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Keep up to date with the latest news and events from the world of classic cars.
Audi Quattro buyer's guide
- 22nd August, 2022
"Fire up the Quattro!" became a much-loved catchphrase as the time-travelling, 1980s-set cop drama Ashes to Ashes dominated the TV schedules back in 2008-2010. The show's huge popularity had an interesting range of consequences, among them a renewed interest in the music and fashions of a (sometimes unfairly maligned) decade.
What will happen to classic cars when petrol is banned?
- 19th August, 2022
For all UK car owners, there is one very significant deadline coming fairly quickly down the track. That is the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles, which is due to come into effect from 2030.
Modern classic: the Vauxhall Astra
- 19th August, 2022
We’re here to celebrate an absolute mainstay of British motoring for over 40 years. Yes, the Vauxhall Astra has maintained its position, across its eight generations to date, as one of the UK's most popular family hatchbacks.
Modern classic cars in 2022 for first time owners
- 18th August, 2022
So, you're thinking of buying your first classic car. Exciting times! But what motor from yesteryear will suit you best?
Best caravan and campervan pitches in 2022
- 17th August, 2022
If you've spent time in your campervan, you’ll know the UK is blessed with legions of wonderful, campervan-friendly campsites. These range from basic – a toilet and a shower block – to pampering, with onsite restaurants, kids' playrooms and more. Here are just a few of our favourites from around the UK.
How to drive on the autobahn
- 17th August, 2022
Think of the word ‘autobahn’ and what mental image springs to mind? Chances are that it's either a certain hypnotic groove by German synth pioneers Kraftwerk… or a luxurious German saloon cruising down a well-maintained motorway, with no care for the speed limit. Yes, as many motorists know, the autobahn system – Germany's motorway network – has certain sections where no speed limit is in place. That, according to your driving personality (and the car you drive), probably either sounds quite exciting or somewhat frightening.
How to register a vehicle of historic interest
- 16th August, 2022
As we've discussed elsewhere on this blog, once a car becomes 40 years old it becomes eligible for what's known as 'Vehicle of Historical Interest' status. In most, although (as we are about to see) not all cases, this means that the owner of the vehicle no longer has to pay vehicle tax on the car, or submit it for an annual MOT.
The Renault 4 Plein Air – A Celebration
- Andrew Roberts |
- 10th August, 2022
It is the late 1960s, and you are hip, groovy, and generally “with-it”. You also crave beach transport with greater comfort than the Mini Moke can hope to offer, and Renault is now offering an open-top version of the 4 – the Plein Air.
THE FIAT X1/9 AT 50
- Andrew Roberts |
- 10th August, 2022
Fifty years ago, Fiat introduced three important new models – the 126, the 132, and a small mid-engine sports car greeted with some apprehension by many a Triumph and MG dealer.
THE CORGI SAINT VOLVO – THE FIRST BRITISH DIE-CAST FILM/TV SPIN-OFF
- Andrew Roberts |
- 10th August, 2022
Virtually all die-cast model enthusiasts know that 1965 was the year of the Corgi ‘James Bond Aston Martin DB5’ - but it was not their first film/TV spin-off.
MEET THE OWNER – BILLY MAXWELL AND HIS VAUXHALL MAGNUM SPORTSHATCH
- Andrew Roberts |
- 5th August, 2022
“Just 197 were produced, making it the lowest number production model. Its rarity is added to as Vauxhall never produced brochures or price lists. Dealers were offered them as company cars not for sale direct to the public although many found their way onto the forecourt”.
BERNARD CRIBBINS 29TH DECEMBER 1928 – 22ND JULY 2022
- Andrew Roberts |
- 5th August, 2022
During the 1980s, it seemed an unofficial rule of BBC television that Daleks’ Invasion Earth 2150 A.D. had to be scheduled during school holidays.
What Is A Cabriolet? The Best 80’s & 90’s Cabriolets For The Summer
- 4th August, 2022
For anyone not aware of cabriolet cars, the word derives from French origin and refers to vehicles that have either a hard or a soft-top retractable roof; or as you may have heard to these types of vehicles called a convertible.
PADDY HOPKIRK MBE 14th APRIL 1933 – 21ST JULY 2022
- Andrew Roberts |
- 3rd August, 2022
In 1964 some 299 cars were poised to take part in the Monte Carlo Rally including six BMC factory Mini Coopers. Their competition was fierce, with British Fords, Chryslers, Citroëns, Mercedes-Benzs, Saabs, Sunbeams, and Volvos due to take part. As for the favourites, Motor Sport observed
