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1979 ‘MG B-EAST’ is 2023 Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK Winner

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MG B-EAST Hot Wheels
Photo: ©Andrew Ferraro

A 1979 MGB GT nicknamed ‘the B-EAST’ is set to represent the UK on the global stage and stake its claim to be recreated as a 1:64 scale die-cast model – after winning this year’s Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK at RADwood automotive event on 2nd September.

Beating a record number of 274 entries, Michael Wallhead’s MG B GT features a 3.0 litre Jaguar AJV6 engine, to achieve 0-60mph in 4.2s and a top speed of 148mph. Built over eight years, Wallhead wanted to recycle as many parts as possible and used a propshaft from a Range Rover, an axle saved from a Reliant Scimitar, Triumph motorcycle throttle bodies, Nissan Silvia S14 brakes, an old number plate for the glovebox, and jeans for the seat upholstery.

MG B-EAST Hot Wheels

An eagerness to reuse and recycle resources fuelled Wallhead’s enthusiasm for classic cars. “For all my builds, I always look to find ways to reuse parts, and on this MGB GT I’ve even used registration plates to build the glove box, everything has second or third life and I try not to throw things away that can be reused.”

Michael Wallhead is now facing the Legends Tour Semi-Final (2nd November) in a bid to make it through to the Global Finale (11th November) and be in with a shot at the overall prize – entering the hallowed Hot Wheels Garage of Legends and securing his place in car culture history.

“I’m so humbled to have been chosen as the UK winner – from a stellar line-up with no two cars the same,” says Michael Wallhead. “Growing up, I played with Hot Wheels, and you always had your favourites – the one that went fastest or the one that looked the coolest, and those memories inspired me when it came to designing the B-EAST.”

Wallhead believes Hot Wheels inspired him to become a creative engineer, now designing turbos for cars and commercial vehicles. Outside of work, Wallhead’s love for speed and competitive spirit secured the Guinness World Record for the fastest wheelie bin, achieving 88.344 km/h in May this year. “I really believe youngsters should have more time to play with toys, and I hope my builds inspire children to dream and do something different – either as a career or building fun projects.”

The initial entry list was narrowed down to 10 finalists by Hot Wheels representatives on both sides of the Atlantic, with marques such as Jaguar, Ford, VW, and Skoda represented – alongside the Mazda RX-7 of Hagerty fan vote winner Sam Carr, which was fast-tracked to the UK final.

For the first time, the UK finale was open to the public to watch, and all 274 entrants were offered the opportunity to attend the show and exhibit their build at this year’s RADwood, held at Bicester Heritage.

MG B-EAST Hot Wheels

With hundreds of automotive enthusiasts listening in, a panel of expert judges – including motoring journalists Richard Porter, Steve Parrish, and Abigayle André, as well as design manager for Hot Wheels, Craig Callum – joined host Paul Cowland to deliberate which of the finalists best represented Hot Wheels’ criteria of authenticity, creativity and ‘garage spirit’.

MG B-EAST Hot Wheels
Photo: ©Andrew Ferraro

“Choosing a winner was no mean feat and each finalist has what it takes to represent the UK in the global finale,” explains design manager for Hot Wheels, Craig Callum. “That said, Michael Wallhead’s MG perfectly encapsulates the three core elements we were looking for in our winner – authenticity, creativity and garage spirit. We loved the reuse of materials in new and exciting ways, such as the denim seat covers and temporary tattoos for graphics.”

As part of his prize, Michael Wallhead receives a set of Falken tyres and a Castrol lubricants pack. The final 10 also received a Castrol merchandise bundle.

MG B-EAST Hot Wheels

Just four years after it launched the competition in the UK, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour has increased in popularity within the car community – with the 2023 field more than doubling the 100 entries it garnered in 2022. Underlining the quality and depth of talent in the UK car scene, finalists from the past two years have both reached the Global Final, with the UK’s Volvo P1800 Gasser, Ain’t No Saint, going on to win overall in 2021. Now, thousands of 1:64 scale models of the wild drag racer are being enjoyed across the world.

MG B-EAST Hot Wheels
Photo: ©Andrew Ferraro

Find more info:
Hot Wheels Legends


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Wheeler Dealers Memorable Test Drives

A lot of work goes into the cars that find their way to the Wheeler Dealers workshop, and after all the effort it’s only right that the project ends with a proper test drive.

Early test drives were a simple affair, with just Mike behind the wheel, but as the show progressed things got a bit more ambitious. Here are some favourites from the last twenty years:

1972 Lamborghini Urraco – Series 10, Episode 7

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Where do you take a brilliant supercar like this when you want to enjoy a very special test drive?  To Italy, of course, and more importantly to take part in the marque’s 50th anniversary celebrations. It was a spectacular end to the project, and one that saw Edd get behind the wheel to enjoy everything the car could do in the company of other great Lambos. And what a way for the ace mechanic to celebrate his birthday!

