Noticias varias de clásicos/históricos [en inglés]

[Manu]

McLAREN CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF HISTORIC US RACE SERIES WITH LIMITED RUN 650S CAN-AM

McLaren established itself throughout the 1960s and 70s as a world-beating force in one of the most extreme forms of motorsport, Can-Am, winning five consecutive championships between 1967 and 1971. In honour of the 50th anniversary of the 1966 inaugural season, McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has created the limited production 650S Can-Am which takes its inspiration from the race cars of this golden age of motorsport.  The 650S Can-Am can be commissioned now priced at £255,850 with deliveries set to commence in the spring of 2016, 50 years on from the first race at Mont Tremblant, Canada.  Just 50 examples will be produced globally, all based on the 650S Spider.

The Can-Am series, or Canadian-American Challenge Cup, was a no-holds-barred battle of power and speed around some of the most iconic circuits in North America and Canada.  It attracted the best drivers of the time including Graham Hill, John Surtees, Jackie Stewart and, of course, Bruce McLaren.  The championship started in 1966, only a year after Bruce McLaren Motor Racing was established and in the series that followed, the young Kiwi became one of most successful names in the sport.

Key to the success of the McLaren Can-Am racers was the use of the latest technologies and materials.  This principle is carried through to today’s 650S Can-Am.  Where lightweight materials such as aluminium and mallite were used in the construction of yesterday’s racers, the modern-day celebration features extensive carbon fibre not least in the construction of its lightweight MonoCell chassis.  A carbon fibre retractable hard top features for the first time while further carbon fibre is used for the bonnet, Airbrake, front splitter, rear bumper centre, door blades and 650S Can-Am branded sill cover.  MSO has also created a unique set of lightweight forged alloy wheels inspired by those of the 1960s racers with a gloss-black finish on each of the five spokes and a diamond cut rim. Held in place by titanium bolts, the wheels are shod with Pirelli P Zero™ Corsa tyres.  Carbon ceramic brakes with black painted callipers are standard equipment.

Further unique features inspired by the iconic Can-Am racers include carbon fibre louvered front wings and a new quad-exit, polished stainless steel exhaust system. The louvres are designed to reduce pressure over the front wheels and increase downforce, while the four circular tailpipes at the rear of the car housed within a new visual carbon fibre rear grille echo the aggressive and purposeful throttle trumpets of the historic models.  They also provide the 650S Can-Am with a unique soundtrack.

Like the 650S Spider, this limited production model features the award-winning 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 which produces 650PS (641bhp) and 678Nm (500 lb ft) of torque. Performance and economy figures are just as exhilarating: zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes a mere three seconds and its top speed is 204 mph (329 km/h). 

The 650S Can-Am is offered in three bold colours. The launch colour, Mars Red, is directly inspired by the M1B raced by Bruce McLaren and his teammate Chris Amon in the debut season. The second colour, Papaya Spark, is a modern and metallic take on the famous Can-Am racing McLaren Orange.  The final option is Onyx Black which is similar to the base colour used by many of the McLaren customer teams in the later seasons.  Each is additionally available with a corresponding racing livery to give an even closer visual association with the historic Can-Am series.

Inside, the standard sports seats are upholstered with leather and Alcantara® which complement the exterior.  Carbon fibre naturally features extensively throughout the cabin while a further bespoke Can-Am touch is the unique dedication plaque on the driver’s door.

Commenting on the 650S Can-Am, Paul Mackenzie, Executive Director of McLaren Special Operations explains: ‘Can-Am racing is a major part of McLaren heritage, and this latest model from MSO pays homage to the cars and the racers who played a key role in making the championship such a spectacle during the 1960s and 70s.  The championship was a true test of the engineering ability, driving talent and bravery of Bruce and his teammates, which led them to secure five consecutive championships.

‘The 650S Can-Am is a modern day interpretation with a mixture of functional design features taken from the all-conquering models, combined with the lightest and most pioneering materials available, as was the case with the race cars. The extensive use of lightweight visual carbon fibre, including for the retractable hard top, adds to car’s dramatic appearance and with the roof down, drivers are treated to a stirring V8 soundtrack just as Bruce and his teammates enjoyed.’

See the 650S Can-Am, and the learn more about heritage behind the name, at cars.mclaren.com/650S-Can-Am

[Manu]

BENTLEY COMPETES IN JOCHPASS OLDTIMER MEMORIAL AND HISTORIC-RALLYE

(Munich, 12 October 2015) Bentley Motors enjoyed an exciting and successful weekend at the 17th Jochpass Oldtimer Memorial and Historic-Rallye in Bad Hindelang, Germany.

Four historic Bentleys competed in the world-renowned classics event between 9 and 11 October, including the Team ‘Blower’, R-Type Continental, Speed 6 and a Bentley 4,5 Litre Le Mans. About 18.000 enthusiastic spectators were in attendance to admire the 280 classic cars on show. The drivers travelled from all over Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “Bentley has a long and famous heritage and these classic models represent the DNA and spirit of the brand today. We were delighted to have raced our historic models this weekend to classic car enthusiasts and Bentley fans. Our appetite for competition is one of the reasons we go racing and our growing motorsport programme now successfully competes on four continents.”

The scenic rallye took the drivers on course around the picturesque town of Bad Hindelang. The Oldtimer Memorial race ran a 7,9 kilometre route to the which covered an ascent of over 360 metres and 105 turns up the mountain turns. 

Robert Engstler, Regional Director Europe at Bentley Motors commented: “The Jochpass Oldtimer Memorial is just the starting point for Bentley’s heritage race participation. We are already committed to classic rallies all over Europe in 2016, including the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, Le Mans Classic, Ennstal-Classic and Kitzbueheler Alpenrallye.”

At the same time, the final race of the Blancpain Sprint Series took place in Zandvoort, The Netherlands. Bentley’s latest race car, the Continental GT3, and the Bentley Team HTP Motorsport celebrated the Driver’s Title for Maximilian Buhk and Vincent Abril.

[Manu]

MASSIVELY SUCCESSFUL FIRST SERIES OF THE CLASSIC CAR SHOW NOW IN MORE THAN 100 COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

London, October 12th

The first series of all-new TV show, The Classic Car Show, has been a huge success. It has enjoyed an overwhelmingly positive response with excellent viewing figures across all 13 episodes aired on Channel 5 in the UK and international sales success through Sony Pictures Entertainment means it is now in more than 100 countries around the world.

Presented by Quentin Willson and Jodie Kidd, the landmark new series has travelled the globe celebrating all manner of classic cars, from the glamorous and stratospherically expensive Ferrari 250 GT California Spider to more humble icons like the MGB GT. And viewers have loved every minute.

The series debut on Channel 5 earlier this year saw average weekly-consolidated viewing figures of 642,000, an uplift of some 42 per cent for the 7pm Thursday slot. The series reached a peak of 922,000 viewers, achieved during its first episode which averaged 750,000.

As a result of the success of The Classic Car Show on Channel 5, Sony Pictures Television, which distributes the show internationally, has sold the first series to more than 100 countries around the world including: Discovery Turbo in Latin America covering 43 countries; BBC Brit in Poland; History Channel in Japan; a multi-territory deal with BBC Brit in Africa, spanning 58 countries; SBS in Australia and Mega in Greece.

The series featured celebrity contributions from the likes of Bruno Senna, David Gandy, Steve Coogan, Britt Ekland, Tinie Tempah, Derek Bell MBE and Sir Stirling Moss, uncovered rare barnfinds and gave viewers the lowdown on which classics to buy now before their values go through the roof. The show’s unique ability to highlight undervalued cars was proved when prices of the classic Ferrari 456 doubled within weeks of it being mentioned on the programme.

One of the most popular episodes was the show’s James Bond Special, which celebrated cars from the 007 series and even guest-starred ex-Stig and Daniel Craig stunt double, Ben Collins. Social media response to the show was also overwhelmingly positive.

The programme also attracted high-end commercial partners, with sponsorship from Watchfinder. For the first time in its history, luxury car brand Aston Martin provided television viewers with the opportunity to drive away in a brand new bespoke Aston Martin V8 Vantage. This was one of the most successful TV car competitions ever with an unprecedented viewer response.

Infinity Creative Media Executive Producer, Russ Lindsay, said: “We’re incredibly proud of The Classic Car Show. The whole premise of the series was to create a series celebratory in tone without gimmicks or distractions. The episodes were packed full of content to delight classic car lovers and the contributions were second to none with thelikes of Bruno Senna, David Gandy and Sir Stirling Moss.

“We also designed the format and content of the show for an international audience, not just a UK one, and that has been reflected in the global sales.”

Executive producer and presenter Quentin Willson, said: “We’ve made TV history by celebrating classic cars in a deeply glamorous and passionate way and we’re all delighted that so many mainstream viewers, who aren’t hard core old car enthusiasts, have tuned in. The feedback from international viewers is the same - they tell us love the way we’ve brought beauty, style and sexiness to the world of classic cars.”

For full details on The Classic Car Show head to:
www.classiccarshow.com

[Manu]

WHAT’S YOUR CAR OF THE YEAR?

It's time to go to www.historicmotoringawards.com and cast your vote for the Car of the Year. This year's nominees are:

The Baillon Ferrari California

When the Baillon family barnfinds emerged, the collection attracted publicity around the world. A few weeks later, auction house Artcurial displayed the collection in an eerily lit hall at Rétromobile, to yet more acclaim. The start of the collection was the ex-Alain Delon Ferrari, which has since been recommissioned and displayed at Pebble Beach.

Fiat S76 ‘The Beast of Turin’

A video of the engineer Duncan Pittaway firing up his 12-year-long restoration project speed record car went ‘viral’. The oil and rubber laid down on Lord March’s driveway are already the stuff of legend. And the sight of Duncan tearing up the Goodwood and Chateau Impney hillclimbs - spitting flames all the way - will be remembered by thousands.

Land Rover Series I ‘Huey’

To mark the end of the line for the Land Rover as we know it, the company gathered together its finest heritage vehicles and drove them all around the UK. The Land Rover most widely admired was HUE 166- or ‘Huey’- the oldest known survivor.

Mercedes-Benz 300SLR ‘722’

Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson achieved one of the greatest feats ever in motor sport history, averaging 97.9mph over 1,000 miles of bumpy, twisting public roads to win the 1955 Mille Miglia. This year, ‘722’ and Moss have appeared around the world for the 50th anniversary, mobbed by fans of every age.

Voting closes on November 1st - make sure you have your say!

The International Historic Motoring Awards are presented in association with EFG Private Bank and Octane magazine.

Celebrate with the best

The winners of the International Historic Motoring Awards 2015 will be announced at a gala dinner in London on Thursday 19th November at the magnificent St Pancras Renaissance Hotel. Tickets for this prestigious annual fixture on the international historic motoring calendar cost £180 per person. They can be bought via www.historicmotoringawards.com.

[Manu]

VAUXHALL FIELDS TWO-CAR ENTRY IN 89TH RUNNING OF LONDON TO BRIGHTON RUN

Luton – It was touch and go if the world’s second-oldest Vauxhall would make it to the start of this year’s Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, but with the help of good old-fashioned British engineering expertise, the car’s now on track to tackle the famous event.

Known simply as the ‘5hp’, the important veteran succumbed to a broken crankshaft earlier this year, and the challenge for Vauxhall’s Senior Vehicle Restorer, Andy Boddy, was to find someone who could manufacture a new crank before November 1, when 5hp will join 425 veteran (pre-1905) motor cars to travel from London to Brighton.

‘Timing was crucial,’ said Andy. ‘We’d already entered our 1904 car in the run, but having 5hp there too was important. Phoenix Engineering in Slough pulled out all the stops to manufacture a new crank, and fingers crossed, we’ll have everything back together in time.’

Vauxhall’s 5hp is the 45th vehicle built by the company in its first year of car manufacturing in 1903. It’s a rare four-seat model, with passengers sitting over the engine, in front of the driver. Vauxhall Heritage purchased and restored the car, registered BS8213, 20 years ago and it has completed the Run on many occasions since. Originally bought for £154 3s 3d by a Scottish shipbuilder, 5hp has a water-cooled 983cc engine powering its rear wheels through an epicyclic gearbox and chain drive. Top speed is 20mph and fuel consumption around 38mpg.

Joining 5hp is Vauxhall’s 6hp car. Registered JNM 400, it was one of 70 cars produced in 1904 at Vauxhall’s original factory in South London. Another London to Brighton regular, the 6hp also features a one-litre, water-cooled single-cylinder engine, along with tiller steering and similar performance and economy to the 5hp. Vauxhall Heritage has owned the car for more than 40 years.

Vauxhall is the only surviving UK car manufacturer eligible to enter Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, which is only open to cars built before 1905. Celebrating over a century of continuous vehicle production in London and Luton (its base since 1905), Vauxhall has produced over 14 million vehicles in its 112-year history. Its innovative designs and clever engineering rapidly turned Vauxhall into one of the most prestigious car companies in the early part of the 20th century.

The 2015 Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run marks the 119th anniversary of the first run in 1896, which celebrated the passing of the Locomotives on Highways Act the same year, giving road-going vehicles the right to travel at up to 14mph, instead of the previous 2mph in towns and 4mph in the country, led by an escort carrying a red flag. The next event didn’t happen until 1927, and has been owned and organised by the Royal Automobile Club since 1930, with only the onset of the Second World War and fuel rationing stopping it being an annual fixture right up to date. Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is now the world’s longest running motoring event.

For more information about this year’s Bonhams London to Brighton Run, including the Regent Street Motor Show which precedes it on Saturday, October 31, please go to www.veterancarrun.com.

[Manu]

ROYALTY, RACING & RESEARCH SHINE AT VAUXHALL’S NEC CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW STAND

Luton/NEC – Vauxhall Motors’ fourth appearance at the NEC Classic Motor Show (November 13-15) will this year showcase six rare and unique models that have never been seen at the event, forming the centre-piece of a large, eight-stand Vauxhall area.

The Vauxhall stand’s jewel in the crown, ‘MYT 1’, Her Majesty the Queen’s 1961 PA Cresta Friary Estate is making only its second outing from Sandringham in the past 31 years, since it was moved there from the Royal Mews in London. A personal favourite of the Queen, and one that she drove regularly in its day, the PA is painted Imperial Green – a bespoke colour not normally supplied by Vauxhall – and has a number of interesting features, like fishing rod holders built into the roof and a gun rack.

In shocking contrast to the aristocratic estate is the world’s most famous and successful Vauxhall competition car, Baby Bertha. Driven by the legendary Gerry Marshall between 1975 and 1977, Bertha won all but three of 43 races entered, and took the Super Saloon Championship two years running. Loosely based on a production Firenza, Baby Bertha was built around a spaceframe chassis and powered by a 500bhp, 5.0-litre GM V8 engine.

An equally dramatic 70s Vauxhall taking its bow at the NEC is the SRV, or Styling Research Vehicle. First shown at the 1970 Earls Court Motor Show, the sleek imposing shape belies its four door practicality. But with an aerofoil, electric self-levelling suspension and a ‘manometer’ to measure air pressure on the car’s hull, the SRV illustrated Vauxhall’s forward-thinking approach to engineering and design, which still exists today.

Car production ended in Luton in 2002 (though 110 years on, Vauxhall still manufactures LCVs in the town, as well the Astra at Ellesmere Port) and the fourth car on display is the last of seven-million to roll off the famous line. Powered by a 2.6-litre V6 engine, the silver Vectra CDX will be displayed with the names of all the Vauxhall employees who built it.

Scroll back 70 years, and Vauxhall was still building high-end cars for well-heeled drivers, and a perfect example will be the oldest car on Vauxhall’s stand, a 1930 T-type Melton Golfer’s Coupe. Now ultra-rare, with its Grosvenor body, dickey-seat and unique small door in front of the nearside rear wheel to house golfing equipment, the T-type was one of the first Vauxhalls wholly built under GM ownership.

