Youngtimers: Today's Vintage Cars

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Youngtimers, also known as Young Classics, are car models produced between 1970 and 1999. These vehicles have become very popular in recent years for their vintage look and robustness. They can be highly valued by collectors and car enthusiasts. 

Citroën youngtimers are sought after by classic car enthusiasts because of their distinctive design, innovative technologies and their place in the history of the Citroën brand. They represent a special period in the evolution of the automobile and attract the interest of collectors and classic car enthusiasts.

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Discover more fascinating information about youngtimers!

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What are youngtimer vehicles? Youngtimer definition

"Youngtimers" are cars from the 70s and 90s that are starting to become popular among collectors and car enthusiasts. The term "Youngtimer" is often used to describe cars that are old enough but not yet old enough to be considered collector cars. Hence the name "young-timer" which literally means "young-old". 

They are often associated with a certain nostalgia and a growing appreciation for models that were once common cars on the roads. They include a variety of makes and models, from sedans and sports cars to utility vehicles and luxury cars.

Youngtimers are popular for their retro styling and aesthetic, as well as being simpler and more mechanical to drive than modern cars. They are also often cheaper to maintain than newer cars, as they have less electronic technology.

Interest in "youngtimer" vehicles continues to grow, and magazines, events and specific gatherings are organized to highlight these cars and bring together enthusiasts who appreciate them.

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The Youngtimers magazine 

"Youngtimers Magazine" is a trade publication dedicated to "youngtimer" vehicles. It is a magazine that covers news, tests, reports and information on cars produced in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, which are now considered youngtimers.

The magazine highlights iconic models from this era, as well as trends, events and gatherings related to youngtimers. It offers in-depth articles on the various brands and models, road tests, buying advice, restoration stories and interviews with collectors and enthusiasts.

Youngtimer Magazine also provides a platform for advertisers and sellers of parts, accessories and services related to youngtimers, allowing readers to find the resources needed to maintain, restore and customize their cars.

It is an essential reference for youngtimer enthusiasts, offering a source of information and inspiration for those who are passionate about these vehicles and who seek to learn more about their history, characteristics and culture.

You can discover their magazine by clicking on this link: Youngtimers - Magazines of cult cars and motorcycles from the 70s to the 90s .

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How old for a youngtimer?

"Youngtimer" cars are usually those from the 90s or early 2000s.

In France, the law defines a collector's car as being over 30 years old and not currently produced, with original technical characteristics, which also applies to Youngtimers.

Youngtimers are highly sought after, and some buyers consider them a wise investment because their value can increase considerably over time, becoming collector's cars at prices that can be affordable.

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The most famous Citroën youngtimer sports and classic vehicles

The best-known Citroën youngtimers from the chevron brand are the Citroën 2CV, the Citroën AX and the Citroën Visa .

The  Citroën 2CV (1948 - 1990) is a cult car, designed to be simple, affordable and practical for the French countryside. It featured a small, low-power air-cooled engine, designed to consume very little fuel. The car had a unique suspension system that allowed it to comfortably traverse rough roads and terrain, making it suitable for rural areas. The 2CV gained popularity for its affordability, but also for its practicality and durability. Today, the Citroën 2CV has achieved cult status among car enthusiasts and collectors around the world. It is prized for its unique design, historical significance and nostalgic appeal. 

The  Citroën AX (1986 - 1998) is a popular model for its compact size, fuel efficiency and low cost of ownership. It featured lightweight construction and aerodynamic design, which helped improve its fuel economy and handling. The car was available in a variety of body styles, including three-door and five-door hatchbacks. One of the notable features of the AX was its range of efficient engines, with a petrol engine option, as well as a diesel engine option, which was popular for its excellent fuel economy. The Citroën AX became popular as an affordable and practical small car. Today, the AX has gained a following among car enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its simplicity, charm and historical significance.

