‘The man who couldn’t drive a golf buggy in a straight line is now redrawing the automotive map.’
Donald Trump has slapped a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts, rattling the global car trade.
But there’s a silver lining for us: classic cars—25 years and older—are exempt.
That’s right, British icons like the E-Type and DB5 can still cross the Atlantic without extra cost.
This exemption might keep values (and spirits) from sagging in a softening market.
Trump’s Tariff Bombshell
President Trump recently announced a hefty 25% tariff on all imported cars and parts, claiming it would protect U.S. auto manufacturing. Naturally, exporters panicked.
Classic Cars Exempted
Thankfully, vehicles aged 25 years or older are exempt from the new tariff. They still face the usual 2.5% U.S. duty—or 10% for UK cars—but crucially avoid the new hike.
Parts Still Under Pressure
Classic car parts may not enjoy the same exemption. As many are made abroad, restorers could soon face steeper costs for keeping old metal running.
A Win for British Exporters
America remains the world’s biggest market for classic cars.
With this exemption, British businesses can continue selling to eager U.S. collectors, keeping the market buoyant and dreams of chrome and carbs alive.
‘Classic cars got an exemption. Trump probably thought a carburettor was a Mexican side dish.’
