FIAT 500 ON DISPLAY AT MUSEUM OF MODERN ART IN NEW YORK AS PART OF THE VALUE OF GOOD DESIGN EXHIBITION

FIAT 500 ON DISPLAY AT MUSEUM OF MODERN ART IN NEW YORK AS PART OF THE VALUE OF GOOD DESIGN EXHIBITION

Fiat 500 F series

Following last year’s acquisition of the Fiat 500 by The Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Fiat 500 F series will be on public display at the Museum for the first time from 10 February to 27 May, 2019, as a highlight of The Value of Good Design, an exhibition drawn from MoMA’s stellar collection of industrial design.

"500 is an icon of Italian style that never went out of fashion and that over the decades gained fans all around the world because of its key features and strong personality,” says Luca Napolitano, Head of EMEA Fiat and Abarth brands. “Since 1957, Fiat 500 has always brought colour and smiles to everyday lives on the roads of the world, becoming an ambassador of the ‘Bel Paese’ and an icon of style and design ‘made in Italy’.”

About Fiat 500

The model on display at MoMA will be a 500 F series, the most popular 500 ever, produced from 1965 to 1972. Counting the other versions (namely Sport, D, L and R) of the first generation, a total of more than four million cars were produced from 1957 to 1975. The car is a clear expression of form following function, a logical and economical use of materials, and a belief that quality design should be accessible to all. The development of inexpensive, reliable cars such as the Fiat 500  was essential for the motorization of the post-war European continent. Through its design and centrality to the story of mid-century Italy, the 500 embodies many of the principles that typified mid-century modernist design and connects it to themes explored in works throughout the Museum’s collection.

Commonly referred to as the ‘Cinquecento’, the Nuova 500 was designed by designer and engineer Dante Giacosa and launched in 1957. Giacosa, who joined Fiat in 1927, was responsible for many of the most important designs to emerge from the automaker during his 43-year career, including the original 500 ‘Topolino’ and the later 500 ‘Nuova’. A compact, rear-engined city car, the 500 was conceived as an economical car for the masses. Despite its small exterior dimensions, Giacosa’s design maximized interior volume, resulting in a surprisingly spacious interior that could accommodate four passengers. The standard-feature foldable fabric roof imbued this economy car with a sense of luxury while simultaneously reducing the amount of steel – a precious commodity at the time – necessary for the production of the car.

This undisputed success was followed up in 2007 with the launch of the new generation. Today's 500, just like its illustrious ancestor, immediately proved highly successful worldwide with an impressive array of prizes, including ‘Car of the Year’ and ‘Compasso d'or’.

The Value of Good Design

Featuring objects from domestic furnishings and appliances to ceramics, glass, electronics, transport design, sporting goods, toys, and graphics, The Value of Good Design (10 February to 27 May, 2019) explores the democratizing potential of design, beginning with MoMA’s Good Design initiatives from the late 1930s through the 1950s, which championed well-designed, affordable contemporary products. The concept of Good Design also took hold well beyond the Museum, with governments on both sides of the Cold War divide embracing it as a vital tool of social and economic reconstruction and technological advancement in the years following World War II, of which the Fiat 500 is a classic example. The exhibition also raises questions about what Good Design might mean today, and whether values from mid-century can be translated and redefined for a 21st-century audience. Visitors are invited to judge for themselves by trying out a few ‘good design’ classics still in production, and exploring how, through its design stores, MoMA continues to incubate new products and ideas in an international marketplace.

VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE OWNER OF 51 YEARS REUNITED WITH 'ANNIE' AFTER ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME RESTORATION

VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE OWNER OF 51 YEARS REUNITED WITH 'ANNIE' AFTER ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME RESTORATION

 Kathleen Brooks bought her first Beetle in December 1966 in Riverside, Calif.—a red 1967 model she quickly named “Annie.” Ever since, Annie has been Kathleen’s daily transportation, racking up more than 350,000 miles over 51 years, or enough to circle the globe 14 times, and Kathleen, now 73, still drives Annie to work. 

After hearing about Kathleen and Annie’s special relationship last year, Volkswagen’s North American Region undertook a unusual project—offering to restore Annie at the North American home of the Beetle at the Puebla, Mexico, factory. Over the past 11 months, a team of some 60 Volkswagen employees and trainees reworked Annie back to factory-quality specs, with several custom touches that celebrate Kathleen’s dedication. This week, Kathleen and Annie were reunited, and Kathleen met key members of the Volkswagen team that led the restoration.

