Hemmings Classic Car Auction Review

For classic car enthusiasts, finding the best platform to buy or sell vintage models is crucial. Hemmings Classic Car Marketplace has been a go-to destination for collectors for decades. As one of the most well-known names in the classic car world, Hemmings offers more than just an auction platform—it provides a dedicated space for enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and find rare vehicles. 

The platform has a long-standing history dating back to 1954. Over the years, it has evolved to include online auctions, classified listings, and even a print magazine, making it a comprehensive resource for collectors. Whether you’re searching for a specific model or looking to sell your prized vehicle, Hemmings remains a trusted hub for vintage automobile transactions.

In this review, we’ll dive into the features, pros, and cons of Hemmings, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your classic car needs.

Key Takeaways

• Sherpa rates Hemmings 8/10, with features that appeal to Classic Car buyers and sellers.
• With a long-standing reputation and positive customer reviews, Hemmings boasts a dedicated community of vintage car enthusiasts.
• Hemmings Classic Car Marketplace successfully meets the needs of classic car enthusiasts. However for the general online car buyer or seller, we recommend other used car sites that boast modern inventory.

In This Review:

• Hemmings Classic Car Auction
• What is Hemmings?
• How Does Hemmings Work?
• Hemmings Buying Process
• Hemmings Selling Process
• Hemmings Classic Car FAQs
• Sherpa’s Best Used Car Site Methodology

Hemmings Classic Car Auction

 

We evaluated Hemmings and other leading used car sites based on reputation, platform, pricing, inventory, and customer satisfaction. We give Hemmings an overall rating of 8 out of 10.

Based on our research, Hemmings scores highly across several key areas, making it a top choice for classic car collectors:

Overall Rating: 8/10

Hemmings excels in providing a niche marketplace for classic car enthusiasts, balancing reputation, platform usability, fair pricing, and customer satisfaction. Its tailored experience ensures that classic car buyers and sellers have access to a trusted and specialized community, setting it apart from general car-selling platforms.

Reputation: 8/10

Hemmings is highly regarded within the classic car community, thanks to its long history and established presence since 1954. Its consistent track record of connecting serious buyers and sellers has earned the platform trust and credibility.

Platform: 8/10

The platform is user-friendly and designed specifically for classic car enthusiasts, offering features like auctions, classifieds, and extensive resources. Users benefit from well-structured listings, easy navigation, and a dedicated support system tailored to classic car transactions.

Pricing: 8/10

 

Hemmings offers transparent and reasonable listing fees, with no hidden costs, making it an affordable option for sellers. Unlike some competitor platforms, Hemmings provides different listing tiers to accommodate varying seller needs, ensuring fair value for its services.

Inventory: 8/10

Specializing in classic and collector cars, Hemmings provides a unique selection that appeals to vintage car enthusiasts. While it may not have the same volume of listings as general used car sites, its curated inventory ensures high-quality offerings tailored to collectors.

Customer Satisfaction: 8/10

Hemmings boasts generally positive reviews, with users appreciating the platform’s specialized focus and comprehensive support for both buyers and sellers. The sense of community, the detailed vehicle history provided, and the ability to engage with serious enthusiasts contribute to an overall positive user experience.

What is Hemmings?

Hemmings, established in 1954, is a well-respected name in the classic car community. Known as “the Bible” of the Collector Car Hobby, Hemmings has built a solid reputation over the years.

The platform offers a range of services, including auctions, classifieds, and an extensive resource library dedicated to classic cars.

How Does Hemmings Work?

 

Hemmings operates a user-friendly platform tailored specifically for classic car enthusiasts. Users can browse listings for free, but there are fees for listing vehicles for sale.

The platform features both auction and classified listings, providing flexibility for buyers and sellers. Hemmings also offers a print magazine, which is a staple in the classic car community.

