‘WORLD’S FIRST MINIVAN’ JOINS CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2019

‘WORLD’S FIRST MINIVAN’ JOINS CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2019

1936 Stout Scarab car: photo credit Michael Furman

The world’s first production minivan – the stunning art deco-inspired 1936 Stout Scarab will be on display at this year’s Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace. With only nine in existence, the Scarab was the brainchild of journalist and automotive & aviation engineer William Bushnell Stout. Inspired by ‘futurist’ author, architect and designer Buckminster Fuller and his tear-drop creation: the Dymaxion, Stout envisaged the Scarab to be a 100-a-year production phenomenon in an age of uninspiring automotive design.

Unfortunately for Stout, the time-consuming coach-work and $5,000 price tag (almost $100,000 today) meant that the idea never gained the traction needed to become a success, and the Scarab dream died after just nine were completed. Fortunately for the Concours of Elegance, the Scarab is now an incredibly rare, art deco-inspired, a coach-built masterpiece that perfectly encompasses the spirit of the show. The most spectacular stories, the most astonishing design and the finest craftsmanship on offer in the automotive world.

This particular Stout Scarab is also at the centre of a war-time legend; it was said to be the scene of a meeting between General Eisenhower and Charles de Gaulle during the Second World War. Throughout the 1950s it was then used by a circus owner, keeping monkeys in the car while they toured the continent. It was then sold on to a French industrial designer who had the vehicle placed in a museum in Reims. The current owners had the vehicle restored in 2001 and have kept it in top condition ever since.

This museum-worthy creation is a fantastic addition to the Concours of Elegance, joining some of the world’s rarest and unique automobiles in the stunning gardens of Hampton Court. Featuring alongside a display of one of every Aston Martin Zagato variant, a collection of the most important vehicles in Bentley’s 100-year history, and the most significant Ferrari in existence, the Stout Scarab brings an extra dash of style, rarity and intrigue to the UK’s most coveted concours event.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said:“Our event is an oasis of the rarest Ferraris, Bugattis, Rolls-Royces, Maseratis and more. But in amongst the sea of motoring legends, visitors often find a truly special outlier – as worthy of its place in the line-up as any other, but without the big-name recognition. This year, the Scarab will undoubtedly be that car; not only is it beautiful, but it’s rare and relatively unknown. You can bet once you’ve seen it at Hampton Court Palace, most visitors will never see another Scarab.”

Adult tickets for this year’s Concours of Elegance start from £40, with children under five and carers entering free of charge. Visitors are also able to purchase bespoke hospitality packages, including VIP parking, three-course lunch, drinks reception and cream tea. To buy tickets head to http://www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

BEAULIEU’S FIRST SIMPLY MERCEDES EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

People's Choice winner Stuart Haynes' 1966 Mercedes 600 Grosser

BEAULIEU’S FIRST SIMPLY MERCEDES EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

Beaulieu’s first Simply Mercedes exceeded all expectations with as many as 424 luxury cars making a magnificent line-up in the grounds of the National Motor Museum.

A total of 845 rally participants enjoyed the luxury saloons, limousines, glamorous sports cars and rugged utility vehicles from the classy 1950s up to the latest models, in a rally on Sunday, August 18th.

Beaulieu Events Co-ordinator Sophie Boyes said: “For Simply Mercedes’ first year, we had expected around 300 cars to join the show, so to have over 400 Mercedes' drive in to take part in the rally was astonishing. It was brilliant to see the event come together on the day and it far exceeded our expectations.”

Motor racing entrepreneur Jonathan Ashman joined a celebration of 40 years of the G-Class and G-Wagen at the event and talked to visitors about test driving the first right-hand-drive G-Wagens in the 1970s.

Classic Mercedes enthusiasts were treated to the rare sight of a W136 saloon with its pre-war styling, as well as the late 1950s W121, early 1960s W110 with its dramatic tail fins, glamorous 1960 190 SL Roadster and 1964 W113 ‘Pagoda’ drop-top.

Models from the 1970s, ‘80s, ‘90s and beyond were also well represented, from a subtly modified and lowered 1973 W114 coupe to immaculate examples of the 190E executive saloon, plus R107 and R129 roadsters and coupes.

The modern Mercedes on show included the jaw-dropping Mercedes-AMG GT 4-door super saloon, impressive Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster and CL500 grand tourer.

