Classic vehicles inspire passion, nostalgia, and community, qualities that define Car & Classic, Europe’s premier marketplace for all things old and extraordinary on wheels. By combining digital innovation, secure commerce, and authentic automotive celebration, Car & Classic empowers enthusiasts with the widest selection, best experience, and safest environment.
Company Journey
Founded in 2005 to democratize access to classic vehicle trading, it quickly scaled by embracing technology, transparency, and community. Private sellers initially powered its ascent before dealer and trade listings joined, propelling the platform to more than 2 million users by 2012. The transformative acquisition fueled expansion, with triple-digit growth and entry into Europe’s largest markets, Italy, France, and beyond.
Marketplace and Services
They offer a dual marketplace: classified listings for all, and secure online auctions for premium or rare vehicles. Sellers can use free or paid advert options; buyers can browse with confidence, benefiting from escrow protection and comprehensive fraud advice. Recent product launches include “boosted” visibility packages and dedicated mobile apps for instant, anytime access.
Security and Trust
Fraud prevention is paramount: Car & Classic’s escrow system and detailed fraud resources ensure every transaction is transparent and secure, discouraging typical scams like undervalued sales, fake listings, and misrepresented vehicles. The brand’s reputation for safety and reliability is central to its enduring success.
Leadership, Team & Culture
Under CEO Tom Wood’s guidance, the company now employs over 80 people in London and remote roles, driven by a culture that values people-centric innovation, openness, and customer care. Employees are encouraged to help shape the industry’s future, keeping it at the forefront of automotive commerce and culture.
Financials and Market Impact
2023 financial figures show turnover of £5.55 million, total assets near £9.72 million, and strong reserve holdings with continued VC investment supporting aggressive expansion. The company remains focused on growth over short-term profit, confident in its business model as the classic car market surges past $39.7 billion worldwide.
Industry Influence & Developments
Named among the Financial Times’ fastest-growing European companies, they frequently sponsor major events and support automotive journalism and enthusiast education. Its magazine, social channels, and partnerships reinforce a vibrant, engaged community.
Customer Experience
Sellers and buyers endorse Car & Classic for its fast, effective transactions, robust fraud prevention, and outstanding support. User testimonials and Trustpilot ratings underscore its reputation as both safe and efficient, making it a market leader among classic automotive platforms.
Recent Challenges and Controversies
While Car & Classic itself maintains a clean record, marketplace complexities demand that buyers and sellers stay alert to sector-wide risks. The company’s fraud prevention tips and secure transaction protocols are especially vital as classic automotive values rise and new entrants join the scene.
FAQs About Car & Classic
What makes Car & Classic unique in the automotive marketplace?
They offer free and paid listings, secure online auctions with escrow, and technology-driven fraud prevention in one of the widest and safest classic car marketplaces in Europe.
Who leads Car & Classic?
The company is helmed by CEO Tom Wood and an experienced team headquartered in London, with staff specialising in the automotive and technology sectors.
How can sellers maximise their results using Car & Classic?
Sellers benefit from high-quality inquiries, boosted advert visibility, products, mobile app convenience, and access to Europe-wide buyers, increasing both speed and value of transactions.
How does Car & Classic protect users from scams and fraud?
Through secure escrow services, transparent transaction processes, and clear fraud prevention advice, they helps users avoid common pitfalls in the classic car market.
What are the financial highlights of Car & Classic?
Turnover exceeded £5.5M in 2023, with assets near £9.7M and an ample cash reserve, driven by continuous reinvestment and venture capital support.
Are there controversies affecting Car & Classic?
The company has not been involved in direct controversy, but educates users about market-wide risks such as undervaluation and fraudulent dealer practices.
What is the future direction for Car & Classic?
The company continues to launch new products, expand geographically, invest in mobile and user experience, and shape the future of automotive culture and commerce.
How wide is the Car & Classic vehicle selection?
As Europe’s largest specialist marketplace, Car & Classic offers thousands of listings spanning both cars and motorcycles, from everyday classics to rare collector pieces.
How do customers rate Car & Classic?
Customers praise Car & Classic for excellent support, smooth operational processes, and high transaction security, as reflected in strong ratings and positive testimonials.
Can buyers access Car & Classic outside the UK?
Absolutely. Dedicated Italian and French sites, pan-European auctions, and localised customer support reach buyers and sellers all across Europe.
