Enthusiasts of the classic car typically fall into the over-60-years-of-age group. But when younger drivers are caught behind the classic car wheel, something unexpectedly intriguing factors in. Having spent most of their lives surrounded by technology, this unexpected devotion to the old feels particularly touching—just as compelling as seeing older enthusiasts move effortlessly through the digital world.

I’ll be honest with you, though. When I first rode with Mr. 1986 Mercedes 560 SL, my first impression was not so enthusiastic. It was quite unsettling in fact. No carplay. No automatic customizing of the car seat. No mirror on the visor. And during the winter, no heated seats either. But my discomfort soon turned into ease. I began to loosen into the simplicity of it. And suddenly Javi and I were two lovers of life on the road, in silence or in conversation. Either way, it felt hyper-real.

A slew of the younger celebrities who call themselves classic car owners include: Kendall Jenner with her 1965 Ford Mustang and 1957 Corvette Stingray convertible, Lady Gaga with her 1965 Lincoln Continental Convertible, Beyonce with her 1959 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II and Mercedes SL Pagoda, Tyler the Creator with his rally-inspired classics like the Lancia Delta Integrale, Aaron Paul with his iconic Shelby Cobra, and country singer Mason Ramsey cruising in a 1968 Chevrolet K10 pickup (to name only but a few).

Brings me to wonder, what ways might these young classicists classify the classic car as a classy case for class? (forgive the alliteration 😜)

Well for starters, driving a classic car is a simple yet whole experience. Since they lack complex and distracting buttons, touch screens and systems, riding in one is strangely refreshing given the complex modern era we live in today. Technology has richly enhanced but also limited our lives. And nothing could be more appealing than to just listen to the engine, the wind, and an old Bee Gees cassette tape. To be free in the moment. Free of multi-tasking, free to JUST drive. (And free to listen to the music without compulsively skipping over songs).

Another classic car advantage is the low repair and maintenance bills. Their parts are easy to order, easier to substitute, and easy on the pocket (which can’t be said for the luxury modern car of today.) And one more undeniable aspect is that driving a classic car will attract serious (and only positive) attention. Other drivers on the road will make an extra effort to demonstrate their appreciation through facial expressions, thumbs-up gestures, or rolling down their window to pass along enthusiastic compliments. Encounters and unexpected conversations with fellow or aspiring classic car drivers are also sure to occur.

In this era of souped-up, electric, or even self-driving cars—which are of course superior in comfort, reliability, eco-friendliness, and efficiency— it is without a doubt that the awe of the classic car shall endure.