Definition of a Classic Car________

The term classic car is often used in the description of older cars, although the correct meaning is generally subjected to different opinions. There are hence a variety of applications that can be applied in defining a classic car especially when ‘classic’ is applied in the form of an adjective and this is also true in the case of a dictionary definition. A certain dictionary defined the term "classic car" as "distinguished by outstanding engineering, fine workmanship and elegant styling built around 1925 to 1948 ."

The above definition sounded quite close to one given by CCCA (Classic Car Club of America) whose definition was, ‘unusual or fine motor cares built between as well as inclusive of the years 1925-1948. These are all special cars respectively distinguished by their fine design, superior workmanship and advanced engineering standards. Classic cars were generally high-priced while in new conditions and the built quantities were limited. Certain factors including custom coachwork, engine displacement as well as luxury accessories such as power clutch, power brakes and one-shot lubrication systems assist in determining whether a car can be considered as being a Classic.

CCCA maintains an endless list of vehicles considered to be classic and although all members are permitted to petition for a preferred vehicle to be part of the list, there is careful scrutinizing of such applications and it is rare to find any admittance for new types of vehicles. This definition is rather exclusive and hardly followed universally, and while CCCA acknowledges this, it still insists that its own definition of the term ‘classic car’ is true. However, to avert confusion, certain terms like CCCA Classic or Full Classic are used. Most states in the US have legal time-based rules regarding this definition for certain purposes like registration of antique vehicles.

The definition in Pennsylvania is "motor vehicle" unlike a reproduction, the manufacture date being 15 years before the present year and it has been restored and maintained in a condition that conforms with the manufacturer’s appearance and specifications. United Kingdom does not have a classic car definition although there are two issues on taxation that have an impact. All vehicles manufactured before 1st January 1973 are not required to pay the road tax excise duty which is paid annually. It is usually inclusive of the license disc as part of the windscreen.

There are certain insurance companies that deem any car that is 20 years and above to be eligible for a policy of classic cars, although the car must be 25 years or above to qualify for the license plate of historical vehicles in most states. In comparison to modern cars, classic cars lack the basic features of safety as they are nowadays referred to. These lacking basic features include rollover protection, crumple zones and seat belts. The handling characteristics of the vehicle especially the suspension and the steering as well as the brake performance prove to poorer in comparison to the current standards. Extra care is needed for classic cars.

Muscle Cars: Cars With An Attitude

Eleanor is not a person but a muscle car. This Gone in 60 Seconds 1967 Mustang is the complete embodiment of what muscle cars are all about. Usually powered by a V8 engine, muscle cars were monsters of drag racing world back in the 1960's until early portion of 1980's. With extremely powerful torque, these cars are really going to give you a jaw-dropping ride. Muscle cars are no doubt fast cars with high horse power capability. The moment you look at such cars, the first things you will see are their bulky curves and high-performance z rated tires which are true affirmation of the reputation that muscle autos are very much known of. Muscle cars are different from sports cars we have today though some models are inspired by cars like the Ford Mustang. Though sports cars are fast cars like muscle autos, they surely won't last a minute with the supreme torque that muscle autos have - which perhaps makes Eleanor the perfect Gone in 60 Seconds car.

The interiors of muscle cars are real statement of high performance, road warrior type of vehicle. The almost nil sign of elegance and the all heart-pumping design of muscle autos' interiors match their rock and revving integrity that many a cars today try to copy but all in futility. The moment you turn it on, you can't help but notice the fiery breathing of muscle car's engine. The hissing and guzzling is like that of a dragon sleeping always ready to get the tracks burning. When you hit the gas, the dragon's V8 engine charges in an instant ready to devour all things that block its way... just like when vin Diesel of The Fast and The Furious rages against the wall and hits the road with such awesome roar. If what you are looking for is the car with an attitude that never allows being a second rater, muscle autos are the right choice. But prepare to be awestruck with the price because as of now it's of a collector's item kind of thing since you can not easily find one in the market.

However, there are companies and groups that want to bring back muscle cars on the road and these groups are actually buying old muscle autos and reconditioning them to make them roadworthy again. There are a number of reconditioned muscle cars that can still be found nowadays. There is the all-time favorite 1966 GT 40, 1970 Superbird, 1968 Shelby GT500KR Fastback or 1969 Barracuda Convertible. These models of cars were once kings of the road in the 1960's up to early part of 1980's. Although muscle autos are now rare species, there are a number of clubs that relive the greatness of muscle cars. These groups stage races and events all with the purpose of having some fun and reminiscing those days when muscle autos ruled the streets. And thanks to the Internet, people around the world who share common interest in muscle cars now have a dependable means to showcase the glory of muscle autos and allow the younger generation to see the real muscle in high-performance driving via muscle cars.