A fixture in development and ambassador to the U.S.

Herbert Linge has been, and will always be, an integral part of Porsche’s history. He was one of the company’s very first apprentices and in the late 1950s was the man who suggested to Ferry Porsche that a site near his hometown of Weissach and the neighboring settlement of Flacht be used for testing and development.

“We are saddened by the news of Herbert Linge’s death,” says Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board for Research and Development. “Not only was he a Porsche man from the very beginning, but also a friend for many decades. We would like to thank him for his commitment as a racing and rally driver, as a source of ideas and as a technician. Linge was a visionary and one of the great characters of the Weissach Development Centre. He played a leading role in establishing an aftersales network in the US and was particularly committed to safety in motorsport. We and the global Porsche family will never forget him.”

Dr Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG, adds: “Herbert Linge knew my grandfather personally. Thanks to colleagues like him, Porsche was able to re-establish and internationally expand its business activities in Stuttgart with my father Ferry. For that, we are very grateful. Our thoughts are with his family.”

Early beginnings

Born on 11 June 1928 in Weissach, Herbert Linge received his first Porsche ID card on 7 April 1943 at the age of 14. Six years later, he was the first mechanic employed by Porsche after it moved from Gmünd to Stuttgart. Until his death, Linge was one of the few remaining people to have known Ferdinand Porsche personally. He was involved in the development of the first Porsche 356 built in Stuttgart. The company’s early sports cars were not delivered until Linge had test-driven them. From 1952 onwards, he travelled regularly to the US to set up a nationwide aftersales network. As many employees were encouraged to make the most of their various skills in the early years of the sports car manufacturer, Linge was able to prove himself as a development driver. He was valued by racing drivers and colleagues as a gifted mechanic and analyst as well as showing a talent for racing himself. His co-drivers would rave about the precision with which he drove sports cars, while others admired him for his level-headedness and the fact that nothing could rattle the swift Swabian.

Iconic races and a stint as a double for Steve McQueen

Herbert Linge was awarded the Mexican Order of Merit for three consecutive class victories as a co-driving mechanic in the Carrera Panamericana from 1952 to 1954. Seated alongside Hans Herrmann, the pair secured a class victory in a 550 Spyder at the Mille Miglia in 1954 – a race that would become the stuff of legends after the duo were forced to duck down to pass under the closing barrier of a railway crossing. Linge went on to celebrate further class wins not only at the Mille Miglia, but also at the Targa Florio. He finished as the overall winner of the 1954 Liège-Rome-Liège Rally, the 1960 Tour de Corse and the 1967 Marathon de la Route at the Nürburgring. He started 11 times at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with eight rankings and several class wins. In 1965, together with Peter Nöcker, he won the Index of Performance award at Le Mans for the most economical ratio of fuel consumption to engine capacity. That same year, Linge and the then future Porsche racing director Peter Falk finished fifth in the Monte Carlo Rally – the first major motorsport success for the early 911.

In 1970, he took part in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a Porsche 908 that had been converted into a camera car for filming, and he afterwards doubled for Steve McQueen in the racing scenes for the ‘Le Mans’ film. “Porsche and McQueen had an extremely good relationship. Our racing director at the time was fully behind the film and we supported McQueen wherever we could,” Linge once recalled. “Steve couldn’t take part in the real race himself for insurance reasons and didn’t have a car that complied with the official regulations. But he wanted the real pictures for his film – and I got them for him with the 908.”

Honored with the Federal Cross of Merit

With improving safety in motorsport high on his personal agenda, Linge founded the safety arm of Germany’s Supreme National Sports Commission for Motorsport (ONS) in 1972. Together with those who drove them, these safety cars fitted with fire extinguishers saved the lives of numerous racing drivers in the 1970s and 80s. Ten years after the creation of ONS-Staffel, Linge was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit in honor of his lifetime achievement. Incidentally, his first ONS service car was a Porsche 914/6 GT, which took part in the 1971 Monte Carlo Rally. The car, equipped with safety apparatus and a fire extinguishing system, became known as the ‘fastest fire engine in the world’.

After retiring from his role as Operations Manager at the Weissach Development Centre in 1987, Linge continued to work as a motorsport consultant. A true visionary, he would go on to head a racing series from 1990 that celebrated worldwide success: the Carrera Cup. The honored citizen of Weissach remained closely associated with Porsche in the decades that followed. For many years he continued to travel with Porsche, making appearances at motor shows and events marking various milestones in the company’s rich history. Fans loved to hear the anecdotes of the modest Swabian, whose life at and with Porsche wrote many special stories.

All content© 2024 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

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Audi was the first manufacturer to develop a T1U model for the Dakar Rally. The aim: for an electrically powered prototype is to prove that a low-emission vehicle can master one of the toughest motorsport events and be competitive at the same time. “The Audi RS Q e-tron rally car has already caused quite a stir in its first two Dakar appearances,” says Rolf Michl, Head of Audi Motorsport. “Audi was once again a technological pioneer in its outstanding motorsport history. We have initiated a paradigm shift. The combination of an electric drivetrain and a reFuel-powered energy converter is unique and very efficient. We know what we have already achieved. At the same time, we are looking forward to the next Dakar Rally with respect. It represents a major challenge.” As was the case the past two years, Audi is relying on the Q Motorsport team of experienced team principal Sven Quandt.

Dakar Rally with a total distance of approx. 7,900 kilometers

The drivers, co-drivers, and management of Team Audi Sport agree: A particularly challenging edition of the Dakar Rally lies ahead of all participants. Twelve special stages during 14 days in Saudi Arabia cover 4,727 kilometers. Including all of the liaison stages, the route results in a total distance of 7,891 kilometers. The teams often have to complete more than 400 kilometers a day on the special stages. “That’s why it’s important not to lose your stamina during the rally,” emphasizes Stéphane Peterhansel. “I have trained a lot on my bicycle. We have to be able to rest well during the nights, and we also pay attention to our diet.” One of the special challenges this year is a 48-hour stage. It takes place on January 11 and 12 and forms a joint stage – the sixth of twelve.

The organizers have chosen the Empty Quarter with its seemingly endless sea of dunes as the venue. As the motorcycles and quads are on different routes, the leading crews in the cars and racing trucks will not have any tracks in the sand on these two days. In addition, the participants have to do without the regular service from the team and are only allowed to help each other. That night, however, they are spread across multiple bivouacs. They are also unable to perceive and assess the performance of their opponents. “This will be a big strategic challenge,” says Peterhansel’s co-driver Edouard Boulanger. “But the second week will also be tough, because this year the rocky stages only come at the end. Then things can still change.”

Detailed development work on the Audi RS Q e-tron

The development team led by Dr. Leonardo Pascali has improved the RS Q e-tron in many areas compared to last year’s model. “The new set-up improves comfort and is also very efficient,” emphasizes Carlos Sainz, who has optimized many rally cars in his almost 40 years as a professional driver. Mattias Ekström adds: “For me, it’s all about how we use the car perfectly in the sand. It helps that we can drive over the dunes without needing to change gears.” Edouard Boulanger notes a shift in the emphasis of individual topics: “At the beginning of the project, the focus was on the fundamental development of the complex drivetrain technology and the car. In the meantime, we have also found the time to improve many aspects of the cockpit. We can better control the noise levels and the effects thereof, and the driver and co-driver are also better protected against the effects of hard impacts and extreme loads. The technicians have worked hard on this during the past year and made real progress. A big compliment for that.” The electric drivetrain of the RS Q e-tron with a high-voltage battery draws its power from an energy converter. Audi has been relying on residue-based reFuel for its operation since the last Dakar Rally. The regulations limit the output of the electric drivetrain to 286 kW in January 2024, distributed between the front and rear axles. Many other new details reduce maintenance times for the team and make the prototype safer, more reliable, and more comfortable.

Team Audi Sport is part of a strong field of entrants

343 participants have registered for the 46th edition of the Dakar Rally. They will start with 72 cars in the T1 and T2 classes, 42 additional models in the T3 class, 36 smaller SSV vehicles, 46 trucks, as well as 137 motorcycles and 10 quads. “We are up against very strong and experienced competitors,” Rolf Michl is sure. “As every year, we expect that the relative strengths of the competition will only really become apparent during the rally.” Carlos Sainz recognizes the strong competition: “Definitely Dakar winner Nasser Al-Attiyah and world rally champion Sébastien Loeb in the Prodrive Hunters are among them. Toyota also has a former winner in Giniel de Villiers and a number of good younger drivers in its line-up. And we certainly won’t underestimate our new opponent, Ford, with former winner Nani Roma.”

