Car Tax banding! Old cars and banding?

Question

I see car that car tax banding only applies to vehicles newer than 2001. What about cars older than that? Do they come under the highest tax bracket regardless of size emmissions etc etc?
I don't see why I should pay £300 then £400 for road tax when my car is just as efficiant as some of the newer cars or more efficiant than the likes of modern 4x4's

So does this mean that we're going to be paying £300 next year and £400 the year after?

Answer 1

newer cars normally have lower emissions (per mile)

Answer 2

Older cars are taxed in only two bands, according to engine size.

For cars not over 1549cc, tax is £115 per year
For cars over 1549cc, tax is £180 per year.

Answer 3

Same here, i have a 2000 1.8 passat with a high tax band.

I pay the same price as someone with a new 2.0+ audi sports.