1967 Ford Mustang – Series 9, Episode 14

Mike really enjoyed this one, and why wouldn’t he when he was driving one of the coolest muscle cars on the planet. It looked superb repainted in the famous Highland Green and there was no better way to put it through its paces than with a car chase. Heading to Salisbury Plain, the test drive saw Edd pursuing the Mustang with a Ford Crown Victoria police car. It’s easy to see why they both had so much fun.

1967 Amphicar – Series 11, Episode 7

Wheeler Dealers most controversial projects

Restoring this quirky classic had involved a huge amount of work, and there was only one place to give it a proper test – yep, the river. In this case the Thames where Mike and Edd could make sure it stayed afloat!  It certainly managed that, although a gearbox issue saw their fun come to an early end although at least there was no need to use their lifejackets. No wonder Mike names this as one of his funniest tests ever.

1964 Triumph TR4 – Series 16, Episode 11

Mike Brewer Motoring - Wheeler Dealers Triumph TR4

Ant had done a cracking job of restoring this desirable British classic, one that had been off the road for many years. It also happened to be one of his favourite cars, so the finished project deserved a proper test drive which is why the duo headed onto twisty mountain roads to see how well it performed. It’s no surprise that his work had really paid off, and the stylish TR drove beautifully. – Series 14, Episode 16

Remembering some terrific Wheeler Dealer test drives

The Los Angeles River is famous for its use in films, including the 2003 remake of The Italian Job, so where else would you take the superb MINI? It was a great backdrop to see whether Ant’s work on the engine and suspension had returned this hot little hatch back to its best, and of course it had. It handled brilliantly and the punchy performance ensured they could really enjoy the cool setting.

1989 Fiat Panda 4×4 – Series 12, Episode 11

The little Panda was already a very capable off-roader, but Mike and Edd had decided to take things a bit further. Not least on the outside where it got a very distinctive paint-job, along with a cabin that was ready for the toughest challenges. The test drive saw it tackle mud and steep hills, managing both without breaking a sweat, but driving through water gave Mike plenty of laughs and slightly damp feet…

1973 Saab 96 – Series 14, Episode 4

Remembering some terrific Wheeler Dealer test drives

This stylish Swedish classic was in need of some TLC, and it soon got plenty of that thanks to Ant’s hard work. From the way it drove to the way it looked, the finished project was nothing short of superb but after all those hours in the workshop there was still one more challenge – to see what Saab enthusiasts thought. A trip to an owners’ meeting was a tough test, but one it passed with flying colours.

1970 Volkswagen Type 3 Fastback – Series 15, Episode 11

Wheeler Dealers test drives

This air-cooled classic was, well, very cool and it was even better once Ant had worked his magic inside and out. He was a bit worried about the test drive, though, because Mike was keen to take it to the beach. On the beach, in fact. It was a great setting and it’s easy to see why they both had so much fun in the sea and sand. At least Mike had promised to give the Vee-Dub a proper clean once they’d finished.

1969 Lotus Europa – Series 17, Episode 9

Wheeler Dealers test drives

The Europa is a brilliant British sports car, and after all the work that ‘Elvis’ had put into it the test drive deserved to be something special. Why is why the duo headed off to the Shelsley Walsh hillclimb. It’s claimed to be the oldest motorsport venue in the world and still uses the original course, and it’s the perfect place to experience the performance and handling of a classic Lotus. Now this is what you call having fun behind the wheel!

1997 Fiat Coupe 20v Turbo – Series 17, Episode 3

Wheeler Dealers Test Drives

This Italian coupe is a proper modern classic, and not only does it look great but even in standard form there’s no shortage of straight-line performance. ‘Elvis’ wanted to take things a bit further, though, boosting power from the original 220hp to almost 320hp thanks to an ECU re-map and water injection. How do you test the new-found power and performance? In a drag race against a Ferrari, of course. We reckon you should watch the episode to see how it did.

Find more info:
discovery+


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Me and My Test Drive: The new Volvo Ex30

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Volvo Ex30 Test Drive

One of the big complaints is that electric cars are expensive. Well when this new Volvo EX30 arrives on our shores later this year, the starting price is expected to be in the region of £33,750 which is extremely competitive.

However, all of the other Volvo Ex30 facts and figures are arguably even more impressive.

Depending on which powertrain you go for (there are 3) Volvo’s smallest ever SUV comes with the potential for great range and absolutely stunning performance. Go for the top of the range 422bhp Twin Motor Performance all-wheel drive power option and you can hit 60mph in 3.4 seconds which makes it the quickest Volvo….ever. However, even the entry level EX30 develops a very healthy 268bhp which means you can reach 60mph in a shade over 5.0 seconds. That’s the beauty of all-electric cars. You have 100 per cent power from the moment you hit the throttle. And it’s effortless…no gears, no clutch.

In the middle there’s another 268bhp power option but it comes with a bigger battery to allow more range. It’ll probably turn out to be the most popular model in the range.

