PAGANI TO CELEBRATE ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY IN RECORD STYLE AT THE 2019 GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

PAGANI TO CELEBRATE ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY IN RECORD STYLE AT THE 2019 GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

Pagani Zonda at FoS - Harry Elliott Photography

Later this week Pagani UK will celebrate the 20th anniversary since Horacio Pagani founded Pagani Automobili S.p.A. in grand style at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed (4-7 July).

Pagani’s exclusive official British agent, Pagani UK Ltd, will be gathering a record number of Pagani Zonda and Huayra models together at Goodwood – the largest collection ever seen in Great Britain, with cars and owners coming from as far afield as New Zealand, the USA and Hong Kong specifically for the occasion  – with Company founder Horacio Pagani also on hand, plus almost 30 examples of his exceptional hypercars, with a combined value of around £100million+.

An attention-grabbing convoy of Paganis will head down to Goodwood from London on the morning of Thursday 4 July, with a record 20 Zonda hypercars then heading up the Festival of Speed Hillclimb around 3pm that day; one car to mark each year since the first Pagani Zonda was introduced to huge acclaim in 1999.

Five of the most significant Zonda models will then be on static display for all to admire, located outside of the Goodwood Club’s exclusive GRRC Kinrara enclosure. These five Zondas will include the very first Zonda built, the famous Chassis #1 C25 of 1999, plus a 2005 Zonda F, 2009 Zonda Cinque, 2010 Zonda Tricolore and 2018 Zonda Roadster, one of just three sell-out models made, and the world’s most expensive new car at launch at £15million, and now appreciating! 

In addition, a Zonda R that has recently been subject to the extensive 'Pagani Rinascimento' programme to restore and upgrade older Pagani models, will be in action twice a day, tackling the Goodwood Hillclimb as part of the Supercar Run, with the car usually to be seen in the re-located Supercar Paddock. A sell-out Pagani Huayra Roadster will also be on display at the Kinrara enclosure. Pagani will also have a retail facility (Stand No. 127) with special 20th-anniversary merchandise as part of the Festival’s extensive exhibition zone, located near the Goodwood Cricket Pitch area.

On Friday evening, Pagani UK will be staging a very exclusive 20th-anniversary‘ birthday party’ not far away from Goodwood on the West Sussex coast, with fireworks and few surprises in store for the lucky guests as a fitting celebration of the Modena marque’s first 20 years.

Commenting on its notable 20th anniversary presence at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Christine Clarkin, Pagani UK’s Dealer Principal said, “We were really delighted to be so involved with the Goodwood Festival of Speed once again in such a high-profile way, and I can’t wait to see 20 Paganis parading up the Goodwood Hill on Thursday afternoon as one of the many amazing attractions at this world-leading, must-attend event. She added “I also can’t wait for what promises to be a very special and memorable 20th-anniversary birthday party for our clients and friends on Friday evening. It will be great, and the icing on the cake of the truly excellent weekend at Goodwood”

RECORD 60 MINIS RACE TO MARK DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY

RECORD 60 MINIS RACE TO MARK DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY

The record-breaking Mini grids at next month’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July) have just got even bigger!

Ensuring the British motoring icon’s magical 60th birthday is celebrated in fitting style, special dispensation has come from Motorsport UK, the governing body of UK motor sport, for the addition of two extra entries to the previously permitted sell-out 58 car grid.

As a result, the pair of spectacular showdowns for the Mini Celebration Trophy Presented by Adrian Flux will ­– aptly – now feature 60 competition prepared Cooper S’ all dating back to the evocative pre-1966 era.

Not only will this be the greatest field of retro racing Minis ever seen on the planet but also the largest ever starting grid in the Classic’s own outstanding history.

“It only seems right and proper that we mark the Mini’s 60th milestone with a 60 car grid, so we are really grateful to those at Motorsport UK and Masters Historic Racing, who are organising these anniversary races, for securing this special permission,” said a delighted Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO.

“As well as being a sixties fashion icon, the Mini’s reputation was built on some wonderful motor sport successes, so there could neither be a better, nor more appropriate, way to celebrate its 60th anniversary than with an incredible 60-strong grid at the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival.”

One of the charismatic diminutive game-changer’s most famous sporting victories came when Paddy Hopkirk and co-driver Henry Liddon won the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally – the last British pair to win the Alpine classic.

Now Hopkirk will be adding to the celebrations at the Classic when he’s reunited with his winning #37 Cooper S (registration 33 EJB) to lead a glittering Diamond Anniversary track parade on Friday lunchtime at the Classic – an appetiser to the weekend’s two tasty 20-minute Mini races.

“I’m really flattered to have been asked to front this fantastic parade,” said Hopkirk modestly. “It’s great that I’ll be back in my old car and I’m going to be bringing the Monte trophy along, too. It was presented to me by Princess Grace.