“We often hear stories of dedicated Volkswagen owners, but there was something special about Kathleen and Annie that we felt we needed to honor,” said Derrick Hatami, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The original Beetle launched our business in the United States. This isn’t just a Beetle, it’s a member of her family, and after all the time our employees have spent with this special vehicle, we feel Annie is a part of our family as well.”

Brooks works with breast-cancer patients and survivors to provide comfort and cosmetic care during treatment and recovery. A three-time breast cancer survivor herself, Brooks says for over five decades Annie was a constant conversation starter with Beetle fans and owners, but also “always there for me.” “I’ve said many times she and I are so much alike because she’s old, she’s faded, she’s dinged, she’s dented, she’s rusted, but you know what? She keeps running,” says Brooks with a laugh. “And as long as I take as good care of her as I can, she’s going to continue to run.”

Even with Brooks’ best efforts, Annie had several needs when her restoration began in Puebla early this year, from a floor pan rusted through to the ground in spots to suspension, transmission and electrical challenges. Over 11 months, the Puebla team replaced roughly 40 percent of Annie’s parts and restored 357 original pieces, down to recreating the stickers that Brooks had added to the body and windows over the years. To properly restore her faded red paint, the team matched the original shade from the inside of the glovebox, sandblasted the body, repaired with a mix of period-correct and updated parts, and then reassembled.

Several parts of the vehicle were restored with better than their original factory parts, from the disc brakes that were an upgrade on later Beetles produced in Mexico to the AM/FM/Bluetooth stereo designed to mimic the look and feel of original Beetle radios. The wiring was completely redone; the transmission rebuilt and suspension upgraded. The engine was completely disassembled, cleaned, updated and rebuilt. Even the seats received a special touch, with “Kathleen” and “Annie” embroidered in a classic VW font over new leather. And to tie the car to the modern era, the car’s toolkit and jack was painted in deep sea teal metallic, the color of the 2018 Beetle Coast edition.

The goal, says project manager and mechatronics engineer Augusto Zamudio, was not to create a museum quality Beetle, but to bring Annie back to a state where Kathleen could drive and enjoy her for many more years to come.

“When Annie arrived, our team members quickly understood the connection Kathleen had with her car and embraced this project wholeheartedly,” said Steffen Reiche, CEO of Volkswagen of Mexico. “Restoring this car posed a number of challenges, but also provided a demonstration of the dedication we put into every Volkswagen we build.”

When Brooks parted with Annie, she wrote a heartfelt note to the Puebla team members thanking them for their efforts and asking them to take care of her special car. Zamudio says the feeling is mutual – and the team wrote Brooks back a note of their own.

“This was a labor of love for all of us. It was emotional to see Annie go after all the time we have spent working on her, but we are happy Kathleen and her can be reunited.”

BUGATTI’S DOMINANCE IN 1928

BUGATTI’S DOMINANCE IN 1928

90 years since the racing season packed with victories for the Type 35

From the very first day of the car manufacturer from Molsheim, the Bugatti myth was created mainly by motorsports. In this respect, 1928 was a special year for Bugatti. The rules had changed and the highly successful era of the Bugatti Type 35 had begun. This car strengthened the reputation of Bugatti over the decades and still does so today.

The open Bugatti Type 35B with an eight-cylinder engine, Roots supercharger and 140 PS was already considerably faster than 200 km/h 90 years ago. With more than 2,000 victories in Bugatti’s “golden decade”, this was probably the most successful racing car ever.

For 1928, the governing body of motorsports had planned seven international races, of which only two had actually taken place by the end of the season. For this reason, there was no official world champion in 1928. However, even without a championship to fight for, Bugatti racing cars won race after race. Of 26 races held in 1928, Bugatti drivers took first place in 23, including 11 Grands Prix and the Targa Florio, the world’s toughest road race, which was already famous 90 years ago.

Bugatti’s success in 1928 started with Tazio Nuvolari. The Italian, known as the “Flying Mantuan”, had begun his career as a motorcycle racer, before switching to cars in 1924. He won the Tripoli Grand Prix in March 1928 driving a Type 35C. On the same day, 11 March, Louis Chiron of Monaco, whose nickname was “old fox”, took first place on the Circuit d’Esterel Plage in France driving the same model. He had been a private entrant with Bugatti since 1925 and had joined the works team in 1927.

