Germany is in the grip of classic car fever – and the trend is growing. Every year, more gleaming chrome classics with historic H number plates roll onto our roads, much to the delight of a growing community. We take a look at the latest figures and trends relating to classic and modern classic cars – from popular models and regional specialities to the views of associations. One thing is certain: old love really doesn't rust, it just keeps growing!
Classic car inventory growing strongly
The statistics speak for themselves: the number of classic cars in Germany has been growing steadily for years. As of 1 January 2023, 793,589 vehicles with classic car status (with and without H registration plates) were registered – an increase of around 8.4% or just under 61,800 vehicles compared to the previous year. A year later, at the beginning of 2024, this figure had already climbed to 846,562 classic cars (+6.7% in just twelve months). Now, in 2025, the number of historic vehicles is approaching the 900,000 mark – according to the Federal Motor Transport Authority, there are currently just under 890,000 classic cars.
Measured against the total vehicle population, this is „only“ about 1.2% of all vehicles, but the trend is rising sharply. In other words, statistically speaking, there is now one officially recognised classic car for every 80 registered vehicles. The community of classic car enthusiasts is growing and growing – and with it the number of rolling automotive treasures on our roads. The enthusiasm is unbroken, and not just among die-hard collectors.
Popular classics: Mercedes in the lead, Beetle close behind
The Mercedes-Benz W123 is one of Germany's most popular classic cars. Robust, reliable and now a sought-after modern classic (here a 240 D from 1975–1985). With around 49,000 registered models, the Mercedes W123/W124 models top the classic car charts.
(C) Wikipedia
Which cars make the hearts of classic car enthusiasts beat faster? A glance at the ranking of H-licence plate vehicles reveals clear favourites – German brands dominate, led by Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. Together, these two traditional manufacturers account for over 40% of all historic vehicles over 30 years old. But Porsche, BMW and Opel are also well represented with many classics. Here is the list of the most popular models that are registered as classic cars:
Mercedes-Benz W123/W124 – approx. 49,000 vehicles
VW Beetle – approx. 44,000 vehicles
VW bus (T1–T3) – approx. 33,000 vehicles
Mercedes SL – approx. 29,000 vehicles
Porsche 911 – approx. 22,000 vehicles
Close behind are other classics such as the Mercedes S-Class from the 70s/80s, VW Golf I/II, BMW 3 Series (E30) and Mercedes 190 (W201). In total, there are around 56,000 different vehicle types in the classic car fleet. Mercedes remains the frontrunner with almost 159,000 oldies, followed by VW with over 125,000 classics.
Interesting fact: classic cars are by no means just luxury toys. Around 40% of all historic cars have a market value of less than €10,000. Despite a few million-pound vehicles, the scene remains down-to-earth.
Youngtimers: The next generation is ready
More and more modern classics from the late 1980s and 1990s are reaching the 30-year mark. In 2023, around 100 models became eligible for classic car status, including the Renault Twingo, Fiat Punto I and VW Golf III Cabrio.
Around 800,000 youngtimers (25–29 years old) are currently poised to become classic cars in the coming years.
Despite some fears, there has been no glut of modern classics. Many of the everyday cars that were once built in their millions do not make it to H registration – only well-maintained or sought-after models survive in the long term.
Classic car strongholds from Bavaria to Bottrop
NRW leads the way in terms of classic car ownership, followed by Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.
Particularly high proportions are found in, among others:
Starnberg district
Rhine District of Neuss
Bottrop
Hameln-Pyrmont district
In some regions, the proportion of classic cars is around 4 % – almost twice as high as the national average.
Eastern Germany has also caught up considerably: in Thuringia, Brandenburg and Saxony, the population has more than doubled in the last 10 years.
Community and outlook: Everything's hunky-dory in Chromeland
According to studies by VDA, ZDK and ADAC, 76% of Germans consider classic cars to be cultural assets.
Over 70 % are delighted when they encounter a classic car in everyday life.
Economically, the scene has developed into a billion-pound market:
€3.8 billion annual turnover for repair and restoration
10,000 jobs in specialised establishments
£1,300–£1,600 annual maintenance costs per classic car
Classic cars also give little cause for concern from an environmental perspective:
0,2 % of the total mileage in Germany
For the most part only 1,600 km/year
CO₂ share to remain below 1 %
The H licence plate remains attractive: flat-rate tax, favourable insurance rates, free travel in environmental zones.
The community is getting younger: alongside traditional clubs, a digital scene is growing on Instagram, YouTube and other platforms.
(c) Wikipedia
Conclusion
Germany is experiencing an ongoing classic car boom. The number of vehicles is growing, and the community is becoming more diverse and widespread. Whether it's a barn find or a restored beauty, old love never rusts – it grows.