Fizbne's Mazdaspeed Victoria-Bitter-Spec Stage II Roadster

Cat C and Cat D cars can legally be put back on the road, although the insurance company has judged that it's too expensive for it to do so. However, insurance companies typically use manufacturer price lists for spare parts, which tend to be on the expensive side, and if you have the resources, you may be able to put a Cat C or Cat D car back on the road for a fraction of the insurance company's estimated cost.

Of the two older categories that can be put back on the road, Cat C cars will have sustained more serious damage than Cat D cars – typically the repair bill will be more than the car is worth. Cat C cars have to be re-registered with the DVLA before they can be put back on the road. The new Cat S (short for structurally damaged) classification replaces Cat D.

Cat D cars have been less seriously damaged than Cat C cars, and can be put back on the road without being re-registered with the DVLA. A Cat D car’s repair bill may be less than its value, making it theoretically economical to repair; but insurers’ administration, transport and other costs may mean the repair work isn't worth their while. The new Cat N (short for non-structural damage) classification replaces the old Cat D.