ONE-OF-A-KIND DB4 CONVERTIBLE ON SHOW AT RETROMOBILE PARIS

ONE-OF-A-KIND DB4 CONVERTIBLE ON SHOW AT RETROMOBILE PARIS

Aston Martin Works, the world-renowned heritage arm of British luxury sports car maker Aston Martin Lagonda, is promising visitors to the upcoming Retromobile Show in Paris next month an unprecedented view of one of the brand’s rarest and most sought-after classic cars – Aston Martin DB4 Convertible, chassis no. 1173.

This one-off model, built in 1963 at the historic home of Aston Martin in Newport Pagnell – now centre of operations for the Aston Martin Works heritage sales, service and restoration business – is unique as, of the circa 70 DB4 Convertibles made by the brand between 1961 and 1963, chassis no 1173 is the only car known to have been built by David Brown’s factory team with the more potent DB4 GT engine as an original fitment.

This right-hand drive sports car, handcrafted for a UK customer and personal friend of then Aston Martin owner David Brown, is currently undergoing a bare metal restoration in the world famous heritage workshops at Aston Martin Works and arrives at the annual Parisian festival of historic motoring, this year once again being staged at the prestigious Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre, as an engine in chassis.

Offering visitors a rare glimpse up close of the remarkably detailed restoration process undertaken by the craftsmen and women at Aston Martin Works, the DB4 Convertible collectors’ item is joined on the Works stand in the French capital by other important examples of the brand’s illustrious history including one of only 40 Vantage V600 Le Mans to be built celebrating the 40th anniversary of the famous 24-hour race win; a 1968 DB6 Vantage; a 1960 DB4 Series II; and a V12 Vanquish with manual conversion engineered and carried out by Aston Martin Works.

Julian Wren, Heritage Director at Aston Martin Works, explained: “The decision to take chassis 1173 to Paris wasn’t simple, but we wanted to give the enthusiastic and knowledgable Retromobile audience the chance to see this exceptional piece of Aston Martin history up close as it progresses through its journey towards concours condition.

“Like our other cars at this exciting event 1173 is available to purchase, and I’m looking forward to discussing the car with enthusiasts and collectors alike.”

Aston Martin Works can be found on stand G46 in Hall 1 at the Retromobile event, which opens to the public at 10 am (CET) on Wednesday 6 February and runs until Sunday 10 February.

For event information, please visit: https://www.retromobile.com/

E-TYPE UK - 2+2 PLUS – E-TYPE UK TAKES SERIES 3 COUPE TO NEW LEVELS WITH LATEST COMMISSION

2+2 PLUS – E-TYPE UK TAKES SERIES 3 COUPE TO NEW LEVELS WITH LATEST COMMISSION

The latest restoration by E-Type UK, the Kent-based firm known for its concours-winning original specification restorations of early models and class-leading upgrading of later models, has now been delivered.

Though the number of customer commissions on Series 3 models has grown for E-Type UK, such as the much celebrated top-spec special edition, it is not often that the 2+2 coupe models are chosen by customers for a full top-level restoration and upgrade programme.

The owner of this E-Type, however, was seeking an example that was reliable with some subtle modernisations, improved driving characteristics yet retained that classic E-Type personality. Rolling off the production line in 1973, this original right-hand drive Series 3 Coupe had lived a pampered life but had seen better days, and was brought to E-Type UK with a brief to not only perfectly restore but upgrade to the highest standards.

But, before the curated selection of E-Type UK upgrades could be fitted, the team had to get to work fully stripping the car. This thorough process exposed some shoddy previous repairs, an unfortunate reminder of a time when these models were unloved and undervalued, such as inner arches patched up with layers of tin. Once all the metal work was repaired to original specifications, a bespoke aluminium bonnet was fabricated to reduce front-end weight. Then, it was time for a concours standard repaint in the stunning shade of Opalescent Gunmetal.