Ah….range. The big question mark for any electric car.

The entry level EX30 will manage 213 miles, but if you go for the same car but with the bigger battery and Volvo reckon you can reach 298 miles.

Rapid charging times for all of the EX30s are around 25 minutes from 10-80 per cent.

Volvo say that you should buy this car purely on your driving style and the sort of mileage you expect to cover. Your choice will be reflected in the price. Fair enough. Their argument is that there’s no need to buy a car which can cover a high mileage when actually you’ll only be doing a round commute of 20 miles a day and that you rarely go on a long journey.

There are two equipment grades at launch – Plus and Ultra. An additional Core entry-level grade will be introduced later next year with prices rumoured to kick off in the region of £32,000.

In terms of kit, Plus specification includes 12.3-inch touchscreen display, two-zone climate control, Harman Kardon premium sound system with dashboard soundbar (there are no speakers in the doors…the soundbar runs along the top of the facia) front and rear parking sensors, rear camera, heated front seats and heated steering wheel.

Additional features on Ultra grade include 360-degree camera, fixed panoramic sunroof, dark-tinted rear windows, a self-parking system, 20-inch alloy wheels, and power-adjustable front seats.

And if you want to impress your friends tell them that a quarter of the aluminium used in your new Volvo EX30 has been recycled, as has 17 per cent of the steel and plastic.

We’ve yet to drive the EX30 but we went on the launch and saw the car in the flesh and sat in it. The car is extremely smart…looks great (think of a smoothed-off XC40)…and has a seriously premium feel to the interior.

Order books are open now. Form a queue.

Find more info:
Volvo Cars


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Always Wanted An Aston Martin?

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Always Wanted An Aston Martin? CCA Autumn 2023

If you have ever coveted an Aston Martin, and who among us has not, then the three Astons featured in the next CCA sale would make a visit to bid at Warwickshire Events Centre, near Leamington Spa on Saturday 30th September, an idea worth considering.

Leading the Aston line-up and looking purposeful in Meteorite Silver is this 2006 Aston Martin V8 Vantage manual, has covered just 18,300 miles, and comes to the CCA sale with a guide price of £35,000 – £40,000.

Always Wanted An Aston Martin? CCA Autumn 2023

Car Specialist, Simon Langsdale who sourced it for the CCA sale says “This is a truly stunning car in Meteorite Silver with a grey leather interior stitched in red. It has great numbers: 4,261cc, 380bhp, 302lb/ft, 0-60 in 4.8 seconds and 175mph top speed and was supplied new in November 2006 by Stratstones of Mayfair to its first owner for £83,852. The manual gearbox makes this a real drivers’ car and a collector’s dream with just 18,300 miles on the clock.”

Gary Dunne of CCA says: “The consistent popularity of Aston Martins at our sales, their great attractiveness and plenty of bidding going on for them, adds to their appeal at sales.”

Optioned with Sat Nav, bright grille, heated screen, personalised sill plaques, integrated telephone and 19″ 7-spoke alloys. Supplied with the original book pack including manuals and stamped service book, the most recent by Aston Bristol in July for £780 with a matching invoice. Also recently fitted with brand new updated (2015) lighting, front and rear.

Next up is this excellent example of Ian Callum’s powerful British GT with less than 50,000 miles for a guide price of £20,000 – £25,000.

Always Wanted An Aston Martin? CCA Autumn 2023

Aston Martin says of this car: “The Aston Martin DB9 is a thoroughbred sports car with GT levels of comfort and refinement. Combining Aston Martin’s unique character with an uncompromising design philosophy, the DB9 was borne out of a synthesis of traditional craftsmanship, high-tech manufacturing, modern components, and use of the finest materials”

This car was first registered in September 2008, this DB9 was purchased last year by its current owner who is now moving abroad, forcing a reluctant sale. It is powered by a 6-litre V12 producing 450bhp and 420lb/ft mated to a 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox with paddle shift.

Finished in Onyx Black over a black leather-trimmed interior complemented by white accent stitching, a grey Alcantara headlining, and Piano Black and aluminium trim inserts on the centre console and door cards. It sits on 19”, twin 5-spoke alloy wheels in front of yellow brake calipers.

Boasting a classic DB9 cockpit, fully equipped to ‘Factory-spec’ with a trip computer, cruise control, multi-function steering wheel, electric memory seats, parking sensors to both the front and rear, switchable sport mode, air-conditioning, CD stereo with Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation, and push-button start. Supplied with its original Owner’s Manual, stamped service book, a selection of maintenance invoices including recent 15th year service (detailed in condition report) and two key fobs along with a spare master key. Will come to sale with a fresh MOT.

A desirable example of the V12 Vantage convertible with just 65,400 miles and much expenditure during current ownership at an estimate of £19,000 – £23,000. It sports a Cosworth-designed, 5.9-litre, 48-valve, all-alloy V12 producing a creamy 420bhp and 400lb/ft of torque.

