Vehicle Tax for Older Vehicles
The old displacement-based tax
Cars first registered up to 5 November 2008 remain under the old, purely displacement-based tax system, with no CO₂ component. The rate differs by fuel type and by whether the vehicle meets a given Euro emissions standard.
Vehicles with no or a low Euro classification face significantly higher rates per 100 cc than cleaner models — in some cases over €25 per 100 cc for unclassified vehicles.
This guide provides general information and does not replace individual tax advice. For your specific case, use our calculator or contact your Hauptzollamt.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find the first registration date?
In field B of the vehicle registration certificate (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I).
Can I opt into the new CO₂-based system voluntarily?
No, the cutoff date rule applies strictly based on the first registration date.