The last car on display is a Viva HA like no other. Known as ‘Goldviva’, the car made its first appearance at this year’s Goodwood Revival, where it was the star of a cinematic pastiche in the Earls Court display. Wrapped entirely in gold, the car also gives a nod to Ellesmere Port’s 50 years of car production, which the plant celebrated last year.

But Vauxhall’s own exhibits only form part of the Griffin area at the show. Comprising eight stands in total, there are some rare and unusual cars on display, such as: John Cleland’s ex-works Mk. 3 Cavalier Touring Car; Silver Aero and Black Magic, one-off creations from Vauxhall’s design department; the oldest roadworthy Chevette and the oldest Cavalier, both of which are on show to support their respective 40th anniversaries.

Joining Vauxhall in the Griffin-branded area will be the Vauxhall Cresta Club, Vauxhall FD Register, Vauxhall VX4/90 Drivers’ Club, Chevette Owners’ Group, Vauxhall Cavalier and Chevette Club, Vauxhall/Opel Drivers’ Club and the Just Opel/Vauxhall Car Club.

‘We’re pleased to be back at the NEC once more,’ said Andy Boddy, Vauxhall’s Senior Vehicle Restorer and keeper of its 70-strong Heritage Collection. ‘Between the owners clubs and ourselves I think that we’ve brought together a truly remarkable mix of rare and one off models that pay homage to what is the UK’s oldest surviving car manufacturer.’

The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show runs from November 13-15 and is the largest show of its kind in the UK. This year, there will be 2,500 cars and bikes on display, many of which can be found on the 250 club stands. For more information about the show, please go to www.necclassicmotorshow.com.

[Manu]

RARE RENNSPORT PORSCHES ASSEMBLE AT INAUGURAL PORSCHE-ONLY AUCTION

Silverstone, 9 October 2015

Silverstone Auctions will hold its inaugural Porsche Sale on 25 October – and among the 57 high quality cars will be a mouth-watering selection of the brand’s most celebrated and desirable lightweight ‘RS’ 911 Rennsport variants.

The auction house is delighted to present an ‘early 500’ 1973 2.7 Carrera RS Touring at the sale, which was the very first Rennsport road car of its kind to be created. The homologation-special was born from the necessity to take the Porsche 911 racing and had the philosophy of “reduce weight and add power”, which is still evident in modern-day 911 RS models.

The Touring specification 2.7-litre 911 Carrera RS in The Porsche Sale is a left-hand drive example that has spent a vast amount of its life overseas. The car benefits from a recent restoration and is a credit to its former Porsche enthusiast owners. It will be auctioned with a guide of £375,000 - £425,000 and comes complete with its original engine block, tool set and sales brochures from the era.

After the success of the 2.7 Carrera RS, it took 17 years for the next variant of the Rennsport 911 – the 911 964 Carrera RS – to be produced. The 1991 3.6-litre left-hand drive example due to be auctioned has covered a mere 21,500 miles and is in factory-fresh condition. Finished in gleaming Grand Prix White paintwork, it will be sold with a guide price of £150,000 - £170,000.

Another selection of low-mileage examples joining the sale catalogue are two of 140 right-hand drive 2003 911 996 GT3 RS models ever produced. The first of which is a 3,277-mile example finished in Carrera White with red ‘RS Script’ and decals. The car was supplied new to Porsche in Hong Kong and has been imported to the UK with all taxes paid and a current MOT. The estimate of £145,000 - £165,000 reflects the car’s provenance and condition.

The second 911 996 GT3 RS is in rarer Carrera White and blue ‘RS Script’ and decal specification. The car is one of 113 right-hand drive examples officially imported to the UK and has had a number of driver-focussed upgrades during its 26,889-mile life. It will be sold with a guide of £120,000 - £140,000.

Replacing the 996 GT3 RS was the 997 GT3 RS - the last-ever manual water-cooled RS produced by Porsche. Two examples will join the sale, the first of which is a striking 2007 ‘gen 1’ example in limited edition Orange paint with contrasting black ‘RS Script’ and decals. The car is an original UK right-hand drive car with only two previous owners and has covered just 5,527 miles from new. The car’s sensibly guided at £130,000 - £150,000 and will be sold with a current MOT and a recent service.

The second 2010 ‘gen 2’ example is an immaculate left-hand drive car that has covered 1,500km since new. The car is finished in Carrera White with a black interior and has rare factory deleted decals. The car arrives to the auction with receipts for recent work and UK registration. It will be auctioned with an estimate of £130,000 - £150,000.

The Porsche Sale, which is presented by Silverstone Auctions and Porsche Club GB, will take place at Silverstone Circuit on Sunday 25 October from 10:30 onwards. Lots will be available to view all day on Saturday 24 and from 09:00 on Sunday 25 October. The e-catalogue is available to be downloaded here: issuu.com/carolinesmithdesign/docs/sa_porsche_sale_2015_catalogue/1

Silverstone Auctions will also be exhibiting at Classic & Sports Car - The London Show, held at Alexandra Palace from 30 October – 1 November as auctioneers for the silent auction. The auction house will be exhibiting two cars on their stand, as well as offering on-site valuations to show visitors.

Meanwhile, Silverstone Auctions’ biggest-ever sale of the year, The NEC Classic Motor Show Sale is now open for consignments. To discuss individual automotive auction requirements with the specialist team, either call 01926 691 141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com.