Always Wanted An Aston Martin? CCA Autumn 2023

This is a UK-supplied, RHD, Touchtronic, Vantage Volante finished in Solent Silver with a black leather interior and 10-spoke Vantage alloys. It was purchased by our vendor in 2020 and immediately serviced and minor jobs attended to (£6,000). Substantial expenditure since then including a new hood (2021), replacement engine fitted by Village Garage, Upper Boddington May 2022 (cost £16,000), new Catalysts (Feb 2023) and a new battery (June 2023). Four former keepers and an MOT until June 2024 issued with No Advisories.

Find more info:
Classic Car Auctions Autumn Sale


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Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

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Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

Surviving Toyota Starlets are likely to be spotted in suburbia but owner Kieran Carpenter thinks his rally-liveried daily driver is more suited to back roads and rugged terrain. Here he tells Charlotte Vowden why it’s the best £500 he’s ever spent on a car.

A car of Japanese descent that was plainly appointed and easy to drive, the Toyota Starlet was an everyday car that dominated Britain’s driveways in the eighties and nineties. Today, it’s estimated that less than 100 GL’s (the only trim level offered in the UK) are registered as fit for the road, and 28-year-old Kieran Carpenter paid £500 to make one of them his own…

My eyes were instantly drawn to the Starlet because it stood out to me as a blank canvas. I wanted something that I could rally livery and being white it meant I could start afresh. Ive also got a thing for white cars. I use the Starlet to plough across the backroads to work on a daily basis so its never that clean, but I also dont make a point of cleaning it that often. I think it adds to the look of being ready to rally.

Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

My Toyota Starlet is a 1992 car and had been taken care of by the same family its whole life until I bought it for £500 two and a half years ago. The gentleman that had originally owned it was an incredible record keeper, he definitely liked to write things down because everything was there for me to read in black and white; receipts, notes on what had been fixed and how it had been fixed, the types of oil that had been used, all sorts of things. The Starlet was hiding no secrets, not even rust. Completely original and mechanically sound, with about 68,000 miles on the clock, it felt too good to be true, and at that price, I was enthusiastic to say the least.

You could argue that my Starlet has an eighties engine in a nineties shaft because [as a UK model] its a 12-valve, 1.0-litre GL, which is typical of the older cars. Id been driving a 2004 Volvo V40 estate turbo diesel which picked up well when you put your foot down so it was a reality check to put my foot down on my first drive in the Starlet for nothing to really happen. It felt cool to be cruising along though, and very comfortable; soft and boat-like.

Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

After I brought the car home I kept in touch with the guy who sold it to me for a little while; he was interested in where I was going and what I was doing with it. I had a plan, but his grandfather had kept it so original for so long that what the family would think of it definitely went through my mind. Thankfully, he said they were happy that the car was in good hands and it felt good to know that I got their approval. Ive had the car a while now so its feeling more and more like its my own. Its nice to look back on its history, but making new memories is better than reliving old ones.

Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

Before doing any modifications I wanted the Starlet to look as good as it could so I touched up the scuffed bumpers and repainted the red pinstripe. I then added alloy wheels, mud flaps and spot lamps. The key words Id use to describe the interior are retro, brown and Japanese, but aside from adding a suede deep dish steering wheel, I’ve kept it pretty much the same. Its, shall we say, minimalistic, but it doesnt feel cheap. The polaroid picture on the dash was taken by an anonymous stranger at a car show, t left it underneath the Starlet’s windscreen wiper which was a nice surprise to come back to.

Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

Im 28 now, Ive been driving for 11 years, and this is the most reliable car Ive ever owned. Its not really been pushed, (the period correct RAC rally stickers make me feel like its faster than it is), but the less power the engine has, the more reliable cars tend to be. If something starts sounding a bit iffy, Ill take a look because its best to try and fix issues sooner rather than later, but I dont check the car over all the time.

Me and My Car: Kieran Carpenter and his Toyota Starlet

Ive had to replace the clutch, brake pads and discs, just general wear and tear stuff, but the day the Starlet’s rear suspension got stuck was pretty comical. I piled four of my work mates into the car to make a half-mile journey to the pub for lunch, but it was a lot of weight for a small car and when we hit a bump in the road the car went down and didnt come back up. We sorted it by hitting the suspension arm with a mallet, and its been fine ever since.

By profession, Im in the composites industry and make carbon fibre parts for anything from F1 cars to concept cars, hypercars and supercars, so its pretty much non-stop cars with me. At the moment, my dad and I spend a lot of weekends at our unit where were building cars side by side. A day can go one of two ways. We either put down the tools and spend our time chatting, which highlights how cars can bring you together, or we really crack on. Dads got the mechanical knowledge and Im the engineer so we dont always see eye-to-eye because weve got a different approach to problem solving. I like to stop, take a step back and think, whereas dad will be unplugging everything and plugging it back in as fast as he can. I often just wait for him to leave and then Ill do it my way.

