Classic car tuning – between originality and modernization

Tuning is very popular – and this is increasingly true for the classic car scene. Vehicle modifications were particularly widespread in the 1980s and 1990s.

However, the question arises as to whether subsequent modifications to vintage cars with H license plates are permitted, as these must be largely in their original condition.

“Contemporary tuning” does not endanger the H license plate if the modifications were already common in the first ten years after the vehicle was first registered. A 120-page guide now provides further clarification.

The German Society for Technical Inspection (GTÜ) recommends consulting an expert or researching the necessary evidence before making any changes.

This can avoid unpleasant surprises. Modifications that were carried out more than 30 years ago and are documented by entries in the vehicle documents are generally unproblematic.

Tuning older vehicles includes larger wheels, lowered chassis and more powerful engines. The new OldtimerThe GTÜ guide offers numerous examples such as spoilers, shorter springs and sports steering wheels from the 1970s.

Height-adjustable coilovers can also meet the requirements of an H license plate if they were already available at the time.

It is also possible to retrofit disc brakes if they were part of the model family when the vehicle was first delivered or were offered as optional extras.

Contemporary foils or stickers as well as performance enhancements through modified engine parts are also permitted, provided they were carried out more than 30 years ago or come from the same series.

All parts used must be proven to comply with the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). This can be done through a general operating permit, a parts certificate or an acceptance according to § 19 (2) StVZO.

It is often more difficult to prove that tuning measures were common practice in history. Old brochures, advertisements and test reports can help here.

For many tuning components, there is a general operating permit (ABE) or a parts certificate, which makes it easier to approve changes in accordance with § 19 (3) StVZO. If these are not available, an individual approval can help.

In addition to driver training, GTÜ offers workshops on legal issues and warns against inferior tuning parts, the installation of which can endanger safety.

The classic car guide can be found online at gtue.de.

Sierks Media / © Photos: Auto-Medienportal.Net, GTÜ / Source: aum