For the full list of lots in The Porsche Sale, please visit:
www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-porsche-sale-2015/view_lots/pn/all

[Manu]

FROM THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS TO BCA BLACKBUSHE

Enthusiasts and collectors alike will be in for a treat when two iconic American classics go on sale at BCA Blackbushe on 21st October 2015.

With only one previous UK owner and a previous US owner in Hollywood, the 1957 Ford Thunderbird 5.1 V8 Convertible has been fully restored to a very high standard.  Finished in steel grey with black and cream leather upholstery and lots of chrome, this T’Bird exudes star quality.   The 1957 Thunderbird is an iconic model – even Marilyn Monroe was said to be a fan – and BCA expect this example to attract a lot of attention from buyers looking for their own ‘Hollywood’ experience.

The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 4.6 Sedan Saloon has been on British soil since 1989. Finished in two-tone teal and mint with matching leather interior, the car has been fully restored and is offered with two files of invoices and receipts detailing the work, plus books recording the restoration.  Unusually, this Chevrolet Bel Air has a manual gearbox rather than the more commonly found Turboglide or Powerglide auto transmissions.  This imposing stateside classic is in great condition and would be equally at home on the road or displayed in Concours D’Elegance events.

For more details, online catalogue listing and more photographs visit www.bca.co.uk

[Manu]

CLASSIC & SPORTS CAR – THE LONDON SHOW BRINGS BRITISH AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY INTO FRAME WITH CELEBRATORY GALLERIES

London, 14th October 2015     

Visitors to Classic & Sports Car – The London Show will not only be able to feast their eyes on the world’s most amazing period cars – but they will also be treated to a host of eye-catching historical photographs celebrating British motoring and motorsport.

Located in Alexandra Palace’s West Corridor, these amazing installations will provide real insight into automotive history featuring images celebrating Jaguar Land Rover and British F1, thanks to pictures sourced from the world’s leading automotive image agency, LAT Photographic.

Jaguar Land Rover is sponsoring a 24-metre gallery featuring the top 20 iconic moments that have defined 80 years of Jaguar and 45 years of Range Rover. Entitled ‘Jaguar: 80 Glorious Years 1935-2015’, it will feature a range of imagery from the SS 100 in the 1930s and the racing success of the C-type and D-type, through to the modern era of its last Le Mans win and beyond.

The second gallery will be entitled ‘Range Rover: 45 Years of History and Innovation’ and will give visitors the opportunity to admire previously unseen images of the Range Rover from when it was formed in 1970 through its first, second and third generation cars.

Jaguar and Land Rover will also be represented in the Best British Car Ever display in the Great Hall, with the E-type, XKSS and original Range Rover featured in the Top Ten. The shortlist has been already put to the public vote and the winner will be revealed at the show.

But that’s not it for eye-catching galleries. LAT Photographic will also be honouring British F1 champions with a 17-metre long installation. Entitled ‘The Race Through Time’, the gallery will be a fitting celebration of LAT Photographic’s motorsport archive and its most iconic F1 imagery.

The display will take visitors on a nostalgic journey through half a century of British F1 history, paying homage to drivers including Mike Hawthorn and his 1958 championship-winning Ferrari to Lewis Hamilton and his world title-winning Mercedes.

James Elliott, Classic & Sports Car magazine group editor, said: “These galleries are not only a great addition to the inaugural show, but also a fitting way to further our celebration of Britain’s triumphs in all aspects of motoring. From the racing cars and iconic road models to our legendary race drivers, we have an incredible heritage that we are only too keen to honour.

“Each image has been carefully selected to best showcase the heritage of British F1 and Jaguar Land Rover, resulting in a beautiful feature we’re sure visitors of all ages will enjoy.”

John Edwards, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations, said: “There’s no doubt that 2015 is a significant year for Jaguar Land Rover, with two very important anniversaries for Jaguar and Range Rover. We’re delighted to sponsor these two galleries at Classic & Sports Car – The London Show and look forward to sharing our heritage with visitors to Alexandra Palace.”

Martin Lee, LAT Photographic, said: “We are looking forward to showcasing such an incredible range of British achievement in both the automotive and motorsport sectors through these two galleries. It will be fantastic to show off some of our most celebrated pictures from our archives.” 

Classic & Sports Car – The London Show will feature more than 300 of the world’s most prestigious classic cars from world-famous collectors and world-renowned classic car retailers. Organised by Classic & Sports Car, the world’s best-selling classic car magazine, The London Show will announce the results of its worldwide poll to find the Best British Car Ever, with all ten finalists celebrated in a special feature sponsored by Autoglym.

The London Show will also include a celebration of Aston Martin, a display of Sir Stirling Moss’ British single-seater competition cars and a star-studded live stage, with many more news to be revealed over the coming weeks.

Tickets for Classic & Sports Car – The London Show are now on sale, visit www.classicandsportscarshow.com or call 0844 581 1275 to book yours.

[Manu]

FORMER AVENGERS JAGUAR XJ12-C BROADSPEED DEFIES ESTIMATES FETCHING £62,000 AT AUCTION

Whitley, Coventry – 15 October 2015: The original Jaguar XJ12-C Broadspeed that appeared in the cult 1970’s TV series, The New Avengers, has sold at auction today for £62,000 – some £50,000 over initial estimates.

