Is the combination of rising inflation and talk of a double-dip recession finally having an effect on the classic car scene in the UK? If the results of a recent survey among classic vehicle owners are accurate, many enthusiasts are now reducing their expenditure.

According to the survey – carried out by classic insurance broker Footman James – over 50 per cent of customers spent less than £1000 on their hobby in the last 12 months. This compares with 31 per cent who spent between £1000 and £3000.

Crucially, though, the survey revealed that the average customer spend was 4 per cent down on the previous twelve-month period.

The survey – of nearly 5,500 classic vehicle owners – was conducted via an online database, as well as at a major classic car show. Garry Carlin, Footman James’ sales director, told us: ‘With the rising costs of living, it is clear that classic owners are also feeling the financial pinch and having to reduce their spending on their hobby.’

So what do you think? Have you been forced to reduce the amount of money you spend on your classic cars over the last few months, or is it a case of ‘business as usual’? We’d love to hear your views – and if we get enough opinions coming in, we’ll publish the results in a future issue of CCM. Write to us at the usual Peterborough address or send an email to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .