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Engineer Passionate About Classic Cars Shows, Through Tests and Disassemblies, Why Classic Models Offer Less Safety Than Modern Ones
Many people still believe that classic cars are safer than modern models. The argument usually is that they were “made like they used to be,” with more steel and less plastic. But this idea has been challenged by engineers and safety experts for years.
Now, Munro & Associates has decided to revisit this debate with a technical video that shows how this belief may be completely misguided.
Comparison Between Generations of Sedans
Carl Crittenden, chief engineer at Munro & Associates, leads the analysis. He makes it clear from the start that he is not attacking classic cars. On the contrary, he himself is an enthusiast.
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He owns several classic models and restores them in his spare time. But, despite this passion, he states that it is not possible to say that a sedan from decades ago is safer than a modern model.
To illustrate, he refers to a famous video published in 2009 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The test puts a 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air face to face with a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu.
The result, even 16 years later, still generates controversy. But for Crittenden, there is no doubt: the Malibu, despite being a basic sedan, offers much more protection.
Debunking Popular Claims
One of the most common criticisms of the IIHS test is the claim that the engine and transmission from the Bel Air were removed before the impact. Crittenden refutes this idea using photos that clearly show the engine was in the car during the test.
Another recurring suspicion is that the fenders detached due to some manipulation by the institute. According to Crittenden, this also does not make sense.
In models like the Bel Air, the fenders are attached only to the radiator support and the body, making them naturally more fragile.
In modern cars, however, they are attached to metal structures that also act as crumple zones, improving safety.
Thickness of the Sheet Metal Is Not Everything
Another point discussed by Crittenden is the thickness of the sheet metals. Although those used in the past were, in some cases, thicker, the panels were hollow and lacked reinforcements.
He makes a direct comparison between a 1961 door and the door of a modern Kia EV9. The old one is one millimeter thicker but completely hollow. The new one, while thinner, is full of internal reinforcements.
Classic Cars Have Charm, But No Safety
For Crittenden, the final message is simple: classic cars are beautiful, fun, and worth it for enthusiasts. But they should not be seen as safer options.
A classic can be restored and enjoyed with enthusiasm, but it will not protect like a modern model in a collision at 72 km/h against an Altima, for example.
With information from The Drive.
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