For the third year in a row, Team Audi Sport is entering the event with its unchanged driver line-up. As a DTM champion, World Rallycross champion, 24-hour race winner, and champion of an electric touring car series, Mattias Ekström probably brings the greatest variety of experience and success to the table. “I’ve learned a lot since I first competed as a rookie in 2020,” says Ekström. “Our rivals are experienced and fast. I’ve been training and competing as much as possible in order to be ready. My co-driver and I have continued to increase our speed and our understanding of the sport.” His navigator is fellow Swede Emil Bergkvist, who has quickly adapted to the Dakar Rally. “I’m already looking forward to the next edition, because our learning curve continues to point upwards,” says the co-driver, who only switched from the driver’s to the co-driver’s seat since working with Mattias Ekström.

As a 14-time winner, Frenchman Stéphane Peterhansel is the lone record holder at the Dakar Rally. He relies on the guidance of his compatriot Edouard Boulanger, who has already accompanied him to victory. Two-time World Rally champion Carlos Sainz is a giant of his sport. He first drove with Lucas Cruz as his co-driver in 2009, and the two Spaniards have together won the Dakar Rally three times to date. They are the longest-standing driver and co-driver combination at Audi. “The upcoming Dakar will be tough, but we have prepared thoroughly for it,” says Lucas Cruz confidently. “Physically, my program included cycling and jogging in the mountains, plus exercising in the gym. Mentally, I prepare myself with a sports psychologist. This helps my reaction times and with multitasking.”

Coordinated team as a key strength

The foundation of such a complex, varied and high-stress environment as the Dakar Rally is a reliable team. Team Audi Sport has cooperated with Q Motorsport from Trebur, Germany since day one. Sven Quandt, who won the T1 Marathon Cup in cross-country rallying as a driver in 1998, has long been a successful team principal. He has already won the Dakar Rally six times with his X-raid team and the World Cup for cross-country rallies eleven times. “Experience is the key to success in our sport,” emphasizes Stéphane Peterhansel. “Sven Quandt and his team have shown that they can overcome all challenges. With such a good team behind us, we sleep more soundly at night and go into the stages with more confidence.” His co-driver Edouard Boulanger adds: “We have a lot of new members who have joined Team Audi Sport. They have done an excellent job in familiarizing themselves with the subject matter over this year and have driven the project forward in a good direction with their contributions. That gives me confidence.” Nevertheless, Mattias Ekström speaks for everyone when he says: “I have learned to remain humble in this sport. There are incredibly long days and so many of them …”

With the combined experience of drivers, co-drivers, the entire team, and the further developed RS Q e-tron, Rolf Michl has one wish above all: “We want to experience the Dakar Rally as smoothly as possible to show what we can do.”

All content © 2023 Audi

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The top-finishing AF Corse car, the Ferrari 296 GT3 number 25, which started from eighteenth place overall on the grid, came back to finish fourth in the same class. Alessandro Cozzi, Giorgio Sernagiotto, Marco Pulcini and Alessio Rovera took turns at the wheel, with the Prancing Horse official driver taking over the car for the final stages, finishing fourth in class and eleventh overall.

The race of the third Ferrari 296 GT3 in the Pro-Am class, the number 26 of Racing One, ended before the checkered flag came into sight. Omar Jackson, Axcil Jefferies, Ramez Azzam and Zaamin Jaffer, who started from fifteenth on the grid, finished in twentieth place overall and eighth in the Pro-Am.

Three Maranello-brand cars also competed in the Am class, all driven by AF Corse. The Ferrari 296 GT3 number 20 achieved the best result, crossing the line fifth in class and sixteenth overall. Christian Colombo, David Tjiptobiantoro and Stephane Lemeret shared the wheel of the Prancing Horse’s new GT3, which set off from twenty-first on the grid, before handing over the steering wheel for the final stint to the young Frenchwoman Lilou Wadoux, also an official Ferrari driver.

The Piacenza-based team’s other cars were less fortunate. Both were forced to drop out of the challenge prematurely but were still classified. The Ferrari 296 GT3 number 61 with Laurent de Meeus, Jean-Claude Saada, Conrad Grunewald and Miguel Ramos crossed the line in nineteenth, seventh in class, while the only 488 GT3 Evo 2020 in the race, the number 51 crewed by Nicola Marinangeli, Kriton Lendoudis, Christoph Ulrich and ‘Alex Fox’ closed in twenty-first place overall, eighth in the Am category, forced to retire after a collision damaged its rear axle.

All content © 2023 Ferrari SpA

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The Las Vegas Grand Prix was meant to be spectacular and it did not disappoint. Looking at the finishing order, with Charles second behind Max Verstappen and ahead of Sergio Perez, and Carlos in sixth, one could be forgiven for thinking it had been a race like any other this year. However, between the walls on the Strip, Scuderia Ferrari was a true front-runner to the point that there can even be a bit of disappointment at the final result, as Leclerc had a genuine possibility of winning. Carlos too could have finished higher up the order if he had not been caught up in the chaos on the opening lap, which saw him spin and have to fight his way up the order from the back of the pack. However, overall this was a positive day as the SF-23 proved to be competitive, just as expected, resulting in Ferrari making up 16 of the 20 points by which it trailed Mercedes coming into this weekend in its fight for second in the Constructors’ championship. In a few days time, it will be all to play for in Abu Dhabi.

The Race

The Grand Prix was an adrenalin rush from start to finish, with excitement right from the start, when Max Verstappen ran Charles off the track at turn 1 to take the lead and Carlos spun at the same corner. On lap 2, the Safety Car came out after Lando Norris crashed and, given they had both slipped down the order, Sergio Perez and Carlos pitted, switching from Medium to Hard tires. Verstappen was handed a 5 second penalty, but Charles didn’t wait and with his SF-23 on-song, he retook the lead on track with a great passing move at turn 14. He then pitted on lap 21 for Hard tires and, at this point, he was the virtual leader given that the only driver ahead of him were Perez, who with Hard tires fitted on lap 2, would therefore have to make a further stop, and Lance Stroll, yet to pit. The Monegasque had Verstappen under control, the Dutchman having changed tires five laps earlier. However, on lap 26 the Safety Car reappeared while debris was cleared away following a collision between Verstappen and George Russell. Having only just changed tires, Charles stayed out on track and went into the lead, but the neutralization meant both Red Bull drivers were able to stop losing far less time. Therefore, at the restart, Perez and Verstappen were able to push without paying too much attention to tyre management, while Leclerc was on older Hards. Carlos also benefited, fitting a new set of Hards and going on the attack.

Thrilling Finish

Leclerc began to experience graining earlier than his two rivals and Verstappen was able to get by on lap 36, but Charles gritted his teeth and kept fighting, matching the Dutchman’s pace so that the gap never got bigger than 2.5 seconds and he was also able to fend off Perez’s attempts to pass. Then on lap 43 it seemed that second place was lost as Charles out braked himself at turn 14 as he tried to defend from the Mexican, who managed to get ahead. But once again, Leclerc dug deep and caught Perez when he too started to suffer with graining. For the final three laps, the pair put on a thrilling show as they fought it out and on the final lap, Charles got ahead with a breath-taking move at turn 14 to secure a very well deserved second place. Carlos was also very aggressive in the closing stages, passing Pierre Gasly and Russell, the latter having a five-second penalty added to his race time for the collision with Verstappen. Today’s sixth place puts the Spaniard back in fourth spot in the Drivers’ championship. The definitive championship standings will be decided in one week’s time at the final round of the 2023 season.

All content © 2023 Ferrari S.p.A.  Italy

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Upon arriving at the Velocity Invitational, I was immediately struck by the pulsating energy that filled the air. The event’s picturesque setting at the Sonoma Raceway added an extra layer of charm, nestled amidst the rolling hills of California’s wine country. The sight of sleek, high-performance vehicles lined up in the paddock, their engines humming with anticipation, set the stage for an unforgettable experience.

