Car Insurance Groups: Before you fall in love with a new set of wheels, there’s one number you need to check: the insurance group number. Whether you are looking to renew car insurance or buying your first vehicle, understanding these groups can save you thousands. But in 2026, the way we measure “risk” is changing with the phase-in of the new Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR). Here is what you need to know.

How the 1-50 System Works

Traditionally, every car in the UK is placed into one of 50 groups.

• Groups 1–10: These are your “budget-friendly” heroes. Think small engines and cheap parts (e.g., VW Polo or Fiat 500).
• Groups 40–50: This is the “high-risk” zone. It’s where you’ll find luxury SUVs and supercars like the Lamborghini Aventador.

The Golden Rule: The lower the car insurance group, the lower the cost when you go to renew car insurance.

NEW FOR 2026: The Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR)

If you are buying a brand-new model launched after August 2024, the old 1-50 system is being joined by the Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR).

Unlike the old groups, which stay the same forever, the VRR scores cars from 1 to 99 based on five “pillars”: Performance, Damageability, Reparability, Safety, and Security. Most importantly, a car’s VRR can change over time as insurers see how it performs in the real world.

What Factors Push a Car into a Higher Group?

It isn’t just about how fast a car goes. Car Insurance Groups are rated by Thatcham Research and the Panel look at:

• Damage & Parts Cost: If a wing mirror for a luxury car costs £800 but the same part for a Ford costs £80, the luxury car will sit in a higher group.
• Repair Times: Rare or complex cars (like many modern EVs) often take longer to fix. Longer stays in the workshop lead to higher claims costs.
• Security Standards: High-spec security (alarms and immobilisers) can pull a car down a group. Conversely, models with “vulnerable” keyless entry systems often find themselves pushed into Group 50.
• Bumper Compatibility: Believe it or not, how well your bumpers align to prevent damage in low-speed bumps actually affects your group rating!

Don’t Get Caught Out

There is nothing worse than buying your dream car only to find out you can’t afford to renew car insurance because it’s in Group 48.

Our Advice: Always check the insurance group before you buy. A “sportier” trim of the same car could move you from Group 12 to Group 25, doubling your premium for the sake of a few badges and larger alloys.

The “Before You Buy” Insurance Checklist

Avoid the “Group 50” shock! Use this 5-point checklist before you commit to your next vehicle.

1. Identify the Rating System

• Is it a pre-August 2024 model? It will be in the traditional Groups 1–50.
• Is it a brand-new 2024–2026 model? It might have a Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR) from 1–99.
• Rule of Thumb: The lower the number, the lower your premium.

2. Check the “Security Suffix”

When looking at 1–50 groups, look for the letter after the number. It tells you if the car’s security is up to scratch:

• E (Exceeds): The car has better security than required. This often lowers your cost!
• A (Acceptable): Meets the standard requirements.
• D (Doesn’t Meet): Security is below standard for that group, so the car has been “pushed up” a group.
• U (Unacceptable): The security is so poor many insurers may insist you fit an aftermarket alarm or tracker before they will cover you.

3. Spot the “Trim Trap”

Don’t just check the model; check the exact trim.

• A base model might be Group 12.
• The “Sport” or “GT” version of the same car could be Group 22 because of larger alloys (expensive to replace) and a slightly faster engine.

4. Investigate “Repairability” (The 2026 Factor)

With the new VRR system, insurers are looking closely at how long a car takes to fix.

• Check for Carbon Fibre or “Mega-Castings”: These are great for weight but can be a nightmare to repair after a small bump, leading to a higher insurance group.
• Parts Availability: Is it a rare import or a limited edition? If parts have to come from overseas, expect a higher group rating due to “Repair Duration” costs.

5. Run a “Dummy Quote” to Renew Car Insurance

Before you pay a deposit, get a “mock” quote using the registration of the car you are looking at.

• Pro-Tip: Use VINTTRO Cover as your specialist broker to see if there are “Enthusiast Discounts” that aren’t visible on standard comparison sites.

---

How to Find Your Car Insurance Group Right Now:

1. Thatcham Research: The official source for UK group ratings.
2. Your V5C Logbook: Often lists the group for older vehicles.
3. VINTTRO Cover: Message us with a registration number and we can tell you exactly where that vehicle sits and how it will affect your cost to renew car insurance.

Ready to Renew?

At VINTTRO Cover, we understand that niche and high-performance cars don’t always fit the “standard” 1-50 box. We look at the enthusiast behind the wheel, not just the data in the chart.

Speak to our specialist team today on 0333 4042 007 and let’s find a policy that fits.

We’re excited and proud to share that we’ve recently insured a remarkable car collection, including the instantly recognisable and iconic DeLorean DMC-12, the actual car featured in our photo. This vehicle got us thinking: few cars spark nostalgia and conversation quite like this stainless-steel “time machine.”

