Classic car part sales continue to grow

First Line reports that demand across its classic range continues to grow, reflecting the strength of the UK’s enthusiast market. Intriguingly, this growth is no longer limited to traditional heritage marques, the company reports.

Through its Borg & Beck brand, the company draws on more than 100 years of OE heritage supplying clutches to iconic UK marques, including Jaguar, Triumph, Austin-Healey, Lotus and Land Rover, many of which now sit firmly in classic territory.

Beyond these traditional classics, First Line is also seeing steady movement in the need for parts that fit emerging modern classics where younger enthusiasts are increasingly investing in vehicles, like the BMW E30, Volkswagen GTI, Mazda MX-5 and Toyota MR2.

First Line Product Director, Kelvin Olds, said: “With more drivers holding onto petrol and diesel vehicles and the 2030 phase-out of new ICE sales approaching, we expect continued interest in classic and modern-classic vehicles.

“For the aftermarket, that means sustained demand for high-quality replacement components that technicians can fit with confidence.

“Owners of classic vehicles understandably want components that preserve the character of the car while also standing up to modern driving conditions. What we’re seeing is that usage patterns have changed, and that can put additional strain on some traditional components.”

Solution to clutch longevity 

First Line believes there is a growing, real-world issue affecting clutch longevity, in that many drivers now keep the clutch pedal depressed while stationary rather than selecting neutral, a habit that can accelerate wear on traditional carbon release bearings.

To address this issue, Borg & Beck offers clutch kits featuring more robust ball race bearings alongside original carbon bearing options. These heavy-duty options are available for a range of popular classics, including Jaguar E-Type, Mk II and XK models (1950-1970), MGB and MGB GT, MGC, and Austin Healey 3000 applications.

While offering these heavy-duty options, Borg & Beck also offers original spec, such as HK8854 for Austin Mini and HK9702 for the Jaguar E-Type and Daimler 4.2. This availability of both original-spec and upgraded solutions gives technicians the flexibility to match repairs to vehicle usage and owner expectations.

Accuracy and durability remain important

First Line has “invested heavily” in its in-house technical clutch centre to support this. The facility enables Borg & Beck to test every aspect of clutch performance; however, when it comes to classics, First Line acknowledged the focus is sometimes on OE-equivalent clutches, but there is also a need for other parts for these vehicles as well. That is why Borg & Beck has 65 other product groups that cover other classic parts, such as steering and suspension, braking, filtration, cooling and wheel bearings.

First Line believes the classic car segment remains a stable and potentially expanding opportunity, provided parts quality and availability keep pace with customer expectations.