I can’t get around the cars, because it’s an event for historic racecars to actually race on a track. With the event being a week before the Las Vegas F1 race, the hype was real. The McLaren Race team was present for its 60th birthday with a history of their F1 cars on display. Yes, I saw Lando Norris, among others. This is definitely the place to go if you want to rub shoulders with racing royalty.

When I learned one of my favorite restoration people, Bobby Green, was driving his 1920 Deusenberg, you best believe I went and snagged that opportunity to meet an idol of mine. I’m big into design and I’m always looking at form and function and perhaps that’s why I’m drawn to race cars. Everything in a racecar is there for a reason, and some manufacturers just have that dialed in for their times, whether that be 100 years ago or the newly unveiled Ford GT Mk IV. I saw cars I’ve never heard of or seen in person, and experienced cars on the track that have been driven by absolute racing legends. It was an honor to be in the cars’ presence.

Flanked on either side by some of the most beautiful supercars in the world, was the family area, merchandise, and food tents. It housed small racetracks and cars for kids to play, and games for families while they take a break for lunch. The tables, chairs, and umbrellas were welcomed on the sunny afternoon. The food tents offered a great selection typically not found at race events.

While waiting for my lunch, I spent some time looking at Ben’s Automotive Decor (@bensautomotivedecor) engine block tables, crankshaft art, and piston clocks, admiring the creativity and ingenuity it takes to make these masterpieces, the first and second time around. I chatted with John Connely, Mr. Chicane footwear (@chicane.footwear), who started his business with Women’s race shoes and Michelin Tires! Who knew? I stumbled on a whole booth for just women’s race themed shirts, Racegirl (@racegirl_nation), and the offerings of race clothing in the other shops did have women’s fits and sizes. At the Rosso Corsa Makeup Table, aside from the great conversation, (@rossocorsa.us) I wound up with a race-team themed lip color, and they have a Mercedes eye palette I’ve got my eye on next. (Pun intended).

If you’re not into the whole automobile part, but you like to be a spectator, Sonoma Raceway offers a wine pavilion that looked like a great spot to chill with a glass of wine at turn 1 and the track just completed an impressive new event building at turn 11 that was exclusively reserved for drivers and special access. Unfortunately, the tickets were sold out quickly for both of these, which means I’ll have to plan farther ahead for next year.

When it comes to heart-pounding speed, roaring engines, and the unmistakable scent of race gas, the Velocity Invitational event in Sonoma, California, stands in a league of its own. Motorsport enthusiasts from around the world will continue to flock to this exhilarating event, thirsty for the ultimate automotive and racing experience on and beyond the track.

Writer: Jessica Wendland  bluecamarogurl@gmail.com

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• Photographers: Dennis Gray  dennisgray711@me.com
• Bill Wagenblatt bill@historicmotorprints.com
• Kevin Gray   kevingray81@yahoo.com

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Who needs Vegas?

During Velocity Invitational, fans had the opportunity to meet McLaren Formula 1 driver Lando Norris, as well as McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, along with Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team drivers Pato O’Ward, Alexander Rossi, and Tony Kanaan. They also witnessed these talented individuals take to the track throughout the weekend.

McLaren Race Team

Additionally, the McLaren team curated an extensive collection of heritage cars, many seldom seen in North America. Several of the renowned McLarens showcased in the collection encompass Niki Lauda’s MP4/2A-1, securing the 1984 World Championship, Lewis Hamilton’s MP4/23A-05, piloted to a fifth-place finish in Brazil for his inaugural World Championship victory in 2008, and Ayrton Senna’s MP4/6-10, propelling him to his third and last World Championship and contributing to McLaren’s attainment of their fourth consecutive Constructors’ Championship.

Variety everywhere

With 10 different race groups, hypercar lap demonstrations, and the thrilling showdown between the Mustangs and Minis in an endurance race, there was surely something for everyone to enjoy on the 12-turn, 2.52-mile Sonoma Raceway throughout the sunny weekend. The inaugural public showcase of the new Ford GT Mk IV during the entire weekend, both on display in the Paddock and on track was a favorite among the automotive fans. The hand-built, track-only model pays homage to the original 1967 Ford GT40 Mk IV that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Only 67 of the carbon fiber-bodied cars will be produced with a specially engineered twin-turbo Ford EcoBoost engine boasting over 800hp.

Time to get dirty

Dirtfish Rally School returned to Velocity Invitational. Several of their cars took to the track to demonstrate their expertise to the crowd.  Visitors had the unique opportunity to purchase a ride-along experience on the specially constructed dirt course with renowned professional rally drivers, such as British and Asia-Pacific Rally Champion Alister McRae, European Rally Championship driver Max McRae, or IndyCar Series driver Benjamin Pedersen.  The professional rally drivers also demonstrated their skills on the paved surface of Sonoma Raceway’s 12-turn course over the weekend.

Buzz in the paddock

Spectators came across a variety of exhibits as they explored the paddock area. Alongside the McLaren road cars, hypercar manufacturers and bespoke vehicles, like Guntherwerks, were also featured. Throughout the weekend, track demonstrations were seamlessly integrated between the racing categories, featuring a McLaren parade and the Ragtime Racers. Each night concluded with an exciting enduro competition that pitted Mustangs against Minis, all under the setting sun.

Until next year…

As the sun dipped below the Sonoma hills, it became clear that the 2023 Velocity Invitational had once more achieved the remarkable feat of encapsulating the true spirit of automotive enthusiasm. The weekend created a diverse mix of automotive passion and culture, where distinctions between value, rarity, perceived exclusivity, historical significance, and social hierarchy blurred. The result was a unique gathering of race cars revisiting their glorious past, creating a melting pot of enthusiasm and nostalgia.  All content

All content  © 2023 Kristina Cilia

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The multiple title-winning Aston Martin Vantage GTE recorded a double-podium finish on its final appearance in the FIA World Endurance Championship [WEC], in the season-ending 8 Hours of Bahrain on Saturday. The result brings the curtain down on an incredible era of GT racing, as the class closes with Vantage as the most successful car in LMGTE Am history.

In a race free of Safety Car periods, pure performance mattered more in Bahrain than at any other race in the 2023 WEC, and this enabled Aston Martin Racing partner teams D’station Racing, Heart of Racing and ORT by TF to show the true endurance pace of the Vantage GTE and score a milestone 75th LMGTE Am podium in the category’s final race.

Heart of Racing

The Heart of Racing team made it a double-podium finish. Its trio of drivers, led by Team Principal Ian James (GBR), Daniel Mancinelli (ITA) and Alex Riberas (ESP) took third, with the team in contention for victory until contact delayed the #98 car with two hours to go. Heart of Racing’s result is the latest in many achievements for the team with Vantage in the past 13 months. The US-based operation won the 2022 GTD division in the North American IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship and was the first GT car home in this year’s Rolex 24 at Daytona – a first for Aston Martin.

Street car DNA

The race result means that the Vantage GTE, the prototype version of the British-built race car derived from Aston Martin’s critically-acclaimed ultra-luxury sportscar, shares the same aluminum body-frame and a specially-tuned version of the four-liter V8 turbo-charged production engine, completes the GTE Am era as its most successful car with a record 33 wins and a total of 75 podiums.

Stellar resume

Combining both the GTE Am and GTE Pro classes – the latter of which was discontinued after 2022 – Vantage has amassed 52 victories in the WEC’s 85 races and has finished on the podium 119 times, at least one of which came in every single season since the FIA revived the World Championship in 2012. Eleven world titles have been achieved in that time as well as five victories in the world’s biggest motor race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, including a GTE Pro and Am double in 2020.

“The Aston Martin Vantage GTE has completed every single one of its objectives and covered itself in glory in the process,” said Aston Martin’s Head of Endurance Racing Adam Carter. “A multiple championship-winning race car, Vantage won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in both classes and was a force throughout its six-year run in the world championship. It will be rightly remembered as one of the great sportscars in the modern era of the sport. We’re incredibly excited about what’s coming next for Aston Martin in world endurance racing, but we must also be proud of what has been achieved with Vantage GTE.”

All content © 2023 Aston Martin

Race highlights

Looking back through the years

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This collection contextualizes pivotal automobiles within the tapestry of time, elucidating the narratives of the innovators and aesthetes, the esteemed proprietors, and the intrepid racers. It is a compendium of the tales that underpin the annals of automotive history.