For many, the DeLorean is synonymous with the Back to the Future films. The moment those gullwing doors lift, people are transported back to memories of Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and the dream of travelling through time. But beyond the Hollywood magic, the DeLorean has a story of ambition, innovation, and controversy that cements its place in automotive history.

The Iconic DeLorean DMC-12 Story

The brainchild of John DeLorean, a visionary automotive executive who had already made a name for himself at General Motors with cars like the Pontiac GTO. In the late 1970s, he set out to create a futuristic sports car that would stand apart from everything else on the road.

Launched in 1981, the DeLorean DMC-12 turned heads with its brushed stainless-steel body panels, dramatic gullwing doors, and wedge-shaped design by Giorgetto Giugiaro. Underneath the hood, it featured a rear-mounted V6 engine and a chassis designed in collaboration with Lotus.

Unfortunately, production was plagued with challenges. Quality control issues, high costs, and a difficult economic climate made it hard for the DeLorean Motor Company to survive. By 1982, the company had gone into receivership, with only about 9,000 cars ever built.

From Flop to Cult Classic

While its production run was short, the DeLorean was destined for immortality. In 1985, the release of Back to the Future transformed the car from an interesting sports coupe into a global cultural phenomenon.

Suddenly, the car that had failed commercially became one of the most recognisable vehicles in the world. Its role as a cinematic time machine ensured its place in history, making it as much a pop culture treasure as an automotive one. Today, well-preserved DeLoreans are highly collectible, with values steadily rising as enthusiasts chase a piece of 80s nostalgia.

Protecting the Legend

It’s one thing to read about a DeLorean; it’s another to stand beside one. The car has an aura that pictures can’t quite capture. As we added this DMC-12 to the collection’s policy, it was clear that this wasn’t just a car, it was a story, a memory, and a symbol of a time when imagination met engineering.

Cars like this deserve more than standard insurance. They require tailored coverage that respects their rarity, cultural significance, and investment value. At VINTTRO Cover, we believe protecting vehicles like this isn’t just about insurance; it’s about safeguarding history.

Whether it’s a stainless-steel dream from the 1980s, a classic from the 1960s, or a modern-day supercar, our bespoke solutions ensure these icons are protected for generations to come.

---

Find Out More To find out how VINTTRO Cover can help with your niche asset insurance requirements, please reach out by calling 0333 4042 007 or email us at insurance@vinttro.co.uk.

Why not Join The VINTTRO Community

Building your passion into a lifestyle is always better when shared with those who truly “get it.” Like the owner of this legendary DeLorean, joining the VINTTRO Community means more than just finding a specialist insurance provider; it means gaining access to a network of like-minded enthusiasts who value heritage, innovation and the thrill of the drive. Whether you’re looking to safeguard a cinematic icon or a modern masterpiece, our community offers a space where your automotive stories are celebrated and your investments are understood. Don’t just watch from the side-lines, connect with a group that treats every car as a piece of history and every owner as a vital part of the story.

VINTTRO is excited to announce a new partnership that enhances our offering of telematics technology, including GPS vehicle trackers and high-definition dash cams. Whether you’re safeguarding a rare luxury car, a supercar collection, or managing a fleet of company vehicles, this partnership gives you access to cutting-edge tools designed to protect assets, improve performance, and reduce risk.

In a time when vehicle crime, road incidents, and insurance fraud are on the rise, having real-time insight and reliable data at your fingertips is no longer optional, it’s essential.

What’s Included in Our New Telematics Offering?

• GPS Vehicle Trackers: Real-time location tracking, motion alerts, and theft recovery support.
• Dash Cams: Forward, rear, and internal cameras capturing high-quality video for incident evidence and driver behaviour monitoring.
• Customisable Telematics Packages: Tailored solutions for single supercars, personal collections, or commercial fleets.

Why Telematics Is a Smart Investment for Fleet Managers

For businesses operating company cars or commercial fleets, telematics offers powerful tools that go beyond security; it supports efficiency, compliance, and cost control.

• Real-Time Fleet Visibility: Track locations, routes, and usage from a single platform, ideal for logistics and field-based operations.
• Fuel & Maintenance Savings: Identify excessive idling and aggressive driving to reduce fuel consumption and wear-and-tear.
• Driver Accountability: Monitor behaviour with scorecards and alerts, protecting both your team and your reputation.
• Claims & Risk Management: Dash cam footage helps resolve claims quickly and fairly, protecting your claims ratio.
• Scalable Solutions: Whether you operate 5 vehicles or 500, we deliver a solution aligned with your business goals.

Benefits for Supercar & Rare Vehicle Owners

If you own high-value assets, you understand the importance of proactive protection.

