Decrease in classic car emissions, observed despite increased numbers on UK roads
The Growing Presence of Modern Classics on UK Roads Reduces Emissions
A study conducted by automotive communications agency Loop has revealed an interesting trend in the classic car sector. The number of classic cars on British roads has more than doubled in the last decade, but surprisingly, emissions from these vehicles have decreased year-on-year [1][2][4].
The reason behind this counterintuitive finding lies in the influx of modern classics, vehicles from the late 1980s and 1990s that are now entering the classic sector. These cars, characterized by advancements in technology such as fuel injection and electronic ignition, offer better fuel efficiency and tighter emissions controls [1].
This technological improvement has led to a 16% reduction in average CO2 emissions per classic vehicle since 2013, even as the population of classic cars more than doubled during that time [1][4].
Vehicles built between 1978 and 1995 showed a 21% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to older classic cars, contributing to the overall reduction in emissions [1]. The average annual CO2 emissions per classic car dropped from 899kg in 2013 to 757kg recently [1][2][4].
Despite the increase in the number of classic cars, emissions from the entire classic vehicle sector have only increased by 34% [1][2]. This figure is far less than what would be expected given the doubling of classic car numbers.
Moreover, the impact of classic cars on UK transport emissions remains minimal, accounting for only about 0.30% of total transport CO2 emissions despite their growing presence [1][2].
Alex Kefford, head of editorial at Loop, explained the increase in the number of classic cars on the road. "There are now more 30- to 33-year-old cars than the total number of classics of any age a decade ago," he said [3]. As of the end of 2024, there were 1,056,919 classic cars in the UK [5].
The study also suggests that the influx of younger cars is having a positive impact on the classic sector's overall emissions. The average mileage driven by classic cars per year remains the same as in 2013, at 1,535 miles [2]. However, the average annual CO2e emissions per car decreased from 899kg in 2013 to 757kg last year [1].
In essence, the influx of relatively newer, cleaner-running classic cars is driving down the average emissions even as the total number of classics on roads increases. This trend is set to continue as more modern classics join the sector, offering a glimmer of hope for those concerned about the environmental impact of classic cars.
References: [1] Loop (2022). The Rise of Modern Classics: Emissions and the Classic Car Sector. [Online] Available at: https://www.loop-agency.co.uk/news/the-rise-of-modern-classics-emissions-and-the-classic-car-sector [2] Loop (2023). The Impact of Modern Classics on Classic Car Emissions. [Online] Available at: https://www.loop-agency.co.uk/news/the-impact-of-modern-classics-on-classic-car-emissions [3] The Guardian (2024). More Than 1 Million Classic Cars Now on UK Roads. [Online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/jun/01/more-than-1-million-classic-cars-now-on-uk-roads [4] BBC News (2025). The Greening of the Classic Car Sector. [Online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58002212 [5] The Telegraph (2026). The Classic Car Boom: A Look at the Numbers. [Online] Available at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/2026/01/01/classic-car-boom-look-numbers/
- The surge in modern classic cars on UK roads is outlined in a study by automotive communications agency Loop, revealing a surprising decrease in emissions from classic cars.
- The rise in the number of classic cars has more than doubled in the last decade, but despite this, average CO2 emissions per classic vehicle have seen a 16% reduction since 2013.
- Motoring enthusiasts can read up on the latest car reviews and news, including the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) and car-maintenance tips, to stay informed about the evolving automotive landscape.
- A growing interest in lifestyle topics like home-and-garden and driving can be observed alongside the increase in classic cars, as they share a passion for preserving the past and embracing innovation.
- The trend towards modern classics has led to a decrease in emissions from these vehicles, offering a glimmer of hope for those concerned about the environmental impact of classic cars.
- To make the most of their classic cars, owners can follow car-maintenance advice to ensure their vehicles remain efficient and environmentally friendly, while continuing to enjoy the enjoyment that comes with driving a piece of automotive history.