“The Classic is such a brilliant event and, oh my goodness, it will be absolutely amazing to see 60 Minis altogether on the track at the same time.”  

With all the pre-1966 Minis equipped with similar race-prepared 1275cc engines and built to identical technical regulations – the level of competition is going to be spirited. Even more feisty as the record gathering also stars a number of top guest drivers.

Entries have come from throughout Europe – and as far afield as the US – and are headed by all the proven Mini top guns; aces such as Jonathan Lewis, Ian Curley, Bill Sollis, Lars Ekorness and Nick Swift.

For these eagerly anticipated Diamond Jubilee showdowns, the established regulars are joined by a number of well-known racers from the British Touring Car Championship ranks including multiple Le Mans class winner Darren Turner, Patrick Watts and 2013 BTCC Champion Andrew Jordan.

Those wishing to join the unmissable party for Sir Alec Issigonis’ game-changing Mini are offered a wide range of ticket choices along with camping and hospitality options. All those coming to this summer’s Silverstone Classic must purchase their tickets in advance.

Adult admission starts at £45 and all tickets will provide access to both racing paddocks, all open trackside grandstands, live music concerts which this summer mark the 50th anniversary of Woodstock on both Friday and Saturday evenings, Drive Live test drives, funfair rides and the vast majority of the family entertainment on offer.

Full details of all 2019 ticket prices are detailed on the silverstoneclassic.com website. 

HAGERTY RECREATES ITALIAN JOB FILM AT STOWE SCHOOL TO CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ICONIC FILM

HAGERTY RECREATES ITALIAN JOB FILM AT STOWE SCHOOL TO CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ICONIC FILM

• Hagerty, the leading classic car insurance experts, launches an exclusive new film, depicting The Italian Job, to celebrate the film’s 50th anniversary, and 60 years of the Mini

• The film and the association with Stowe School and its students underpins Hagerty’s mission to ‘Never Stop Driving’ and reinforces their passion to reach future generations of classic car enthusiasts

• The film concept was created to highlight a classic Mini, sourced by Hagerty, which students at the school have rebuilt to a superbly high standard and is now finished in the colours of Stowe School

• Hagerty’s Italian Job will be premiered at the Stowe School Speech Day taking place on Saturday 25th May, where Michael Deeley, producer of The Italian Job and an ex-Stowe student himself (Old Stoic), will be presenting a speech on his life achievements

• As well as the film premiere students, parents and staff will be able to enjoy a static display of 100 classic cars as part of The OS Classic Car Display, including cars from Italian Job film and 50 iconic Minis, curated and sourced by Hagerty

• Filming of the Hagerty Italian Job took place over a school holiday, in complete secrecy, and the finished film has not been seen by anyone at the school, nor has it been seen by Deeley

• The film can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/KPlWucEzl3E

Northamptonshire: 25/05/2019: EMBARGOED TO 13.00

Leading classic car insurers and valuation specialists Hagerty has created a very special film to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Italian Job movie and 60 years of the Mini. The centrepiece of the film, however, is a Mini that was sourced by Hagerty for the science department at Stowe School which has since been completely rebuilt by Stowe students.

The young engineering team at Stowe School contacted Hagerty in 2018 asking for advice about rebuilding a classic car. After discussion, this quickly escalated into a desire for a major restoration project and, subsequently, Hagerty located a suitable Mini and arranged for the school to acquire the car for students to work upon.

The film, starring the Stowe Mini, is also a homage to Michael Deeley, producer of Blade Runner, The Deer Hunter and The Italian Job, himself an ex-Stowe School student. Michael will be a guest speaker at the Stowe School Speech Day & The OS Classic Car Show, taking place on Saturday 25th May.

The film, capturing the escape of students who break into the school to steal exam papers, was shot entirely on the Stowe School grounds during a school holiday and will be premiered at the school’s Speech Day. Michael himself has no idea a film has been created and will watch it for the first time on Speech Day along with students, staff and parents, none of whom expect a film to be shown.

A testament to the Stowe attitude of fun over formality at Speech Day, the Stowe School management team granted permission to film, with an almost free rein, on the entire estate, and the result will certainly be a surprise to students when they witness a number of cars at full-chat around the school grounds.

In addition to the film, Hagerty sourced and curated an incredible selection of 100 classic cars, which will be displayed on the Stowe lawns during the event. The line-up includes stars of the film, faithful recreations, 50 iconic and classic Minis as well as a host of classic cars driven to the event by parents and former students.

Each year, Hagerty presents the Steady Barker Trophy to the car and driver with the most interesting story displayed at Speech Day & The OS Classic Car Display. The inaugural winner of the trophy in 2018 went to King George’s prized Daimler. A car that has now been invited to the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, showing the standard of exceptional vehicles this event attracts.