Permanent Exhibition

An array of over 150 artifacts, each accompanied by a riveting tale, is thoughtfully curated and elegantly displayed against the backdrop of a creatively reimagined historical edifice. The National Auto Museum meticulously orchestrates a retrospective of the automobile’s journey, celebrating its multifaceted nature—the exemplary, the infamous, and the eccentric. Distinct thematic sections have been meticulously delineated to exhibit venerable classics, elucidate monumental flops, and to differentiate between innovations that captured the zeitgeist and those relegated to obscurity. The museum’s amenities include a cinema, an engine hall, a technical conservatory, and a rotation of special exhibitions that infuse the establishment with an enduring vitality. It is a haven of enlightenment, a source of inspiration for automobile aficionados, and a place of amusement for families.

Special Exhibition

“100 years 24h Le Mans – the myth, the heroes, the cars” is a special exhibition that chronicles the riveting evolution of the world-renowned endurance race. With a collection of over 20 original Le Mans racers dating from 1928 to today, the exhibit is a premier presentation of vehicles never before assembled. Makes include Jaguar, Porsche, Bugatti, Bentley and many more.

Cinema

The Capitol, resonant with Art Deco elegance, offers a luxurious enclave for approximately 50 guests. Fusing classic seating with an authentic projector within a repurposed industrial hall, it provides an immersive cinematic experience.

Dining

Indulge in the culinary excellence of the New York New York restaurant. The dining space, adorned with the finesse and palette of Art Deco inspiration, mirrors the museum’s eclectic array. Patrons may feast their eyes on select exhibits through expansive panes of glass. For those desiring exclusivity, the VIP area awaits, offering panoramic vistas of the collection’s most elusive pieces. Culinary experiences are complemented by a handpicked selection of fine wines, artisanal coffees, and premium spirits, perfect for crafting unforgettable moments.

All content © 2023 Nationales Auto Museum

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Corvettes in racing

In the 1950s, with the American economy booming, sports cars became increasingly popular. Americans with disposable income were buying quick and nimble cars from foreign manufacturers like MG, Ferrari, and Porsche. Many were campaigned in amateur road races, a fast-growing pastime. In 1953 Chevrolet released the first sports car from a large American manufacturer: the Corvette. It would become an icon both on the street and the track, earning the nickname “America’s Sports Car.” However, the first Corvettes did not have the performance to match their looks. It would take a Russian engineer named Zora Arkus-Duntov to give the car the speed and handling to rival its European counterparts. To increase sales, Arkus-Duntov knew it needed to race, and it needed to win. Starting on a beach in Daytona in 1956, where it set a new American speed mark, it did just that.

After an Automobile Manufacturers Association racing ban in 1957 in response to a tragic accident at the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans, Chevrolet could not officially support any racing efforts. But, Arkus-Duntov and his engineering team found backdoor ways to assist private owners who wanted to race Corvettes. And many did. The Corvette found success in America and overseas, where it was often the sole entrant from an American manufacturer racing in major events. In 1999 a new factory-backed racing team, Corvette Racing, was founded. It has gone on to win at Le Mans nine times and Daytona four times, in addition to producing ten championships in the American Le Mans series and five in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. America’s Sports Car has become America’s Race Car.

Exhibition highlights

• 1953 Chevrolet Corvette NASCAR
• 1956 Chevrolet Corvette “The Real McCoy”
• 1960 Chevrolet Corvette “Cunningham Le Mans # 2”
• 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport
• 1976 Chevrolet Corvette “Spirit of Le Mans”
• 1989 Chevrolet Corvette “Corvette Challenge”
• 2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6.R GT1
• 2011 Chevrolet Corvette C6.R GT2

Details

The exhibit, which is held in Charles Nearburg Family Gallery and located on the museum’s second floor, and features more than 10 historically significant Corvettes, including the 1995 Chevrolet Corvette Callaway LM, which won the 1996 SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge Series, the 2001 Chevrolet Corvette C5.R driven by Dale Earnhardt at the 2001 24 Hours of Daytona and the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7R that won its class at the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring in 2015. This special exhibit runs until August 25, 2024.

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All images © 2023 Petersen Automotive Museum

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Masters Historic Racing

Masters was formed in 2004 and currently runs nine race series in the UK, Europe and North America. The current race portfolio encompasses a diverse range of races for historically significant cars from 1960s touring cars through to 2010s sports cars. Goodyear will supply tires to the Masters Endurance Legends and Masters GT Trophy series from the beginning of 2024. These tires will be manufactured alongside Goodyear’s contemporary FIA World Endurance Championship and European Le Mans Series LMP2 and LMGT3 tires. This will ensure the prototypes and GT cars in the Masters portfolio benefit from the same consistency, performance and durability as the current cars.

Historic F1

Goodyear will also become the supplier for the Masters Racing Legends series for 1966 to 1985 Formula 1 cars. With 368 Grand Prix wins, Goodyear is the most successful manufacturer in the history of Formula 1. In an era spanning the eligibility period for the Masters championship, Goodyear dominated F1 against intense competition from other tire manufacturers. The newly developed Goodyear F1 tires will gradually replace the Avon brand in this category. The existing Dunlop-branded range of cross-ply treaded tires for historic Pre-66 GT and touring cars will be expanded to support Masters’ burgeoning grids, highlighting the company’s commitment to the sector. The Dunlop range gives truly authentic performance and aesthetics, complying with the FIA’s Appendix K regulations.

Goodyear comments

David Joy, Technical Leader and Sales Account Manager Historic, Goodyear EMEA, explains the scale of the company’s commitment: “The historic racing market is becoming increasingly diverse, spanning vintage to very recent cars. Across our Goodyear and Dunlop brands we have increased the size of our historic tire portfolio, with an investment in new tire sizes and specifications, to ensure entrants have the most appropriate and authentic period tires for their cars. It is a pleasure to commit to a long-term partnership with Masters, who take a forward-thinking approach to historic motorsport.”

Ron Maydon, President and Founder of Masters Historic Racing:  “We are extremely pleased to have the long-term commitment of Goodyear across its range of brands. This new agreement gives confidence in tire supply to our Masters customers and historic racing in general. We are proud to have the most successful tire company in the history of both F1 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a partner.”

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Track optimization

The new 296 Challenge embodies an innovative new philosophy that has seen far-reaching work carried out on the road car to optimize its specifications for track use. Both in terms of performance and lap consistency throughout a race, the 296 Challenge rewrites the parameters of the Prancing Horse single-make series, offering solutions that closely mirror the specifications of the 296 GT3, which made its debut this season.

120-degree V6

Derived from the 296 GTB, the 296 Challenge ushers in substantial modifications on the power unit, aero, and vehicle dynamics fronts, all aimed at guaranteeing maximum performance on the track. It is the first car in the history of the championship to be powered by a 120-degree V6: the new model sports the 2992cc twin-turbo engine without the hybrid component, a choice also made for the 296 GT3. The engine unleashes 700 cv with a maximum torque of 740 Nm, with the result that the 296 Challenge sets a new power record for the segment with 234 cv/l.

Other upgrades

The 296 Challenge’s aero package delivers downforce figures unprecedented in the single-make series’ history, ensuring maximum efficiency in all conditions. In fact, the 296 Challenge generates more than 870 kg of downforce at 250 km/h with the spoiler at its maximum angle of attack. The car sees the debut of ABS EVO Track, a specific adaptation of the innovative system introduced for the first time on the 296 GTB. With the addition of new CCM-R PLUS brake discs, both braking performance and consistency are improved. New, specifically developed Pirelli 19” tires have also made a substantial contribution to the car’s handling and performance.

Recent Ferrari Challenge Highlights

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Top-ten finish

Edward Cheever III, Chris Froggart and Jonathan Hui finished 10th overall and fourth in Pro-Am, sharing the No. 535 Sky Tempesta Racing Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo 2020 carrying a throwback paint scheme promoting the upcoming “Ferrari” movie. Cheever gained three overall positions in the final hour, and ran as high as second in the class in the race, which was slowed only once by a caution early in the event.

Down, but not out

It was a tough day for the two Ferrari teams that regularly compete in the American SRO GT World Challenge America series. Ryan Dalziel, Justin Wetherill and team owner Onofrio Triarsi were in the hunt for a podium position for the No. 33 Ferrari 296 GT3. Triarsi was running fifth when he was clipped from behind by the overall race leader with two hours, 23 minutes remaining. Both cars spun but were able to continue to the pits, with the Florida team returning to the event 15 laps down. They soldiered on to place 18th overall, 10th in Pro-Am, with Dalziel and Wetherill taking eighth in the final Pro-Am points.

Conquest Racing’s event unraveled only seven minutes into the event, when starting driver Alessandro Balzan pitted and the No. 21 Ferrari 296 GT3 was taken to the garage for a technical problem at the right-front suspension part. While the car was repaired and sent back into action 25 minutes later, the team lost 17 laps and an unsurmountable deficit for Balzan, Manny Franco and the Ferrari factory driver Lilou Wadoux. The trio had an uneventful run for the remainder of the event, placing 19th overall and sixth in the Pro class. Balzan and rookie teammate Franco placed fifth in the final Pro driver standings.

All photos © 2023 Ferrari SpA

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Which brings us to this gallery. Captured over four days, some of our photographers collaborated to share moments that both moved them and conveyed what transpired on track. From the look on a driver’s face to a million-dollar rarity up on three wheels, that moment defines what racing, hence Rennsport Reunion, is all about. Enjoy the show, and note the information in the captions.

Love These Images? Get Your Full-Size Print!

Both Dennis and William offer their images in full-size prints. Get yours today!

• Dennis: dennisgray711@me.com,
• William: bill@historicmotorprints.com

Gallery

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This is Why We Porsche

In a symphony of speed, where legends convene,

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Deep in the Eifel mountains, a sparsely populated wild region in north-western Germany, often cited as being one of Germany’s best-kept secrets, a range of now-extinct volcanoes had sculpted the landscape into a symphony of cratered lakes, wooded hillside and mountain pastures. It is here, far from the hustle and bustle of Germany’s large metropolises lie, where a ribbon of tarmac, which, through a seemingly never-ending series of corners, rises and falls through the undulating German landscape. A track of myth and legend, the Nordschleife strikes fear into the hearts of hardened racers, an unforgiving circuit that was labeled “The Green Hell’ by Sir Jackie Stewart.

The history of the Nordschleife

From its inception in the 1920s, the Nordschleife has hosted a variety of racing, including being the primary German venue for Grand Prix racing since 1951. The long, technical track stood out from its contemporaries and garnered a reputation for being one of the greatest challenges that a Formula One driver could face. In 1953, the first 1000km Nürburgring was contested, setting the precedent for endurance racing on the demanding circuit, with the first 24-hour race run on the Nordschleife in 1970. The 24h of Nürburgring is now the biggest event held on the circuit, drawing thousands of spectators who revel in the multi-class racing over the full 24-hour period.

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75 Years and still going strong

In the wake of World War Two, as the dust had settled and an air of normality was creeping back over the UK, it was in September 1948 when Goodwood Motor Circuit first opened its doors. The name Goodwood,75 years on, is now synonymous with the highest caliber of historic motorsport, renowned across the world for attracting a pedigree of driver and machine that is pretty much unparalleled in its field. While the internationally acclaimed Festival of Speed grabs the lion’s share of the headlines with new manufacturer releases and dazzling performances on the hill, the Revival serves up a more refined affair, blending period grace with the ‘elbows out’ racing that offers a raw, yet dignified journey into the racing of yesteryear.

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It’s quite possibly the world’s most coveted sports car from the golden era of endurance racing: the Ferrari 250 GTO. Produced in the 1960s, this exceptional automobile was born from the need for a racing car to compete in the FIA’s Group 3 Grand Touring Car category. The “GTO” in the name stands for “Gran Turismo Omologato” or “Grand Touring Homologated” in English. This nomenclature underscores the car’s purpose: to be a competitive force in official racing while also being street-legal (wink wink). Only 36 of these vehicles were ever produced between 1962 and 1964, making it one of the most sought-after classic cars in the world.

Designed by Scaglietti

Led by the accomplished Sergio Scaglietti, the design of the 250 GTO is a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality. Its rounded lines and iconic front grille are not just for show but carefully designed for aerodynamic efficiency. Predictably, the iconic Italian racer uses a Colombo Tipo 125 V12 engine that had proven itself in earlier models like the pontoon fender Testa Rossa. Its 300 horsepower and lightweight construction enabled the car to reach speeds of over 170 mph while the world stood still in awe.

Racing Legacy

The Ferrari 250 GTO’s resume is nothing short of impressive. It clinched numerous victories in the early 1960s, including at world-renowned events such as the Tour de France and the Targa Florio. These wins helped solidify Ferrari’s reputation as a leader in motorsport.

Chassis details

• The only factory-owned Series I GTO raced by the Scuderia Ferrari
• Class win and 2nd overall finish at the 1962 Nürburgring 1,000 KM
• Driven by Mike Parkes and Lorenzo Bandini for the Scuderia Ferrari at the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans
• 1965 Sicilian Hillclimb Championship runner-up
• Formerly owned by a chairman of the Ferrari Club of America
• Benefits from 38 years of meticulous care under current ownership
• Winner of an FCA Platinum Award and the Coppa Bella Macchina at the Cavallino Classic
• 2nd in the GTO class at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, among 23 total GTOs
• Best of Show at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance
• Blue Ribbon winner at the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance
• Desirably documented with copies of factory build sheets, owner’s correspondence, period racing coverage, and magazine feature articles
• Pre-auction estimate: Over $60M

Details of Sale

Selling in New York on 13 November 2023 during Sotheby’s marquee sales of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Gallery

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Twenty years ago, CSRG (Classic Sportscar Racing Group) decided they wanted to work with the then named “Sears Point Raceway” to support the Sonoma, CA community. Since then, CSRG has raised more than $1,200,000 to help teenagers and young adults, quite a feat. The Charity Challenge allows spectators to purchase rides in real race cars around Sears Point Sonoma Raceway. For many, riding around Sonoma Raceway at near racing speeds in a race car is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Saturday night, CSRG celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Charity Challenge with a party for team owners, drivers, crew members, track workers, and invited guests. Held in the T11 building. Sears Point’s new turn eleven track hospitality center. Chief Registrar Petey Thornton announced her retirement effective at the end of the 2023 season.  She will be missed but has certainly paid her dues.  It’s time for her to kick back and relax!

The Track

Sears Point or Sonoma Raceway, is a Northern California twelve-turn 2.520-mile road course featuring more than 160 feet of elevation from its highest point, turn three at 174 feet to its lowest turn ten at 14 feet.

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A rebranding with an unerring Motorsport focus

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the three days of historic racing, formerly known Silverstone Classic, now rebranded into the all-encompassing Silverstone Festival, albeit with the beating heart of classic Motorsport still at the forefront of its focus, but with an array of other attractions, seeking to spread the appeal to a wider audience. Huge car club presence sees the infield awash with eclectic collections of rare, unique and quirky motors, indeed, one could easily spend a day wandering around the seemingly endless lines of immaculately presented cars, basking in their elegance. The prestigious Silverstone Auctions, now operating under Iconic Auctioneers saw some spectacular lots offered with many auction world records broken, the undoubted star of the show being the ex-Colin McRae Subaru Impreza 22B, Chassis 000/400 selling for £480,500. One of three prototype 22Bs built, and offered on the open market for the very first time.

To celebrate the 75th anniversary of motorsport at Silverstone, the expected partnerships with Masters Historic Racing, HSCC, HGPCA and Masters Racing Legends offered a bumper timetable throughout the weekend, with grids seemingly offering more depth and diversity than has been seen over the past couple of editions, certainly a fine way to celebrate this landmark year in the history of Silverstone. The HGPCA in particular, holding the 75th Anniversary Trophy  for front engine Grand Prix cars from 1948-1960, harking back to the very start of Silverstone’s racing history, with a field featuring imperious cars such as the Maserati 250F, Ferrari 246 Dino and Talbot Lago T26 to name but a few.

Formula One Celebrations

Some of the most mesmerizing and spellbinding moments of previous Silverstone Classic events have been provided by the special demonstrations that form an integral part of the on track action over the course of the weekend. There was no exception this year, with a superb demonstration of some of the loudest and dynamic Formula One cars to have graced the circuit in period to celebrate 75 years of action at Silverstone. The deafening roar of the Williams FW19, and screaming Dallara F191 rolled back the years as the grandstands reverberated to the sound of the now unthinkable V10 engines, while the gracious Mercedes F1 W04 in the hands of the supremely talented Esteban Gutierrez brought a more contemporary celebration. They were of course joined by a diverse grid of other Grand Prix greats, reaching back to the halcyon days of the 1970s, where cars like the sublime Tyrrell 001 wowed spectators with the raw blend of speed and innovation.