At the heart of the rally, Mercedes-Benz Club South Region turned many heads with a wide variety of its members’ prestigious cars.

Show-goers voted for their favourite Mercedes of the show in the People’s Choice Award with Stuart Haynes, from Worthing, winning with his incredible 1966 Mercedes 600 ‘Grosser’. One of the most iconic luxury vehicles of the 20th century, the huge metallic blue 600 impressed event-goers with its luxurious features.

Stuart said: “I always aspired to own one. In the five years that I’ve owned it, I have completely restored the car.” He was presented with a Beaulieu trophy and Autoglym car care pack by Beaulieu’s Financial Director Phil Johnson.

Also scoring highly were runners-up Keith Maiden, from Poole, and Lee Harvey, from Bournemouth.

Keith has owned his 2018 Mercedes G350 since it was new and personalised the 4x4 with the addition of a roof tent, camping kitchen gear and extra storage space. He said: “It always does everything with ease and is really versatile.”

Lee has owned his 2012 Mercedes C63 AMG for five months and in that time has fitted it with a K&N induction kit. He said: “I really love the car’s power and looks.” Both runners-up were presented with Autoglym prizes.

Simply Mercedes was Beaulieu’s ninth Simply rally this year and will be followed by Beaulieu’s final Simply event, Simply Smart on November 10th. For tickets and details of Beaulieu’s events calendar see www.beaulieu.co.uk/events.

BEAULIEU’S 50TH FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR CELEBRATES FIRST MOON LANDING

BEAULIEU’S 50TH FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR CELEBRATES FIRST MOON LANDING

Beaulieu’s 50th Fireworks Spectacular will take you Out of this World on Saturday 26thOctober when the event celebrates the anniversary of the first moon landing.

Beaulieu’s first fireworks event was held in the same year as the lunar landing of Apollo 11 and so the half-centenary event will be choreographed to an impressive space-themed playlist.

In association with Wave 105, Fireworks Spectacular will start half-term holidays with a bang, with entertainment for all of the family at one of the biggest fireworks displays in the south. 

Event-goers can arrive early from 3pm to enjoy all of the features of the Beaulieu attraction, including the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey. Traditional fairground rides will include a big wheel and popular gallopers, children’s swing boats and a coconut shy, while rides on the Monorail will be offered into the evening.*

From 7pm on the Wave 105 stage, radio presenters will get the evening off to a dynamic start with live entertainment running before and after the fireworks. The fireworks display will get underway at approximately 7.30pm and hot food and drinks are available inside and out.

Tickets can be bought in advance online before 5pm on October 24th, at £13.50 an adult, £8.75 a child and £38 a family. Tickets can also be bought on arrival from 3pm on October 26th. For tickets or more details see https://www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/beaulieu-fireworks/ or call 01590 612888.

Visitors with general attraction Beaulieu tickets who arrive earlier in the day are welcome to stay and enjoy the fireworks, while entry with event tickets is from 3pm.

Event admission also includes entry to the Beaulieu attraction until 5pm, with the exception of World of Top Gear which closes at 3pm. The National Motor Museum, with its Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 50 years exhibition, will stay open until 9.30pm.

* Old time fairground and monorail rides are subject to availability and will be offered at good-value extra charges.

FIRST PRODUCTION JAGUAR D-TYPE AND 15TH E-TYPE JOIN CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

FIRST PRODUCTION JAGUAR D-TYPE AND 15TH E-TYPE JOIN CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

1955 Jaguar D-Type Coupe

The first production Jaguar D-Type, one of history’s most prominent race cars, is set to star at the 2019 Concours of Elegance. Chassis XKD 509 is widely known as one of the most original D-Types in the world, with significant road and racing history, and will join the 15th E-Type FHC ever built in a line-up of the world’s rarest and most significant cars.

The 3.4-litre straight-six powered 1950s racer is possibly the most original D-Type in existence. It has kept its matching-numbers engine, gearbox and chassis, including the front subframe and monocoque centre-section. Its 1970s black body respray is still very much in its original condition but was applied to the car to replace one of the most iconic in-period American racing liveries. While under the ownership of Lu Brero Sr, Chassis XKD 509 sported a wonderful matte dark blue on white colour-scheme with five unique vertical stripes down the length of the car. It was privately raced at tracks all over the globe, achieving podium spots and victories at a number of world-class motoring events.