Stowe has long been associated with classic cars. Ten years ago, the Head of the School encouraged families who owned a classic car to bring it to Speech Day, an event to celebrate the end of the academic year. 35 cars arrived, and classic cars have since become a staple part of Speech Day & The OS Classic Car Display. Today, more than 100 cars are displayed. The beautiful grounds have also been the home for the famous Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional event for the last two years.

Marcus Atkinson, Hagerty Marketing Director, said “Stowe School likes to do things differently and what better way to celebrate the hard work the students have put into their Mini than to highlight their car on Speech Day in the most dramatic of fashions. Having Michael Deeley in attendance is really the icing on the cake given the Mini anniversary and the fact that Michael’s much-loved film hits 50 years old in a few weeks’ time. The effort in concepting, planning and filming this film in secret has been a huge challenge, but when we watched a trio of Minis in cahoots with the students and their Mini, it was well worth it.

“We would like to thank the team at Stowe for their permission to do this, to Michael Deeley for creating the wonderful original film that inspired us and to all the owners and enthusiasts who have allowed their classic cars to be displayed as an additional spectacle on the day. More importantly, our thanks to the science department at Stowe whose desire to encourage young drivers to enjoy classics is matched only by our own.

“Hagerty is committed to promoting classic cars and the lifestyle to children and young people of all ages, this being just the latest in a long line of activities designed to appeal to young drivers and classic car owners of the future. Today we are at Stowe, next time we will be hosting an openly available driving day for young drivers at Gaydon. It’s the younger generation who will protect our passion for classic cars for generations to come and their involvement and immersion into the sector is vitally important to us.”

We hope you enjoy the film which can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/KPlWucEzl3E

Film Credit: Petroleum

Photo Credit: Amy Shore

MASERATI CELEBRATES THE VICTORY OF THE TIPO 6CM IN THE 1939 TARGA FLORIO

Modena, 14th May 2019 – Maserati celebrates the eightieth anniversary of Luigi “Gigi” Villoresi's impressive win at the 1939 Targa Florio at the wheel of the Maserati Tipo 6CM. The Milan-born driver achieved victory at the Parco della Favorita circuit in Palermo, Sicily on May 14th 1939 by covering the race's 40 laps, totalling 228 km, in 1:40.15.4. Luigi Villoresi also recorded the fastest lap in the race with the time of 0:02.24.6, averaging 141.908 km/h. Piero Taruffi and Guido Franco Barbieri finished second and third, also in Maserati Tipo 6CM cars. It was a historic result for Maserati, confirming its undisputed leadership in the prestigious Sicilian race. Maserati had also dominated the 1937 and 1938 editions, taking the first three places in both years. Luigi Villoresi also finished first in the 1940 edition, driving a Maserati Tipo 4CL.

The Targa Florio, one of the world's oldest and most famous automotive races, is named after Vincenzo Florio. Florio, a wealthy Palermo businessman already well known in the racing world, created, funded, and first organised it in 1906. In total 62 editions of the Targa Florio took place from 1906 to 1977 (it was not held during the two World Wars). The race was held every year, normally in May, on the roads of Palermo. Sicilian roads, especially the narrow, winding roads through the Madonie mountain range, always played a central part in this race. It was only in the years from 1937 to 1940 that the event was held at the Parco della Favorita circuit in Palermo.

The Maserati Tipo 6CM, an amazing single-seater racer, was designed by Ernesto Maserati and began to take shape in 1935. The car was fairly conventional in looks but its contents were extremely advanced. Even more ground-breaking than the new engine (a straight six with the cylinders cast in the same block as the head and arranged in pairs on the same elektron crankcase, twin overhead camshafts driven by a rising gear chain, 2 valves per cylinder and a Roots volumetric supercharger, providing a maximum power of 175 HP), the car's most distinctive feature was its chassis, which marked a major step forward in vehicle design. The basic structure was still the ladder frame, but with innovative front suspensions which provided a major advantage over English and French competitors. The suspensions consisted of torsion bar springs mounted so that the spring tension could be adjusted to suit the characteristics of the circuit. Like the rest of the car, the bodywork was updated in a variety of ways, especially with regard to its aerodynamics. The extremely rounded shapes, the succession of different side panel forms and the more slanted front clearly reflected the research into aerodynamics ongoing throughout the years of its construction. This car's racing supremacy reached its peak in 1938 when it triumphed over the formidable British ERA cars that had always been the Italian constructors' most dreaded rivals. The same year also saw the debut of Alfa Romeo's famous Alfetta, created for the Vetturette Grand Prix competitions. However, to the Maserati Brothers' great satisfaction, that year the Tipo 6CM also defeated the Alfetta at the Pescara GP.