75 Years of NASCAR

A rare treat on these shores, but a welcome follow up to the superb NASCAR demonstrations at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed, a wonderful display of NASCAR Stock cars, ranging from the 1958 Ford Thunderbird, through to contemporary giants, like the 2017 Ford Mustang and 2012 Chevrolet Impala, showcased the brute force and thunderous rumble of the iconic American race cars. In a year when the Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 wowed crowds at the 24h of Le Mans, running under the Garage 56 rules, and an expanded programme for the Whelan Euro NASCAR Series, European fans have been treateSd to a special year in chances to witness the powerful V8 powered stock cars, paying tribute to 75 years of the highly successful race series. While the weather curtailed the chances for the NASCAR display on Saturday, those who stuck around til Sunday were treated to a wondrous display, with a soundtrack that epitomized the drama of this thrilling race series.

Race Winners

• Historic Formula Junior (Races 1&2) – Sam Wilson, Cooper T59
• MRL Historic Touring Car Challenge – Wim Kuijl, Ford Capri
• HSCC Thundersports – Michael Lyons, IBEC 308LM

• MRL Big Cat Challenge Trophy – John Pearson & Gary Pearson, Jaguar E Type
• The Derek Bell Trophy for HSCC Formula Libre (Races 1&2) – Henry Chart, Trojan T101
• MRL RAC Woodcote Trophy & Stirling Moss Trophy – Olly Bryant, Lotus XV
• Masters Racing Legends Race 1 – Ken Tyrrell, Tyrrell 011
• Masters Racing Legends Race 2 – Michael Lyons, Lotus 92
• Masters GT Trophy – Craig Wilkins, Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo Evo
• Masters Endurance Legends (Race 1&2) –  Steve Brooks, Peugeot 90X
• International Trophy for Classic GT Cars – Julian Thomas & Callum Lockie, Shelby Cobra Daytona
• HGPCA Pre ’66 Grand Prix Cars – Charlie Martin, Cooper T53
• HGPCA Front Engine Pre ’66 Grand Prix Cars – Mark Shaw, Scarab Offenhauser
• HGPCA Rear Engine Pre ’66 Grand Prix Cars – Charlie Martin, Cooper T53
• Adrian Flux Trophy for Transatlantic Pre ‘66 Touring Cars – Sam Tordoff, Ford Falcon Sprint
• Yokohama Trophy for Masters Sports Car Legends – Gary Pearson & Alex Brundle, Ferrari 512M
• HSCC Road Sports Trophy – Kevin Kivlochan, Shelby Cobra

Gallery

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Background

Sports cars and the Monterey Peninsula have gone hand and hand since the first Pebble Beach Road Races sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) in 1950. After six years of racing through the dangerous Del Monte Forest, the Laguna Seca Road course was built early in 1957 using decommissioned Fort Ord land. In 1974, sports car enthusiast Steve Earle decided the need for exercising these unique machines had grown to the point where he established the Monterey Historics, held during the same weekend of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. A new era in vintage racing was born, eventually transforming over time into what is referred to as the Rolex Reunion.

Corvette turns 70

If ever there was a “Baseball and Apple pie” story on wheels, it would be the Chevrolet Corvette. Born in the early 1950s with a fiberglass body and inline 6-cylinder engine, the 150 hp convertible was more on the “sporty” side than being a genuine sports car. Competition would soon enter from Ford’s Thunderbird, among others, and a V8 soon became available, further popularizing the Corvette.

Often ahead of their competition, Corvettes utilized disc brakes, fuel injection, and large displacement engines that were hard to beat on track. As early as 1960, a Corvette won its class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans; an extraordinary feat it would earn no less than nine times. 2023 marks the 70th anniversary of the Corvette, and this weekend’s racing showcased Corvettes from numerous eras giving fans a front-row seat to the evolution of an American icon.

Heritage display

Situated under a large tent in the paddock, fans this year got to walk through dozens of famous Corvettes, each with a story. Several were owned by the General Motors Heritage Collection, meaning they are one-of-a-kind milestones representing a chapter in Corvette’s legacy. For the ultra-rare, both CERV I and CERV II were on display (CERV stands for Chevrolet Engineering Research Vehicle).

Favorite Race groups

Unlike attending a professional race weekend, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion offers spectators an “up close and personal” look at various racing cars spanning a century in time. Each group has a unique personality and offers something the others don’t. Some of my favorite groups included:

1955-1967 SCCA Production—Small Displacement

Post-WWII Sports car racing in America was built on small-bore European cars, and Group 1 exemplifies this with Porsche Speedsters, MGs, Alfas, etc.

1961-1971 FIA Manufacturers Championship

1927 – 1955 Grand Prix/Open Wheel Single Seat Racing Cars

While these cars may date before WWII, don’t let that fool you in their technology and speed. Many are supercharged and utilize overhead-cam engines, far ahead of their time. It’s exciting to watch the Bugatti racers approach turns as some use the hand-brake lever on the outside of the car to help slow it down.

1972-1981 FIA, IMSA, GT, GTX, AAGT, GTU, Trans Am

1966-1974 Can-Am/1963-1968 USRRC

The Canadian American Challenge Cup will always be remembered by its brutish-powered racers built to a minimal set of rules. American fuel-injected V8s ruled the earth until Porsche decided to spoil the fun with its turbocharged 917.

1966-1972 Trans-Am.

Fender rubbing road racing using American muscle cars powered by iron block push-rod V8s with open exhaust. Talk about excitement!

Formula 5000.

Think of America’s version of Formula 1 in the 1970s. Push-rod V8s ruled the earth, and primitive wings front and rear gave downforce. While looking pretty fancy, most of these cars are primitive in nature that were physically demanding to drive.

1955-1967 SCCA Production – Large Displacement

1966-1985 Formula One – non-turbo.

Undoubtedly, this group represents the pinnacle in open-wheel racing during an era of innovation. Most cars use a Cosworth V8 engine to help minimize disparity and maintenance costs. Friday’s race was a fan favorite, especially with IndyCar Champion Dario Franchitti and McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown competing.

Group 12 – 1947-1960 Front-Engined Sports Racing and GT

“Backyard specials” and V8 transplants were infamous in the 1950s for spoiling the fun of the refined European sports cars (like the Ferrari below) that often cost two or three times as much. Many used inexpensive flat-heads, while the more competitive entries ran overhead-valve engines like the Buick “Nail-head” or Cadillac 331. Using primitive drum brakes, these cars slide a lot in the corners and are an authentic link to the golden era of sports car racing.

Group 13 – 1981-2007 GTP, Group C, DP, WSC, LMP & GT1

ROLEX awards

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion annually recognizes the spirit of competition with extraordinary cars during the prize-giving, and not who finishes first. This year’s recipients were:

• Peter Giddings Memorial Award – Ivan Zaremba in his 1935 Railton Light Sport Tourer
• Ken Miles Award – Nick Grewal for his 1959 Lotus
• Phil Remington Award, presented by Ford – Pedro Vela of the REVS Institute
• Henry Ford Trophy – Philip Kadoorie in his 1963 Shelby Cobra
• Bonhams Award – Alastair Chalmers for his 1975 Chevron
• Motul Best of Show – Kevin McKay for his Number 9 Sunoco Penske 1966 Corvette L88
• John Fitch Corvette Award – Wally Owens and driver Ron Fellows in the 1987 Profab
• Rolex Group Awards – The Rolex Awards are presented to a driver who represents Overall Excellence in each Saturday race.
• Group 1:  1955-1967 SCCA Production-Small Displacement – William Lyon in his 1960 Porsche RS60 Spyder
• Group 2:  1961-1971 FIA Manufacturers Championship – Remo Lips in the 1969 Ferrari 312P
• Group 3: 1927-1955 Grand Prix/Open Wheel Single Seat – Conrad Stevenson for his 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C2500
• Group 4: 1981-1991 GTO/Trans Am – Rick Jeffrey in his 1986 Profab Chevrolet Camaro Z28
• Group 5: Ragtime Racers Exhibition – Julien Pearl driving his 1911 White Speedster
• Group 6: 1972-1981 FIA, IMSA, GT, GTX, AAGT, GTU – Glenn Chiou in his 1971 Datsun 240Z
• Group 7: 1966-1974 Can-Am / 1963-1968 USRRC – Chris Springer for his 1972 McLaren M8F
• Group 8: 1966-1972 Historic Trans-Am – Jim Hague in the 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302
• Group 9:  Formula 5000 – Bruce Leeson in his 1969 McLaren M10B
• Group 10: 1955-1967 SCCA Production-Large Displacement – Jeff Abramson for his 1964 Chevrolet Corvette
• Group 11: 1966-1985 Historic Formula One – Steve Romak in his 1985 Tyrell 12
• Group 12: 1947-1960 Front-Engined Sports Racing and GT – William Rooklidge driving his 1955 Jaguar D-Type
• Group 13: 1981-2007 GTP, Group C, DP, WSC, LMP & GT1 through 2009 – Jim Norman in his 1985 March 85-G
• Group 14: 1955-1969 Saloon – Allan Thom for his 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti
• The Spirit of Monterey – This award is presented to the driver or entrant who excels in the spirit of the weekend – Ron Erickson driving his 1957 Chevrolet Corvette

