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1970 Ferrari leads Classic Car Auctions £2.6M Sale

CLASSIC CAR AUCTIONS SALE IS LED BY 1970 FERRARI

This weekend’s Classic Car Auctions sale at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show, was as popular as ever. With British classics and restoration projects still exciting the show’s enthusiast audience.

80s and 90s cars also sold strongly at the first CCA sale of 2023, but as always, it was quality and rarity that led the pack as a Ferrari 365 GT 2+2, a 1970 Austin Mini 1275 GT and a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, detailed below, proved.

This elegant Ferrari, a right-hand drive low mileage car, benefitted from an older restoration, but was fresh to market. Offered at No Reserve, it was the star turn at the Classic Car Auction which saw 80% of the 234 cars find buyers in a sale that totalled £2.6m.

CLASSIC CAR AUCTIONS SALE IS LED BY 1970 FERRARI

The ultimate grand cruiser of its day and still a superb car for any Ferrari enthusiast, this fabulous, four-seat 365 GT has been in a private collection for years. A rare car with only approximately 800 built of which only 52 were right-hand drive, so who knows how many of these right-hand drive models still exist! With just 40,000 miles covered it makes it all the more desirable.

Simon Langsdale, of Classic Car Auctions, who sourced the Ferrari, says of it: “Understated and elegant are not words often associated with Ferrari, but they’re certainly fitting when describing the 365 GT. As far as classic Ferraris go, the 365 GT 2+2 is about as driver friendly as they come. It was the first Ferrari to feature standard power steering and brakes for the American market, an independent self-levelling rear suspension, and optional A/C. Other classic Ferraris are intimidating, the 365 GT is inviting.”

CLASSIC CAR AUCTIONS SALE IS LED BY 1970 FERRARI

The 1970 Austin Mini 1275 GT garage-find sold at an astonishing price, which was built on substantial pre-sale interest. A dusty orange garage-find Mini that emerged after 33 years in darkness, estimated to make £10,000-£12,000, rocketed to £39,100, showing once again that the British love affair with the Mini is far from over.

A remarkable ‘garage find’, one owner from new and just 11,836 miles on the clock, one can only wonder why its owner garaged it for three decades. But its discovery patently delighted the Mini enthusiasts at the sale.

A 1979 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, 44 years in current ownership, 15,500 miles and one of the best examples CCA have seen, sold for £39,950 which is in the top records for a Shiver Shadow II.

CLASSIC CAR AUCTIONS SALE IS LED BY 1970 FERRARI

Arwel Richards, the Rolls and Bentley specialist at Classic Car Auctions, part of the Silverstone Auctions Group said: “A fantastic result for a fabulous car and it shows that a top condition Shadow can still command the respect and money they once did when new. I’m pleased to confirm that the car was bought by a true enthusiast as a gift for his brother. Our vendor’s family are thrilled it’s gone to a good home. A “mint” Shadow is 24ct in the eyes of a connoisseur.”

CCA will now be consigning for their Summer Sale on the 17th June at the Warwickshire Event Centre and sister company Silverstone Auctions are inviting entries of classic, iconic and supercars for their May sale at Supercar Fest on the 20th May.

Find more info:
Classic Car Auctions
Silverstone Auctions

Join the club:
Ferrari Owners Club of Great Britain


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Wheeler Dealers bags a Porsche project

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Wheeler Dealers bags a Porsche project

Wheeler Dealers Porsche 911

As a fan of Porsche 911s, Mike couldn’t resist the temptation of one that needed plenty of work. What would Elvis make of it, though?

Mike loves a Porsche, and a few of them have found their way into the Wheeler Dealers workshop over the years, including his favourite 911s. But it’s fair to say that none of them looked quite like this one…

A trailer was needed to needed to collect this abandoned project, a 1981 Porsche 3.0 SC that had cost Mike £27,000. It certainly needed plenty of work and he wasn’t sure what Elvis would make of it, but with plans to make it the perfect daily-driver the opportunity was too good to miss.

 Porsche 911 Wheeler Dealers

Fortunately, the master mechanic could see the potential lurking beneath the dusty, half-finished Porsche and he did enjoy the drive on the private roads surrounding the workshop.  But it was time to get stuck-in and return this brilliant sports car to its best, and that started with the bodywork.