The original engine was fully rebuilt and fitted with a combination of engine upgrades synonymous with E-Type UK: electronic fuel injection with larger throttle bodies, aluminium radiator and header tank and the all-important 12-branch tubular stainless steel sports exhaust system to allow the V12 to sing. E-Type UK are experts in electronic fuel injection on these models having developed systems for a number of years, with this car benefiting from improved performance, reliability and efficiency as a result. The uprated cooling system maintains an ideal operating temperature, while the larger throttle bodies for increased air flow and free-flowing stainless steel exhaust ensure the engine sounds as great as it performs.

Under that now perfect body, the suspension was heavily revised for improved handling and ride with all-round adjustable suspension, including sports torsion bars, anti-roll bar and uprated bushes. This combination of suspension upgrades is transformational for the handling, and also allows customers to choose their exact preferred suspension settings. AP Racing brakes replace the stock units, with larger diameter discs, aluminium calipers and an increase from three to four pistons, increasing stopping power while reducing weight. 16-inch Turino wire wheels were chosen not only for aesthetics but also as they allow the fitment of modern tyres for improved traction, as well as reducing corner weight further due to aluminium rims and stronger stainless-steel spokes than standard units.

An uprated 5-speed gearbox completes the revised drivetrain package, with gearing such that both long motorway drives and quick-changing country lane jaunts are a pleasure. Additions within the fully retrimmed Oxblood Red cabin include: 15-inch wooden steering wheel to make the most of the car’s spritely handling, bespoke classically-styled inertia reel seat belts for improved comfort and safety, and an LED dash light conversion to improve visibility on evening drives. A period style stereo system, hiding full modern internals including Bluetooth capability, finishes the interior in fine fashion.

E-Type UK have had the pleasure of restoring, refining and revising a number of Series 3 models, and can say with some confidence that this is one of the finest 2+2 examples out there. Whether viewed as a sign of the times in the E-Type world, an exercise in perfection or simply a top-notch restoration, this S3 is undeniably something special.

Founder Marcus Holland commented: “We treat every model of E-Type with the same respect whether in for service, restoration or sale, and seeing this 2+2 completed to such a standard is incredibly satisfying. Like our clients, we are big believers in using these special cars, so it is a real joy knowing that this on-the-button E-Type will be regularly on the road with that cavernous boot full of luggage.”

A CENTURY APART – BENTLEY BEGINS YEAR OF EXCLUSIVE CELEBRATIONS

A CENTURY APART – BENTLEY BEGINS YEAR OF EXCLUSIVE CELEBRATIONS

 As Bentley enters its Centenary year, the oldest remaining and first racing model – EXP 2 – will be displayed at Retromobile, Paris.

The first of many unique events in 2019 that will see Bentley celebrate this landmark year, Retromobile kick-starts the world car show season between 6-10 February at Salon des Expositions, Porte de Versailles.

Showcasing Bentley’s motoring evolution over the past 100 years, the British brand’s stand-in Paris offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the heritage and the innovation of the British luxury car manufacturer. Joining its illustrious forebear in Paris will be the new Continental GT Convertible – the pinnacle open-top Grand Tourer.

Although separated by 100 years of automotive evolution, the two models share fundamental Bentley characteristics: both are genuine Grand Tourers; both offer sector-defining levels of performance, and both feature innovative technology at their core.

The year, Retromobile celebrates its 44th anniversary, with over 120,000 visitors expected to attend from all over the world. For more information on the event please visit www.retromobile.com.

EXP 2 – The Oldest Surviving & First Racing Bentley

In the first few years of his company’s existence, W.O. Bentley made three prototypes: EXP 1 (EXPerimental No.1) at New Street Mews off Baker Street (which first ran in October 1919); EXP 2 built later that year at Bentley’s new workshop in Cricklewood (cannibalising much of EXP 1): and EXP 3 – better known as ‘The Cab’ and W.O.’s personal car.

A legacy of the Cricklewood era, EXP 2 is the oldest Bentley in existence. As the second Bentley to ever be made, its debut was at the 1919 Olympia Motor Show and is a landmark car in the brand’s 100-year history.

Drawing influence from W.O. Bentley’s pre-war competition experience – when he pioneered the use of aluminium pistons – EXP 2 is also the brand’s first car to win a race, powered by a 3.0-litre four-cylinder engine with a top speed of 80 mph.