The first production Jaguar D-Type will take pride-of-place in the palace gardens alongside the 15th E-Type FHC ever built. One of six E-Types displayed at the 1961 Scottish Motor Show, this particular example of the iconic British sportscar has played an incredibly significant role in the history of one of the country’s most renowned automotive manufacturers.

Having moved into private ownership in 1976, it was dismantled some twenty years ago with the intention of having it fully-restored, but E-Type #15 was left in pieces until it was purchased in 2013. After a 3,000-hour restoration by Classic Motor Cars, retaining the majority of its original parts, it’s now perfectly finished in its original colour of Pearl Grey - the only 1961 E-Type to be painted in this shade.

Both of these cars, the genesis of Jaguar’s sports car legend, will be joined by a collection of around 50 other historic Jaguar models at Concours of Elegance for the fifth annual Jaguar Trophy. Members of the Jaguar Drivers, E-Type and XK Clubs are set to bring along their pride and joy to the palace to be assessed by our esteemed panel of judges, before the winner is crowned on the live stage.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said:“This year’s Concours of Elegance is a real occasion for fans not just of Jaguar but of historic British cars in general. Alongside this gathering of some of the most significant Jaguar cars ever built, we’ve got a display of one of each of the 19 Aston Martin Zagato models built, a collection of the most important Bentleys ever – including the first car to win at Le Mans back-to-back – and a whole host of other icons from the likes of Rolls-Royce, Lotus and McLaren.”

Adult tickets for this year’s Concours of Elegance start from £40, with children under five and carers entering free of charge. Visitors are also able to purchase bespoke hospitality packages, including VIP parking, three-course lunch, drinks reception and cream tea. To buy tickets head to http://www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

FIRST ANDY SAUNDERS’ AWARD AT BEAULIEU’S FATHER’S DAY HOT ROD & CUSTOM DRIVE-IN DAY

FIRST ANDY SAUNDERS’ AWARD AT BEAULIEU’S FATHER’S DAY HOT ROD & CUSTOM DRIVE-IN DAY

New show ambassador Andy Saunders presented his first award at Beaulieu’s popular Hot Rod & Custom Drive-In Day Father’s Day event, as 5,484 event-goers and 380 hot rods and customised vehicles gathered in the grounds of the National Motor Museum.

Getting the retro weekend off to a great start was Simply VW on Saturday, June 15th, with 528 Volkswagens and 1,280 show-goers joining the chilled-out show, as part of a retro motoring weekend with Vintage Village fashions, live music and dancing.

Renowned car customizer Andy Saunders picked Michael Castle’s Pro Street 1980 Ford Cortina as his car of the show at Hot Rod & Custom Drive-In Day, which is held in association with Solent Renegades club. Delighting show-goers with the roar of its brutal 8.2-litre V8 engine, Michael had driven this drag racing star down to the show from Middlesbrough.

Presenting a custom-made trophy and Autoglym valeting pack to Michael, Andy said: “It was tricky narrowing it down from my 32 favourites but this Cortina is fabulous and epitomises what we were doing on the custom scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was built 30 years ago but has only recently resurfaced and the work that has gone into building the car is absolutely incredible... and road-legal. It doesn’t get any better than this!”

The award for Best Custom went to Chris Clemens, from Winchester, for his 1960 Morris Minor 1000. Andy, who presented trophies and Autoglym packs to all of the winners, said: “This car is so pretty with its cherry red paint. It is beautiful to see a custom car of this age where everything is correct, from the slot mag wheels to the twin-cam engine.”

The Best Hot Rod award went to Dave and Carole Sharp, who had driven from Kent in their stunning 1928 Ford Model A. Best Bike was awarded to Chris Head and Dave Hiles, from West Moors in Dorset, for their monster-engine trike, while the coveted Best in Show award was presented to Dave and Angie Owen, from Bournemouth, for their bright orange V8-powered 1955 Ford Anglia. Andy was joined to present the Best American award by Solent Renegades’ Dan Potter, who had chosen the 1951 Pontiac Chieftain owned by Barry Dunwoodie, from Ringwood.