The Maserati Tipo 6CM proved to be a highly successful car: 27 were built, from 1936 to 1939, and the model won races on Europe's leading circuits, both with the official team and with gentlemen drivers at the wheel. The Maserati Tipo 6CM holds the record for the most edition wins at the Targa Florio, with three victories in 1937, 1938 and 1939.

The Maserati Tipo 6CM, perfectly restored to its original livery, is held in Modena and belongs to the Panini Collection.

Key technical features of the Tipo 6CM:

Engine: vertical straight six

Displacement: 1,493.2 cc

Power: 155-175 hp at 6,200-6,600 rpm

Transmission: Four speeds + reverse

Chassis: 2 chassis beams with steel cross-members, aluminium bodywork

Weight: 650 kg

Top speed: 210-230 km/h

MINI ANNIVERSARY GRID SMASHES ALL RECORDS

MINI ANNIVERSARY GRID SMASHES ALL RECORDS

Mini anniversary grid smashes all records

A world record grid of period Minis will celebrate the diminutive icon’s 60th birthday in staggering style at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July). Never before – and maybe never again – will so many Minis be seen racing all together on the track.

Fittingly 60 entries have already been received for what are going to be a pair of incredible races for the Mini Celebration Trophy Presented by Adrian Flux, marking the British legend’s sparkling Diamond Jubilee at the Classic. With a maximum of 58 starters permitted on Silverstone’s full Grand Prix circuit, latecomers are now being placed on a growing reserve list.

To ensure all festival-goers will be able to share in the Mini’s magical milestone, the action is spread across all three days with what is sure to be a frantic qualifying session on Friday ahead of two unmissable 20-minute showdowns on Saturday and Sunday.

As the entire multitude of original pre-1966 Minis are fitted with similar race-prepared 1275cc engines and built to identical technical regulations – the level of competition is going to be feisty throughout the tightly-packed record field. Even more vigorous as the unrivalled gathering also stars a number of top drivers.

Entries have come from throughout Europe – and as far afield as the US – and are headed by all the proven Mini top guns; aces such as Jonathan Lewis, Ian Curley, Bill Sollis, Lars Ekorness and Nick Swift.

These are joined by best-selling writer of crime-fiction Peter James and a number of well-known racers from the British Touring Car Championship rank: Jeff Smith, Michael Caine and Patrick Watts as well as 2013 BTCC Champion, Andrew Jordan.

“With 58 minis slipstreaming around Silverstone, these are going to be absolutely mad races!” predicts Jordan who recently gave BMW’s latest 330i M Sport its maiden win in the 2019 BTCC series opener at Brands Hatch. “I’m really looking forward to it – I utterly love historic racing and the Silverstone Classic which is now such a massive event. These Mini races will be one of my highlights of the year.

“We’ve bought a car which we’re rebuilding at the moment, which in itself is really enjoyable. We will have a few tests before the event and then see how we go. While I race historics for fun, of course, I’m going to try to win. Actually, I think we’ve got a very good chance of winning!”

While yet another world record grid is nothing out of the ordinary at the biggest retro racing festival on Earth, Silverstone Classic CEO, Nick Wigley, is understandably thrilled. “Last month we announced a record, full-capacity grid of historic F2 single-seaters and now we have the prospect of this equally incredible line-up of Minis,” he enthused. “Everyone loves the Mini and to see so many of them all racing together bumper-to-bumper on the country’s premier circuit is going to be a staggering sight that no one who’s lucky enough to witness it will ever, ever forget.”

Encouraging all Mini owners and enthusiasts of Sir Alec Issigonis’ game-changing gem to share in the spectacular Diamond Jubilee birthday party at the Classic, the event is offering a unique Mini Celebration Package, which includes an anniversary track parade at lunchtime on Friday. This cost-saving offer provides owners of original pre-2001 models with a pair of adult tickets (for Friday or the full three-day weekend), a vehicle pass giving access to the Mini Celebration display area, plus entry into the Mini Celebration track parade taking place on the full Grand Prix circuit which, over the ages, has hosted so many giant-killing Mini heroics.

Those wishing to join the party can select the Mini Celebration Package from the ticket options available on the official silverstoneclassic.com website but numbers are limited and package bookings are only possible until the end of May.

Whether or not taking advantage of the Celebration Package, all those wishing to attend this summer’s Silverstone Classic must purchase their tickets in advance.

Adult admission starts at £45 and all tickets will provide access to both Silverstone racing paddocks, all open trackside grandstands, live music concerts which this summer marks the 50th anniversary of Woodstock on both Friday and Saturday evenings, air shows, Drive Live test drives, funfair rides and the vast majority of the family entertainment on offer.

A wide range of child, young adult and family tickets are also available, along with camping and hospitality options. Full details of all 2019 ticket prices are detailed on the silverstoneclassic.com website.