Two weeks later, Nuvolari outclassed the competition in Verona. In the following weeks, Chiron took several first places, for example at the Circuit de la Riviera and the Antibes Grand Prix with a Type 35C. Its 2.0-litre eight-cylinder equipped with a Roots supercharger developed about 125 PS and accelerated the racing car, which only weighed 750 kilograms, to a top speed of over 200 km/h.

Especially on winding circuits, Type 35 left its competitors standing thanks to its consistent lightweight design. At a very early stage, Ettore Bugatti already knew that power is important but lightweight is all-important. 90 years ago, he had major components of his racing cars including engine and transmission housings, bodywork and wheels, made from lightweight aluminium. The rules of the sport at that time only stated that racing cars must weigh between 550 and 750 kilograms; there were no rules on power output. Bugatti opted for a sturdy, powerful and reliable straight-eight and saved weight on other parts of the vehicle.

Louis Chiron became a new star with his outstanding Bugatti T35C. He drove from victory to victory, winning the Grands Prix of Rome, Marne, San Sebastian in Spain and Europe, held in Monza.

Alberto Divo was equally successful with the Bugatti Type 35B. In May 1928, he took first place in the Targa Florio, followed by Giuseppe Campari with an Alfa Romeo. However, the secret star of the race was Elisabeth Junek (Eliška Junková). In 1928, she entered this race against the best drivers of the time with a Bugatti Type 35B, attacking from the start and winning a number of exciting duels. For a long time, she was in first place in but lost the lead on the last lap as a result of a leaking water pump. Despite her fifth place, she was celebrated like a winner.

The Type 35B is powered by a straight-eight with a displacement of 2.3 litres and about 140 PS. The Roots blower rotates at the same speed as the crankshaft, forcing sufficient air into the combustion chambers without over-revving at high engine speeds. Alberto Divo raced around the circuits at up to 215 km/h with his Type 35 – 90 years ago.

Marcel Lehoux of France, who won the Algerian Grand Prix in May and the Tunisian Grand Prix in June, also with a Type 35C, was just as fast. Like Chiron, Lehoux chose a Bugatti as its first racing car. At the French Grand Prix in July, William Grover-Williams driving a Type 35C left the competition standing. Grover-Williams, an Englishman living in France, had joined the Bugatti works team in 1928 and took first place ahead of André Rousseau on the temporary circuit on public roads in the district of Comminges near Saint-Gaudens. The circuit was 27 kilometres long. At the end of the sports car race, after two hours and 27 minutes, Grover-Williams’ lead over the driver in second place was two minutes and 23 seconds.

Louis Chiron rounded off a successful season with the Italian Grand Prix in Monza in September. After three hours and 45 minutes, he crossed the finishing line in first place, with an average speed of almost 160 km/h. This was the last win in the season but not the last in international races. In 1929, Bugatti was able to continue its success and to forge even closer ties between the brand and motorsport.

FOR THE FIRST TIME A SPECIALLY FORMULATED CERAMIC COATING HAS BEEN PRODUCED FOR CLASSIC VEHICLES

FOR THE FIRST TIME A SPECIALLY FORMULATED CERAMIC COATING HAS BEEN PRODUCED FOR CLASSIC VEHICLES

For the first time a specially formulated ceramic coating and its aftercare products have been produced for Classic vehicles.

The product is put through its paces on a famous rally

The ceramic coating has had the ultimate test last weekend when a 1965 Porsche 911 SWB is driven by Stephen Owens with navigator Nick Bloxham who works as Workshop Manager at CMC in Bridgnorth took part in the gruelling Le Jog Rally organised by Hero Events which saw 70 classic cars driving from Land’s End to John O’Groats in just three days.

Nigel Woodward, Managing Director of CMC said: “We have tested this product for the last few months and it has proved to be fantastic for Classic Cars, so much so that we are now launching it as a new range of CMC ‘Classic Guard’ coatings and after-care products.”

“However, we thought that putting it through its paces on Hero’s Le Jog, which is recognised as being one of the toughest winter rallies in the world would be the ultimate test and it has stood up to it really well.”

Dan Brown, Lead Vehicle Detailer at CMC said: "I have tried a lot of products over the years but nothing comes close to the performance of Classic Guard. The technology makes other waxes and sealants look like they are from the dark ages. I'm really pleased that we are able to pioneer this technology in the classic car world and it's great to work with a product that I have so much confidence in". 

And when the cars stopped at Telford for their first overnight stop both driver and navigator were very pleased with the results. Nick Bloxham said: “ This is one of the most testing rallies in the world and it is giving the driver great confidence that his car is being protected from rain, mud, salt and anything else that this really can throw at it.”