For the first time in 2019, Classic American magazine held the regional heats of its Car of the Year award at the show, inviting the best unmodified American cars to compete. Earning a place in the competition final at the NEC’s Classic Motor Show in November was Brian Forsdike, from the Isle of Wight, for his 1957 Ford Thunderbird.

Andy, who arrived at the show in his 1937 Cord Westchester Tetanus, spent the day talking to fans and revealed his new project, a Riley RM. He said: “At International Autojumble last September, I bought a pair of wings for a pre-war Delahaye 135M, which have a wonderful shape to them but I needed to find a car to fit them to. I eventually found this Riley RM, which will be ideal for my next car build. I’ll restore the original chassis and keep the stock Riley running gear but I can make a whole new body for it, which will be lower and sleeker. I don’t know how long it will take . . . but I hope it doesn’t take 14 years like Tetanus did!”

Also wowing show-goers was the famous hot rod Coffee Grinder, one of the first American hot rods to be imported to England in the 1960s. It was brought over by celebrated pop-artist Gerald Laing and has recently been bought back by his sons. The impressive selection of cars on show included smooth low-riders, powerful pick-up trucks and stock American classics dating as far back as the 1920s. The event also included a special show of bikes, from retro scooters to choppers and monster-engine trikes.

At the Breeze Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles-sponsored Simply VW event on Saturday, the People’s Choice Award was presented to Russell Payton, from Newbury, with his restored 1964 Karmann Ghia. Runners-up were Sarah Walkey, from Portsmouth, with her pink wrapped 2013 Beetle and Brandon Hayes, from Wimborne, with his custom-style 2000 Beetle. They were both presented with Autoglym prizes by Stuart Hack, the sponsor’s Head of Business.

Across the weekend, Bows & Braces ran a colourful Vintage Village packed with nostalgic collectables, records, jewellery, luggage, kitchenware and retro clothing. There was a bigger than ever Vintage Tea Tent, while Bournemouth Lindy Hop Club gave dance demonstrations with Jitterbug Jive and there was live music on the arena stage.

On Saturday, Bows & Braces presented the Best Dressed Vehicle award to Sharon Drewell, from the Isle of Wight, who brought the impressive combination of her 1968 VW Beetle towing her 1963 Eriba Puck caravan. On Sunday, the Best Dressed Individual awards went to six-year-old Aylar Pashapour, from the New Forest, while the Best Dressed Group was Frank and Pam Annable, from Bournemouth, and Best Dressed Vehicle was the Mad Max-style 1993 Lexus of Rogan McGilp, from Hereford.

Coming next on Beaulieu’s events calendar is Simply Land Rover on June 23rd, Simply Jaguar on July 14th, Simply Japanese on July 28th and Beaulieu Supercar Weekend on August 3rd-4th. For tickets and details see www.beaulieu.co.uk/events.

LONDON CONCOURS 2019 CELEBRATES GLORIOUS FIRST DAY

LONDON CONCOURS 2019 CELEBRATES GLORIOUS FIRST DAY

he London Concours presented by Montres Breguet opened its doors yesterday to a crowd of thousands for the first day of the event. Hosted at the Honourable Artillery Company, a five-acre oasis of green close to Bank, the event played host to the most incredible collection of vehicles ever gathered in the City.

In total, around 130 cars were on display across seven classes and three major features. The main concours event classes include ‘The Icons’, ‘The Innovators’, ‘Great Marques – Ferrari, ‘Great Marques – Jaguar’ and ‘The Outlaws’. Each of the classes was packed with rarities, from the McLaren F1 and Ferrari 250 GT Tour de France to the Bugatti Veyron Super Sports and Lotus 99/T championship-winning Formula One car, but there could only be one ‘Best in Show’.

The London Concours’ expert committee of judges picked an extraordinarily well-preserved C-Type with impeccable heritage as ‘Best in Show’. This particular C-Type has played its role within Jaguar’s esteemed racing heritage, appearing in the Monaco Grand Prix, driven by Tommy Wisdom, and later Stirling Moss who drove it for much of his 1952 season. It's presented at the London Concours in its original livery from the 1953 Mille Miglia.

The judges, led by members of the London Concours Steering Committee, not only awarded an overall winner, but a winner of each class, too.

