We believe that proposals to encourage drivers to scrap older cars by offering financial incentives will endanger the survival of many modern classics. Running an older vehicle can be one of the most effective forms of recycling currently available. With an estimated 10 per cent of the average cars whole-life environmental impact accounted for by its initial manufacture, keeping any vehicle on the road for as long as possible can be beneficial. Classic Car Mart editor Keith Moody says: 'Many owners cover lower-than-average annual mileages in their older cars, so their environmental impact in terms of CO2 emissions are often over-exaggerated. 'What's also ignored, though, is that owners of all kinds of classics – modern and older – are among the best recyclers around, making the most of secondhand and remanufactured parts rather than adopting the throw-it-away-and-fit-a-new-one attitude of today's motor industry.' If the Government chooses to offer 'cash for classics' the threat to the future classic car scene could be significant.

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