What qualifies a motor vehicle as a "Special Interest Vehicle"?

A "Special Interest Vehicle" is defined primarily by its preservation status and authenticity. These vehicles are often distinguished by the way they have been maintained or restored, which is critical for their classification. The correct identification as a Special Interest Vehicle requires that it be preserved without modifications, ensuring that it holds its historical and original integrity. This aspect is vital to enthusiasts and collectors, as it signifies that the vehicle has retained its original features and hasn’t been altered from its manufactured state, thereby increasing its value and significance within the automotive community.

While vehicles may be associated with specific age requirements or historical relevance—such as being at least 15 years old or built prior to 1950—these criteria alone do not fulfill the definition of a Special Interest Vehicle without the preservation aspect. Similarly, while some vehicles may have been featured in films, this factor alone does not make them special interest; it is the vehicle's original, unmodified condition that predominantly qualifies it for this category.