty and Grundy focus on collector cars and publish their own eligibility and coverage programs. They typically offer agreed value as standard, flexible usage options and collector extras.
  • Large standard insurers with classic programs. Several mainstream insurers, including State Farm and Progressive, publish classic car coverage options, sometimes written through a partner. Buying through your existing insurer can make multi-policy discounts and a single point of contact possible.
  • Independent agents who can quote more than one collector-car program. They are useful if your car or driving history doesn't fit the standard rules.

What to compare, line by line

Policy featureWhat to ask
ValuationIs it agreed value, or stated value? Who sets the value, and how often can it be updated?
Usage and mileageIs there an annual mileage limit, or bands? What counts as permitted use: shows, club runs, pleasure drives?
DriversMinimum age and experience; whether every household driver needs another insured vehicle; how violations are treated.
StorageWhat kind of garage or storage is required, and does it matter where the car is kept while traveling?
DeductibleIs there one on physical damage? Is it different for glass or partial losses?
RepairsCan you choose a restoration specialist? Are original or reproduction parts used?
ExtrasSpare parts, tools, flatbed towing, cover in transit and at shows, automatic cover for newly bought collector cars.
LiabilityDo the limits match your other policies and your assets? State minimums apply to classics too.
Claims and serviceComplaint record with your state insurance department, and financial strength ratings.

Warning signs

  • A “classic” quote that is actually stated value or actual cash value. After a total loss it may pay much less than the figure on the policy.
  • Usage terms that don't match how you drive. Exceeding them can put a claim at risk.
  • A value you can't support with photos, receipts or an appraisal.

Before you buy

Gather what insurers will ask for: the car's details and photos, evidence of value, where it's stored, the other vehicles in the household and every driver's record. Get at least two collector-program quotes plus one from your standard insurer, and compare the policy features above, not just the price. For how classic policies work in general, see classic car insurance explained.

More on classic car insurance

Written by the CarInsuranceHub.com editorial team. Last updated September 2026. Company programs and terms change; confirm details with each insurer. Naming a company here is not an endorsement.

Popular Articles