These are the winners:

Great Marques – Ferrari, sponsored by ISAIA – Ferrari 166 Inte

Great Marques Jaguar, sponsored by Truefitt & Hill – Jaguar C-Type

The Icons, sponsored by Footman James – Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost

The Innovators, sponsored by Montres Breguet – Lotus 79

Made in Germany, sponsored by Geely – Volkswagen Golf GTI

The Outlaws, sponsored by Concours of Elegance – Lancia Aurelia B20 GT ‘Outlaw’

The Lost Marques, sponsored by Rémy Martin – Bristol 404

Best in Show – Jaguar C-Type

Outside of the main concours event, there were plenty of other astonishing cars on display. A special feature celebrates the Lamborghini Miura’s show-stealing appearance in the opening scene of The Italian Job, with a gathering of seven incredible examples. On the lawns of the HAC, guests were able to see the full spectrum of the Miura line-up, including P400S, SV and Jota models.

The evo and Octane Supercar Paddock brought together supercar originals and their modern day successors. The McLaren F1 lined up next to the McLaren P1, the Aston Martin DBS joined the DBS Superleggera and the Ferrari 250 GT Lusso was displayed alongside the GTC4Lusso.

Andrew Evans, London Concours director, said: “I’m in absolutely no doubt that this astounding selection of vehicles is the greatest collection ever seen in the City of London, and I’m so proud to be able to share it with the thousands of people that came through our gates today. I’d also like to extend thanks to all of our partners for making the London Concours such a success, and I look forward to seeing many more people at the show on Thursday.”

As well as the automotive displays, visitors were able to browse a number of other attractions, including world-class watch boutiques from fine horologists Montres Breguet, arthouse Collier Dobson, and automotive artist, Ella Freire.

Guests were also treated to a range of luxury food and drink options, including a full three-course menu designed by celebrated chef, Mark Hix, and delivered by Searcys. Rémy Martin, Veuve Clicquot and Seedlip were on-hand to provide refreshments.

Tickets to Thursday 6 June at London Concours will be available on the door, with adult admission at £35.

BICESTER HERITAGE TO HOLD FIRST-EVER ‘SUPER SCRAMBLE’ FOLLOWING CONTINUED GROWTH OF MUCH-LOVED SUNDAY SCRAMBLES

BICESTER HERITAGE TO HOLD FIRST-EVER ‘SUPER SCRAMBLE’ FOLLOWING CONTINUED GROWTH OF MUCH-LOVED SUNDAY SCRAMBLES

Bicester, 20th May 2019 – Building on the tremendous success of the Sunday Scramble events, the latest of which welcomed over 7,000 guests to the former WW2 RAF Bomber Station, Bicester Heritage will host the first ‘Super Scramble’ on Sunday 23rdJune.

An extension of the traditional Sunday Scramble format, the Super Scramble will see a carefully curated selection of 100 vehicles from a variety of eras on display in the surroundings of the Technical Site. Furthermore, owners will have the chance to take to the track for demonstration laps, allowing guests to not only witness these cars in a fitting static environment but also at pace around the twists and turns of the Bicester Heritage test track.

In typical Sunday Scramble fashion, the 40 specialists on-site at former RAF Bicester will open their doors and showcase not only exceptional vehicles but also the incredible skills housed in the Grade II listed wartime buildings around the site.

Another new addition to the traditional Scramble format will be housed within Exhibition Hangar 113. This 45,000 square foot 1936 C-type hangar turned exhibition hall will be home to a classic market place, including a Classic Trader Village and the very first Autojumble at Bicester Heritage. With an assembled audience of several thousand enthusiasts, this area is sure to prove a popular new addition.

A superb selection of vintage aircraft will also be on display on the airfield, with Scramble partners Bremont bringing select aircraft from their Great War Display Team and the Vintage Aircraft Club in attendance also.

Hagerty will be hosting the Valuation Arena offering guests the chance to have their car valued by industry leading experts. As always, the £15 fee for this will go entirely to charity and each owner will be presented with a valuation certificate following their assessment.

Guests are encouraged to bring along their own pride and joy to the Super Scramble. Forward parking is available for pre-1990 vehicles and, as always, there is bountiful parking for other vehicles.

Dan Geoghegan, Managing Director of Bicester Heritage, commented: “Bicester Heritage is all about inclusive historic car community, skills and dynamic activity.  The Super Scramble will combine all of these, and our first Autojumble will be launched, too, in a WW2 hangar offering an acre of covered space."