CMC who have received awards worldwide for their superlative restorations have worked closely with Alpha Nano Developments Ltd. to produce the CMC “Classic Guard”, protective coating, as well as a range of ceramic infused after-care products using cutting-edge Nanotechnology that will ‘preserve’ classic cars for future generations.

David Smith, Global Business Development Director of Alpha Nano Developments Ltd. said: “We have been providing specialist, protective coatings to a wide variety of clients across the automotive industry - it’s been great that through our collaboration with CMC, we have further developed these products to safeguard classic cars into the future.”

The CMC “Classic Guard” coating is designed to preserve paintwork, bare metals, wheels and even glass against degradation from pollution as well as environmental damage, corrosion and soiling.

The “Classic Guard” after-care products include shampoo, quick detailing spray and ceramic infused wax which is designed to work in harmony with the professionally applied protective coating to further prolong the life of the original paintwork. These products have also designed to be used as stand-alone products for uncoated vehicles to give an additional level of lustre and gloss, leaving any vehicle, whether professionally coated or otherwise with a first-class premium finish.

DRIVERS NEED TO ‘SPRUCE UP’ THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF CHRISTMAS TREE LAWS OR FACE FINES AND POINTS, SURVEY REVEALS

DRIVERS NEED TO ‘SPRUCE UP’ THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF CHRISTMAS TREE LAWS OR FACE FINES AND POINTS, SURVEY REVEALS

Three-quarters of British motorists have little or no idea about the laws for safely transporting Christmas trees, according to a survey carried out by Fiat Professional.

And around half are planning to buy a real tree for when they deck the halls. But bringing it home could land drivers with three penalty points on their licence, or an unlimited fine.

According to the Fiat Professional research, only 25 per cent of British adults say they know the rules regarding transporting Christmas trees safely on the road. 

And while there is no specific mention of the festive firs in the Highway Code, there is a section about loading your vehicle correctly and safely, which is appropriate at Yule time.

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency spokesman said: “A dangerously loaded vehicle will incur an instant three penalty points on your licence, along with an uncapped fine.” That means drivers could face a bill of thousands of pounds if they get needled.        

Around six per cent of drivers admit they have previously transported a tree in a manner which ‘may have contravened the rules of the road’ by leaving the tree hanging out of their vehicle, while an astonishing 25 per cent admit to just ‘throwing it in the car’ and not securing it. A further five per cent carry the tree home on the roof of their car, irrespective of whether or not they have a roof rack, securing it with rope or ratchet straps.

Where the tree is longer than the vehicle, the Highway Code clearly states that the overhanging load should feature a reflective flag to warn other motorists, while it mustn’t obscure the driver’s vision of the road.

Drivers of the new Fiat Professional Fullback and Fullback Cross won’t have this problem though. With comfortable seating for five and a cargo bed space of 1520mm (length) and 1470mm (width), the whole family can go out for the traditional Christmas tree buying trip, and bring it home safely and legally.

“The Highway Code clearly states that drivers must not overload their vehicle and must secure any load so that it doesn’t stick out dangerously,” says Richard Chamberlain, Head of Brand, Fiat Professional UK.

“The Fiat Fullback would certainly give owners plenty of space to carry a large tree, even if it had to be tied down, which can be done easily and safely with the Fullback’s load space. And as an added bonus, drivers won’t get stuck in the snow if it’s a white Christmas this year. The Fullback comes as standard with 4x4 transmission – with diff lock on the Cross versions.”

Pricing for the Fiat Fullback starts at £21,995 (ex VAT) for the 150HP Manual SX, rising to £27,995 (ex VAT) for the 180HP Auto Cross.

RARE AND UNUSUAL CARS AUCTIONED OFF FOR NEW TV SERIES

RARE AND UNUSUAL CARS AUCTIONED OFF FOR NEW TV SERIES

October Films are making a brand-new TV car restoration series. Motoring journalists and car fanatics Jonny Smith and Tom ‘Wookie’ Ford, together with Tim Glover from classic/custom car workshop RoadHouse Motor Co. have been on the hunt for affordable rare and unusual cars across Europe.

Ten cars have been transported back to the UK and partially restored, in order to bring them up to a standard the guys were happy to sell them at.

As part of the show's filming, the vehicles will be auctioned off on Sunday 2nd December 2018 in Stamford, Lincolnshire and there’s no reserve price! 