Replacing the corroded front wings was going to be too expensive, so some clever repairs were called for instead. Hours were spent measuring, fabricating and welding to get them looking perfect and with that done he could think about the flat-six engine.

In the meantime Mike went to see the experts at Ricky Evans Motorsport as he had a plan when it came to replacing the missing Porsche windscreen. A heated screen would be the perfect upgrade, and it was fascinating watching it being made – it was clever stuff. And at £360 including electrical work and fitting it was cracking value.

Now that the engine was out Elvis could set about a thorough overhaul that would ensure the air-cooled motor was fit for many more miles. Discovering the common problem of broken cylinder head studs, he opted for upgraded items and then got on with replacing the timing chain, guides and tensioners and carefully setting the valve timing. All of that work set the boys back almost £1800 but it was definitely worth it.

An easier job was giving the psychedelic Pasha trim a thorough clean. It’s a design that’s not everyone’s cup of tea but it perfectly suited this ‘80s SC. And then it was time for another upgrade, this time an improvement to the brakes that would ensure this potent Porsche would stop as well as it went.

Elvis had decided that bigger front brake discs and larger, uprated six-piston calipers were needed and it didn’t take him long to fit the new parts. And the good news was that the classic Fuchs wheels could be retained.

The project was on the home-straight, and it was just a matter of refitting the engine, body panels and interior. Discovering headlamps that were stuck on main beam wasn’t a major problem, and a quick repair to the steering column stalk was all that was needed to get things working perfectly.

A fantastic test drive in the snowy Cairngorms was the perfect ending – that heated windscreen was very welcome – and it was time for the Porsche to find a new home. Almost £33,000 had been spent in total but this desirable classic was always going to grab plenty of attention, and buyer, Brendan, had no hesitation in paying the full asking price of £36,000.  We don’t blame him…

Porsche 911 Wheeler Dealers

Mike says: “Wheeler dealers has always had a successful run with every Porsche we’ve had through the workshop. Having owned several and being a massive fan of the 911 SC body, when one appeared on the radar, I couldn’t resist snapping it up, even though it seemed like only half the car was there.

It’s always difficult to finish somebody else’s project, but fortunately Elvis was beaming when he knew there was an 911 for him to work on.
What finished it off for us was that incredible Pasha interior and the fact that we got to experience the Porsche in its happy place, on incredible the roads in the Cairngorms.
I know we sold the car too cheap, but we were up against a deadline and to this day I regret letting it go for 10 grand less than I knew I could get.”

Find more info:
discovery UK – Wheeler Dealers

Join the Club:
Porsche Club Great Britain
Porsche Enthusiasts Club


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Rust and Restoration celebrated at NEC Restoration Show

Rust and Restoration celebrated at NEC Restoration Show

NEC Restoration Show

This year’s Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show, with discovery+, welcomed 26,872 attendees to Birmingham’s NEC for a three day festival of rust and restoration.

Around 160 car clubs from across the UK showcased their members’ vehicles from barn finds to fully restored classics, whilst offering demonstrations and live working on restoration projects. Enthusiasts were shown a wide range of skills from body work and welding to engine rebuilds and wiring systems.

Show Director Lee Masters said: “The friendly values of the show shone through with the car clubs going above and beyond to provide visitors with knowledge, skills, hacks and tricks on how to restore but also service and maintain their cherished cars.

“The standard of displays, live working and demonstrations reached a new level and the enthusiasm and passion in the hall was a heart-warming marvel. What a pleasure it is to be part of this fantastic community.

“Thanks to everyone involved including all our show partners, sponsors, traders and visitors as well as our motoring celebrities and the team from Practical Classics.”

Whilst the team from Practical Classics restored a Reliant Scimitar on the Classic World stage, the Reliant ‘Rebel with a Cause’ restoration project they had done last year was sold by Classic Car Auctions for over £5,000 in aid of NHS charities.

Mike Brewer previews the latest CCA classic car sale

Visitors were also treated to interviews and expert panels featuring our own Mike Brewer, Master Mechanic Ant Anstead, and Car SOS’ Fuzz Townshend. Actor and Classic Obsession host Gary Mavers made his show debut appearing on stage as well as having two cars on the Footman James Barn Find display.

Gary’s Rolls Royce Corniche and barn find Lotus Elite were displayed alongside a Porsche 956 belonging to Dominic Chinea from The Repair Shop and other part and fully restored cars from Footman James’ Coffee and Chrome Collective Community.