The inaugural Super Scramble will take place on Sunday 23rd June, running from 10am until 5pm. Tickets will be available for advanced purchase only, not on the gates, and are now available on the Bicester Heritage website.

THE WORLD’S FIRST EVER PETROLICIOUS DRIVERS’ MEETING TAKES PLACE AT BICESTER HERITAGE TO GREAT SUCCESS

THE WORLD’S FIRST EVER PETROLICIOUS DRIVERS’ MEETING TAKES PLACE AT BICESTER HERITAGE TO GREAT SUCCESS

Photography credit: White Wall Media / Petrolicious

Video Edit By Stumpy Media @ Classic Chatter

More than 4000 visitors attended the first ever Petrolicious Drivers’ Meeting from the renowned Petrolicious website at Bicester Heritage, Oxfordshire, on Sunday May 12.

The now-­ubiquitous Petrolicious #DriveTastefully motto was made real by the new event, which saw over curated 200 cars placed artfully around the restored former RAF buildings of the Bicester Heritage Technical Site and outside the huge events hangar.

Inside the hangar, the Petrolicious Drivers’ Meeting broke new ground for a Bicester Heritage car show by kitting out the 50,000 sq ft space with motoring artists’ area, trade stands and a cinema showcasing Petrolicious films. Next to the screen were the cars that starred in the films being shown – including a Ferrari Daytona, ‘The Rusty 911’ Porsche, a Golf GTI Mk2, NSU Ro80, Mercedes­-Benz 280SE, Lancia Delta Integrale and Bentley 4 ½ Litre.

Sponsors Jaguar Landrover SVO, Morgan and Aston Martin Works all had stands in the hangar showing new cars and old, while Bremont used the event to launch its new Jaguar D­typewatch, complete with not one but two D­types on display, as well as a Jaguar Project 7.

In the paddock area outside the hangar, it was impossible to miss the restored black and red­liveried Ford truck that served as Frank Williams’ first ever purpose-­built race transporter. Alongside were two historic F1 cars – the 1979 FW07 and 1987 FW11B – from Williams Heritage. The display marked the 50th anniversary of Frank Williams’s first Formula 1 race.

Elsewhere in the paddock were special displays from:

• The Slowly Sideways rally group, showcasing Group B and other rally cars of the 1980s­-onwards
• The Endurance Racing Legends group, with Le Mans and endurance race cars of the 1990s and 2000s, including Aston Martin DBR9, Jaguar XJR15 and TVR T400R
• The Singer Design and Lightweighting Study (DLS) 911 test mule, delivered by racer and Singer development driver Marino Franchitti
• A genuine Brumos team Porsche 911 RSR
• Multi­-million pound Ferrari display that included F40, Daytona, 330GT, 275 GTB and blogger Mr JWW’s F12 TDF
• XJ220 and Project 8 from sponsors Jaguar Land Rover SVO

On the tree-­lined avenues and amongst the evocative Grade 2 listed buildings of the Bicester Heritage site, some of the highlights included:

• Four ex­-Works Subaru rally cars, including ex­-Colin McRae and Kenneth Eriksson Imprezas
• Genuine Alan Mann Lotus Cortina Mk1 and Autodelta Alfa Romeo GTA, reunited 53 years after they last raced together
• Aston Martin DBR4 with Land Rover Series 2 tow vehicle
• Three hot rods, including a replica of the Two-­Lane Blacktop movie ’55 Chevy
• Zagato centenary display with Zagato versions of Lancias, Alfas, the latest Aston Martin Zagato from sponsor Aston Martin Works and a Porsche 356 Zagato owned by Coldplay’s Guy Berryman
• ‘Alfa Romeo Avenue’ with Alfas from the 1960s through to an 8C Competizione supercar
• Four homologation­-derived road cars: Ford RS200, Audi Quattro, Renault 5 Turbo 1 and Porsche 924 Carrera GT
• The rarely­seen 1966 Vauxhall XVR concept car from the Vauxhall Heritage Centre
• Cars from TV’s Wheeler Dealers presenters, Mike Brewer and Ant Anstead – Mike’s restored MGA, the Dowsetts Comet built by Ant’s company, and an Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato recreation built by Ant and owned by
• Plus 4 Works 110 and new Aero GT from sponsors Morgan Motor Company
• Rare Aston Martins including one of only 15 2­Litre Sports ‘DB1’ models built and a stunning black One-­77

Visitors were also able to book in professional photoshoots on their cars with Petrolicious photographers, in the Footman James Photographic Studio in a quiet but evocative corner of the Technical Site. Every single studio slot was taken, with cars as diverse as Alfa Romeo 1750GTV, Cobra 289, BMW i8 and Fiat Dino photographed there.