The cars up for auction include 1964 Seat 600D, 1975 Seat 133, 1987 Range Rover Series 1, 1980 Ford Fiesta, 1976 Ford Escort Estate, 1977 Ford Taunus, 1988 VW Jetta, 1978 Opel Kadett C, 1988 Renault 4F6 and 1971 Toyota Carina. 

If you’re interested in bidding or promoting the auction, please email katie.johnson@octoberfilms.co.uk or visit stamfordcarauction.com for more information.

We welcome those who want to attend the auction day, but there will also be the opportunity to bid via phone. Viewing of the cars will be from 9am - 10am and the auction will run from 10am - 3pm.

NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM’S LAND SPEED RECORD BREAKERS INSPIRE LUXURY SCARF COLLECTION

NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM’S LAND SPEED RECORD BREAKERS INSPIRE LUXURY SCARF COLLECTION

Bluebird

Icons of Speed

The National Motor Museum Trust at Beaulieu is delighted to announce a new motoring-inspired collection of silk scarves and pocket squares, based on iconic Land Speed Record breaking vehicles on display in the museum.

Three eye-catching designs have been launched by luxury scarf brand David Watson, as a result of an innovative Arts Council England funded project called Creative Commercial Collections. Led by Hampshire Cultural Trust, the project engaged with creatives to celebrate Hampshire’s rich heritage and produce high-quality products. The collaboration has resulted in a series of inventive designs, all inspired by the outstanding collections held across the county.

National Motor Museum Director of Collections Andrea Bishop said: “This was an exciting opportunity to use our world-famous collections in a refreshingly different way. The project enabled us to invite designers and artists to find inspiration in our world Land Speed Record breaking cars, to create designs that would suit high-quality commercial products. Each of these very special cars is a design icon and so were a compelling choice for this creative initiative. David Watson have added three new designs made for the National Motor Museum to their luxurious range of silk scarves and pocket squares.”

Sir Henry Segrave’s 1929 Golden Arrow inspired artist Mariska Parent’s Art Deco design, which celebrate the car’s strong lines and sweeping curves in rich colours to characterise the era. Donald Campbell’s 1961 Bluebird CN7 is represented in Liz Lippiatt’s interpretive design which shows the car morphing into a bluebird amid yellow tonal shapes which evoke the arid environment of Lake Eyre, Australia where the record was set.

Winchester-based creative studio Marmalade on Toast has produced a fresh, contemporary design using features from both the 1920 350hp and 1927 1000hp Sunbeams, as well as the Golden Arrow and Bluebird CN7, in a colourful, geometric pattern called Icons of Speed.

Samuel David Watson Petty, founder of New Forest-based David Watson, said: “I am so pleased to add these designs to my range of silk accessories. They are inspired by the National Motor Museum’s iconic cars and are a perfect match for our British made products.”

The National Motor Museum Trust, a charitable organisation, will receive a modest royalty from the sale of the scarves, along with the creatives who designed them.

The collection of pure silk and silk and cotton blend scarves and pocket squares is available from the Visitor Reception Gift Shop at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu as well as the David Watson website at www.davidwatson.uk/nmm-shop. Prices start from £25 and range to £160.

HAGERTY PRICE GUIDE REPORTS 1% GROWTH OF CLASSIC CAR MARKET

HAGERTY PRICE GUIDE REPORTS 1% GROWTH OF CLASSIC CAR MARKET

December 2018 Hagerty Price Guide update shows market grew by 1.07% since April, with 52% of tracked vehicles rising and 26% falling in value.

Hagerty, the classic car insurer and valuation experts, has just released the latest update to its market-leading UK Hagerty Price Guide (HPG) which can be seen in its entirety online here. The HPG tracks over 40,000 individual values of over 2,000 classic car models, using data collected from auctions, insured values and private sale prices.

The HPG’s Classic Index, containing fifty of the most popular UK classics (list here), showed an overall average increase of 1.07% since April 2018. This is the smallest periodic increase since the UK HPG was started in 2012. Other headlines include:

• 52% of models rose and 26% of models dropped in
• Biggest drops were in cars that were relatively cheap for a long time, rose rapidly, and have now settled back. For example:
  • Aston Martin Lagonda Series I: -11.9%
  • Ferrari 308 GTB Standard: -10.7%
  • Ferrari Testarossa: -7.6%
  • Willys MB Jeep: -8.6%
• Risers tended to be cars that combined sensible values with practicality and style:
  • Lancia Fulvia Sport Zagato 1.6: +5%
  • Mazda MX-5 1.6i: +8.5%
  •  Fiat 500 F: +4.3%