The Footman James Barn Find display saw 20 unearthed classics vying for the visitors’ votes. It was Andy Longfield’s 1960 Mini 850 that won the trophy and the audience’s heart.

At the other end of the scale, the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership competition, also with 20 finalists on show, saw Paul Clappison lift the trophy with his 1989 Porsche 944, exactly five years after he had won with his 1972 MGB.

Second place went to Jas Duley’s 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190E while 16-year-old Alex Mills came third with his 1998 Rover Mini Cooper.

The Sporting Bears Motor Club topped last year’s ‘Restoration Show Record’ raising nearly £22,500 from operating Dream Rides throughout the weekend. The Bears also picked up the trophy for Charitable Endeavours in this year’s National Car Club Awards.

The National Car Club Awards celebrated the work of the clubs, both at the show and throughout the year, presenting 13 awards.

Martin Lilley of the TVR Car Club received the Lifetime Achievement award whilst the Jowett Car Club were presented with Best Live Working on Vehicles at the Show and the coveted Car Club of the Year award.

Other winners included Klasyczna Polonia UK and Racing-Puma.co.uk for the Best Stand at show, in the large and small section respectively.

The Ford Corsair Owners Club was celebrated for Best Live Demonstration on a Car Club Stand at the Show. Best Barn Find/Unrestored went to John Reed’s Austin A70 Hereford on the Austin Counties Car Club Stand. The Best Restored Car at Show was won by Andy Mason’s 1939 Series III Wolseley 12/48 on the Wolseley Register stand.

The Celebrities Choice Award, given to the restoration show car that turned their heads and stole their hearts, was won by Stuart Waldron’s 1966 Mk1 Transit Van, on the Transit Van Club stand.

Classic Car Weekly’s Club Hero award, voted for by the readers, was presented to John Simpson of the Boston Classic Car Club for continuing to be the driving force of the club.

The award for Support of the Next Generation was presented to the Morris Marina Owners Club for restoring and presenting a car to the Classic Car Loan Project

The 2024 Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show will take place from Fri 22 to Sun 24 March 2024.

Find more information:
NEC Resto Show


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2023 dates announced for FREE ‘Gaydon Gatherings’!

 

2023 dates announced for FREE ‘Gaydon Gatherings’!

Gaydon Gatherings

Informal, fun evenings aimed at motoring enthusiasts, these events at The British Motor Museum are free to attend, taking place outside on the Museum’s arenas on the second Tuesday of each month.

The British Motor Museum’s ‘Gaydon Gatherings’ events return on Tuesday 11 April 2023 from 5pm – 8:30pm. Up to 500 vehicles attended last year’s events with a truly eclectic mix of vehicle types, makes and models.

Whilst free to attend, pre-booking for Gaydon Gatherings is essential and tickets will be released online a few weeks before each event and will be announced on social media. Tickets for the April event are now available. The dates for the rest of the Gaydon Gatherings are; 9 May, 13 June, 11 July, 8 August, 12 September, and 10 October.

In addition to providing an opportunity for likeminded motoring enthusiasts to display their vehicles, each Gathering will feature the ‘Gaydon Garage’ at 6:30pm when the workshop doors open to reveal one of the many fantastic vehicles from the Museum’s collection before it’s driven around the site. Hints as to which car will emerge from the garage will be posted on the Museum’s social media channels in the run up to the events.

Gaydon Gatherings

Tom Caren, Show Manager at the British Motor Museum stated “Last year’s ‘Gaydon Gatherings’ proved immensely popular and we are looking forward to hosting them this year. All vehicles are welcome, no matter how many wheels they have or where and when they were made! It’s an opportunity for petrol heads to indulge their passion with a burger and drink, hopefully in the spring sunshine!”

Display vehicles will be parked in front of the Museum whilst there will be separate free parking for those visitors who aren’t displaying. Visitors can enjoy refreshments including burgers as well as hot and soft drinks. Wriggly Monkey Brewing from Bicester will also be on-site selling their range of lagers and ales.

Dogs are welcome on leads. Please note that the Museum itself will not be open for the evening gatherings.