The iconic Jaguar, driven by secret agent John Steed (played by Patrick Macnee) in the hit series, began life as a pre-production prototype vehicle for the marque. Bought by a private collector at the H&H Classics’ auction at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford, Cambridge, the XJ12-C completed its early development and testing work with Jaguar before being sent to Broadspeed Engineering Ltd. to be fitted with upgraded bodykit including wider bumpers and wheelarches plus bigger wheels and tyres in preparation for filming.

The car wears chassis number eight (2G1008BW) and features the original 5.3-litre V12 engine that powered secret agent Steed’s British sportscar during the 26-episode series.

Following the series finale in 1977, ‘NWK 60P’ was then sold and passed through the hands of multiple keepers and eventually put up for auction at the NEC Classic Car Show in the early 1990s. After the sale, the famous Jaguar disappeared from public view and remained in hibernation for the next two decades – during which time the car has been subjected to vandalism and general disrepair.

Tim Hannig, Managing Director, Jaguar Heritage, said: “There is no arguing about the desirability of this iconic Jaguar. The XJ12-C Broadspeed still looks fantastic today and although the condition of NWK 60P has deteriorated over the 20 years its been locked up, it still shows how the demand for Jaguar Heritage models has increased in recent times along with their values. We hope to see the car back on the road in the near future and we will continue to support owners of cars such as this famous XJ12-C through our Jaguar Heritage business.”

Nick Delaney, Business Development Manager of H&H Classics, said: “It is fantastic to see this Jaguar XJ12-C from The New Avengers TV Series back in public view again after being locked away for so long. The sale price of £62,000 is truly remarkable considering it fetched more than £50,000 over initial estimates. It just proves the appeal of not only the programme but also of the car itself. Buyers are seeing the investment potential with classic Jaguars and the added provenance of this car means that it, once fully restored to working order again, will be even more valuable.”

Jaguar Heritage forms part of Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Operations division and has been born to support the brand’s passion in nurturing and preserving its rich heritage of vehicles and supporting its loyal customer base across Jaguar’s global sales network. Jaguar Heritage boasts a catalogue of over 30,000 original spare and replacements parts for generations of Heritage models 10 years out of production. Furthermore, Jaguar’s Heritage workshop at Browns Lane, Coventry, carries out warrantied servicing and restorations on the marque’s classic models.

[Manu]

COYS’ ASCOT AUCTION WAS WELL RECEIVED BY THE MARKET

International auctioneers Coys attained a strong volume of sales at their Spirit of Motoring auction, held at the famous Ascot racecourse on 10th October 2015.

The wonderful 1937 Jaguar SS 100 2 ½ litres on offer sold for £309,800. This impressive car was in excellent restored condition, suitable to grace the most precious Jaguar collections in the world or any concours event it might be entered into. The car has always performed well at concours events throughout the UK, receiving trophies at most events it attended, and this success is destined to continue under its new ownership.

Among other lots sold was a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 220S Cabriolet Right Hand Drive, one of only 20 Produced, which went for £47,720, a 1986 Porsche 930 Turbo SE Flatnose that sold for £77,960 and a 1994 Porsche 964 Speedster, one of just fourteen right-hand drive cars produced, which sold for £141,800.

Chris Routledge, Managing Partner at Coys, said: “Held at a true British sporting establishment, Ascot was a great auction that deserved to host only the most exemplary selection of racing cars.  We were delighted to see such an exquisite list of collectors cars go under the hammer. Both collectors and the historic motor trade were pleased with the results, not only with the prices achieved, but also with the strong volume of sales.”

Other prolific sales included Clay Regazzoni's 1966 Tecno Formula 3 racing car, which sold for £29,500, a 1962 Austin Healey MkII, for £35,400, and a 1955 Bentley Series 1 Sports Saloon by Hooper - the 1956  Earls Court Motor Show Car, for £28,320.

Coys’ next auction will be “True Greats”, on 1st December 2015, at The Royal Horticultural Society, Lindley Hall, London, United Kingdom.

www.coys.co.uk

[Manu]

REBUILT AND RESTORED PORSCHE 50TH ANNIVERSARY 911 MODELS AUCTIONED AT THE PORSCHE SALE

Silverstone, 16 October 2015

Two rare Porsche-built air-cooled 911s manufactured to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 911 in 2014 will head to Silverstone Auctions’ inaugural Porsche Sale next week at Silverstone Circuit with partners Porsche Club GB. Both cars represent a unique opportunity to buy one-off classic 911s never before seen on the open market.

Finished in iconic exterior/interior specification, the Guards Red and Black 911 ‘930’ Turbo was restored in just six months by the now recognised ‘Porsche Classic Restoration Centre’ to an exceptional standard by Porsche Centre Leeds.

The car, which was found in a garage not far away from the dealership, is thought to have been left there for more than 15 years before the extensive restoration took place. Porsche Centre Leeds chemically stripped and blasted the body’s shell and repainted it in its original colour of Guards Red, which looks stunning today.

Retaining its matching-number status, the engine and brakes were rebuilt, retaining many of the original parts along the way, and a replacement Turbocharger fitted. With such a labour-intensive and rigorous restoration, the car will be sold with a guide price of £100,000 - £115,000.

Joining the recently restored 911 ‘930’ Turbo is a one-of-one 1977 ‘Project 50’. The car, which was originally a 1977 911 Lux left in a Porsche Centre garage for many years, was converted by Porsche Central Operations as a ‘911 RS’. The aim of the project was to build a car that reflected the very best of 50 years of 911 development and evolution as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the 911 in 2014.