Frank Clement, W.O.’s development engineer and racing driver, won the Junior Sprint Handicap at Brooklands on 16 May 1921 in EXP2 – the first recorded racing victory for Bentley. Clement not only took the brand’s maiden win at the famous banked circuit but also saw off some famous names in the process.

2019 Calendar of Heritage Events

As Bentley commemorates 100 extraordinary years, brand enthusiasts will be able to join the celebrations at a number of events hosted around the world – showcasing the best of Bentley past and present.

EVENT	DATE	LOCATION
44th Salon Rétromobile	6-10 February	Paris, France
13th Annual Boca Concours d’Elegance	22-24 February	Boca Raton, Florida, US
W.O. Bonhams exhibition	11 April	London
Bentley Drivers Club Centenary Extraordinary Drive	15-31 March	Castle of Mey – Crewe – London
Benjafield Racing Club, W.O. race	13 April	Silverstone race track
Mille Miglia	15-18 May	Brescia – Rome – Brescia, IT
24 Hours of Le Mans	15-16 June	Le Mans, France
RREC Annual Rally & Concours	21 June	Burghley house, England
Chantilly Arts & Elegance	30 June	Chantilly, France
RROC National Meeting	22-27 July	Detroit, US
Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance	21-26 August	Carmel, California, US
Salon Privé Concours d'Elegance	6-8 September	Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, UK

Bentley’s Centenary – 100 Years of Extraordinary

In 1919 Walter Owen (W.O.) Bentley created a company with a simple objective: to build “a fast car, a good car, the best in its class”. This guiding principle has driven Bentley ever since, pushing the brand forward and making it the leader in automotive luxury around the world today.

The 10th of July 2019 marks Bentley’s 100th year and this extraordinary milestone – reached by only a special few companies – will be a cause for celebration of the company’s history, its global success today and its exciting future

MG CAR CLUB & ZED REGISTER LAUNCH CAMPAIGN TO SAVE OUR ZEDS

MG CAR CLUB & ZED REGISTER LAUNCH CAMPAIGN TO SAVE OUR ZEDS

MG ZR, ZS and ZT cars are disappearing from our roads fast; with over 78% of the cars ever built gone.

The MG Car Club and Zed Register are hoping to reverse this trend with the launch of Save Our Zeds; a campaign to highlight the decline of Zed MGs and help equip owners with the right tools to keep enjoying and running their cars, rather than consigning them to the scrapheap.

Data taken from HowManyLeft.co.uk shows the severity of the decline;

Model	Number (2006)	Number (Q3 2018)	Cars Lost
ZR	51,116	7,964	43,152 -84%
ZS	20,055	5,478	14,577 -72%
ZT & ZT-T	19,020	6,176	12,844 -67%
Z Range	90,191	19,618	70, 573 -78%

At the end of production in 2006, the total number of cars on the road was 90,191 and today that sits at 19,618; a 78% decline. A staggering 43,152 (84%) of MG ZRs built are no longer on the road.

The MG Car Club has the Zed Register who exist to help owners to keep their cars on the road, support with technical advice and queries and be friendly faces out and about at various events during the year.

John Thompson, Chairman of the Zed Register, commented “Today’s culture of financial incentives to scrap older cars when purchasing cars on PCP or lease deals versus the cost of repairing an older car appears to rule out repairs as a viable option.

There are many quality MG specialists & parts businesses across the UK; and the MG Car Club offer member discounts with some of these suppliers, so repair really is a good choice.

The Zed range of cars is an affordable way into MG ownership, and the growing Modern Classic scene, with good condition cars available from as little as £350. This makes a Zed car a great option for a young driver as a first car, as well as something fun.

The MG Car Club has also recent formed a Young Members Branch, who organise events and an online community to support the Younger end of our membership with everything they need.”

Adam Sloman, General Manager of The MG Car Club, added “This decline in Zed cars is something we as a Club have heard many stories about at classic car events up and down the country.

We are concerned that an important part of the MG brand’s heritage is going to be lost; and future generations are going to miss out on these much loved cars.”