Find more info:
British Motor Museum.co.uk – whats on


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Wiesmann Project Thunderball to electrify Salon Privé London in UK debut

Mike Brewer previews the latest CCA classic car sale

The Classic Car Auctions sale takes place on Saturday 25 March and Sunday 26 March, with both days set to feature a wealth of tempting classics for every taste and budget. Our own Mike Brewer shares his highlights for the coming sale….

Saturday’s classic car sale starts with the 1974 Reliant ‘Rebel with a Cause’ that was donated to Practical Classics magazine and completed at last year’s show. It’s being sold in aid of NHS charities, so expect plenty of bids.

Mike Brewer previews the latest CCA classic car sale

Also guaranteed to stand out is ‘Colin the Camper’, the 1963 Bedford CA Dormobile restored by Mike Brewer and ‘Elvis’ Priestley on hit show, Wheeler Dealers. It carries a guide price of £14,000-£18,000.

Alongside traditional classics visitors will discover some more modern vehicles, including a 1996 BMW M3 Evolution in stunning Estoril Blue. Or perhaps the 2010 Ford Focus RS holds more appeal – it’s guided at £55,000-£65,000.

Those after a project are catered for, too, and might be tempted by the 1972 Jaguar XJ6 Series 1. Being sold at No Reserve, it was part of a collection and has been off the road for a few years.

Mike Brewer previews the latest CCA classic car sale

Sunday’s classic car sale features plenty more mouth-watering classics, including some very low mileage vehicles. The 1978 Ford Escort Ghia Mk 2 has covered just 9515 miles and is in lovely, original condition. Or how about the 1981 DeLorean DMC12 with just 3788 miles on the clock? It was registered in the UK in 2016 and benefits from work on the body and mechanicals.

There are also more projects, including a garage-find 1971 Jaguar E-Type S3 V12 Coupe that has been with its current owner for 29 years. It carries a guide price of £18,000-£22,000 and is sure to appeal to fans of these stylish British sports cars.

CCA

For anyone that’s an enthusiast of French classics the ‘ripple bonnet’ 1959 Citroen 2CV is being offered at No Reserve. A mechanical rebuild was carried out in 2013 and there’s a re-trimmed interior, too.

Commercial vehicles haven’t been forgotten, either. The 1975 Ford Transit Custom Pick Up was meticulously restored in 2009 and remains in show-winning condition. It’s guided at £18,000-£22,000.

Find more info:
Classic Car Auctions


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Wiesmann Project Thunderball to electrify Salon Privé London in UK debut

Wiesmann Project Thunderball to electrify Salon Privé London in UK debut

The amazing Wiesmann Project Thunderball – the world’s first all-electric convertible roadster – will make its UK debut at the exclusive Salon Privé London automotive event next month at Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Marking the return of the iconic brand, the Wiesmann Project Thunderball represents an exciting evolution of the exclusive 35-year-old German brand’s history, combining the distinctive Wiesmann looks with a modern electric powertrain. Delivering 680hp and a staggering 1,100Nm of torque, performance is duly electrifying: with a targeted 0-62mph of just 2.9 seconds.

The two-seat, rear-wheel drive Wiesmann Project Thunderball features a unique drivetrain that has been designed to push the limits of architecture configuration. The battery modules are in a T-shape running through the centre tunnel and into the front of the vehicle, along with exotic twin axial flux PMSM e-motors.

A bespoke and beefy 92kWh (83kWh usable) lithium ion NMC ‘module-to-pack’ battery is based on series modules with integrated pouch cells. It will deliver a targeted range of up to 310 miles – and an 800V high-voltage architecture means it can use the very latest ultra-rapid 300kW chargers, for lightning-fast recharges. The Wiesmann engineers have even developed their own sophisticated thermal management system.

Reservations for Wiesmann ‘Project Thunderball’ officially open

The zero-emissions Wiesmann Project Thunderball has a unique Intelligent Regenerative Braking System, aimed at delivering an emotive and immersive feel lacking in other modern EVs. It has five levels and is controlled by steering wheel paddles, rather like the shifting of gears on an ICE car. The aim is to make drivers feel much more involved and deliver the thrilling experience famous of a Wiesmann vehicle.

Reservations for the new Wiesmann Project Thunderball are now open, with pricing from 300,000 Euros; the entire first year of production has already sold out, and enthusiasts are invited to join the new waiting list at Wiesmann.com ready for when production commences in 2024.

