A Vintage, Classic or Unique vehicle? Have you got a vintage car that you love, and old classic that you take care of, a car that is unique and deserves extra care? Is your car in much better condition than most cars of that model? If so you may get caught short with many non VCU insurance policies.

Sometimes there are cars that can’t be replaced such as my uncle’s 1963 Mercedes Fintail. He had spent so much time over the years keeping it in good order, both the engine and the interior - it was an awesome car. Later on my old man bought a Mercedes 1978 280SEL which I ended up driving but I later bought a Datsun 280ZX which I loved. If you have a car like these it is important that you get the right cover that’s protect the investment you have thrown both time and money into.

There are several providers of Vintage, Classic and Unique (VCU) car insurance that you can choose from including RACV, Shannons, NRMA, SGIC, SGIO, RACT, RACQ, Famous, Dawes and Elders. So what do they offer that differs from the other providers?

Choice of Repairer: Choice of Repairer is vital with a VCU car because you usually go to a specialist in your particular car. I know that with the Datsun Z series a lot of mechanics would not have been able to provide the parts like the Z Shop did as they specialised in my car.

Salvage Rights: Salvage rights mean that when the car is a write-off you will get paid out as per your agreed value and will also get to keep the wreck. This means if you decide to rebuild or have other similar car projects on the car you will most likely be able to use spare parts from the wreck. This could save you lots so if you need salvage as part of your insurance, go for a VCU insurer.

The Car’s Use: Some people with awesome vintage cars or hotted up cars use them for purposes other than just driving around. They are often used as hire cars, wedding cars, classic parades or raced on the track or otherwise. Most insurance companies would not cover you for such uses of the car but if you get VCU insurance you can be covered for many of these events.

Laid Up Use: If you have a classic or unique car you may have a more regular car that you use on a regular basis leaving your special car for special occasions. If this is the case then you may benefit from VCY insurance as they take into consideration how often you use your car and when it is being used for special purposes such as classic car shows.

Agreed Value: If you have put a lot of hours and hard earned cash into your car, then if it is stolen or written off you want to make sure you are fully compensated. It is also important to list any modifications to your car so the insurer knows exactly what you have.

Riding Apparel Cover: If you use riding apparel such as racing suits, helmets or protective clothing then you want cover for these in the case of damage. Most normal comprehensive policies cover you for $500-$1000 for personal cover which may not be enough to cover riding apparel. Some policies also cover apparel for the passenger.

Club Memberships: If you are a club member then you may be able to get benefits or discounts through VCU insurance.
If you want your car to have these benefits and you don’t have VCU insurance then you should have a look at your policy and see if you are really being covered as you thought you might.

You can browse and compare the insurance companies that provide vintage insurance in Australia including side by side comparisons of their policies at www.QuoteMyWheels.com.au.