• Other popular cars rose at a steadier rate:
  • Aston Martin DBS Vantage: +1.6%
  • MGB-GT V8: +0.4%
  • VW Beetle 1200 (oval window): +0.9%
• Some cars that had risen steeply over the last few years are now flat:
  • Ford Capri Mk III 2.8i: no change
  • Mini Cooper 1275S: no change
  • Porsche 911 (930) Turbo: no change

Analysis

Angus Forsyth, MD of Hagerty International, gave the following statement:

“It's clear the market is currently in a state of flux, although we believe prices are correcting rather than anything else. The biggest percentage drops are in those cars that rose rapidly in value over the last few years: early Jaguar E-Types, classic Aston Martins and 1980s Ferraris have all been particularly affected. For example, the Aston Martin DB4 Saloon has dropped by around 3.5% (average value now £385,500 from £399,500).”

“We’ve also seen some of these models struggle at auction. For example, we’ve noted six no-sales at auction since August of early ‘flat floor’ Jaguar E-Types (including two desirable ‘outside bonnet lock’ cars).”

“We’ve also noted a disparity between sold values and advertised values for those cars that have dropped. For example, the average price of a Ferrari Testarossa sold at a major UK/European auction this year was £87,800 with the most expensive being a car that sold for £111,886 including commission (Artcurial). In the US, these figures are similar with an average of £85,300 and a top value of £120,710 (RM Sotheby’s) and fall in line with the HPG Condition 3 (good) and Condition 2 (excellent) values of £78,100 and £119,000 respectively. However, when we looked at advertised values the average is £116,000 and the top advertised value is £199,950*. We believe that some sellers’ expectations are still higher than the market will bear, and we caution against using advertised values as a guide to valuing your car for insurance purposes or otherwise. That said, this autumn, we have seen many of the UK auction houses setting realistic guide prices which their customers seem to be accepting; this is good for the market in the long run.”

“The Porsche market is interesting. Porsche 911 values have generally followed the same trajectory as those noted above (swift rise followed by correction) but the market is 6 months to a year ahead of other cars. For example, two years ago values of Porsche 911T hit their peak. This time last year they had dropped by around 10% (our top value was £80,900), but now are climbing back up again (current top value £87,200). On the other hand, Porsche 924 values are on the rise: one very low mileage, pristine example sold for an astonishing £42,000 at the RM Sotheby’s Porsche Anniversary Sale in the US. While the HPG hasn’t reflected what is considered to be an anomaly for this car, we’ve seen plenty of more run-of- the-mill examples of the 924 achieve strong sales.”

‘The 924 is an example of a classic that combines style and value for money with usability. Enthusiasts, and we believe this is especially true of those who have bought their first classic in the last few years, like cars that drive more like a modern car, have good parts supply and can be used for different events such as taking the family to a show or road rallying. Lancia Fulvia coupes, Alfa Romeo 105-series cars, Fiat 500s, early Ford Escorts and BMW 2002s all fit this description and have all continued to rise in value.”

Marketing Director Marcus Atkinson also noted: “We’re continuing to expand the UK Price Guide and it remains free to access online. In this update we added over 60 new model guides to the hundreds already in the guide, providing historic information and buying tips. We’re constantly revising the guide and aim to update it quarterly.”

*Average values based on published values of 11 cars sold at auction in the UK and Europe and 14 cars sold in the US in 2018, including costs and commission. Advertised values based on all 35 cars with prices displayed advertised on www.carandclassic.co.ukon 13 Nov 2018.

THE CHRISTMAS GIFT THAT JUST KEEPS ON GIVING

THE CHRISTMAS GIFT THAT JUST KEEPS ON GIVING…

The festive season is fast approaching and tickets for what’s going to be an exceptionally merry 2019 Silverstone Classic (26-28 July) are the perfect Christmas present for family and friends.

Tickets to the Classic really are gifts that just keep on giving! Bringing great joy on receipt, then seven months of unbridled anticipation, before giving the lucky beneficiary an unforgettable experience at one of next summer’s premier fun-fuelled car-themed festivals.

Suiting all Yuletide pockets, a wide range of 2019 tickets are available from affordable stocking fillers to full hospitality packages for under the Christmas tree. 

Making present buying even easier and more attractive, all tickets are available online with the bonus of significant Super Early Bird discounts if purchased now. Adding to the convenience and presentation, a bespoke Gift Certificate can be downloaded from silverstoneclassic.com/gift-certificate for printing out and personalising all ready for giving on Christmas Day.