Painted in iconic Viper Green paint, the car is as striking to look at as it is to drive. The 993 development engine supplied from the Porsche Technical Department powers the car and rebuilt gearbox and drivetrain components ensure the smooth delivery of the air-cooled power unit. Stopping the car are ‘G-Series’ 930 front brakes and 3.2-litre Carrera brakes on the rear.

The bespoke ‘Project 50’ 911 has been built by the very finest Porsche Technicians and the number of man-hours took to create the car cannot be calculated. It will be sold at the first-ever Porsche Sale by Silverstone Auctions and is guided at £125,000 - £150,000 – approximately half what it would have cost to build privately.

The Porsche Sale, which is presented by Silverstone Auctions and Porsche Club GB, will take place at Silverstone Circuit on Sunday 25 October from 10:30 onwards. Lots will be available to view all day on Saturday 24 and from 09:00 on Sunday 25 October. The e-catalogue is available to be downloaded here: issuu.com/carolinesmithdesign/docs/sa_porsche_sale_2015_catalogue/1

Silverstone Auctions will also be exhibiting at Classic & Sports Car - The London Show, held at Alexandra Palace from 30 October – 1 November as auctioneers for the silent auction. The auction house will be exhibiting two cars on their stand, as well as offering on-site valuations to show visitors.

Meanwhile, Silverstone Auctions’ biggest-ever sale of the year, The NEC Classic Motor Show Sale is now open for consignments. To discuss individual automotive auction requirements with the specialist team, either call 01926 691 141 or email enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com.

For the full list of lots in The Porsche Sale, please visit: www.silverstoneauctions.com/the-porsche-sale-2015/view_lots/pn/all

[Manu]

OILING THE WHEELS OF THE VETERAN CAR MOVEMENT

Total introduces modern lubrication technology to London to Brighton veterans more than 110 years old

What links the high speed, high-octane world of Formula 1 with the rather more stately progress of the century-old horseless carriages taking part in the annual Bonhams London to Brighton Run?

The answer is total… or rather, Total, one of the world’s largest integrated oil and gas majors. Total has been a partner of Renault Sport F1 for more than 40 years, and supplier of lubricants for the automotive industry in partnership with the world’s leading car manufacturers for longer still, and the company is now also applying its innovative high tech thinking to cars that top 20 mph rather than up to 200 mph.

While veteran cars may not be as quick as a Formula 1 car, veterans still have unique – and very different – demands on oils and lubes. To ensure older engines perform as well (or even better) as they did when new, Total’s range of mineral lubricants, fluids and greases perform particularly well in classic, vintage and veteran cars.

To help strengthen its link with the veteran car community, Total will play a significant role in this year’s Run from capital to coast. Appreciating that older cars – the youngest on the Run is 110 years old – are not built to quite the same fine tolerances as modern cars, Total technicians will be on hand at the Run’s halfway Harrods Stop at Crawley ready to provide any practical assistance to the veterans as well as to distribute suitable lubricants as required.

The company will also have a major presence at the end of the Run on Brighton’s Madeira Drive, with lubricants on offer and experts on hand to answer questions from participants. Their facility on Madeira Drive will also double-up as a media centre.

Two Total representatives, meanwhile, will experience the atmosphere and the highs of the Run itself by taking part as passengers on two of the veteran cars.

Marc Smith, General Manager Lubricants of Total UK said: “Total is a world-leading lubricant supplier with decades of experience designing specialist oils for a wide variety of engines.

“Total’s rich history dates back to the 1920’s and since then our engineers have been catering to the needs and specifications of generations of engines, right up to our multiple F1 World Championship wins in collaboration with Williams, Renault and Red Bull.”

As tradition dictates, the first of the 400-plus veterans on the Run will leave Hyde Park at sunrise (06.54) on the first Sunday of November, which this year falls on the 1st.

More information on the Run can be found at www.veterancarrun.com.

The Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is the pinnacle event in a week of motoring in the capital during ‘London Motor Week’ – a series of events hosted by the world famous Royal Automobile Club which also includes a Motoring Forum, Motoring Book of the Year Awards and the Regent Street Motor Show.

Editor's Notes

About Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run

With its unique atmosphere and camaraderie, the Bonhams Veteran Car Run travelling from London to Brighton (staged specifically as a non-profit making veneration) commemorates the Emancipation Run of 14 November 1896, which celebrated the Locomotives on the Highway Act. The Act raised the speed limit for ‘light locomotives’ from 4 to 14mph and abolished the need for these vehicles to be preceded by a man on foot waving a red flag.

The Emancipation Run was first commemorated in 1897 with a re-enactment following the same route in 1927 and has taken place every November since, with the exception of the war years and 1947 when petrol was rationed. The Royal Automobile Club has managed the Run with the support of the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain since 1930.

About London Motor Week

The Veteran Car Run is an integral part of London Motor Week, which in 2015 incorporates the following events:

Monday 26 October to 2 November – The Art of Motoring Exhibition
Monday 26 October – Royal College of Art - Design Presentation Evening
Tuesday 27 October – The Royal Automobile Club Motoring Lectures
Wednesday 28 October – Dewar Trophy Presentation Lunch / Motoring Book of the Year Awards
Thursday 29 October – Royal Automobile Club Motoring Forum
Friday 30 October – Bonhams Veteran Car Run Auction
Saturday 31 October – Regent Street Motor Show
Sunday 1 November – Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run
For further information on London Motor Week, go to: www.londonmotorweek.co.uk

About The Royal Automobile Club
The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897 and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907, the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing the Club’s status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organisation.
 