Adding to the mix, many of the specialists based at Bicester Heritage opened their doors to the visitors. These included specialist car dealers Pendine, Robert Glover and Legends Automotive, pre­war Riley and MG specialists Blue Diamond Services, Bentley specialists Kingsbury Racing, Classic Oils and training course provider Heritage Skills Academy.

Even the car park was stunning, with visitors in classic and interesting modern cars directed to the ‘#DriveTastefully’ parking area, resulting in a fascinating show of its own, with everything from lowriders to a road­legal Group C Jaguar race car.

More Petrolicious Drivers’ Meetings will be announced in the near future. Photography credit: White Wall Media / Petrolicious

CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE TO HOST WORLD-FIRST CELEBRATION OF ASTON MARTIN AND ZAGATO

CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE TO HOST WORLD-FIRST CELEBRATION OF ASTON MARTIN AND ZAGATO

: The Concours of Elegance has announced the first of its show-stopping features for 2019: a world-first display of one of every Aston Martin Zagato variant ever manufactured. From the 1960 DB4 GT Zagato, right through to the Vanquish Zagato Coupé, Volante, Speedster and Shooting Brake, visitors will be able to browse 16 examples from one of the most famous creative partnerships in automotive history.

The Aston Martin Zagato Celebratory Display is being curated by the Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC), supported by Aston Martin Lagonda and Zagato. The display will include a number of extremely rare, as well as several unique, models, including one of the most famous racing Aston Martins in history, DB4 GT Zagato ‘1 VEV’.  Taking their place alongside ‘1 VEV’ are one-off cars including the V12 Vanquish Roadster Zagato, DB9 Spyder Zagato Centennial and Virage Shooting Brake Zagato Centennial.

Aston Martin and Zagato first came together with the reveal of the DB4 GT Zagato at the Earl’s Court Motor Show in 1960. Initially designed with aerodynamics and light weight in mind – to make the DB4 GT quicker on-track – nobody could have known that this car would provide the spark for one of the motoring industry’s greatest ever double-acts.

For all the icons of Aston Martin and Zagato that abound today, it’s worth noting that after the initial DB4 GT Zagato, the companies wouldn’t work together again until the V8 Vantage Zagato appeared at the Geneva Motor Show in 1986 – over 25 years later. And then again, it wasn’t until 2002 that we saw the DB7 get the Zagato treatment, including the DB4 GT Zagato-inspired “double bubble” roofline.

Into the more modern era and we saw the next fruits of the Aston Martin Zagato partnership in 2011 – around the 50th anniversary of their first creation – with the V12 Vantage-based V12 Zagato. Then, even more recently, there was the reveal of the gorgeous Vanquish Zagato Coupé, Volante, Speedster and Shooting Brake variants.

Earlier this year, Aston Martin and Zagato revealed the next step in their partnership: the DBZ Centenary Collection, in celebration of 100 years of Zagato – two cars you can only buy as a pair. The special pair includes a Zagato-styled variant of the new DBS Superleggera and a continuation of the original DB4 GT Zagato. Only 19 pairs are available globally.

That’s part of the enduring appeal of Aston Martin Zagato models - they aren’t just beautiful and ferocious, they’re also extremely rare. Only every so often will the two companies come together to create their next automotive artwork and, even when they do, the production numbers are extremely limited: Only 52 V8 Vantage Coupés, only 100 DB7 Zagatos, only 65 V12 Zagatos and a mere 28 Vanquish Zagato Speedsters.

Although the Aston Martin Zagato display will be gathered at Hampton Court Palace for all three days of the Concours of Elegance, Saturday 7th September is the day to attend for Aston Martin enthusiasts. As part of the event’s car club displays – gathering hundreds of rare vehicles from the nation’s top car clubs – there will be an astonishing display of over 50 rare and exotic models on display courtesy of the Aston Martin Owners Club.