SEAT CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY OF 1430 AND 850 SPYDER AT THE TECHNO-CLASSICA

SEAT CELEBRATES 50th ANNIVERSARY OF 1430 AND 850 SPYDER AT THE TECHNO-CLASSICA

Once again, SEAT will be part of Techno-Classica, the renowned world show for vintage, classic and prestige cars in Essen, Germany. At this year’s edition, the Spanish carmaker is showing the variety and diversity of its history with some of the most popular vehicles to have driven off the brand’s production line.
Two versions of the 50-year-old 1430 – a first series saloon and a more powerful estate – as well as a gorgeous example of the 850 Sport Spider – the only convertible SEAT, has ever developed which also turns 50 this year – will be on show.
The SEAT that brought greater refinement to saloons: the SEAT 1430
The SEAT 1430 was released in 1969 and so marks its 50th anniversary in 2019. It was a 124 derivative, a unique Spanish model which can be considered the most complete Spanish saloon car of the time. The 1430 is easily recognisable by its twin-headlights, (the 124 always had a single headlight), and bigger taillights, while under the bonnet was a 1,438cc, 70PS engine, (10PS more than the standard 1.2-litre 124).
Although the design of the 1430 was very similar to the standard 124, the simple modifications to the lights and the bigger, more powerful engine were enough to make it a different, more up-market car. The 1430 was produced until 1976, when the 124 evolution called “Pamplona” was launched, inheriting the full 1430 engine range. More than 255,000 examples were built, powered by the standard 1430 engine as well as 1.6 and 1.8 twin-cam versions, known as FU, (the letters that identified the chassis numbers).
The 1430 was also produced defining moments in SEAT’s motorsport history. The most powerful versions were incredibly successful in rally competition, winning four Spanish rally championships in the mid-’70s, a golden period for SEAT Competition, the Spanish carmaker’s racing division at the time.
The 1430’s importance to the brand doesn’t end there. Its engine was used to power the Formula 1430, the first Spanish single-seater championship, created by SEAT at the beginning of the 1970s. Formula 1430 formed the training ground for a new generation of Spanish drivers who would go on to achieve great success, while at the same time establishing a breeding ground for Spanish chassis constructors.
The grandfather of today’s Leon ST Cupra: the SEAT 1430 Especial 1600 Familiar
Nowadays high-performance estate models are revered and loved by car enthusiasts, proven by the success of the FR and Cupra versions of the current SEAT Leon ST. But in the ‘70s cars with a fifth door, generous load space and easy access lacked the dynamic image that we take for granted today.
So imagine the shock on the average Spanish driver when in mid-1974 SEAT launched a Familiar (or estate) version of the 1430 saloon powered by the 1.6-litre twin-cam engine of the 1430-1600 (known as the FU). At the time it was the first Spanish-built sports saloon, delivering 95PS and weighing only 980kg, giving its a top speed of 105mph. At the time, performance figures that no one would have put next to a sedate-looking estate car.
The 1430 Especial 1600 Familiar (type FM) was so far ahead of its time that commercial success was difficult to come by as the domestic market still wasn’t ready for a vehicle that was the ST Cupra of its era. Only 852 examples were made between 1974 and 1976 when production stopped. It was replaced by the SEAT 131 estate, powered by the same engine but bigger and heavier, making it far less fiery.
The SEAT 1430-1600 estate’s farsighted performance make it a very rare car today, and one that is appreciated and venerated by collectors.

A unique and gorgeous slice of SEAT’s history: the SEAT 850 Sport Spider
The SEAT 850 Sport was the first niche car produced by SEAT. It also back in 1969, the same year the 1,000,000th car built by the Spanish car maker left the Barcelona assembly line since 1953.
These two apparently unrelated landmarks illustrate the great evolution experienced by both SEAT as a company and the Spanish domestic market. In SEAT’s formative years the brand made cars to satisfy the urgent need for mobility of the Spanish population, by the time the 1,000,000th car was built, both the domestic market and SEAT were mature enough to offer a car with no other raison-d’etre than pure driving pleasure.
The base of the 850 Sport, (its official name, though it’s also known as Sport Spider to differentiate it from the coupé version), was the 850 saloon, launched three years earlier, but the two vehicles couldn’t have been more different.
The Sport was a gorgeous two-seater convertible designed by the renowned Italian car designer Bertone and was also optionally available as a hardtop.
Not only was the car a milestone for the company, but so too was its engine. Under the bonnet was a 903cc, 52PS petrol engine that was later used by the 850 Sport Coupé version, and, set the groundwork for a myriad of future SEAT cars, including an entry version of the new Ibiza in the mid-’80s

.
Only 1,746 examples of the SEAT 850 Sport Spider were built when production ended in 1972, and it holds a unique place in SEAT’s history. With no successor, the Spider was the first and only production convertible ever built by the brand, a symbol of what SEAT could make possible but also a sign of how the Spanish carmaker and its domestic market had developed, with increasing demand for more mainstream vehicles.
SEAT and its historic models can be found in Hall 4 at the 31st Techno-Classica Essen 2019, which runs from 10th – 14th April.