Photo Gallery

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The weekend’s trio of Run Group winners were each awarded custom designed watches carrying the race’s logo from B.R.M. Chronographes.

One of the weekend’s most notable victories was a record-extending seventh HSR Classics win by the 1974 No. 26 Chevron B26 co-driven by car owner/driver Gray Gregory and his teammates Randy Buckand Ethan Shippert. The always-quick Chevron swept all three Run Group A rounds at The Glen over the course of Saturday and Sunday to become the first team and drivers to win each of the HSR Classics races at Daytona, Sebring and Watkins Glen at least once.

This weekend’s win at The Glen was also the third-consecutive HSR Classics victory for the No. 26 Chevron team and drivers after sweeping the 2022 Daytona and Sebring HSR Classics races late last year. Gregory and his teammates have four career HSR Classic Sebring victories – 2018 through 2020 and ’22 – and a pair of HSR Classic Daytona wins last year and in 2020. Along with the Classic 6 Hours, the seven victories are the most for any single team and driver lineup in the nearly 10-year history of the HSR Classics events.

The biggest challenge for the Group A winners came from the similar 1975 No. 62 Chevron B31 of Mitchell Eitel that pressured Gregory’s No. 26 throughout the event on the way to a second-place finish. The final podium spot went to the highest finishing production-based GT car as Yves Scemama capped a full weekend of podium results with a third-place showing in his Arnage Motorsports 1974 No. 52 Porsche 911 IROC.

The Run Group B victory was secured by Todd Sloan in his ex-Michael Shank Racing 2006 No. 60 Riley XX Daytona Prototype. Sloan finished a solid third-place overall as the top prototype finisher in his Run Group in last November’s HSR Classic Daytona in a similar Riley Daytona Prototype. At The Glen, Sloan stepped up to take overall Group B honors and led a one-two Riley finish as David Huber and Chip Vance scored runner-up honors in a 2004 No. 10 Riley XI Daytona Prototype.

Another quick GT car claimed the final Classic 6 Hours podium spot. The family team of Theo Ruijghand his son Tjebbe Ruijgh finished third overall and topped the GT field in their Alex Job Restorations 1997 No. 23 Porsche 993 RSR.

The Daytona Prototype and GT-podium trend continued in Run Group C that saw Dante Tornello and Hudson Historics break through for the overall victory in the 2014 No. 80 Coyote Corvette Daytona Prototype. The win was particularly sweet for the Hudson Historics operation that is based in upstate New York and calls Watkins Glen a home track.

Dominick Incantalupo finished second in his 2014 No. 54 Roin Realty Holdings Oreca FLM09 “PC” car while Wayne West and Stanton Barrett completed the run of GT cars on all three Classic 6 podiums with a third-place finish in the Brumos-themed 2012 No. 59 Porsche 997 GT3 Cup prepared by Vintage Racing.

The Classic 6 Hours race weekend also featured the HSR Watkins Glen Historics that were points-paying races for HSR’s various season-long championships. Sunday’s final day of competition began with a pair of Watkins Glen Historics one-hour B.R.M. Chronographes Endurance Challenge races that set the stage for the afternoon Classic 6 finales.

Todd Treffert wrapped up a feature race three-win weekend with an overall and GT Classic (GTC) victory in the first B.R.M. race in his 1974 No. 14 Speedconcepts Porsche 911 IROC prepared by the 901 Shop. The Vintage class win in the same race went to the DAS Sport Classic 1988 No. 77 Porsche Turbo Cup of Colin Dougherty, who finally reached the top step of the podium after finishing second and third in Glen Historics feature races earlier in the weekend.

In a sign of things to come, Tornello and Hudson Historics took the overall and Prototype victory in the second B.R.M. race. The GT Modern (GTM) class win went to the 2018 No. 117 Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo of Alexandre Lima and Pierre Kleinubing while Benjamin Myers earned Historic-class honors in his Wolf Motorsports 2001 No. 129 Carbir CS2 Sports 2000.

Next up for HSR on the 2023 calendar is a return to Watkins Glen for the Inaugural HSR Stock Cars at The Glen on NASCAR weekend, August 19 – 20. Prior to that, HSR returns to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for its third year as the sanctioning body for the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, August 16 – 19, and Monterey Pre-Reunion the week before, August 12 – 13.

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In the end, the reigning champions did it again: having overcome a few hiccups in the first afternoon of the race, from the start of the second leg they confirmed themselves as the crew to beat, leaving the fight for the second and third step of the podium to their rivals. Andrea Vesco thus won his fourth consecutive title (out of six in total), while co-driver Fabio Salvinelli equalled Giuliano Canè with a string of three victories. “At the beginning there were challenges”, declared Vesco after the engines were switched off, “then we performed consistently with a low number of penalties. Only when I took part with Dad had I achieved such a good result, I am very proud to have achieved this historic result”.

Behind the 1929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 SS Zagato of the winners (pictured top), were two Lancia Lambda Spider Type 221 with the team of Gianmario Fontanella and Annamaria Covelli besting Andrea Belometti and Gianluca Bergomi. The winning all-female crew was Silvia Marini and Irene Dei Tos in a 1929 Bugatti T 40, who took the Ladies’ Cup by finishing 27th overall.

The 1000 Miglia Green was won by Paolo Piva and Matteo Ferraglio in a Tesla Model Y ahead of Mirco Magni and Laura Confalonieri in a Polestar 2 and Antonino Azzarello and Stefano Orlandini in a Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Finally, Andrea Milesi and Giordano Mozzi won the Ferrari Tribute 1000 Miglia driving an F8 Spider, while second was Fabrizio Macario and Giovanna Di Costanzo with a 2019 488 Pista. Third were Celestino and Antonio Sangiovanni in a 2021 Ferrari Roma.

Full results can be viewed here.

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“The Northeast has a rich automotive history and we’re proud to celebrate the concours’ place in global car culture,” said McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty. “The Alfa Romeo 8C selected as best of show embodies the spirit of the world’s best collections — its excellence, elegance and history are worthy of acclaim. Saturday’s Concours de Sport winner, a Ford GT40 Mk I, is equally deserving of praise; an exceptional example of an iconic car.”

Saturday’s Concours de Sport featured over 150 cars in more than 15 judged classes. A range of hands-on activities – ride & drives, racing simulators, Hagerty Future Drivers Club and more – entertained enthusiasts and families.

This year’s concours d’Elegance classes included including Pre- and Post-War Alfa Romeo, Steam Cars, Post-War American, Italian, German and English cars, Supercars, as well as the Cars of Wayne Carini, this year’s Grand Marshal. The Connecticut native, TV host, restorer and collector car dealer served in the honorary role while a slate of expert judges, including a group of 20 youth judges, focused on design, style and elegance while selecting this year’s winners.

1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B – 2023 Best of Show – Concours d’Elegance

The Best of Show Concours d’Elegance was awarded to the 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B owned by Lawrence Auriana. This 8C began life as an open wheeled, cycle-fendered race car. It then participated in five races with top results including a 3rd place finish in the 1938 Mille Miglia and a 1st place finish in the 1938 Stelvio Hill Climb – a triumphant completion of its competition career. It was rebodied by Pinin Farina as an elegant road car soon thereafter.