One of the most vivid memories Ive got from when I was a kid was when dad took me to Wales to watch a WRC [World Rally Championship] special stage at night. I was probably about eight or nine and I remember there being so many lights. The sounds, the smells, the people, it was all so amazing, thats the kind of experience that sparked my passion for motorsport. The Starlet is my daily so I cant go tearing it round a rallycross track I have a Sierra for that – but Id like to have a go at some non-contact, non car-destroying events in it, something like Rally for the Ages could be fun.

My love for cars and photography go hand-in-hand. I enjoy it as a hobby that comes without pressure or stress and having a photographer’s eye definitely helps you look at a car and its defects in a different way. In my opinion, imperfections tell a story and can be really cool to highlight. The Starlet might not stand out in a car park but when you add it to a forest scene or put it on a dirt track, it looks like it’s found its way home.” 
*all photos used are courtesy of Kieran Carpenter at KC Images
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Celebrating Wheeler Dealers’ Most Unusual or Controversial Projects

Wheeler Dealers Bedford Dormobile

Mike has seen many classics head into the Wheeler Dealers workshop over the past twenty years, and while many have been popular with enthusiasts the world over a few might have raised an eyebrow or two.

So what better time to take a look at those cars that were, well, a little bit different. Here we recap Wheeler Dealers most controversial projects…

1958 Ford Popular Hot Rod – Series 10, Episode 8

Wheeler Dealers most controversial projects

This was a trip down memory lane for Mike, and a tribute to the work of his dad in the customising scene.  It was certainly an unusual project for the duo to take on, and one that was in need of a major transformation; it not only looked poor on the outside but the way it drove was pretty dreadful, too. The answer was to spend many, many hours and a whole lot of cash to make this into the cool hot rod it should always have been. With a spectacular paint job to finish it off no wonder Mike’s dad approved of the result.

1967 Amphicar – Series 11, Episode 7

Wheeler Dealers most controversial projects

This show about classic cars had also taken on, well, a boat, and while it might have looked good in Florida things didn’t look so healthy back at the workshop. What followed was a marathon of welding and fabrication and plenty of time spent making it ready to take to the water once again. Showing that Wheeler Dealers is never afraid to tackle the most unusual of projects, this one was a lot of fun to watch. And how did things go when Mike and Edd drove into the River Thames? It wasn’t entirely plain sailing, but the finished Amphicar was soon ship-shape.

1903 Darracq – Series 11, Episode 13

Darracq

By far the oldest car to make it into the workshop, the delightful Darracq was being readied for the famous London to Brighton veteran car run and there was a lot to do. Work included ensuring the cooling system was healthy and repairing the wooden wheels, and there was time for something more high-tech with 3D-printed light bulb holders. It was clever stuff. And there was the event itself.  Always challenging – and rather tiring – Mike and Edd were thrilled to make it to the finish line on Madeira Drive. And what a way to celebrate the 100th Wheeler Dealers car.

1985 Maserati Biturbo – Series 13, Episode 16

Wheeler Dealers most controversial projects

Converting a classic to an electric vehicle is something of a controversial subject amongst enthusiasts, but as the work had already been started it was up to Mike and Edd to finish the job properly. The stylish Maserati had been stored away for 15 years, so it wasn’t going to be a straightforward project, but a lot of time and money was spent installing a modern electric powertrain. Some clever technology was involved, and all the effort was certainly worth it when it performed brilliantly on the test drive. It wasn’t going to be popular with everyone, but the show’s first EV was a definite success.

1995 Ford Escort RS Cosworth – Series 14, Episode 1

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Enthusiasts love their fast Fords, and messing with such a special recipe means this car makes it onto the list of controversial projects. That’s certainly true of this brilliant Cossie, so the idea of fitting an additional spoiler that never appeared in production was always going to split opinion. But it was part of Frank Stephenson’s original design, and he was on hand to give a bit of advice. And as he’d designed Maseratis, McLarens and Ferraris he’s a man that knows his onions. Ant did a cracking job to make it all happen, and testing in a wind tunnel showed that it worked. Thing is, did you love it or hate it?

1963 Bedford CA Dormobile – Series 17, Episode 4

Wheeler Dealers Bedford Dormobile

For a show focused on the very best of classic cars, tackling a campervan was definitely a bit different. But as a few unusual things had appeared in the workshop over the years, well, why not, especially as Mike had fallen in love with this charming old vehicle. In fact, he liked it so much he gave it a name – Colin! But while it had lots of character it wasn’t really ready to head off on holiday, so ‘Elvis’ got cracking on updating the mechanicals and making the interior a rather nicer place to spend the night. We think the result was superb.