FANTASTIC FIAT 500C IS PRIZE FOR NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM VISITOR

FANTASTIC FIAT 500C IS PRIZE FOR NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM VISITOR

FANTASTIC FIAT 500C IS PRIZE FOR NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM VISITOR

A brand new Fiat 500C TwinAir has been presented to the winner of the National Motor Museum Trust Prize Draw in a ceremony at Beaulieu's Palace House.

Beaulieu Managing Director Russell Bowman handed the keys for the bright red soft-top to Rosalind Cottee and her husband Norman, who were delighted to drive home to Maidenhead from the New Forest in the sought-after top raffle prize. They were joined for the ceremony by Niall James from Snows Fiat and Abarth, which supplied the car.

Rosalind and Norman had visited Beaulieu in the summer with their grandchildren when Rosalind bought her successful raffle ticket in the National Motor Museum. She said: “We had a lovely day, but I really didn’t expect to win anything, let alone the car. I think the only other thing I’ve ever won in a competition was a bowl of fruit, so this is wonderful! We’re both retired so I will be using the Fiat for local trips.” 

Carole McGuire, from Tonbridge in Kent, won the second prize – a money-can’t-buy opportunity to take part in the 2019 London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, as a passenger in one of the National Motor Museum Trust’s historic vehicles, with an overnight stay in London. Seated in the 1904 De Dion Bouton Model Q, which she will ride in for the 60-mile event, Carole was presented with a commemorative certificate by National Motor Museum Manager and Chief Engineer Doug Hill.

Carole said: “I’m thrilled to bits. It was meant to be! Years ago, I used to live near the route of the run so I always went to watch the veteran cars pass by.”

Looking forward to taking part in the event, Carole is well aware that preparation is the key. “I’m hoping it’s not going to be raining, although I think I might need to wear my thermals!” she added.

The third prize went to Michael Burton, from Formby near Liverpool, who won a VIP trip around the New Forest in a vehicle from the National Motor Museum collection. This special day out also includes a visit to the Beaulieu Chocolate Studio for a demonstration and chocolate treat goody bag.

Tickets have gone on sale for a chance to win the 2019 National Motor Museum Trust Prize Draw. See www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk/support-us/prize-draw for more details. 

Source: Beaulieu

MIND OVER MONTE CARLO – ONE TEAM’S QUEST TO TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH ON THE MONTE CARLO CLASSIQUE RALLY

MIND OVER MONTE CARLO – ONE TEAM’S QUEST TO TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH ON THE MONTE CARLO CLASSIQUE RALLY

Adam Gompertz (l) Craig Callum (r) outside Blue Diamond Riley Services

Talking about mental health problems isn’t just for Christmas. Two former car designers want to open up and kick out the stigma attached to talking about mental health and raise money to help those in need.

Car designer-turned-reverend Adam Gompertz and director of the National Transport Design Centre Craig Callum are joining the Blue Diamond Riley Specialists team, driving a 1949 MG TC from Glasgow to Monaco, to raise much-needed funds for OCD Action during this year’s Monte Carlo Classique Rally (30th January to 3rd February).

Funds raised by Adam and Craig will enable OCD Action to help more people in 2019 with the mental health illness. Donations are welcomed here.

“OCD gets bandied around too much. It’s not an insult, it’s a real, life-altering condition.”, said Adam Gompertz. “I feel, as men specifically, we don’t talk about our problems, including that of our own mental health. Being a Reverend, I try and help as many people as possible, but opening it up to people outside of my parish and including my second passion – cars – is something I’m really trying to do in 2019 and beyond.”

Rather than simply being tidy, or something we might jokingly say we all have, OCD is characterised by disturbing intrusive thoughts (obsessions) producing anxiety which are alleviated only by repetitive actions (compulsions). It can leave sufferers isolated, trapped in an endless cycle of checking and double checking, of being a prisoner to the obsessions and resulting compulsions. Adam himself has battled OCD at various times in his life.

With the mental health charity Mind reporting that one in four people will suffer some form of mental health problem, and that one in six people experience a common mental heath problem such as anxiety and depression each week[1], the need to be raising awareness of these conditions is so important.

Follow the progress Craig and the Reverend make from 30th January as they leave Glasgow and aim to be in Monaco on 3rd February on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter – under #montyonthemonte.