Classic cars are cleaner than you might think. Although the number of 20 years-and-older vehicles on UK roads has more than doubled in the last 10 years, their average CO2 emissions have dropped by 16% per vehicle. That’s because newer, more efficient modern classics from the 1990s and 2000s are now entering collector territory, bringing with them cleaner tech and better fuel economy.
Back in 2013, there were just under half a million classic cars in the UK. By the end of 2024, that figure had shot up to more than 1,000,000 – with a record 63,000 cars hitting the 30-year milestone last year alone. Yet despite all that growth, the total CO2 output from the sector has only risen by 34% in a decade.
According to new analysis by communications agency loop, that’s largely because modern classics bring cleaner technology with them. Think engine management, fuel injection, and tighter emissions control – all of which help to reduce the environmental impact of running an older car.
Classic emissions: smaller than you’d think
Fuel economy is improving with every generation of cars entering the classic sector. A typical 1990s saloon gets 21% better fuel economy than its 1970s equivalent – and that pays dividends as those cars hit 30 years old.
As a result, average emissions per car fell from 899kg in 2013 to just 757kg in 2024. Put another way, a year of classic car driving now has the same carbon impact as around one and a half weeks’ worth of home energy use.
Even with the increase in total numbers, classics still contribute just 0.30% of the UK’s total transport-related emissions. That’s a surprisingly small figure for a sector often portrayed as outdated and dirty.
What’s driving the trend?
Mileage is the biggest factor. After several years of decline, average annual distance driven by classic owners has risen again, reaching 1,535 miles in 2024 – roughly where it was back in 2013. But even if that figure were to remain stable, the overall emissions curve is still heading in the right direction.
‘Ten years ago, there were roughly 18,000 cars on our roads that were exactly 30 years old. Today there are nearly 70,000,’ explains Alex Kefford, Head of Editorial at loop. ‘In fact, there are now more 30 to 33-year-old cars than the total number of classics of any age a decade ago.’
‘This influx of young-timers is having a positive impact on the classic sector’s overall emissions, as they bring greater fuel efficiency and tighter emissions controls with them, helping to offset what would otherwise have been a doubling in the environmental footprint of our motoring heritage.’
What this means for you
If you’re thinking of buying a classic car, especially a more modern one, the environmental case is stronger than you might expect. Average CO2 output is low thanks to modest mileage, and emissions per vehicle are falling year-on-year.
That also makes classic ownership more defensible in a world of increasing scrutiny over tailpipe emissions. With real-world usage so low and improving tech from newer classics, your hobby might be greener than you think.
It’s not just about nostalgia – newer classics like the BMW 3 Series (E46), Ford Mondeo Mk1 and Honda Integra Type Rs (above) are helping make old car ownership more responsible and attainable.
Editor’s view: drive a classic and save the planet
I’ve long said that modern classics – those 1990s and early 2000s gems – are some of the best cars you can buy. They’re quick enough to keep up with modern traffic, often more fun to drive, and many are now climbing in value. My own Peugeot fits that mould perfectly – it’s still a joy to drive, and this data gives me one more reason to keep enjoying it without guilt.
The numbers show what many of us already suspected: that running a modern classic isn’t the environmental sin some make it out to be. With low annual mileage and better fuel efficiency than their older counterparts, they punch well below their weight in emissions.
Just make sure you stay on top of servicing and tuning, and keep yours running sweet. If you’re handy with a spanner – or keen to learn – there’s never been a better time to get involved.
Keith Adams – Editor, Parkers
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