Roheen Berry, CEO and owner of Wiesmann, said: “We are delighted to be presenting Project Thunderball at Salon Privé London, the perfect event for our UK public debut. For Wiesmann, Project Thunderball heralds the next chapter of our journey. We have a rich heritage of making timeless, handcrafted and unique sports cars with exceptional performance and are now combining this, with cutting-edge technology and a state-of-the-art all-electric powertrain.

“Project Thunderball has been met by an enthusiastic response from around the globe, with the first year of production already sold out. I am looking forward to seeing the reaction Project Thunderball receives from the UK audience.”

The new Weismann Project Thunderball will be built at the firm’s state-of-the-art ‘Gecko’ factory in Dülmen, Germany. Many of the team who helped grow the iconic German brand – the last truly independent European sports car marque remaining today – will craft the vehicle alongside fresh talent, using modern production technology combined with Wiesmann’s famed bespoke German coachbuilding expertise.

Salon Privé director David Bagley is pleased to now confirm Roheen Berry is set to appear in person at the London event. He will present the new Project Thunderball to guests on the opening day of the event, Thursday 20 April, giving an exclusive overview to special guests.

“My brother Andrew and I are delighted to welcome Wiesmann to Salon Privé London,” said David. “The new Project Thunderball is a fittingly thrilling machine that will be sure to draw the crowds – and it will be a pleasure to introduce Roheen on the lawn at Royal Hospital Chelsea. I’m certain our many London guests will relish the opportunity to speak with him and become acquainted with his exciting new all-electric roadster.”

Salon Privé London is one of the world’s most prestigious automotive events and the sister event to the globally renowned Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace which is now in its 18th year. In only its second year back in the capital, the London edition is already attracting some key automotive debuts from leading brands who will line up alongside Wiesmann to lift the covers off on Thursday 20th April. Watch this space for forthcoming announcements.

Salon Privé London

Set to be the capital’s most exclusive automotive party, Salon Privé London offers plenty to see and do in addition to the motoring attractions. There will be a luxury shopping village featuring brands such as high-end British Jewellery designer Boodles, and watches from famed luxury brand, Montblanc. Food and hospitality will also be first class, in the famed Salon Privé tradition, with a three-course luncheon, delicious Pommery Champagne, cocktails from the London Essence Co and fine wines from Chateau La Gordonne.

Further highlights include Friday’s Boodles Ladies’ Day, fun for all the family during Saturday at Salon Privé, plus exclusive VIP hospitality at The Sloane and DJs keeping the party going well into the evening on Thursday and Friday.

Find more info:
Wiesmann
Salon Prive London


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Wheeler Dealers returns with a classic Triumph

Wheeler Dealers Triumph

Celebrating its fiftieth birthday, the Dolly Sprint was the perfect way to kick off the new series of Wheeler Dealers. The end result was a real treat for enthusiasts of this sporting British classic.

When a classic sports saloon is about to celebrate its 50th birthday it’s guaranteed to get Mike’s interest, which is why this first episode of the new series featured the brilliant Triumph Dolomite Sprint. Our favourite Wheeler Dealer just had to find one.

Wheeler Dealers Triumph

So it was off to see Sprint restoration specialist, Chris, who had the perfect car. Okay, so the first impression wasn’t great thanks to panels of varying colours and a ropey interior, but it was a solid example with a sound engine. Mike reckoned it felt like a real gem on the test drive. With the deal done for £6250 he just had to convince Elvis…

The master mechanic was slightly disappointed but soon got on-board with the project, so it was time to get cracking and the first job was tackling the inoperative overdrive. Identifying the problem as a faulty solenoid, it was an easy and cheap fix once the gearbox was removed. Elvis completed the work with an overhaul of the unit, including a thorough clean of the filters.

While the Sprint was off at the paint shop Mike could get on with tracking down a replacement interior, and once again Chris came up trumps. A complete set of seats and door cards – black instead of the original beige – was bagged for just £250.

Wheeler Dealers Triumph

But there was still work on the engine to do. It wasn’t running as sweetly as it should have done, so Elvis stripped and rebuilt the carburettors and made some useful improvements at the same time. £300 was spent on a conversion kit that would mean the British classic could run happily on E10 fuel, which would definitely make life easier for the next owner.

