For many of us, the cars we drive are fairly disposable. We get them, we drive them, we trade them in, we get another and repeat. However, for those who drive classic cars, those represent a deeper emotional and financial investment for their owners.
Whether it’s a pristine 1967 Mustang or a meticulously restored 1961 Jaguar E-Type, classic cars are not just vehicles – they are pieces of automotive history, a labour of love, and often, a symbol of personal achievement.
Owning one is more than just driving; it’s about preserving a legacy. However, the value and uniqueness of classic cars make them highly desirable targets for theft, and unlike modern vehicles, they often lack the sophisticated security systems of their contemporary brethren.
This is where the importance of vehicle security, particularly through the use of GPS trackers, comes into play.
In this blog, we wanted to explore why car security is essential for classic cars and take a look at three of the best and most popular tracker models that provide a robust layer of protection for your classic car (or any car at all for that matter!).
The Importance of Security for Classic Cars
High Theft Rates
Classic cars are targeted by thieves for several reasons. First, they are valuable. The rarity and condition of a well-maintained classic car can drive prices into the tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds.
Second, they are relatively easy to steal. Many classics lack modern anti-theft technology, and some can be started with just a few wires and minimal mechanical know-how.
Third, classic cars, especially those with historical significance, are more difficult to track or trace once stolen, particularly if they’re disassembled for parts.
Car thieves are increasingly sophisticated, and there is a thriving black market for rare car parts. For example, a valuable model such as an early Porsche 911 can be stripped down to its components and sold piece by piece, making recovery almost impossible without a strong tracking system.
Emotional Investment
For many owners, classic cars are more than just monetary investments. They represent memories, milestones, and sometimes, even family heritage.
Losing such a prized possession can be devastating. A classic car tracker, therefore, serves as both a safeguard and a way to provide peace of mind.
Knowing that your vehicle can be monitored, located and retrieved in the event of theft brings a sense of security to the owner.
Limited Insurance Coverage
While classic car insurance offers specific coverage for vintage vehicles, not every policy provides full protection in case of theft.
Additionally, some insurers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with high-quality security systems, including trackers. Given the challenges of recovering a stolen classic, having a GPS tracker installed can help owners avoid total loss and improve the chances of recovering their vehicle in one piece.
The Role of Trackers in Classic Car Security
Trackers offer a proactive approach to classic car security. They allow owners to monitor their vehicles in real-time, providing an added layer of protection beyond alarms and immobilisers.
Trackers have become an essential part of classic car security for several reasons:
- Real-time Location Tracking: Once a vehicle is stolen, the primary concern is finding it quickly. Trackers provide real-time GPS data, making it easier for authorities to locate the car.
- Geofencing Capabilities: Many trackers allow owners to set virtual boundaries (known as geofences) around a vehicle’s storage location. If the car is moved outside of this zone, the tracker sends an alert to the owner.
- Recovery Rates: Statistics show that cars equipped with trackers are significantly more likely to be recovered. Trackers act as a deterrent, and when a vehicle is stolen, they expedite the recovery process.
- Integration with the Police: Many tracking systems work closely with law enforcement, allowing for faster, coordinated recovery efforts.
Now, let’s look at three specific tracker models that are incredibly powerful for classic cars: the ScorpionTrack S5 VTS, ScorpionTrack S7 ALS and Tracker Retrieve.
ScorpionTrack S5 VTS
The ScorpionTrack S5 is one of the most advanced car tracking systems available and is well-suited to the specific needs of classic car owners.
It is particularly effective for high-value vehicles and is Thatcham Category S5 approved, meaning it meets stringent standards for vehicle security.
It offers drivers some amazing features and benefits including:
- Driver ID Authentication: One of the standout features of the ScorpionTrack S5 is its Automatic Driver Recognition system. This requires the driver to carry an authentication tag or fob. If the car is driven without the fob, an alert is sent to both the owner and a 24/7 monitoring team.
- Multi-Frequency Tracking: The system uses a combination of GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and GSM signals to provide real-time tracking of your vehicle’s location. This multi-technology approach ensures accurate positioning, even in remote areas or locations with poor signal reception.
- 24/7 Monitoring: The ScorpionTrack S5 includes around-the-clock monitoring, with professionals immediately alerted to any unauthorised activity. This real-time intervention can significantly reduce recovery time in the event of theft.
- International Coverage: For classic car owners who attend international shows or export/import vehicles, the ScorpionTrack S5 offers international tracking across Europe, providing peace of mind even when the vehicle is far from home.
The ScorpionTrack S5 is ideal for high-value classic cars that require an additional layer of security. Its driver ID system ensures that the vehicle can’t be driven without authorisation, while 24/7 monitoring ensures immediate response in case of theft.
The S5’s combination of cutting-edge tracking technology and comprehensive monitoring makes it an excellent choice for protecting rare, irreplaceable vehicles.
ScorpionTrack S7 ALS
For owners looking for a slightly more affordable option without compromising on essential security features, the ScorpionTrack S7 is a reliable choice. It is Thatcham-approved and provides robust security but without some of the premium features found in the aforementioned S5.
Despite being an S7 tracker, you still get:
- Real-Time GPS Tracking: Like the S5, the S7 offers real-time GPS tracking, allowing owners to monitor their car’s location at any time.
- 24/7 Monitoring: The system is monitored by professionals around the clock, ensuring a rapid response in case of suspicious activity.
- Multi-Alert Notifications: A multitude of notifications so you’re always in control including journey history, low battery alerts, tow away / tamper and geofencing alerts.
The ScorpionTrack S7 provides comprehensive security at a lower price point than the S5, making it ideal for classic car owners who want solid protection without all the bells and whistles. It offers real-time tracking, it’s Police supported and a wealth of GSM jamming alerts, which are essential for safeguarding vintage vehicles.
Tracker S7 Retrieve
The Tracker Retrieve system is another excellent choice, particularly for classic car owners who want a more covert tracking solution.
Unlike the Scorpion systems, Tracker Retrieve operates using VHF (very high frequency) technology, which allows it to function even in places where GPS and GSM signals might be blocked, such as underground car parks or storage units.
- VHF Technology: Tracker Retrieve’s use of VHF makes it highly reliable in areas where other systems might fail. This makes it particularly suitable for classic cars stored in underground garages or transported in enclosed trailers or containers.
- Covert Installation: Tracker Retrieve is designed to be installed discreetly, making it difficult for thieves to find and disable the device.
- Police Integration: Tracker Retrieve works closely with law enforcement, with over 2000 police vehicles across the UK equipped to detect VHF signals from stolen cars.
If your classic car is often stored in locations where GPS signals might be blocked, the Tracker Retrieve system is an excellent choice. Its VHF technology ensures that your vehicle can be located even in challenging environments, and its integration with law enforcement greatly increases the likelihood of a successful recovery.
Tradition Meets Technology
Classic cars deserve the best protection available. Given their high value and the emotional investment that owners make, it’s essential to equip these vehicles with state-of-the-art tracking systems.
Trackers like these mentioned (and many others in our store) offer a range of solutions that can meet the varying needs of classic car owners, from real-time GPS tracking to covert VHF technology.
Each of these systems provides an essential layer of security, increasing the chances of recovery and giving owners peace of mind.
By investing in a high-quality tracker, classic car owners can ensure their prized possessions remain safe, whether parked in the garage or out on the open road.
If you’ve got a classic car, or even a modern classic, and are in the market for a car tracker to protect it, then please give our customer service team a ring. We’re available Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm on 0330 043 3993 and we’ll be happy to talk you through the options and book you in for an installation at a date, time and place to suit you.