Cars which are called classic cars, enthusiast cars or vintage cars in English are referred to as ‘oldtimers’ in Germany. The Federal association of German classic car clubs (DEUVET) uses the following definition: “A recognized historical motor vehicle is one that is mechanically driven, that was produced more than 20 years ago, that was retained in, or restored to, its historically authentic condition and is owned by a person or organization who or which retains it out of historical or technical interest.”

German legislation defines a vehicle as a classic when it is at least thirty years old and its authentic impression is not impaired by additional equipment. Vehicles of this type can be operated with the historical H number plate and are liable to lump-sum taxation. A precondition is recognition as a “cultural asset” by the German technical inspection authority or similar authorities according to § 21c of the German road traffic licensing regulations.

The value of a car can be determined by a registered expert for value appraisals. A list of experts can be obtained from the technical inspection authorities.

In cooperation with the Daimler Corporate Archives, the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center has reedited the production code list for classic cars from 1924 as an online version. This list can be used for the precise identification of vehicle models according to production year and production code and is indispensable for the day-to-day work with classic Mercedes and Mercedes-Benz cars. It covers all passenger car models from standard production from 1924 through to the 107 and 123 series. Engine designations are equally listed.

You can call up the lists via the links below (for downloading, click on the relevant link with the right-hand mouse key and select “store under”):

Via a data card, you can obtain information about the condition in which your Mercedes-Benz classic left the factory.

The Mercedes-Benz company-owned sales and service outlets and subsidiaries at home and abroad will supply data cards – particularly within the scope of parts orders or repairs and maintenance work – but only to the legal owner with proof of ownership.

German legislation has no definition for classics-to-be. As a general rule, however, these are cars which are between 20 and 30 years old, enjoy cult status and are thus on their way to becoming classics.