Source: SEAT

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS AT LAND ROVER LEGENDS

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS AT LAND ROVER LEGENDS

Four very special anniversaries will be celebrated at Land Rover Legends at Bicester Heritage on 25th and 26th May, each one marking a highly significant milestone in the history of the Land Rover marque.

50 years of the Pink Panther

The 50th anniversary of the entry into service of the Series IIa SAS Pink Panther will be commemorated with what is expected to be the largest-ever gathering of these fascinating vehicles, supported by two surviving examples of the Series One and some of the few surviving later 110 SAS vehicles.

The Pink Panther was born during the late 1960s, as a follow on from the adapted WW11 Jeep and the Series One. The MOD acquired 72 Series IIa 109 Land Rovers for special ops missions and long-distance reconnaissance. Marshalls of Cambridge converted them to SAS desert duty specification, with modifications including heavy-duty springs and chassis, additional fuel tanks to carry 100 gallons, smoke grenade launcher, rifles, machine guns, hand grenades and an anti-tank rocket launcher. The Land Rovers were delivered to the SAS in standard green livery but the SAS had many of them repainted in pink. This might seem an unlikely colour for a military vehicle - especially one in service with the SAS - but it is actually the perfect colour for camouflage in the desert, especially at dawn and dusk when the ground in their theatres of operation takes on a red or pink shade. Thus the ‘Pink Panther’ name was born. Often shortened to ‘Pinkie’ the name was even applied to the vehicles the SAS kept in their original, green colour. Pinkies would remain in service until 1984 when the coil sprung Hi–Cap was introduced as a replacement.

40th anniversary of ‘the best Land Rover that Land Rover never produced’

In the late-1970s, Land Rover built around 36 100-inch wheelbase prototypes for evaluation by the French, and later the Swiss, military. Based on various axles adapted for coil springs, petrol 4-cylinder and V8 engine options, with manual and automatic gearbox options and a one-off chassis, and a 24V electrical system, they were produced in a range of configurations, most with twin fuel tanks. Although these vehicles never went into production, the 100-inch wheelbase was felt by many to be the perfect dimension for a Land Rover, and enthusiasts went on to create their own ‘hybrids’ based on modified Range Rover chassis and Land Rover panels. 

The 40th anniversary of these exceptionally rare 100-inch prototypes – considered by many to be the best Land Rover that Land Rover never produced – will also be celebrated at Land Rover Legends with what is expected to be the largest-ever gathering. 

The 30th anniversary of ‘the vehicle that saved Land Rover’

In the mid-1980s sales of Land Rover’s utility vehicles were in decline, and the company was also facing challenges from new 4x4 vehicles such as the Isuzu Trooper and Mitsubishi Shogun. The company’s response was to develop a new vehicle that would sit between the 90 and 110, and the Range Rover. In 1989 Land Rover unveiled its new Discovery at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The 3-door vehicle, deliberately described this way as part of the programme to differentiate it from the 2-door Range Rover, although both had two doors and a tailgate, actually shared the Range Rover’s chassis and drive train, body frame, and many other components, all of which were clad in a brand-new, trend-setting design that ensured the new vehicle would appeal to a new, younger and ‘lifestyle-oriented’ market. The Discovery was an instant sales success and was quickly followed by the 5-door version that further cemented its appeal as a family vehicle. Land Rover had a winner on its hands and had launched it with perfect timing to ride the wave of the soaring popularity of recreational and lifestyle off-roaders that followed in the early 1990s. Land Rover Legends will celebrate the 30th anniversary of this hugely successful vehicle.

The 25th birthday of the launch of the P38a

In September 1994 Land Rover launched the second-generation Range Rover - 24 years after the original was introduced. The new car was developed in building P38a of the Solihull factory, and so became known as the P38a. This was undeniably a luxury vehicle with leather upholstery, premium trim and burr walnut rivalling the interiors of upmarket saloon cars, putting the four-wheel drive in front of a new audience. It was a step forward from the first-generation Range Rover not just in terms of luxury, equipment and updated engine but also in its off-road versatility and abilities, with height-adjustable air suspension now standard. Exterior design changes were relatively subtle however, in order not to alienate loyal Range Rover customers, but the new vehicle was well-received by both the press and the buying public. Subsequently, the vehicle developed a reputation for poor reliability, primarily to do with its electrical systems, but over recent years enthusiasts have come to appreciate the design and the impressive capability of the P38a. And most of its electrical gremlins have by now been tamed!

