Modern classic sweet spot? Practical considerations

[rotaryjam]

I've been looking at the more practical aspects of modern classics recently and it's strikes me that there are 3 key dates to be aware of:

- ULEZ (1981 - 2004)
- High tax bands (2006+)
- E10 petrol compatibility (2002+)

So it seems to me that pretty much 2005 is the sweet spot to avoid higher tax and ULEZ cost whilst still having E10 fuel comparability! Though it seems there examples within 2002-2005 that meet the above criteria.

Any other practical considerations?

I'd say this time period has other benefits too but I think that threads been done. In short, looks, weight, performance (fast but not bonkers)

Edited by rotaryjam on Friday 4th June 06:40

[nunpuncher]

Plenty of older cars will run on e10.

[edc]

Practical considerations:
DIY skills for repairs or maintenance
Maintenance and replacement parts for high mileage or age based wear and tear.

I'd say these running costs are more than the cost of higher VED etc over the normal length of ownership of such cars.

[samoht]

Some cars from as early as c.1999 are Euro 4 and hence ULEZ-eligible. So roughly from 2000 onwards some models are ok.
I think more cars are E10-compatible than not even back to the 90s (?)

So I think in terms of your criteria, you're looking for a Euro 4 car registered from about 2000 to 23 March 2006. Alternatively, depending on what sort of cars you're interested in, there are plenty post-2006 that don't fall into the top rate of tax.

The other practical consideration I'd add would be, is there a garage near you that is 1) enthusiastic about maintaining the car you're considering 2) knowledgeable about it 3) has good care and attention to detail 4) has great integrity. In many ways I'd rather own something "difficult" like a Citroen SM and live next door to a great Citroen specialist, than own something "normal" like an E46 BMW and be taking it a hundred miles for servicing or dealing with incompetent or dishonest garages.