While the Classic boasts unrivalled on-track action packed with the world’s largest retro-racing grids, the massive three-day festival is also loaded with flat-out family fun to richly entertain all those lucky enough to be given tickets.

The cars are the stars at the Classic and in addition to the spectacular motor racing featuring more glorious and great sounding motor sport history than can be relished anywhere else on the planet, there will be record-breaking displays, epic parades of classic cars, and even the opportunity to buy a cherished model from yesteryear at the popular Silverstone Auctions sale.

There’s also plenty on offer for all ages with a vintage funfair, crazy golf, an Adrenaline Zone, rubber-burning action from the Streetcar Shootouts, air displays, a host of different interactive driving activities plus live rock music concerts.

Ensuring there are not any ‘batteries not included’ disappointments on the big day, all Classic tickets give access to both racing paddocks, all open trackside grandstands, the live music performances, air shows, vintage funfair rides and the vast majority of the epic family entertainment running alongside the non-stop on-track thrills.

“Half the fun of Christmas is finding wonderful and unusual presents that aren’t just quickly overlooked novelties,” said Silverstone Classic CEO, Nick Wigley. “Give someone Classic tickets and they’ll spend the next seven months dreaming about all the excitement that lies ahead. Then afterwards they’ll have some truly great memories of what’s going to be another unforgettable festival. The Classic is the gift that just keeps on giving!”

What’s more, those inspired to buy tickets before the end of December can take advantage of the Super Early Bird offer with savings of up to 22 per cent on Standard tickets – a big bonus for everyone seeking special Christmas presents.

Adult admission starts at just £35 with the price of the three-day weekend ticket frozen at £99 until the end of the year. Full details of all ticket prices – including Parc Fermé and Clubhouse hospitality packages, the RetroRun experience and camping – can be found on the silverstoneclassic.com website. 

WINNERS CELEBRATE AT GUILD OF MOTORING WRITERS AWARDS 2018

WINNERS CELEBRATE AT GUILD OF MOTORING WRITERS AWARDS 2018

Guild Awards 2018 - Winners

Award-winning motoring journalists, photographers, broadcasters and authors from the UK and Europe were honoured at the Guild of Motoring Writers’ Annual Awards on Thursday 29 November at the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall, London.

A record-breaking total of 284 submissions (the most ever received in the 74-year history of the Guild) was entered in the professional categories, with further entries for aspiring young journalists and those making a special contribution to motoring and motorsport. Formula 1 commentator Ben Edwards was Master of Ceremonies for the awards.

The prized ‘Journalist of the Year’ title, supported by Renault, was awarded to John Evans who was singled out for his work that provided brilliant takes on interesting yet under-reported or simply unknown areas of the industry. Erin Baker was second with Christofer Lloyd in third.

The top Motoring Photographer was named as Drew Gibson, while the Motorsport Photographer of the Year was, for the second year running, Jakob Ebrey.

The Mercedes-Benz Montagu of Beaulieu trophy, for the best recording of the history of motoring in the English language, was collected by prolific author and noted Guild historian Karl Ludvigsen, for his comprehensive two-volume history of Reid Railton. Jonathan Wood and Graham Rabagliati were second and third.

In a closely-fought contest, the Newspress Young Writer of the Year was collected by Jack Phillips for a series of innovative reports with fresh angles and clever ideas – such as how the world of gaming is impacting on driver skills on the race track.

The ever-popular Feature Writer of the Year category, sponsored by British Car Auctions, attracted a massive 42 entries. The winner was Richard Webber for a feature that combined a road test with a visit to Jim Clark’s hometown.

Staying with motorsport, the Peugeot Motorsport Cup was won by Germany-based overseas Guild member Vaishali Dinakaran for her varied work in the field – including driving a Renault Formula 1 race car.

Courage and endurance are two of the qualities looked for in the Guild’s Driver of the Year. This year, these were very much in evidence from winner Billy Monger, who battled back from a horrific accident which resulted in him losing both legs, to return to single-seater racing. He received a standing ovation as he walked to the stage to collect his award.

Collecting the Rider of the Year trophy was British Superbike runner-up and soon to be Moto2 contender Jake Dixon.

Away from the world of journalism, the Guild’s award for a Special Contribution to Motoring, sponsored by Kia, was presented to Matthew Avery, head of research at Thatcham, for their contribution over 50 years to vehicle safety and security.

Author and Guild Benevolent fund-raiser Giles Chapman was recognised for his work over many years with the Pemberton Tankard.