National Land Rover Awards

The ultimate show for Land Rover connoisseurs, preservationists, restorers and enthusiasts will also see the announcement of the results of the National Land Rover Awards 2019, the winners of which will be chosen at Land Rover Legends. Nominations for the awards are open at www.landroverlegends.com. Shortlisted vehicles will be invited to be displayed as part of a dedicated indoor exhibition at the Bicester Heritage event where, on Sunday May 26th, a panel of expert judges will select the Winner and Highly Commended entry in each category.

All Land Rovers welcome

Land Rover Legends is an event for all Land Rovers. In addition to the main exhibits and demonstration vehicles, over a dozen major Land Rover Clubs have booked display space for the event and every Land Rover attending - whether with a club or not - will become a part of the show by being displayed in the dedicated forward-parking area that will be set aside to showcase representatives of the marque.

This year, for the first time, canine companions are welcome to attend the event (regardless of whether or not they arrive in a Land Rover!). So there’s no need to leave well-behaved four-legged friends at home; just pop them on a lead and bring them along.

Other new features for 2019 include on-site camping and Saturday evening entertainment. Camping bookings are coming in thick and fast, and Land Rover fans are advised to book early if they want to make a weekend of it in the atmospheric, inimitable setting of Bicester Heritage.

In addition to the fantastic range of very special vehicles on show, Land Rover lovers will find a host of other things to fascinate and tempt them, with top Land Rover restorers, specialists and associated suppliers, plus carefully-selected exhibitors and traders, all positioned in and around Bicester Heritage’s magnificent main exhibition hangar. 

For more information or to book tickets please visit: www.landroverlegends.com

THE ULTIMATE ITALIAN JOB TOUR TO COMMEMORATE THE MOVIE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

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THE ULTIMATE ITALIAN JOB TOUR TO COMMEMORATE THE MOVIE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Classic car owners are being invited to commemorate the 50th anniversary of The Italian Job on an extraordinary 11-day driving tour which takes in many of the famous roads and locations featured in the movie. The Ultimate Italian Job Tour, created by Classics on the Road and the Jaguar E-type Club, will treat drivers and their companions to some of Europe’s most fabulous roads and scenery as its route passes through France, Italy and Switzerland between October 6th and 17th 2019.

Highlights of the Tour will include a driving experience on the rooftop test track of Fiat’s former Lingotto factory in Turin, which appeared in the movie’s legendary car chase; driving some of the most spectacular mountain roads in Europe, and an evening with key personalities involved in making the film.

Participants in the Ultimate Italian Job Tour will be accompanied throughout the 1,400-mile drive by a swarm of red, white and blue Minis, and by the red Jaguar E-type roadster, orange Lamborghini Miura P400, and silver Aston Martin DB4 convertible seen in the movie. The Tour visits the St. Bernard Pass, scene of the film’s opening credits, where the Miura was blown-up in a tunnel and the E-type and DB4 also met their fates.

While in Turin, Tour participants will spend a few days in the company of The Italian Job producer Michael Deeley; stunt director Rémy Julienne; actor David Salamone, who played Dominic, one of Charlie Croker’s gang of ‘Chinless Wonders’; and subject-expert Matthew Field, whose new book, The Self Preservation Society – 50 years of The Italian Job, will be published later this year.

The three-day Italian Job experience will also include a private screening of the film; a ‘soirée’ hosted by Field; a Walking Tour in the city of car-chase locations with commentary by Field, visiting the Baroque staircase of the Palazzo Madama, the crowded porticoes on Via Roma, the cathedral steps and the weir on the River Po. Tour participants will also receive a copy of his book.

In keeping with its theme, the Ultimate Italian Job Tour is open exclusively to E-types, and to pre-1970 Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, and Minis. The price –  €5,495 per person in double occupancy or €6,575 per person in single occupancy – includes accommodation in carefully selected four- and five-star hotels in France and Italy; three lunches and 10 dinners; a comprehensive Road Book with Tulip notes, maps, rally plates, information about places being visited, and recommendations of other places worth seeing; a private evening screening of The Italian Job; and guided visits to the Domaine Pommery champagne cellars, Arc-et-Senans Royal Saltworks, Museo Nazionale dell Automobile in Turin, Mont Blanc Skyway, and Matisse Museum in Le Cateau-Cambrésis.

Tour participants will be accompanied by the event organisers, including E-type Club co-founders Philip and Julie Porter in their E-type, the original Italian Job roadster, 848 CRY; a film crew and professional photographer; and a mechanic.

Philip Porter commented:

“The Ultimate Italian Job Tour is going to be amazing. It will be unique and probably the last opportunity to celebrate this iconic movie with key people from the film, combined with fantastic driving, the star cars and informed visits to most of the charismatic locations”.

