Guess what? We’ve finally got the scoop on how many old-school cars are still hanging around with us today!

So, here’s the deal: Of the 41.2 million cars reported to be on UK roads at the end of June 2023, there are about 340,000 vehicles (338,697 to be exact!) that are more than 40 years old and still have owners, just like you and me! This info comes straight from the folks who keep track of this stuff – the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. But here’s a little twist: not all of these vintage beauties are cruising the streets.

About 12% of these classic cars are taking a little break and aren’t being driven around right now. Thanks to a Freedom of Information request by LeaseLoco, we know exactly how many classic cars can actually be found in the UK. Out of these, around 41,217 have been officially put on a time-out (that’s what a Statutory Off Road Notification or SORN means), probably because their owners are fixing them up or keeping them safe to make them more valuable someday.

When we say ‘classic’ cars, we are, of course, referring to vehicles that are over 40 years old. These old-timers get some pretty cool perks, like not having to go through the yearly MOT checks and getting a break from some taxes. But it’s not just about avoiding fees; owning a classic car is a labour of love, a commitment to preserving a piece of automotive history.

But don’t get too excited — you can’t skip paying road tax the minute your car turns 40. You have to wait until the first day of April after your car’s 40th birthday before you can apply to stop paying road tax. This little wait is a small price to pay for joining the exclusive club of classic car owners, who enjoy not just tax exemptions but a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts everywhere.

As for skipping MOTs, that’s because the government figures that if you love your classic car enough to keep it for so long, you’re probably taking good care of it anyway. It’s a recognition of the dedication classic car owners have to maintaining their vehicles. Plus, these cars don’t have to worry about the fees for driving in low-emission zones, which is pretty neat. This exemption underlines these cars’ environmental and historical value, as they are often used less frequently and with more care than regular vehicles.

Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show. According to the DVLA’s response to the Freedom of Information request, 28,311 MGBs, 10,393 Morris Minors, 5,575 Rolls Royces, and 4,508 Triumph Stags are still strutting their stuff on the roads today. Each model tells a story, a slice of British motoring history that continues to live and breathe on our roads.

John Wilmot, the big boss at LeaseLoco, shared some heartwarming words: “From the timeless allure of MGBs to the nostalgic charm of Morris Minors and the regal presence of Rolls Royces, these classic cars evoke a sense of nostalgia and admiration. They continue to capture the imagination and enrich our motoring landscape, preserving the legacy of bygone eras for generations to come.”

So next time you’re out and about, keep your eyes peeled for these moving museums. Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but they also represent the enduring appeal and legacy of classic automotive design. You might spot a classic car or two that’ll whisk you away to another time, a reminder of the craftsmanship and history these vehicles carry with them wherever they go. Looking to join the numbers yourself – check out our incredible selection of classic cars.