Safety of classic cars vs. modern cars (2024)

Safety of old cars vs. new cars

Modern cars are safer than unmodified classic cars, according to data fromNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA). The federal agency found that seat belts, airbags and collision avoidance technology significantly increase your chances of surviving a crash.This is also evident from their researchthat the highest percentage of crash deaths were in vehicles built 1984 and older.

Seat belt laws vary by state, and if seat belts are not installed in an older car (usually cars made before 1965), the driver may not be legally required to equip the vehicle with them. But seat belts and other safety features such as airbags, electronic stability control, and lower anchors and child restraints (LATCH) are mandatory in new cars.

What makes modern cars safer compared to classic cars?

Improvements in car safety over the years have saved countless lives. Seat belts appeared in the 1960s. In the decades since, airbags, anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and enhanced crumple zones that help protect occupants during a crash have become standard. Crash avoidance technology and driver alerts in modern cars also protect lives on the road. Newer vehicles also tend to absorb bumps, minimize noise and offer adjustable driving positions for better access to controls.

Can a classic car be made safer?

While seat belts can usually be added, other effective modern safety components, such as crumple zone improvements and airbags, generally cannot be added to a classic car. But there are upgrades and measures that conventional drivers can take to help reduce their risks on the road. These steps include:

• Carrying out regular maintenance on the vehicle
• Make sure you have modern, high-quality tires and brakes
• Investment in modern halogen or LED lamps
• Limiting your driving time
• Install a reversing camera
• Upgrade to electric power steering
• Take an advanced driving safety course

Learn more ways tomodernizing a classic car.

Are older cars more sustainable than new cars?

Although newer vehicles are safer than classic cars, there is an ongoing debate about sustainability. Classic car advocates argue that older cars are designed to last, with parts that can be easily and cheaply repaired or replaced. New cars are full of electronics that require special expertise and diagnostic equipment if they fail.

On the other hand, technologies such as on-board diagnostics have made it easier to identify problems with a vehicle. In addition, one2021 JD Reliability Study of Electric Vehiclestested 177 different problems and found that cars and trucks have become more reliable over the past decade.

Classic versus buying modern cars

Buy a classic car, like itbuying a used car, can be more intensive thansteps when buying a new car. Finding a reliable classic car requires extensive research into the specific vehicles you are considering. If safety is your priority, you're probably better off buying a new car. However, a classic car can be more than just a means of transportation, especially if it is a collector's item or another vehicle that you would like to restore.

You should also consider what type of insurance you want. Classic cars that are driven daily must be standardcar insurance, but those who only drive occasionally may qualifyclassic car insurance, which typically offer more coverage for less money.

Learn more aboutif you are going to buy a classic carInhow classic car insurance works.