To find out more about the Ultimate Italian Job Tour or reserve a place, please visit www.classicsontheroad.com

Jaguar E-type Club

Founded 15 years ago by Philip and Julie Porter, the Club has members in more than 50 countries. Porter has written 30 motoring books, including a number on Jaguars, and owns two early E-types of historical significance: the prototype registered ‘9600 HP’, which was the first Fixed Head Coupé and one of the pairs which launched the E-type at Geneva in 1961; and the roadster ‘848’ CRY, which appeared in The Italian Job. The E-type Club’s patron is Norman Dewis (OBE), who joined Jaguar in 1952 as Chief Test Driver and helped develop production and competition cars including the E-type.

Classics on the Road

Classics on the Road specialises in organising tours and events for classic and sports cars, encouraging the enjoyment of driving on unfamiliar roads and visiting new places. Classics on the Road’s precise tailoring of events includes the selection of memorable routes, hotels, restaurants, and sightseeing locations.

CELEBRATING A VERY SPECIAL SHUTTLEWORTH ANNIVERSARY

CELEBRATING A VERY SPECIAL SHUTTLEWORTH ANNIVERSARY

It is 90 years since one of Britain’s most passionate early motorists first joined the London to Brighton bandwagon

Richard Shuttleworth

As the world’s longest running motoring event, the annual Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run supported by Hiscox is no stranger to celebrating milestones. In November participants aboard their pioneering pre-1905 vehicles will be honouring the 122 years since the original Emancipation Run of 1896 which welcomed the speed limit for ‘light automobiles’ being raised for 4mph to 14mph and abolished the need for a man to walk in front of all vehicles waving a red flag.

A number of other notable landmarks will be acclaimed on Sunday 4 November, too – few more distinguished, perhaps, than the 90th anniversary of Richard Shuttleworth’s debut on the timeless event back in 1928 driving what is considered to be the first 12bhp, four-cylinder Panhard-Levassor ever built.

Over the following decade, the renowned aviation and motoring enthusiast became a regular on the road to Brighton only failing to make the start in 1935 after missing the deadline to file his entry – and, even then, he cheekily joined in at Westminster Bridge. 

Shuttleworth sadly lost his life on an RAF training exercise in 1940 aged just 31, however his 1898 Panhard (registration: TM 19) has remained in the family ever since and today resides in the world famous Shuttleworth Collection of vintage planes and cars that Richard founded before his untimely death. Indeed, the Panhard was the car that started The Collection, today regarded as one of the finest living museums of its genre to be found anywhere on the globe.

As with so many participants on The Veteran Car Run, Shuttleworth’s debut back in 1928 was something of a fraught affair. The enthusiastic young man purchased the car specifically to join the Run but, just the day before the start, Panhard’s UK agents said they were unable to make the necessary preparations.

Undaunted by this last-minute setback, he and a friend worked through the night to get the mechanicals working and they proceeded to complete the distance with four passengers aboard.

Since then the Panhard has completed the hallowed journey on numerous further occasions and will be aiming to honour its 90th anniversary with another successful capital-to-coast passage in November. Fuelling those birthday ambitions, volunteers at The Shuttleworth Collection have just completed a two-year mechanical restoration.

“Marking the 90th anniversary of Richard Shuttleworth’s first participation in the Brighton Run will be very special for all involved in keeping The Collection alive in his memory,” said Stuart Gray, Vehicle Manager at the Shuttleworth Trust who will be among those driving the Panhard in November. “I’m sure it will be a proud – yet emotional – day as we picture a hugely enthusiastic young Richard jumping behind the wheel of this very car back in 1928.”

Before being acquired by Shuttleworth – and adding further to the Panhard’s remarkable history – it is reputed to have been originally built as a racer and to have finished fourth in the 1898 Paris to Amsterdam race driven by Chevalier Réné de Knyff covering the 890 miles at an average speed of 24mph.

In 1901 the car was re-bodied by Messrs. Morgan and Sons in its current Broughton style and, thereafter, was first owned by Lord Rothschild family. It is also said to have been driven into Ascot by King Edward VII.

Full information on the Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run supported by Hiscox – including full details of how to enter or spectate – can be found on the official website: www.veterancarrun.com.

As in recent years, the Veteran Car Run provides a fitting grand finale to the Royal Automobile Club’s busy London Motor Week – a week in which the celebrated Club presents an array of functions and events to suit all motoring tastes. Of late these have included forums, dinners, trophy presentations, lectures and exhibitions as well as the free-to-view Regent Street Motor Show now held annually on Saturday immediately before the Run.

Adding to the build-up, renowned auctioneer Bonhams hosts a special Veteran Car Run sale on the preceding Friday afternoon with an eye-catching selection of veteran cars and related memorabilia coming under the hammer.