With the car back at the workshop and sporting fresh Pageant Blue paint the boys could get on with finishing this terrific project. Mike looked after getting the bumpers re-chromed, heading off to see a specialist called Alan; the results were nothing short of spectacular. In the meantime, Elvis had a slightly trickier job.

One thing obviously missing from the Sprint was the vinyl roof, so another specialist was called in to put this right. With Elvis helping out, Lee got on with carefully measuring and marking so this finishing touch could be fitted perfectly. There was only one chance to get it right! Lee’s expertise ensured it looked great and it was £520 well-spent.

Wheeler Dealers Triumph

With just a few last jobs completed the Triumph was done. The total bill came to a whisker over £9800, that money giving Mike and Elvis a desirable British classic they could really be proud of. All that was left was to enjoy a fun test drive, the pair heading to Llandow Circuit in Wales to pit the Sprint against a key rival in the shape of the Ford Escort Mexico.

As for selling it, an example this good was always going to find a buyer and Mike had no trouble getting the full asking price of £13,750. It was a brilliant start to the series, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.

Wheeler Dealers Triumph

Mike says: What an absolute treat to get a Triumph Dolomite Sprint through the Wheeler Dealers Workshop. This car was ahead of its time with its multivalve engine and overdrive gearbox.

Admittedly, it was a bit of a shed. When I found it, some of the restoration already been completed like the underneath, but all the panels on top needed a complete overhaul. The engine also needed plenty of work including the carburettors.

There’s always that dilemma when restoring a car whether to go completely original, which in this case would’ve meant a tan interior or do what the market wants and that would be the black interior. Of course I chose the latter, so I can get the car sold.

We had really good fun making this show because we put it up head-to-head against a Mark One Mexico Escort on a wicked little track. The truth is it really did hold its own against the Escort when the cameras weren’t rolling and although it didn’t handle as tightly in the bends it’s certainly have more power on the straight.

Having completed the car, we were delighted with the sale and we can’t wait to see how the owner fares with it in the future.”

Find more info:
discoveryUK Wheeler Dealers

Join the Club:
Triumph Dolomite

Club Triumph


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Remembering the Vauxhall Astra GTE

Astra GTE Mk 1

The Wheeler Dealers Astra GTE fetched big money at auction recently, so it’s the perfect time to remember this great hot hatchback.

Last December’s Classic Car Auctions sale saw the Mk 1 Astra GTE that had been carefully restored by Mike and Elvis sell for a whopping £25,650. It was the first Vauxhall to appear on Wheeler Dealers, and with the car having sat unused for the best part of thirty years the boys had their work cut out with the restoration.

Wheeler Dealers restores a rare hot hatchback

The result was stunning – hence that impressive price – but with 2023 marking 40 years since this brilliant hot hatchback was launched it’s the perfect time to take a look back at the GTE badge that still beguiles enthusiasts today. But first we need to head back to 1980 and the appearance of the Vauxhall Astra.

The Astra was a thoroughly sensible family hatchback, one that blended smart looks with plenty of space and practicality. It wasn’t exciting, but then it wasn’t mean to be; what it needed to do was go head-to-head with big-selling rivals such as the Ford Escort and VW Golf. Vauxhall shifted them in their thousands, but the early part of the 1980s was a time when buyers wanted their practicality served with an extra dollop of entertainment. And that meant the hot hatchback.

Astra GTE Mk 1

Keen to grab a slice of the action, Vauxhall launched the Astra GTE in 1983 and it proved an instant winner. Not only did it look the part thanks to a body kit and distinctive alloy wheels but it also introduced car enthusiasts to the whole lot being colour-matched. Well, it did if you wanted your GTE in white – red, black or silver were the alternatives – and it was reckoned to be a motoring first.

But a hot hatch needed go as well as show, and the GTE delivered thanks courtesy of a fuel-injected 1.8 engine making 115bhp. The result was 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 115mph, both of which were more than enough to compete with rivals. So it was no slouch, but it also handled well. Strong grip was combined with a ride that was decently supple given the sporting brief, and if the low geared steering was a bit heavy at low speeds it lightened up on the move. In all, it was a fine effort that still feels fun today.

A new Astra was around the corner, though, with the Mk 2 adopting an impressively aerodynamic shape that set it apart from the staid styling of mainstream rivals. But it, too, was ripe for the GTE treatment and it duly arrived, borrowing its engine from the Mk 1. More punch was quick to arrive, though, thanks to a 2.0-litre unit making 124bhp; it had been thoroughly developed by Vauxhall and featured lighter internals than the earlier engine and a new Bosch Motronic engine management system.