1975 AMC Pacer – Series 12, Episode 5

Wheeler Dealers most controversial projects

We couldn’t talk about the most controversial projects on Wheeler Dealers without including the 1975 AMC Pacer. The Pacer was already an American classic that split opinion, but that’s not what made this particular one stand out. It’s hard to know where to start, but how about the ‘flocked’ interior trim, or the reflective vinyl wrap that made it look all a bit space-age? It’s fair to say that Edd had let his imagination run wild on this particular project, and it’s also fair to say Mike was somewhat bemused by the result. What can’t be avoided is that it wasn’t what you’d call popular with buyers, and its sale in a charity auction ended with a loss. Oh well…

Find more info:
discovery+


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Autumn Classic celebrates top historic action coming to Combe

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Autumn Classic celebrates top historic action coming to Combe

With a couple of weeks to go until this year’s Autumn Classic at Castle Combe Race Circuit, on September 23rd at the picturesque and challenging Wiltshire race track, the event is shaping up to be one of the most memorable race days on the Castle Combe Circuit calendar.

Single-seaters, Sports and GT cars,  FISCAR, Classic Ferraris and much, much more will be providing the track race action for the day as Castle Combe Circuit “goes retro”. However, the Autumn Classic is much more than simply a race meeting. 

The event is really part race, part historic car show.  It is a favourite gathering spot for Classic Car Clubs from all over the region – and further afield – and there will be a host of industry stands to cater for the owners and enthusiasts for whom historic vehicles are a key and cherished part of life.

Autumn Classic celebrates top historic action coming to Combe

There is usually a theme to the event and the focal point of this year’s Autumn Classic is a celebration of one of Britain’s longest-running sports and racing car manufacturers – Lotus – for whom 2023 marks their 75thAnniversary. 

Lotus founder Colin Chapman built his first race car in 1948 and, after its early days in and around North London, Lotus been based in Hethel, Norfolk since the mid-1960s. During this time, the marque has brought multiple F1 World Championships to Great Britain, as well as a plethora of genuinely iconic racing and sports cars – think, Elan, Elise, Esprit, on both road and track, as well as the legendary, Lotus 49, 72, and 79, all of which dominated the Grand Prix scene in their time. It is the first of these, the Lotus 49 that is featured in the artwork for this year’s Autumn Classic event artwork, which is once again illustrated by automotive artist Brian James. It depicts the original ’67 version of the Lotus 49 Formula 1 race car against a backdrop of Castle Combe Circuit in the late ’60s, which harks back to various times when Lotus F1 cars ran demonstration laps at the circuit during the period. 

Lotus has always had a close association with Castle Combe Circuit and, indeed, the first recorded appearance of a Lotus at the race track was as far back as 1951, when Lotus’ founder, Colin Chapman himself, piloted a Lotus Mk3 to victory during the Bristol MC & LLC and 750 Motor Club meeting on 12 May. Also, in October 1965, Chris Summers Lotus 24 not only won its race but, in doing so, set the very first 100mph lap at the Castle Combe race circuit.

Autumn Classic celebrates top historic action coming to Combe

Expect, therefore, to see a really strong attendance from various Lotus car clubs and, as if the prospect of a spectacular day of Classics on and off track at Castle Combe Circuit isn’t enough, visitors to the track can now benefit from the improved pricing structure that is in place for the rest of the season.

Advanced tickets for the Autumn Classic are now down to £15 for adults and £10 for Over 65s and include a free race program. Tickets on the gate, on the day, are £20 for adults and £15 for concessions. Under 16s are admitted free when accompanies by a paying adult. 

Gates open to the public at 8.00 AM on the 23rd September with action on track from around 9.00 am. The racing will run up to almost 6.00pm and as well as the trade stands on the day, there will be a great selection of food and beverage options.

Find more info:
Autumn Classic


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Celebrate 20 years of Wheeler Dealers with Mike Brewer

20 years of Wheeler Dealers event

Mike Brewer is inviting Wheeler Dealers fans to join him for an exclusive event at The Motorist in Yorkshire to celebrate two decades of the hit show on Saturday 7th October 2023.

On 7th Oct 2003, the very first episode of Wheeler Dealers aired. Mike Brewer and his mechanic Edd China restored a 1983 Porsche 924 that Mike had bought for £700. After a £310 restoration, they sold the car for £1500 – making a profit of £490. 

Who knew then that it would go on to be broadcast in more than 150 territories with a global audience of over 200 million viewers. 

20 years and 218 restored cars later, with a new season about to start on Discovery Channel, Mike Brewer invites you to join him in celebrating this amazing milestone in motoring TV at The Motorist in Leeds. 

20 years of Wheeler Dealers event

Mike will share his personal highlights of Wheeler Dealers, behind-the-scenes intel, his favourite cars, episodes, as well as reflecting on the changes to the show over the years and the various mechanics he has worked with. 

He will also entertain with stories of some of the wonderful places that Wheeler Dealers has taken him and the weirdest place he’s met a Wheeler Dealer fan. 