 The Citroën Visa (1978–1988) is a small car with a distinctive and somewhat unconventional design, typical of Citroën cars of that era. It had a hatchback body style and a compact size, making it suitable for urban driving and maneuvering in tight spaces. The car was available in various versions and configurations, including three- and five-door versions. One of the notable aspects of the Visa was its suspension system. It incorporated Citroën's unique hydropneumatic suspension technology, which provided a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. This system contributed to the Visa's reputation for offering a high level of comfort and handling compared to other cars in its class. Today, the Citroën Visa has become a classic car, sought after by enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its quirky design, advanced suspension system, and place in Citroën history.

There are also other well-known Citroën youngtimers like these: 

• Citroën Saxo is a compact and versatile car for urban driving. It was characterized by its modern and dynamic design, with elegant lines and an aerodynamic profile.
• Citroën ZX is a compact saloon car that offers a range of engines and versions, including sporty models such as the ZX 16V. It was appreciated for its dynamic road handling.
• Citroën Xsara is a compact car appreciated for its design with fluid and modern lines, an elegant and well-proportioned body. Its exterior style is both dynamic and timeless.
• Citroen Xantia is a family saloon that inherited the hydropneumatic suspension system from its predecessors. It is characterized by a distinctive design and a spacious interior.
• Citroën CX is a large luxury saloon that combines elegant design and advanced technological features for its time. It was renowned for its driving comfort and its hydropneumatic system.
• Citroën XM is a premium saloon that offers a high level of comfort and innovative technologies, such as Hydractive suspension and a variable power steering system.

And here is a list of several sports Citroëns that can be called youngtimers:

• Citroën AX GT (1987 - 1994)

• Citroën BX GTI 16 Valves (1987 - 1993) 

• Citroën ZX Volcane (1991 - 1997) 

• Citroën Saxo VTS 16v (1996 - 2003)

• Citroën Xsara VTS (1998 - 2004)

• Citroën C4 VTS (2004 - 2008)

Most Citroen vehicles are equipped with the famous hydraulic spheres which are a characteristic element of their design. If you need discount Citroen hydraulic spheres   or other brands, you can consult our site as well as our teams. 

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Which used youngtimer to buy in 2023? Which cars will increase in value? From the cheap youngtimer to the highest 

Discover below the best options of youngtimer cars to buy in 2023, to drive every day and also to be a good investment:

• Peugeot 406 coupé (1997 - 2004), is an elegant and high-performance sports car, offering a pleasant drive and a remarkable design. It is a collector's Peugeot very appreciated by car enthusiasts. 
• BMW Z3 (1995 - 2002), was designed to offer a dynamic driving experience and a classic roadster look.
• BMW M3 E30 (1986 - 1991), is an iconic model of the German brand, highly prized by sports car enthusiasts. It offers dynamic and fun driving, thanks to its powerful in-line 6-cylinder engine and 5-speed manual gearbox. Its timeless look and reliability make it a popular choice.
  
• Audi TT (1998 - 2006), is known for its distinctive design, sporty performance and premium interior. As well as its advanced technology and ability to deliver a pleasant drive.
• Honda S2000 (1999 - 2009), is an iconic sports car, offering a dynamic driving experience, powerful performance and Japanese design. It is appreciated for its high-revving engine, sporty suspension, minimalist interior and its ability to provide a pleasant drive.
• Volkswagen Golf 3 VR6 (1991 - 1998), is a sporty compact car, offering powerful performance, dynamic road handling and a sporty design. It is appreciated for its six-cylinder engine, its sporty suspension, which make it a pleasant car to drive.
• Mazda RX-7 (1978 - 2002), is a sports car from the Japanese brand Mazda. It is equipped with a Wankel rotary engine, which offers high power for its size. The RX-7 is also known for its exceptional handling and elegant design.
• Mazda RX-8 (2003 - 2012), is a sports car from the Japanese brand Mazda, offering a dynamic driving experience, a powerful rotary engine and a unique design. It is appreciated for its handling, dynamic road behavior and sporty interior, which make it a pleasant car to drive. The Mazda RX-8 is also known for its rear-hinged rear doors, allowing easy access to the rear of the vehicle.
• Alfa Romeo 156 (1997 - 2007), is a compact car, offering an elegant design, dynamic road handling and a powerful engine. It is appreciated for its distinctive Italian style, sporty suspension and elegant interior, which make it a pleasant car to drive.
  