Astra GTE Mk 2

Oh yes, and the Mk 2 bought some extra excitement to the Astra GTE thanks to the use of digital instruments. It barely merits a mention today, but in the mid-‘80s this was the stuff to impress enthusiasts young and old alike. And you could even have your hot Astra as a convertible. Handling-wise, the new model didn’t disappoint even if it did still lack power assistance for the steering – you needed to stump up around £350 for that option – but for all its ability the hot hatchback game was moving on, and Vauxhall knew it.

They were now some very quick turbocharged challengers to turn buyer’s heads, and the answer for the GTE was the 16-valve model. Arriving in 1988, it was powered by the famed ‘red top’ engine, a DOHC unit that boasted the likes of forged pistons and sodium-filled exhaust valves. It was a significant development, and with 156bhp on tap it shoved the Astra to 60mph in 7.0 seconds and on to 135mph.

Vauxhall also took the opportunity to completely overhaul the suspension, turning the GTE into a very impressive package. In fact, Autocar magazine summed up their road test by saying “…for sheer ability and out and out performance there is no other non-turbo hot hatch that will touch the Astra 16v”. High praise indeed, although there’s less than a hundred still on the road today.

The 16v also marks the end of the GTE story, the third generation Astra that arrived in 1991 turning to the GSi badge to denote the performance variant. It was fun while it lasted, though, and as the Wheeler Dealers car demonstrates this is a hot hatchback that’s still very much in demand.

Find more info:
Vauxhall

Join the club:
Vauxhall Owners Club
Mk1 Astra Owners Club


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Win an Austin Healey Sprite MK4

Win an Austin Healey Sprite MK4

With fresh bright work, wire wheels, and a smart black hood and new carpets, this Austin Healey Sprite MK4 is a car which had no expense spared in its journey to become somebody’s most loved classic.

It has got a fantastic history and this Austin Healey Sprite MK4 could be YOURS, if you enter Lancaster Insurance Services latest FREE competition.

From project car to picture perfect

Prior to Lancaster Insurance Services snapping up this Sprite, the car had been owned by Kevin, who had bought the vehicle as a treat to himself for his 50th back in 2019. Like so many of us, the car wasn’t simply a car; it was a vessel in which to travel back in time to happier, carefree days. Kevin told us, rather cheekily, a vibrant youth was well spent in a previous Austin Healey Sprite and this one had seemed perfect for recapturing lost youth and fond memories.

As 2020 loomed and lockdown finally gave many of us an excuse to get those long-term project motors back onto the road, Kevin found his time diverted from TV and film extra work back to his garage and the Sprite got some real focus.

The car was in a bit of a sorry state but plenty of welding and new panels including a new sill, new bonnet and new boot got the project off to a good start. A plethora of other cosmetic jobs have been done including all bright work rechromed – not a cheap job! The car has been resprayed too and wire wheels and new tyres mean the car looks appealing before you’ve even popped the keys into the ignition.

Austin Healey Sprite MK4

A full no-expense-spared engine rebuild coupled with various other mechanical jobs such as new brakes, new master cylinder, competition brake hoses and various other perishable items changed and replaced make this a restoration which will hold its own for decades to come if looked after and cherished.

With a file brimming with paperwork inches thick, we’d be here for hours describing all the due care and attention applied to this restoration, but rest assured, from the recovered seats to the new wiring loom; the next owner of this vehicle is in for an absolute treat!

The driving experience

Steph Hoy, Lancaster Insurance’s Head of Car Club Liaison took the car for a spin and reported:

“After having driven an equal measure of bangers and well-built classics in my time, I’m well versed in the subtleties of noting a well built classic. As I moved through the gearbox on test, changes between gears were smooth and there was none of the ‘double declutch to avoid a crunch’ nonsense, the box was spot on.

The brakes were sharp and with discs to front and drums to rear, there is plenty of stopping power to accompany the 1275cc nestled under the bonnet. I put my foot down on test and found the engine to be lively and kept up with traffic. It also pulled well up the hills as I navigated the Yorkshire Moors on my rather spirited drive. Compression is good and the engine sounds absolutely spot on. There’s nothing to indicate there are problems with timing either – quite often you find older cars are let down by little things like this.