The final presentation of the night was the President’s Trophy which was awarded to Aston Martin president and chief executive Dr Andy Palmer for his work in reviving the fortunes of the famous British brand.

GUILD AWARDS 2018 – WINNERS AND HIGHLY COMMENDED

AA Campaigning Journalist of the Year

Winner: Alex Grant

Highly Commended: Louise Cole and Maria McCarthy

GOMW Photographer of the Year – General

Winner: Drew Gibson

Highly Commended: Olgun Kordal and Matt Howell

GOMW Photographer of the Year – Motorsport

Winner: Jakob Ebrey

Highly Commended: Kel Edge and Jayson Fong

British Car Auctions Feature Writer of the Year

Winner: Richard Webber

Highly Commended: James Taylor and Rachel Boagey

Peter James Insurance Editor of the Year

Winner: Laurie Caddell

Highly Commended: Ben Klemenzson and Chris Rees

GKN Driveline Consumer Journalist of the Year

Winner: Claire Evans

Highly Commended: Maria McCarthy and Christofer Lloyd

IAM RoadSmart Safety Award

Winner: David Williams

Highly Commended: Louise Cole and Gustavo Ruffo

Market Engineering Award for Automotive Technology Journalism

Winner: Nick Hull

Highly Commended: Jorn Madslien and John Evans

Mercedes-Benz Award for the Montagu of Beaulieu Trophy

First: Karl Ludvigsen

Second: Jonathan Wood

Third: Graham Rabagliati

Newspress Young Writer of the Year

Winner: Jack Phillips

Highly Commended: Alex Kalinauckas and Sophie Williamson-Stothert

Peugeot Motorsport Cup

Winner: Vaishali Dinakaran

Highly Commended: James Taylor and Dan Trent

Prova PR Business Writer of the Year

Winner: Nick Gibbs

Highly Commended: Lem Bingley and Martin Kahl

Renault UK / The Guild of Motoring Writers’ Journalist of the Year

First: John Evans

Second: Erin Baker

Third: Christofer Lloyd

RM Sotheby’s Classic Writer of the Year

Winner: Mick Walsh

Highly Commended: Sam Dawson and Greg MacLeman

Guild Driver of the Year

Billy Monger

Guild Rider of the Year

Jake Dixon

President’s Trophy

Dr Andy Palmer (President and CEO, Aston Martin)

Special Commendation for a Contribution to Motoring sponsored by Kia

Thatcham Research

Phil Llewellin Student Journalist of the Year sponsored by CAR

Winner: Emily Macbeth

Highly Commended: Guy Hirst and Jake Horton

Sir William Lyons Award sponsored by Jaguar

Winner: Luke Chillingsworth

Highly Commended: Nathan Hine and Alex Whitworth

Pemberton Trophy

Giles Chapman

THE FINEST SELECTION OF MOTORING ART CHRISTMAS CARDS

THE FINEST SELECTION OF MOTORING ART CHRISTMAS CARDS

Motorgifts is offering the finest ever selection of classic car Christmas cards, with a special pack of 10 assorted cards which have been painted by some of Britain’s leading motoring artists.

The pack includes classic Aston Martin, Austin Healey, Jaguar, MG and Morris Minor themed cards, plus others featuring a range of colourful and evocative scenes from the golden age of motoring.

All the cards have been painted by such highly regarded automotive artists as Kevin Walsh, Trevor Mitchell and Richard Wheatland and contain an outstanding level of detail of the cars which are featured.

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Motorists prides itself on its high-quality of customer service and guarantees that all Christmas card orders received by 3pm are despatched by 1st class post the same day (Monday to Friday) to ensure rapid delivery.

 

FREE 2019 DESK-TOP CLASSIC CAR CALENDAR WITH ANY 2 PACKS

As a very special additional offer, Motorgifts is also giving away a high-quality 2019 A5 size classic British car desk calendar with the purchase of any two or more packs of cards.

 

100s MORE CHRISTMAS MOTORING GIFTS AVAILABLE

Motorgifts.co.uk is the original online motoring gift shop and stocks hundreds of individual items, with prices ranging from just £1.99 for a car shaped air fresheners and motoring themed bookmarks, to several hundred pounds for limited edition motoring prints and sculptures.

The full range of products can be viewed at www.motorgifts.co.uk, which also features numerous special Christmas offers.

The Christmas cards cost just £9.99 per pack of 10 (+P&P) and can either be purchased online or by calling 01625-520322.