• Volkswagen Golf GTI MK2 (1983 - 1992),  is a timeless classic offering sporty driving, good handling and reasonable fuel consumption.

• Ford Escort RS (1955 - 1961), offers exceptional performance at an affordable cost, thanks to its powerful engine and remarkable design.

• Ford Escort RS Cosworth (1992 - 1996), features a turbocharged engine and a sports suspension system, offering impressive power and handling at a reasonable cost.

• Renault Clio Williams (1993 - 1996), is a car with a classic design and sporty spirit, offering low fuel consumption and enough power to satisfy most drivers.

• Mercedes-Benz 190 E (1982 - 1993),  is a car that offers elegant design and exceptional performance, while remaining relatively affordable for an average budget. It is highly appreciated by collectors.
• Porsche 944 (1981 - 1991), is popular among classic car enthusiasts, offers a timeless design and a powerful engine, while being easy to maintain and repair.
• Porsche 911 3.2 (1983 - 1989), is a classic and timeless Porsche. It is equipped with a powerful and efficient engine, and offers excellent handling. Its major assets are its reliability and durability.

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How to assess the quality of a youngtimer car to buy it?

There are several steps necessary to assess the quality of your future youngtimer vehicle, these steps are decisive to avoid significant costs to be expected.

1. General condition : condition of the body, paint, windows, tires, interior, engine and transmission.

2. The vehicle's history : its mileage, maintenance, repairs and replacements of parts carried out over time. (Request invoices for parts replaced, repairs and technical inspections)

3. Rarity : The rarity of the model, options and special features can play a significant role in the price of the vehicle.

4. Demand : The popularity of the model on the market can also influence the value of a youngtimer.

5. Technical characteristics : performance, handling, reliability and safety are important criteria for assessing the quality of a youngtimer.

Don't hesitate to take a test drive on the road as well as on the passenger side with the owner, this could give you an idea of ​​his driving style and his attention to the vehicle.

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The French Youngtimers Motor Show

The Salon Automobile Rétro Mobile de Paris was held in the French capital, becoming an annual must-see event for vintage car enthusiasts. Attracting thousands of visitors, it offered enthusiasts the opportunity to discover rare and exceptional models of classic cars dating back to the early 20th century. Considered one of the most important shows of its kind in Europe, the event brought together collectors, enthusiasts and fans of all generations to celebrate the heritage of the French and international automotive industry.

Visitors had the privilege of admiring a variety of models from brands such as Citroën, Peugeot, Renault and many others, as well as prestigious cars such as Rolls-Royce, Ferrari and Lamborghini. The show also offered special exhibitions dedicated to the history of iconic brands and the evolution of automotive technology over the years. This allowed visitors to see how vehicles have evolved in terms of design, performance and functionality over the last few centuries.

In addition to the car exhibits, the Salon Automobile Rétro Mobile de Paris offered a wide range of stands dedicated to restoration, spare parts and supplies for vintage car enthusiasts. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with experts in the restoration and maintenance of vintage cars, as well as purchase products to enrich their own collection.

The event also provided an opportunity for collectors to strengthen their ties and share their passion for vintage vehicles. Classic car clubs from all over the country were present, giving visitors the opportunity to meet others who share their interest in vintage cars. The Salon Automobile Rétro Mobile de Paris thus created an atmosphere conducive to exchanges and discovery within the community of classic car enthusiasts.

This event takes place every year, usually at the beginning of the year, over a period of several days. For last year, the dates were from  February 1 to February 5, 2023.

Do not hesitate to contact our teams for maximum information and the choice of the right product. Our contact details are displayed at the bottom of each of our pages.