Sitting at around 4500rpm at 70, the car isn’t the quietest on test, but a late mid-century British built convertible isn’t going to be offering the ambiance of a modern SUV! I noted on test all gauges worked and the car ran to temperature perfectly. The only noise I noted which wasn’t from the purring engine was an errant tool in the boot which occasionally gave a dull bump as we navigated pot holes and speed bumps.

Ride and handling, all elements have been rebuilt and replaced. New polybushes all round have been a valuable investment. Purists will note that whilst the original seats have been recovered, the seats are the same shape/styling as factory fitment; so the ride is as ‘close’ to showroom spec as one might hope for.

This is a car that deserves to stay as is – modernisation could really take away from how special it is but worthy investments to take this to the next level might be the addition of some sound deadening, the heater blower plumbing in and a five-speed box putting in for longer road trips. However, these are all small details and more of a ‘nice to have’ than an essential.

In short, this is a car which was built for keeps by a mechanic with decades of experience and it shows. Whoever wins this car will find there are miles of smiles to be had and with a folder inches thick with valuable paperwork, there is a history as vibrant as the paintwork.”

WIN this Austin Healey Sprite MK4

Keen to win this car? There are two different FREE ways to enter:

Visit Lancaster Insurance Services stand in Hall 5 at the Practical Classics Restoration Show with Discovery+ where this beautiful car on display. Speak to one of our agents and they’ll be able to go through the online form with you.

Or simply head to Lancaster Insurance – competitions and fill out the online form there – good luck!

T&Cs apply

Find more info: 
Lancaster Insurance

Join the club:
Austin Healey Club


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Masters of Motoring rewards Early Bird visitors

Masters of Motoring rewards Early Bird visitors

June’s debut Masters of Motoring premium motoring lifestyle event from Great British Motor Shows is now live on its ticketing site and, until the end of March, is offering excellent value Early Bird prices on both its general admission and VIP places.

The new Masters of Motoring show, which is going be staged on Father’s Day – Sunday 18th June – in the grounds of the beautiful Bowood House & Gardens, in Wiltshire, is already attracting interest from would-be entrants, trade exhibitors and motoring enthusiasts across the sector.

Masters of Motoring rewards Early Bird visitors Bowood House & Gardens

In the Masters of Motoring Early Bird offer, General Admission, for an adult, which will be £25 on the day, is available at £15. Child tickets, which will be £5 at the event, are currently available through the offer with a 50% reduction, while Family Tickets, which include two adults and up to three children, represent excellent value at £32.50.

VIP packages, will make ideal gifts for motoring enthusiasts and create a truly special Father’s Day gift – or family experience. These VIP packages offer early access to the event, discounts from the event’s selected partners, VIP goodie bags, welcome drinks and VIP parking, situated closer to the show than general public car parking. These VIP packages are limited in number and, any that remain available for sale at the event itself, will retail for £325. These VIP packages are currently on sale with the Early Bird scheme at £225 each (£180+Vat).

Masters of Motoring rewards Early Bird visitors

“We are really excited to have introduced the Early Bird scheme for Masters of Motoring. Initial pick-up has been really encouraging,” explains Great British Motor Shows’ MD Steve Bishop. “We have some really excellent themes for the event, showcasing the anniversaries of the Porsche 911,McLaren and Lamborghini, as well as the work of the man who styled both the legendary Miura and Countach, Marcello Gandini. With everything we have going on, it should make this Father’s Day something really special for Motor Enthusiasts.” 

Masters of Motoring will host a VIP Zone boasting supercar and hypercar displays, together with its own hospitality area. This will sit alongside another major display area on the main front lawns of Bowood House showcasing vehicles drawn from supercar owners clubs from around the UK. 

With a further area dedicated to individual owners of classic and performance vehicles, the event will bring together, and celebrate, the Masters of Motoring from across the ages. 

Visitors to The Masters of Motoring will also be able to browse, at their leisure, a deliberately-limited selection of premium retail partners, offering products and services ranging from watches, jewellery, art and designer goods to luxury lifestyle and motoring service providers.

General Entry passes can be ordered online:
Public Entry Tickets – Masters of Motoring 2023

While VIP tickets are available at:
VIP Entry Tickets – Matsers of Motoring 2023

Find more info:
Masters of Motoring


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