The UK’s finest concours d’elegance event will return to the exquisite surroundings of Henry VIII’s former home from 6-8 September, bringing with it a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of spectacular vehicles.

The Concours of Elegance’s main display of around 60 vehicles will be the focal point of the event, telling the story of the motor car from the 1890s right through to the modern day. Picking out icons and rarities from the world’s most famous car brands, including Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bugatti and Rolls-Royce, the Concours of Elegance is a celebration of craftsmanship, luxury and innovation. A 1921 Ballot S/C, the car that won the first ever Italian Grand Prix, was recently announced as one of the stars of the main display.

A number of 2018’s features will also be returning, including the Royal Automobile Club Trophy – contested by winners of the nation’s best car clubs – and the Future Classics class. Last year’s Future Classics included the unique Rolls-Royce Sweptail, the (one-of-seven) Aston Martin Vantage V600 and the McLaren Senna chassis #001.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said: “The Aston Martin Zagato partnership has produced such a consistently astonishing array of cars that it almost deserves an event of its own. What we’ve developed here in partnership with AMOC, Aston Martin and Zagato is the next best thing - a dedicated area at the UK’s top concours d’elegance event, hosted among the beautiful Fountain Gardens of one of Britain’s most amazing buildings. We’ve got so much world-class content at our event this year, however, this Aston Martin Zagato celebratory display is one that I personally can’t wait to see."

Adult tickets for this year’s Concours of Elegance start from £40, with children under five and carers entering free of charge. Visitors are also able to purchase bespoke hospitality packages, including VIP parking, three-course lunch, drinks reception and cream tea. To buy tickets head to: http://www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

FIRST EVER ITALIAN GRAND PRIX-WINNING BALLOT 3/8 LC SET FOR CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2019

FIRST EVER ITALIAN GRAND PRIX-WINNING BALLOT 3/8 LC SET FOR CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2019

Ballot 3/8 LC - Credit - Tim Scott

The first extraordinary car has been confirmed for this year’s Concours of Elegance: a Ballot 3/8 LC famous for winning the first ever Italian Grand Prix in 1921. This impeccable piece of motorsport history is just one of a line-up of over 60 rare and exotic motor cars set to take their place in the glorious Fountain Gardens of Hampton Court Palace this September.

The Ballot 3/8 LC was a cutting-edge French racing car, capable of 124mph at a time when many normal road cars struggled to hit half that. The engine’s double overhead camshafts, four-valves-per-cylinder and hemispherical combustion chambers were the works of a genius mind belonging to Ernest Henry.

These innovations led to its victory at the Italian Grand Prix which, incidentally, would have ruffled a few feathers. The two French Ballots competing took first and second spots, while a Fiat 802 – the Italian crowd’s favourite – took third. But the Ballots won for their strategy, conserving fuel and tyres against the much faster Fiat, and not once stopping.

Gathering the rarest and most exquisite vehicles from throughout automotive history, the 2019 Hampton Court Palace Concours of Elegance promises to be the best yet. Last year the event welcomed a wondrous array of automotive masterpieces, from a 1903 Panhard et Levassor O4R to a 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Long Tail and beyond.

Although the Concours of Elegance’s main display of around 60 vehicles will be the focal point, nearly 1,000 cars will be on display during the three-day event. A number of 2018’s features will be returning, including the Royal Automobile Club Trophy – contested by winners of the nation’s best car clubs – and the Future Classics class. Last year’s Future Classics included the unique Rolls-Royce Sweptail, one-of-seven Aston Martin Vantage V600 and McLaren Senna chassis #001.

Concours of Elegance Managing Director, Andrew Evans, said: “Having this incredible Ballot 3/8 LC – the very car that claimed victory at the 1921 Italian Grand Prix, no less – at the Concours of Elegance is a wonderful privilege. The Ballot 3/8 LC perfectly encompasses everything that is great about our concours entrants – the car sees regular use, it’s fantastically rare and it holds an important place in automotive history. This one car is really just a taste of what we have in store this year; our special features, our partners and the quality of the cars on display are undoubtedly all the best yet.”

Tickets to the Concours of Elegance are on sale now, available from www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

You can view the Classic Chatter Photo gallery of the 2018 Concours by following the link:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/classiccarimages/sets/72157672995773408

Concours of Elegance 2018