The Classic Car Club of America defines a classic as a vehicle made from 1925 to 1948 that runs and has been completely restored. Some states have different criteria for this category, qualifying cars that are 15 to 25 years old. Vehicles under 25 years old are sometimes referred to as modern classics.

The definition of a classic and antique car is similar. A car must be at least 20 years old, but not more than 40 years old to be considered a classic car. It should have been repaired and maintained in a way that keeps it true to its original design and specifications. In other words, it should not be modified or altered. In addition, many add a stipulation that the vehicle should have been manufactured no earlier than 1925. For these reasons all classic cars are also antique cars, but not all antique cars are considered classics.

The primary factor that makes a car an exotic is design, but speed and acceleration also matter, as does the name of the maker. Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Porsche are cult classic names in the world of exotic sports cars.