Revving up Online: Can Traditional Car Enthusiasm Thrive in a Digital Age?

In a world where electric engines hum and autonomous vehicles take the wheel, the roar of a classic V8 still reverberates in the hearts of car enthusiasts everywhere. But as we speed into an increasingly digital age, one burning question remains: Can traditional car enthusiasm thrive amidst apps, forums, and social media? Join us as we explore how timeless passion for vintage rides is finding new life online—fueling community connections, sparking creativity in restoration projects, and igniting discussions that transcend generations.

It All Started With a Livestream and a Group Chat

Back in the day, if you wanted to talk cars, you had to show up. Now? One group text thread can turn into a fully functioning online club with meet times, theme nights, and shared photo dumps from every angle.

Platforms like Discord, Instagram, and YouTube are where the new-school car scene thrives. Builders are showing off their progress through livestreams and Reels, and sim racers are competing in realistic car physics from the comfort of their gaming chairs. Beverly Hills Car Club, for example, has a Discord server with more than 400 members. Visitors can watch livestreams of the inventory while chatting with other users in real time. For most people, all they need to do to find these groups is click through hashtags on Instagram or go down the rabbit hole of related videos on YouTube.

Sim Racing Is the New Test Drive

One of the biggest drivers (pun intended) of the digital car club rise is sim racing—a.k.a. highly realistic, online driving games like Assetto Corsa, iRacing, and Gran Turismo. These aren’t your average arcade racers. We’re talking wheel setups, pedal rigs, and physics that make you sweat like you’re on a real track.

In the virtual car world, you can build your dream ride, race with your crew, and even tune your suspension settings—all without burning a drop of gas. It’s immersive, it’s competitive, and for a lot of people, it’s how they’ve found their car community.

Virtual Meets Are More Than Just Zoom Calls

You’d think a “virtual car meet” would feel… boring. But they’re anything but. We’re talking full-on organized events in platforms like Forza Horizon, where everyone rolls up with a custom-painted ride, parks in formation, and takes screenshots that look ready for a magazine feature. Some clubs even host build competitions, photo challenges, and “best in show” votes—all without leaving the couch. Sure, you’re not smelling rubber or hearing real engines, but the passion? Still very real.

The Digital Scene Is Way More Inclusive

One of the best parts about the virtual car club movement? It lowers the barrier to entry. You don’t need a six-figure build or a garage full of tools to participate. All you need is a love for cars and a Wi-Fi signal. That means more young drivers, more international members, and more diversity across the board. People who might have felt excluded in the traditional scene are finding their people online, and they’re thriving.

It’s Not a Replacement—It’s an Evolution

Here’s the thing: virtual car clubs aren’t trying to replace the real-world experience. There’s still nothing quite like an early morning cruise or seeing a custom-built up close. But digital clubs offer a new way to stay connected, especially when life, weather, or gas prices …