What Collectors Need to Know
Trump’s 25% Auto Tariffs & the Classic Car Exemption
In a move that sent shockwaves through the automotive industry, President Donald Trump recently announced 25% tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts, set to take effect in 2025. However, there’s good news for classic car enthusiasts: vehicles 25 years or older are exempt from these steep new duties.
This exemption means that US car import rules for classic and collector vehicles remain unchanged, maintaining the 2.5% import duty rather than the new 25% tariff applied to newer models. For high-net-worth collectors, investors, and enthusiasts, this is a critical development—one that could influence buying strategies for years to come.
At AutoHUB Europe, we specialize in full-service European vehicle brokerage, helping clients navigate import regulations, secure rare classics, and ensure seamless transactions. Below, we break down what these tariffs mean for collectors and how to capitalize on the exemption.
How Classic Cars Are Exempt from Trump’s 25% Tariffs
1. The 25-Year Rule Remains Intact
Buried in the Federal Register’s official proclamation is a crucial exemption:
“Heading 9903.94.04 applies to all entries of passenger vehicles… manufactured in a year at least 25 years prior to the year of the date of entry.”
This means:
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Pre-2000 models (as of 2025) avoid the 25% tariff.
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They still pay the standard 2.5% import duty, just as before.
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The exemption applies regardless of origin (Europe, Japan, etc.).
2. Why Was This Exemption Made?
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No Threat to US Auto Industry: Classic cars are not mass-produced, so they don’t compete with new US-made vehicles.
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Cultural & Collector Value: The US has long recognized the importance of preserving automotive history.
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Alignment with Existing Import Laws: The 25-year rule already allows non-US-market cars to be imported legally.
3. What About Parts & Restorations?
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New parts (engines, transmissions, etc.) are subject to tariffs if imported separately.
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Complete classic cars (even if restored) are exempt if they meet the 25-year threshold.
Strategic Implications for Collectors & Investors
✅ Opportunities
✔ Stronger Demand for European Classics – With no tariff hike, EU-sourced cars (Mercedes SLs, Porsche 911s, Land Rover Defenders) remain attractive.
✔ Stable Market Values – Unlike newer imports, classic car prices won’t spike due to tariffs.
✔ Easier US Resale – Buyers won’t face unexpected tax burdens on older models.
⚠️Potential Challenges
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Parts Tariffs Could Increase Restoration Costs – Sourcing OEM components from Europe may get pricier.
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Stricter Customs Scrutiny – Ensure proper documentation to prove a car’s age.
How AutoHUB Europe Helps Navigate These Changes
At AutoHUB Europe, we provide end-to-end brokerage services for classic car imports, ensuring:
🔹 Tariff Compliance – We verify exemption eligibility bu offering European vehicle history reports.
🔹 Sourcing & Acquisition – Access to rare EU-market classics before they appreciate.
🔹 Transport & Shipping Management – Hassle-free Transport and shipping coordination.
🔹 Import & Customs Clearance – Hassle-free shipping and paperwork.
FAQ: Trump’s Tariffs & Classic Car Imports
1. Does the 25% tariff apply to all imported cars?
No—only vehicles under 25 years old (as of the import date). Classic cars (25+ years) remain at 2.5% duty.
2. Can I import a modified classic car tax-free?
Depends on the modification, the base original vehicle must be 25+ years old to not trigger the tariff but best to contact us to ask about the modifications completed first.
3. Will parts for my classic car cost more?
Possibly. New OEM parts imported separately may face tariffs, but complete cars are exempt.
4. How do I prove my car is 25+ years old?
A manufacturer’s certificate, registration documents, or VIN-based age verification is required.
Final Thoughts: A Win for Classic Car Enthusiasts
While Trump’s 25% auto tariffs will reshape the US car market, classic car collectors can breathe easy. The 25-year exemption ensures continued access to European and Japanese classics without steep tax hikes.
For investors, this means stable asset values and stronger demand for pre-2000 models. And with AutoHUB Europe’s expertise, navigating the import process has never been easier.
Secure Your European Classic Car Now!
With no tariff increases on 25+ year-old vehicles, now is the time to invest in European classics before demand rises.