……. by Larry FitzGibbon
At recent classic car shows, we conducted a poll to find out what car owners are using to protect their prized vehicles. We asked:
- Do you use polymer or ceramic coatings on your classic car?
- If not ceramic, why not?
- Which option do you believe offers the best protection?
The Results Might Surprise You:
Over 90% of respondents said they still use wax—specifically, Meguiar’s wax. When asked why they haven’t switched to ceramic coatings, three main reasons came up:
- Lack of trust – Many aren’t confident ceramic coatings are safe for their car’s finish.
- Lack of knowledge – Most have never been shown how to properly apply it.
- Cost concerns – Professional ceramic applications are often seen as too expensive.
What Classic Car Owners Are Saying (Among Polymer and Ceramic Users)
Opinions are split. Some classic car owners prefer the ease and familiarity of polymer sealants, while others believe ceramic coatings offer unmatched long-term protection.
Polymer vs. Ceramic Coatings: What Every Classic Car Owner Should Know
Protecting the finish of a classic car isn’t just about appearance—it’s about preserving history. Whether you’re weighing the proven performance of polymer sealants or considering the cutting-edge defense of ceramic coatings, here’s what you need to know to make an informed choice.
What’s the Difference?
Feature Polymer Sealant Ceramic Coating
Durability 3 to 6 months 2 to 5 years
Application Easy DIY Requires some prep
Cost $10 to $40 Same
Finish Warm Shine Ultra-slick, reflective
Water repellant Moderate Extreme Hydrophobic
Recommendations:
For show cars that are garaged and detailed frequently, a polymer sealant may be enough. If your classic sees regular sun and road time, ceramic offers longer-lasting protection.
Top Product Picks
🔹 Best Polymer Sealant (Beginner-Friendly)
MEGUIAR'S Synthetic X-Press Spray Wax – Buy on Amazon
Great gloss, quick application, and affordable.
🔹 Best Ceramic Coating (Long-Term Protection)
CERAKOTE Platinum Rapid Ceramic - buy on Amazon
Application Tips
- Prep is key: For both coatings, start with a clean, clay-barred surface.
- Apply polymer every 2–3 months to maintain shine.
- Use ceramic in a controlled environment and follow cure time exactly.
Final Verdict
Both coatings offer solid benefits—but if you’re looking for set-it-and-forget-it protection for your vintage paintwork, ceramic is hard to beat.
Pro Tip: Many owners apply a polymer sealant over ceramic as a “sacrificial” top layer for added gloss and ease of maintenance.
Want to Support this Site?
Some links above are affiliate links. When you click and buy, it helps support this blog—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for keeping your classics shining and our content rolling!
* Need Help Choosing a Product?
Email a comment to aadutter@gmail.com. Include your car’s make, paint type, or usage (garage queen or daily driver), and I’ll recommend the best combo for you.
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