The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, which remains the oldest continuously competed for motor sports event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, whilst continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licences.
 
Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Motor Sport Association (MSA), Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and RAC Foundation, while continuing to promote its own motoring events, such as the free-to-attend Regent Street Motor Show and the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
 
The Royal Automobile Club also awards a series of historic trophies and medals celebrating motoring achievements. These include the Segrave Trophy, the Tourist Trophy, the Simms Medal, the Dewar Trophy and the Torrens Trophy.

https://www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk/

[Manu]

SILVERSTONE CLASSIC GEARS UP FOR MORE IN 2016

After the huge success of this year’s record-breaking Silver Jubilee extravaganza, the 2016 Silverstone Classic will continue to set the gold standard in global historic racing festivals. Staged at the home of British motor sport, next year’s Silverstone Classic will run from 29-31 July, with tickets going on sale on Thursday 12 November.

The glittering 25th anniversary blockbuster confirmed the Classic’s coveted status as the World’s Biggest Classic Motor Racing Festival with record grids, record track parades, record numbers of car club displays plus, for the first time, a record attendance of more than 100,000 visitors. Building on that spectacular success, even more ambitious plans are already well advanced to ensure that next summer’s three-day Classic is even bigger and even better.

The packed race programme will again comprise all of Europe’s premier retro racing series including ever-popular grids for the FIA Masters Historic Formula 1 Championship, Super Touring and Pre ’66 GTs. Added to these established fan-favourites will be a very special Can-Am showdown to mark 50 years since the birth of the legendary North American-based sportscar championship back in 1966.

More exciting grids are yet to be announced, along with the key motoring milestones that will be honoured in 2016 by the unprecedented number of car clubs attending with special displays and evocative track parades. The live music line-up will also be confirmed in the coming weeks.

“With Status Quo topping the bill and so much happening both on and off the famous Grand Prix circuit, our stunning Silver Jubilee will be a hard act to follow,” admitted Nick Wigley, Event Director. “Every year, however, the Silverstone Classic just gets bigger and better, and next July we will raise the bar again. This really should be the first date you put in your new 2016 diaries!”

Ticket details – including Early Bird savings for those booking immediately – will be available soon. In the meantime, a full report of the 2015 record-breaker can be found on the official website: www.SilverstoneClassic.com.

[Manu]

BONHAMS EXTENDS ITS SUPPORT FOR THE FAMOUS VETERAN CAR RUN

Leading auction house pledges to support the famous London to Brighton for at least four more years

The organisers of the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run are pleased to announce that Auction house Bonhams – a long time supporter of the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, sponsor for 11 years and the event’s title sponsor since 2014 – has   further extended its backing of the world’s longest running motoring event.

The renewed partnership will see Bonhams continue as title sponsor and auction house partner until 2019.

The agreement encompasses a number of significant elements during the lead up to the Run. The company will continue to sponsor the Veteran Car Zone at the free-to-view Regent Street Motor Show, held in London’s famous shopping street on the day before the Run. And as well as sponsoring the Run, the company will carry on providing welcome participant’s hospitality at the finish line in Brighton.

In addition, Bonhams will continue to hold its annual Veteran Car auction on the Friday before the Run. The auction of motorcars eligible for the London to Brighton Run and early automobilia is held at the company’s headquarters in New Bond Street, a short walk away from Hyde Park where the Run traditionally begins at daybreak on the first Sunday in November (this year, that’s 1st November at 06.45). More than 400 cars will be taking part.

And you could still join in!

Of the dozen cars in the Bonhams auction this year, no fewer than six already have provisional entries in to the 2015 Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. Should a successful bidder decide to take part in his or her new purchase, Bonhams has even arranged for testing facilities complete with on-site technicians to be made available on the Saturday morning.

Among the cars ready to go under the hammer this year is a 1904 MMC Rear-Entrance Tonneau with a guide price of £40,000-£60,000, a 1904 Darracq expected to make between £35,000-£60,000 while, for those with deeper pockets, a 1903 Clement could sell for as much as £500,000.

Specialising in fine art, furniture, fine wines, clocks and watches, collectables and, of course, classic cars, Bonhams was founded in 1793, almost a century before the ‘horseless carriage’ was invented.

Bonhams Chairman, Robert Brooks, is a lifelong fan of the Veteran Car Run and is a regular participant. This year he will be driving a 1895 Peugeot Vis-à-vis owned by the Dutch Louwman Museum. Most of the Bonhams motoring team will also be driving on the event, many in their own cars.

“We are not just auctioneers, but very much active enthusiasts who enjoy – like our clients and customers – the hobby of old motoring,” said Brooks.

“We all await the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run with eager anticipation. It’s all about fun excitement, adventure and camaraderie. It remains an incredible, unique event and one that I’m both delighted to support and in which to take part.”

More information on the Run can be found at www.veterancarrun.com.

The Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is the pinnacle event in a week of motoring in the capital during ‘London Motor Week’ – a series of events hosted by the world famous Royal Automobile Club which also includes a Literary Festival, Motoring Forum and the Regent Street Motor Show.