Guests will also get to see Mike in action as he is joined by his wife Michelle to find our ‘what’s happening’ with a special surprise guest as they record an episode of the Wheeler Dealer podcast in front of a live audience for the first time. 

20 years of Wheeler Dealers event

All ticket holders will also receive a goody bag as well as the chance to meet Mike and get an autograph and a selfie. There will also be a surprise for one lucky guest on the night!!!

The Wheeler Dealer merchandise shop will also be open for business so get ready to ‘old out yer hand!’

*Please be advised if bringing children that there may be strong language in the live show. 

The Motorist restaurant will be open for dinner before the event begins.

Book here:
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Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

As Mike Brewer will tell you Wheeler Dealers hasn’t been about making money but about saving cars. It’s certainly done plenty of that over the last two decades, but with such great classics and great work it’s inevitable that some of the cars have fetched big money. Here, then, are ten that have made some of the biggest profits.

1965 Austin Healey 3000 – Series 14, Episode 8

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

This British classic has always turned heads, but in Ant Anstead’s first season on Wheeler Dealers this cracking Healey also turned the biggest profit when it went under the hammer at the Barrett-Jackson sale in Las Vegas. After mechanical work that included a custom exhaust system, an upgrade to triple Weber carburettors and repairs to the overdrive, it also received a superb interior re-trim. Complemented by the British Racing Green paintwork, the finished car was simply stunning.

Purchase price – £28,000
Resto cost – £7628
Sold for – £56,800
Profit – £21,172

1964 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray – Series 10, Episode 9

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Another car to break the £20k barrier – the highest profit up to that point when it appeared back in Series 10 – this gorgeous American classic needed plenty of work. As a part-finished restoration the list included a brand new hood, getting the V8 engine running right with an overhaul of the ignition system and hours spent perfecting the paintwork. It’s no wonder this ‘Little Red Corvette’ attracted so much attention when the boys had finished.

Purchase price – £18,100
Resto cost – £7180
Sold for – £45,500
Profit – £20,220

1972 Lancia Fulvia Series 2 – Series 14, Episode 14

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

There’s been a few stylish Italian classics in the workshop over the years, but we reckon the transformation of this one was nothing short of superb. Ant worked his magic on the oily bits, but he spent most time making it looking very special by creating a cool rally replica. Period spot lights at the front, removing the bumpers and painting the tops of the front wings in matte black to match the bonnet were great touches that made it worth every penny.

Purchase price – £7000
Resto cost – £2800
Sold for – £25,500
Profit – £15,700

1963 Land Rover Series 1 – Series 17, Episode 5

Wheeler Dealers Land Rover

Series 17 saw Marc ‘Elvis’ Priestley make his debut and he was soon getting stuck in to the legendary British off-roader. And what they thought was a Series 2 turned out to be a Series 1, and a Landie with an intriguing military history to boot. Returning it to original condition involved a huge amount of work, with plenty of time spent sourcing period-correct parts from axles to bodywork, and the result was superb.

Purchase price – £16,000
Resto cost – £9310
Sold for – £35,000
Profit – £9690

1985 Ford Escort RS Cosworth – Series 14, Episode 1

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Ant Anstead did something very special with the cracking fast Ford, and it certainly surprised a few Wheeler Dealers fans. The eye-catching rear spoiler got a third element that never appeared on production cars – it was part of Frank Stephenson’s original design – and Frank himself appeared on the show. The whole process of design and manufacture was fascinating to watch, and a session in a wind tunnel confirmed it worked perfectly. No wonder the original seller bought it back again!

Purchase price – £23,000
Resto cost – £5500
Sold for – £38,000
Profit – £9500

1974 BMW 2002Tii – Series 12, Episode 4

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Not only was this the first series filmed at the new US workshop, but it involved some great classics including this BMW. Not being used for 17 years made it a risky purchase but Mike and Edd got on with overhauling the mechanicals and making it look perfect thanks to a re-spray, European-spec bumpers and stylish Recaro seats. And enthusiasts would certainly have enjoyed watching an expert rebuild the complex Kugelfischer fuel injection pump. Did the risk pay off? Of course it did.

Purchase price – £4990
Resto cost – £8823Sold for – £23,415
Profit – £9602

1968 Chevrolet Camaro – Series 11, Episode 6

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Mike has a habit of finding part-finished restorations and when he found this cool V8-powered Chevy in San Diego he knew plenty of work was needed. Back in the UK it was treated to a power braking system and power-assisted steering, but that was just the start as sorting the interior, getting a new wiring loom made and fitting all the various bits back together was a major project. We think all the hours spent on it were worth it.

Purchase price – £7500
Resto cost – £6530
Sold for – £23,000
Profit – £8970

1984 Vauxhall Astra GTE – Series 17, Episode 13

Wheeler Dealers restores a rare hot hatchback

Amazingly this was the first Vauxhall to appear on the show, but this rare hot hatchback was an absolute cracker. Well, it was when ‘Elvis’ was finished because it was yet another part-finished restoration that was going to need plenty of hours spending on it, from rebuilding the engine to fitting the correct rear axle. The sporty interior needed a bit of effort, too, but it paid off in the end with the new buyer parting with more than £20,000!

