If you need insurance for your vehicle, the first thing you should know about are the different types of specialty cars and how to distinguish them. For example, there are classic cars, antique cars and collector cars. These might sound like interchangeable terms but there are some differences between them. There are also different insurance policies to protect these types of cars.

Education is key when it comes to selecting the right insurance, you want to make sure you get the best policy for your car at a price you can afford.

Classic Cars and Classic Car Insurance

It can be difficult to define what makes a car a classic. A leading source of information is the Classic Car Club of America. They state that a vehicle must be at least 20 years old but no older than 45 years to be a classic. Any distinctive car made between 1946 and 1985, either domestic or foreign, falls into this category.

The right classic car insurance is extremely important because it is likely you have invested a lot of money into your automobile. Also, these cars are older so they do not have the modern safety features we rely on today. These features that are considered standard in modern vehicles are often not found in classic cars. Some have seat belts, but many do not. Also, they do not have other modern features like skid resistant tires, crumple zones, airbags, power steering and more that add safety to today's cars. Depending on what you are using your classic car for, you may want to have seat belts installed. However take note that the classic car is not recommended as an everyday vehicle.

Even if you don't drive your classic automobile every day, you still need adequate classic car insurance. This type of insurance covers more than just your average liability policy. Often, insurance for the classic car will cover both you and the other driver if an accident does occur. It should also include comprehensive coverage that protects it from damage due to vandalism, theft or natural disaster. Many classic car insurance policies cover spare parts, accessories and costs for towing and labor.

Another important feature associated with classic car insurance is Agreed Amount Coverage, also called Agreed Value Coverage. This means if your car is totaled, the full insured value will be paid. When shopping for insurance for your classic automobile, free online quotes can give you a good idea of what a policy is going to cost you and which insurance company is best.

Antique Cars and Antique Car Insurance

An antique car is defined as a vehicle 45 years or older. Like the classic car, antique cars require a special type of insurance that not every auto insurer provides. When shopping for antique car insurance, you should consider obtaining free online quotes to compare features and rates. There are a variety of insurance companies who have this online option for antique car owners.

Also like the classic car, the antique car is most likely missing important safety features such as seat belts. Therefore, insurance that protects you and other drivers on the road is crucial. In addition to needing collision and comprehensive protection, your antique car insurance should cover spare parts. Also, Agreed Value Coverage is important. As previously mentioned, if your car is completely destroyed the insurance company will pay full policy value. There are some requirements you will need to meet before most insurance companies can provide you with coverage for your antique car.

For example, it is usually a requirement to keep your antique car in a covered storage area like a garage. This protects it from weather damage as well as from vandalism and theft. There may be mileage requirements imposed for antique cars. Also, you are prohibited from using your antique vehicle for racing. Just as the classic car, the antique car is meant to be reserved for shows and exhibitions and not used for daily driving. Requirements for insurance do vary from company to company, so when you are browsing for online quotes look for this information as well.

Collector Cars and Collector Car Insurance

A collector car may be classic, antique or a newer model automobile. For example, in addition to classic and antique cars, the collector car category may include limited production cars, exotic cars, street rods, modified vehicles, retired commercial vehicles and even some other types of vehicles like motorcycles and tractors. There are some types of vehicles, that while collectible, would not be covered under collector car insurance. Examples might include off road vehicles, vehicles that use nitrous, or vehicles used for commercial purposes.

When shopping for collector car insurance, check what is eligible and what is not on the various websites that provide insurance for these types of cars. There might also be requirements on mileage; and as with the other specialty cars you may be required to keep your collector car in a covered facility like a garage. In addition, many companies state the collector car should not be used as an everyday car but for special events or occasional trips only.

More American Car Insurance Tips

Whether you are looking for classic, antique or collector car insurance, there are some basic tips that can help you get the best policy for your needs. Comparison shopping is a must. As previously mentioned, you can request online quotes for free. Brokers can actually get you quotes from multiple insurers and all you need to do is fill out one form.

If you are planning on buying another car, even a newer model used every day, look for a policy that gives you a discount on additional vehicles. Many of the insurance companies out there do offer this. You can visit a local insurance company and get a quote on these types of automobile insurance as well. If you feel more comfortable talking directly to an agent rather than communicating via Internet or telephone, this may be the best option for you.

Before speaking with an insurance agent or broker, write down any questions you need answered about eligibility, requirements, deductibles, premiums and anything else you can think of.