Pros of Hemmings

• Specializes in Classic and Collector Cars – Hemmings is dedicated exclusively to vintage, classic, and collector vehicles, making it a go-to marketplace for enthusiasts looking for rare and unique models. Unlike general used car platforms, Hemmings ensures that listings are tailored to serious collectors.
• Strong Enthusiast Community – With decades of history in the classic car world, Hemmings has built a passionate and knowledgeable community. Buyers and sellers benefit from connecting with like-minded individuals who appreciate the value and history of classic automobiles.
• Comprehensive Vehicle Details – Listings on Hemmings include in-depth descriptions, historical data, service records, and high-quality images, helping buyers make well-informed purchasing decisions. Many sellers also provide insight into the car’s restoration process and ownership history.
• Availability of a Print Magazine – Hemmings Motor News is a widely respected print publication that reaches a dedicated audience of classic car collectors. Having your listing featured in the print magazine increases exposure and attracts serious buyers.
• User-Friendly Platform for Its Niche Audience – The website is designed specifically for classic car enthusiasts, offering easy navigation, well-structured listings, and a smooth buying and selling process. The integration of both auction and classified listing options provides flexibility for sellers.

Cons of Hemmings

• Limited to Classic and Collector Cars – While this focus benefits enthusiasts, it also means that Hemmings isn’t the best platform for buying or selling everyday used cars. Those looking for modern vehicles may need to use general car marketplaces.
• Smaller Inventory Compared to General Car Platforms – Because Hemmings caters specifically to classic cars, its overall inventory is smaller than that of mainstream used car websites. This can limit options for buyers looking for a specific make or model.
• Listing Fees Apply for Sellers – Unlike some free or low-cost used car marketplaces, Hemmings requires sellers to pay a listing fee, which may deter casual sellers. However, the platform’s dedicated audience and exposure often justify the cost for serious sellers.

Hemmings Buying Process

 

Buying a car on Hemmings is designed specifically for classic car collectors, offering a smooth and informative experience. The platform provides detailed listings that include high-resolution photos, historical background, vehicle specifications, and often maintenance or restoration records. This level of detail ensures that buyers can make well-informed decisions before placing a bid or making an offer.

Buyers can choose between two primary methods of purchasing a vehicle:

 

• Auction – Hemmings hosts online auctions where buyers can place competitive bids on rare and sought-after classic cars. This format adds excitement and can sometimes lead to acquiring a vehicle at a great price. Bidders should pay close attention to auction deadlines and be prepared to act quickly when placing offers.
• Classified Listings – For those who prefer a more straightforward approach, the classified section allows buyers to directly contact sellers and negotiate pricing without the urgency of an auction. This is ideal for buyers who want to take their time evaluating options and discussing details with sellers.

Additionally, Hemmings provides a Make Offer option on some listings, allowing buyers to submit their own price proposals for sellers to consider. This creates room for negotiation, giving buyers more flexibility when making a purchase.

Hemmings Selling Process

 

For classic car owners looking to sell, Hemmings provides a well-structured and targeted marketplace that connects sellers with serious collectors. The platform ensures that each vehicle listing reaches an audience passionate about vintage and collector cars.

Sellers have three options for listing their vehicles:

 

• Auction ($99.95 listing fee, subject to approval) – Sellers can list their classic car in an auction format, allowing buyers to bid competitively. Auctions can be advantageous for rare or high-demand vehicles, as bidding wars may drive the price above the seller’s expectations.
• Make Offer ($99.95 per listing) – This format allows sellers to list a vehicle with a set price while giving buyers the ability to submit offers. The seller can accept, reject, or negotiate, offering a middle ground between classified ads and auctions.
• Classified Ad ($149.95 per listing) – Sellers can opt for a traditional classified listing that includes placement on Hemmings.com as well as in the Hemmings Motor News print ad. This option maximizes visibility, especially among serious collectors who still engage with print media.

Hemmings also provides seller support and marketing features, ensuring that listings stand out with professional presentation. Detailed descriptions, multiple high-quality images, and historical context all help attract serious buyers who understand the value of classic cars.

All pricing accurate as of 03/06/2025. Please reference Hemmings.com for more information.

Hemmings Classic Car FAQs

Sherpa’s Best Used Car Site Methodology

We used five criteria to evaluate the Best Used Car Sites:

Industry Reputation – Sites that have a strong overall standing in the industry are rated more favorably. We considered years in the industry, BBB rating, and overall reputation.

Platform – We evaluated the platform’s features and ease of use. We also considered if the platform was open to all users.

Pricing – We evaluated the site’s pricing, favoring transparent pricing structures. We also considered listing fees or premium services.

Inventory – We evaluated both the quantity and variety of vehicles on the platform.

Customer Experience—We reviewed the support available for both buyers and sellers and read online customer reviews to evaluate their sentiment towards the platform.