The State of the U.K. Classic Car Market at the End of 2025

As 2025 concludes, the U.K. classic car market, tracked by the Hagerty Price Guide, reveals significant shifts in value and demand. The guide monitors over 3,000 models and has noted that nearly 80% of values have either decreased or remained static, marking a departure from the pandemic-era boom. This trend reflects a more cautious approach from buyers, with modern classic cars showing some resilience while traditional British classics struggle.

Hagerty

The Hagerty U.K. Indices indicate that growth is primarily concentrated in modern vehicles, particularly in the Hot Hatch (HH) and RADwood (RW) categories, which focus on performance hatchbacks from the 1980s and 1990s. In contrast, the Classic Index (CI) and the Best of British Index (BoB), which track older British cars, have both seen declines. The BoB is currently at its lowest since its inception in 2018, with significant depreciation observed in brands like Jaguar, which has lost 21.4% in value, largely due to a £3.6 million drop in the mean value of the XKSS.

Hagerty

The export of older cars from the U.K. to the U.S. has also declined, reaching a six-year low with a 14% decrease compared to 2024. Land Rover remains the most exported brand, comprising 24.8% of shipments, followed by Porsche and Toyota. The uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff regulations may have contributed to this downturn.

Hagerty

Despite these challenges, auction records have been set, with Mercedes-Benz achieving a remarkable sale of the 1954 W196 R Stromlinienwagen for over €51 million (£45.1 million). Other notable sales included a Gordon Murray Special Vehicles S1 LM for $20.63 million (£15.7 million) and a McLaren F1 for $25.3 million (£19.4 million), indicating that high-value cars continue to attract significant interest.

Hagerty

British auctions have faced difficulties, with Bonhams’ Goodwood Revival sale reporting its lowest total since 2016. Factors such as post-Brexit complexities and reduced market confidence may have driven major sales to international venues. While the top auction sales occurred in the E.U., the overall performance of British auctions has been lackluster.

Hagerty

The U.K. classic car market is experiencing a recalibration after the unsustainable price levels of the pandemic era. While older British cars have generally depreciated, modern classics are still witnessing price increases, suggesting a shift in collector preferences. The ongoing demand for well-preserved vehicles across various price points indicates a healthy hobby environment, despite the uncertainties affecting sales and exports. Events continue to thrive, reflecting a sustained interest in classic cars.

Hagerty

• “It is possible that continued complexity of export requirements post-Brexit and possibly reduced market confidence here have pushed major sales overseas.” — Market Expert

Hagerty