Dear Classic Car Enthusiasts, Collectors and Followers,
The 2026 classic car market appears to be in a very different place compared to just a few years ago. In short, it’s no longer booming. Instead, it may be cooling, self-correcting, and becoming more selective and layered.
A current snapshot of the market may help put things into perspective.
If you’re buying: it’s very much a buyer’s market—and one of the best windows in years.
Around 70/80% of classic car values have either fallen or remained flat. Supply now outstrips demand, discouraging competition, which makes negotiation – and, crucially, negotiating skill - more important than ever.
Sellers are becoming more realistic, and cars are sitting on the market for longer. The upside? This market correction (not a crash) means better value and greater choice.
If you’re selling: it can be challenging (unless you’re in the right segment). Many classic cars have declined in value and are harder to sell. Buyers are cautious, and auction results are softer.
The market is increasingly split: top-end cars continue to perform strongly, while the mid-range sector remains weaker.
The auction scene has shifted again, with American markets leading the field and achieving strong results - particularly with Ferraris and Porsches.
By comparison, British classics have reached rock-bottom across the board, and sales are struggling across the pond.
We all know Jaguars are not looking up - yet. Perception isn’t helped by poor auction results, which often receive the wrong kind of publicity… frequently from those who never attend auctions, handle the cars, or truly understand them.
The number of cars entering auctions each month has increased significantly - not necessarily in absolute value, but due to a lack of buyers. Values are being driven down, a trend often inaccurately reported as simply “poor results.”
At the same time, the number of so-called experts reporting on auction results and market conditions has grown, with some offering inconsistent interpretations - raising questions about the depth of real expertise.
We’re seeing a growing number of enquiries from owners considering selling their classics, and it’s encouraging to see people taking a sensible approach, asking questions and exploring different options. That said, many are still anchored to past values, and the reality is that the market has changed, however unfair that may seem.
On a positive note, shows continue to attract strong attendance, with increasingly professional displays. Let’s hope this momentum continues in the months ahead.
If you are considering selling your classic or searching for something special, we are always here to assist.
Safe and happy motoring
Keith
keith@classicmobilia.com +44(0)7889 805432 +44(0)1908 270672 classicmobilia.comAbout Keith:
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