• Theft Prevention & Recovery: High-performance vehicles are prime targets for organised crime. GPS trackers provide peace of mind and support rapid recovery.
• Evidence in the Event of a Claim: Dash cams provide clear, timestamped footage to dispute liability or support a claim.
• Enhanced Insurance Options: Insurers often reward proactive risk management with more favourable premiums for high-net-worth vehicles.
• Personalised Insight: Access detailed reports on driving style and vehicle usage via a dedicated app or dashboard.

Built Around Your Needs

We understand that no two clients are the same, and neither are their security requirements. Whether you’re looking to protect a single, prized supercar or oversee the complex logistics of a nationwide commercial fleet, our telematics solutions are designed to be as flexible as they are powerful. We move away from “one-size-fits-all” hardware; instead, we offer a range of technology that integrates seamlessly with your existing lifestyle or business operations.

To ensure our services fit your specific financial and operational goals, you can choose from outright purchase, monthly subscription, or hybrid models. This adaptability gives you full control over your data and your budget, providing professional-grade protection without the burden of long-term, rigid constraints.

Let Us Help Protect What Matters

Our new telematics and dash cam solutions are more than just optional add-ons, they are essential, proactive tools that help you protect, monitor and optimise your most valuable vehicle assets. By bridging the gap between advanced technology and specialist insurance, we empower you to take control of your risk profile, potentially lowering costs while significantly increasing the security of your vehicles. In an unpredictable world, these tools provide the one thing every owner and manager needs: total peace of mind.

Ready to get started? [Click Here] to visit our main page, or click the Enquire button to fill out our short form. We’ll be in touch to discuss the best solution for you.

In the world of Formula One, speed is everything. But for Gerhard Berger’s stolen Ferrari F512 M, the journey home took nearly three decades.

After vanishing during the 1995 San Marino Grand Prix at Imola, the rare Italian supercar has finally been recovered by the Metropolitan Police and Scotland Yard. It is a story of international mystery, a desperate chase in a hatchback, and a high-stakes recovery mission.

The Imola Heist: A Bold Escape

The drama began in April 1995. While Berger was preparing to compete at the legendary Imola circuit, thieves targeted the Ferrari driver’s personal car.

In a moment of pure adrenaline, Berger reportedly caught the theft in progress. He attempted to block the path of the bright red Ferrari as it was being driven away, but the thief showed no mercy. Berger was forced to jump clear at the last second to avoid being struck.

Refusing to give up, the F1 ace jumped into a friend’s Volkswagen Golf to give chase. While Berger’s skills behind the wheel are legendary, the humble Golf was no match for the V12-powered Ferrari. The supercar vanished, leaving Berger and the police with no leads.

Gerhards Berger’s Stolen Ferrari Was A Rare Icon

The car in question is no ordinary Ferrari. The F512 M was the final and most refined evolution of the iconic Testarossa.

• Rarity: Only 501 units were ever produced globally.
• Exclusivity: Just 75 of those were destined for the North American market.
• Value: Today, the car is valued at an estimated £350,000.

Gerhard Berger wasn’t the only victim that weekend. His then Ferrari teammate, Jean Alesi, also had his Ferrari F355 stolen at Imola. While Berger’s car has finally surfaced, Alesi’s F355 remains missing to this day.

The Global Trail: From Japan to London

For 28 years, the stolen Ferrari remained a ghost. However, in January of this year, a report reached the Metropolitan Police directly from Ferrari.

The manufacturer had been performing checks on a car being purchased by an American buyer through a UK-based broker. The Organised Vehicle Crime Unit stepped in and uncovered a globetrotting trail:

1. The Theft: Stolen in Italy in 1995.
2. The Transit: Shipped to Japan shortly after the crime.
3. The Return: Brought into the UK in late 2023.

As soon as the car touched British soil, authorities moved quickly to seize the vehicle and prevent it from being exported yet again.

“Painstaking Inquiries”

The recovery was a masterclass in international cooperation. Pc Mike Pilbeam, who led the investigation of the stolen Ferrari, highlighted the effort required to close the case:

“We worked quickly with partners including the National Crime Agency, as well as Ferrari and international car dealerships. This collaboration was instrumental in understanding the vehicle’s background and stopping it from leaving the country.”

Despite being missing for over a quarter of a century, the authorities managed to track the car’s final movements in just four days. While the investigation remains ongoing and no arrests have been made, the red icon is finally off the black market.

Protecting Your Passion with VINTTRO Cover

Stories like Gerhard Berger’s stolen Ferrari highlight exactly why specialised protection is essential for high-value assets. Whether you own a rare Ferrari F512 M or a growing collection of niche vehicles, VINTTRO Cover provides bespoke insurance solutions designed specifically for enthusiasts. From Agreed Value coverage that reflects the true market worth of appreciating classics to Multi-Vehicle policies that simplify the management of an entire stable, VINTTRO Cover understands the unique risks of the niche car world.

Don’t leave your “pride and joy” to chance; ensure your collection has the specialist protection it deserves, both at home and across the globe.