Purchase price – £7000
Resto cost – £4580
Sold for – £20,500
Profit – £8920

1957 Ford Thunderbird – Series 11, Episode 8

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

We’re heading all the way back to Series 11 for this achingly-gorgeous US classic, one that Mike found in California. After visiting a specialist to get electric windows fitted it was back to the UK and the magic hands of Edd China who had leaking power steering to deal with, as well as a new hood and seat covers to fit. Oh yes, and installing Dial-o-Matic power seats! Hours spent on the paintwork ensured it looked stunning, too, making this one cool convertible.

Purchase price – £16,000
Resto cost – £9120
Sold for – £33,000
Profit – £7880

1972 Lamborghini Urraco – Series 10, Episode 7

Wheeler Dealers Biggest Profits

Another of Mike’s riskier purchases, this Italian supercar didn’t run and was hard to move because of seized brakes. And he had to go all the way to Poland to buy it! After many hours in the workshop the V8 engine was soon singing, it had a new clutch and the brakes had been overhauled. It performed and sounded as well as you’d expect, and the test drive as part of Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary celebrations was the icing on the cake.

Purchase price – £21,380
Resto cost – £5856
Sold for – £35,000
Profit – £7764

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Just one very royal lady owner for the latest Great British Car Journey exhibit

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Just one very royal lady owner for the latest Great British Car Journey exhibit

Just one very royal lady owner for the latest Great British Car Journey exhibit

A car with one very special royal lady owner is the latest to arrive at the award-winning interactive classic car museum in Ambergate, Derbyshire.

A custom-built Middlebridge Scimitar No 5, which was previously owned by HRH Princess Anne for 35 years, has gone on display at Great British Car Journey.

The dark green car is exactly as it was the day it left the Nottingham factory on 13 December 1988 and delivered to the Princess Royal. It was the last of eight Scimitars that she owned over 52 years.

Amongst its distinctive detailing, the car features a unique bonnet emblem – a silver female jockey on a horse. The unique mascot was presented to the Princess Royal following her performance in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games where she competed on the late Queen Elizabeth II’s horse ‘Goodwill’.

The historically significant car remained in the Princess Royal’s ownership until very recently. It was stored at her country estate Gatcombe Park. Despite having 114,000 miles on the clock, the car is in remarkable condition, even boasting its original exhaust system.

Just one very royal lady owner for the latest Great British Car Journey exhibit

Unfortunately, due to personal security reasons, Her Royal Highness has been unable to drive her cherished Scimitar No 5 for a number of years. Keen to preserve the car, Princess Anne agreed to the purchase of it by Middlebridge Scimitar enthusiast and classic car collector.

Mick Gaughran, Chairman of the Middlebridge Enthusiasts Scimitar Set (MESS), explained: “Princess Anne loved the car. She was incredibly sad to part with it, but agreed to it on condition that it would be sympathetically restored. The car had been incredibly well looked after and needed minimal work. It is simply stunning.”

The car was given its ‘minimalist’ restoration work by marque specialists with all conservation works agreed with Gatcombe Park.

“The cars have galvanised steel chassis and fibreglass bodies, so they don’t rot,” added Mick.

Following its conservation, Middlebridge Scimitar No 5 has been loaned to Great British Car Journey. It is now on display in the museum’s 150-strong collection of classic British cars, complete with its original personalised number plate – 1420 H, which was displayed on the car for 35 years. The number plate has since been returned to the 1420 Hussars, who originally gifted it to HRH on her twentieth birthday.

“Both the car’s royal and British motoring heritage will be fully appreciated at Great British Car Journey. Scimitar No 5 can now be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone,” he explained.”

The car was delivered to Great British Car Journey on Thursday 31 August. It is one of a number of historically significant cars on display in the museum, including Lord Baden Powell’s Rolls-Royce.

Richard Usher, founder of Great British Car Journey, who took delivery of Scimitar No 5 said: “I am incredibly grateful that Great British Car Journey has been chosen to display this historically significant car. Not only is it an eighties classic, the car also has an illustrious history and Royal provenance and is a wonderful addition to our exhibition.

“It is an absolutely stunning example of a Middlebridge Scimitar and is testament to HRH the Princess Royal’s care for the vehicle that it is in such a good condition, after 114,000 miles of, no doubt, enthusiastic driving!

“I have no doubt it will be much admired by the thousands of visitors who come here each year.”

The former owner of Middlebridge Scimitar Kohji Nakauchi, a huge classic car enthusiast and collector, was there for the handover of the Scimitar No 5 to Great British Car Journey. He said he was “very honoured” to see the car on display in the museum.

Find more info:
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