by Darren Rungasamy
17. March 2010 06:16
Race retro celebrates Alfa Romeo's centenary and the 30th anniversary of Audi Quattro at this year’s event. Now in its 7th year there are 3 days of classic motorsport action and historic racing with appearances from various motoring legends, not only can you see incredibly rare racing cars but you can also meet the drivers who took them to victory. Asides from the outdoor rally stage, punters are treated to 3 halls of static displays with cars, bikes, engineering and restoration companies, parts, model cars, magazines, everything you need for a petrol heads weekend out.
Asides from the mouth watering selection of cars, many famous drivers not only attended but also drove their works car on the rally stage. The audience were treated to hell for leather antics with Stig Blomqvist in his S1 Audi Quattro and British Rally Champion Keith Cronin driving an ex-prodrive Aston Martin . Other memorable cars featured included a very quick Chevrolet 302 small block engined 800kg South African Vauxhall Firenza as well as several flying Lancias, Ferraris and Escorts. Another interesting cars on the stage was an ex-BTCC Alfa 147, ex-works recently restored and re-liveried Rothsmans Porsche 911, a very rare Peugeot 106 Maxi as well as famous Group B cars such as the MG 6R4, Opel Manta and Peugeot 205 T16.
Much appreciation and fondness was evident as Russell brookes drove several of the ‘Andrews Heat for Hire cars’ in their distinctive yellow liveries. Also driven in anger was the 1972 East African Safari Triumph 2.5PI, piloted by Brian Culcheth.
As well as the live action, Alfa Romeo had an impressive selection of cars over their 100 year history from priceless historic racing cars to almost extinct 1980’s saloons. There was also a good selection of Audi Quattro cars on display, again attracting much attention and recognition. As to be expected the public also brought in their own cars, many of which were allowed to park within the enclosure.
The weather just about held out over the weekend, and despite some signs that winter still hasn’t left us, this was a fine start back into classic sports car events. The entry costs were reasonable, considering the scope of static and live action and the potential to grow can only increase as word gets around.
You can see our fine selection of photos from the event on our Flickr photostream.
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