1965 Ford GT40 Mk I – 2023 Best of Show – Concours de Sport

The Best of Show Concours de Sport was awarded to the 1965 Ford GT40 Mk I, displayed by Benjamin Levy from Andover, Massachusetts. This Ford GT40, chassis number P/1030, never raced and remains one of the most original GT40s in existence. The car was the focus of a famous Ford ad campaign in era and was later used by Ford as design inspiration for the Ford GT built in 2005 and 2006.

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The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion joins Corvette in celebrating its rich history this year with a curated display of some of the most instrumental cars in its past. Corvettes will be complemented by more than 400 historic and authentic race cars competing in 14 classes each day at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca August 16-19.

The first prototype was revealed at the Waldorf Astoria General Motors Motorama January 14, 1953, and became one of the few concept cars to translate into a production model. Seventy years later it sets the standard for American technology in a world class sports car.

Corvette racing history began in 1956 under the watchful eye of Chevrolet engineer, later coined the “Father of the Corvette,” Zora Arkus-Duntov. Corvette captured the 1956 Sports Car Club of America’s C-Production national championship with Dr. Dick Thompson “the racing dentist” behind the wheel. That early success whetted the appetite of hundreds of drivers who went on to compete and win, such as Bob Bondurant, Dick Guldstrand, John Fitch, John Greenwood, Alan Barker, Dale Earnhardt, Sr., Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and Oliver Gavin among the many who took victories with the iconic brand at race tracks around the world.

“We are excited to be sharing the legacy, history and heritage of Corvette at this year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion,” says John Narigi, president and general manager of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. “Kids across many generations have dreamt of owning or riding in a Corvette in their lifetime. We welcome Corvette’s return with their enthusiasm to Monterey and sharing their history, along with Corvette’s future.”

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is about celebrating key milestones, achievements, personalities and motorsport history in a lively high-octane festival experience. It will be non-stop action in the open race paddock where visitors can admire row after row of historic cars being worked on in preparation for the next race. Owners of these machines welcome answering questions and letting kids climb in behind the wheel to create lasting memories.

On Sunday, Aug. 20 the second annual Corkscrew Hillclimb & Community Day will feature historic race cars and invited specialty cars to race counter-course against the clock and up the hill to finish at the Corkscrew. Visitors will be able to enjoy a relaxed day watching the competition or strolling through the race paddock.

Full ticket packages from single day tickets to comprehensive VIP experiences in the Legends Club are available online at WeatherTechRaceway.com

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In less than two months, a select group of Formula 5000 race cars will be visiting the iconic Road America racetrack to relive and celebrate the 55th anniversary of the birth of this phenomenal race series. The 2023 race event will take place on July 12-16 in conjunction with the WeatherTech International Challenge with Brian Redman

In the inaugural F5000 race at Road America on July 27, 1968, Jerry Hansen took first place in a Lola T140 followed by three other Lolas T140. In a combined grid with Formula B cars, other marques included McLaren, Lotus, Le Grand, McKee, Brabhams and Chevron. Other notable drivers included John Gunn, Steve Durst, David Pabst (Pabst Blue Ribbon fame), Jerry Entin, Lou Sells, and Dick Smothers.

In the same vein, the 2023 contingent of F5000 cars will include Lolas, March, Matich, McLaren, McRae, McKee and other well-known marquees, competing on this thrilling 4-mile race track with long straights, elevation changes, sweeping turns, a kink, and a carousel.

Subsequently, on August 11, 2023, the F5000 group heads to Laguna Seca for the Monterey Motorsports Pre-Reunion followed the following week by the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. A group of more than 25 F5000 cars will compete over the two-week period featuring additional marquees, such Gurney Eagle, Chevron, Elfin, Talon, and Le Grand. Nearly a dozen of the race cars and drivers will come from Australia, England, and New Zealand making the celebration of 55 years of Formula 5000 an international event.

Race fans will hear and see the thunder and fury of V8 engines in race cars previously piloted by racing icons, such as Mario Andretti, Brian Redman, David Hobbs, Graham McRae, Peter Gethin, Johnny Rutherford, Al Unser, Sr., and Eppie Wietzes.

According to Seb Coppola, President of the Formula 5000 Drivers Association: “I am extremely pleased to see a wide array and participation of F5000 race cars at two of the most iconic race tracks in North America. I am particularly grateful to have our friends from Australia, England and New Zealand join us in this celebration of the 55th Anniversary of the F5000 racing series.”

The U.S. Formula 5000 Drivers Association is a membership car club established to promote the restoration, presentation, registration, and racing of historic Formula 5000 race cars. The Association organizes vintage racing events and other activities for Formula 5000 cars www.F5000Registry.com.

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BSCHoF President Gary Kincel said, “Once again, this years’ selections for induction into the British Sports Car Hall of Fame have all made significant contributions to the history and legacy of the British sports car. Anyone who has ever been involved with, or are a fan of, automobiles will know these names and understand their significance.”

“Of the 7 newest members of the BSCHoF, they run the gamut from technicians, engineers and designers to race car drivers extraordinaire with a beloved author added in for good measure” added Kincel. 

This year’s inductees are:

Mark Bradakis – Mark has been a racer and supporter of Triumph motorcars for well over forty years. He has rebuilt, raced, autocrossed, Spitfires, TR4’s, 250’s, and GT6’s at many levels. However, he has proven himself to be a hero and champion of all British sports cars through his support of many British marques and their online presence through www.team.net

Syd Enever – After joining Morris Garages in 1920,  Enever became an indispensable part of the MG racing and record breaking story in the 1930s. He rose to become MG’s Chief Engineer and most notably, the designer of the MGA and MGB sports cars as well as the EX179 and EX181 record breakers of the 1950s. He retired in 1971 after 51 years with MG.

Lawton “Lanky” Foushee – After a stint in the Air Force working on “Presidential Aircraft maintenance,” Lanky worked at a Pontiac dealership after his service and then joined Group 44 as their crew chief. Lanky remained a fixture with Group 44 race team until his retirement in 1997. Group 44 was one of the most successful and dominant sports car teams from the 1960s forward. Led by Bob Tullius, its drivers won many SCCA championships, representing Triumph, MG and Jaguar, in multiple classes of racing from SCCA, IMSA and CART.

Brian Fuerstenau – Fuerstenau teamed up with Bob Tullius in 1964 to form Group 44, one of the most remarkably successful team in Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) competitions. Brian won an SCCA National Championship in F Production in 1965 driving a Triumph TR-3, and in F Production in 1968, diving a Triumph Spitfire. His third and last championship was in 1973, in E Production at the wheel of a Triumph Spitfire. He was a master mechanic as well as a driver for the Group 44 team. In their twenty-five years of competition Group 44’s drivers won 14 SCCA National Championships, three Trans-Am championships and 11 IMSA GTP races, all with Brian as their chief mechanic.

David Hobbs –  Though most recently known for his entertaining and insightful race coverage, and his success as an Ohio Honda dealer, his career as an international racing driver spanned 30 years at all levels including championships in in sports cars, touring cars, Formula 5000 cars, Indy cars, IMSA, Can-Am and Formula One, mostly all at the wheel of British made cars.

Burt Levy – Burt, like so many others, got his start in racing in a consummate British roadster: the Triumph TR3. His experiences along the way helped to create an insight into the hobby and into the sport and a way of telling stories that would be more impactful in the long run than any trip to the winner’s circle. Burt’s love of the sport and the cars and people of which it is comprised combined to help him write his best selling novel, “The Last Open Road.” the British He has contributed many books, articles and tales, all enhancing the British Sports Car experience.

Brian Redman – Brian Redman has been a Champion on three Continents in everything from Morris Minors, to Jaguar E-types to Ford GTs and Lola Formula Cars and Sports Cars. An incredible record of achievement, many at the wheel of famous British-built cars. Today, Brian helps new generations enjoy the thrills of racing with his Targa 66 organization. A true Gentleman and an incredible Ambassador for Motorsport.

This year’s induction ceremony will take place at Road America Raceway in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, on July 13th, prior to The WeatherTech International Challenge with Brian Redman for vintage/historic cars. 

The British Sports Car Hall of Fame (BSCHoF) was established as an independent entity in 2016 to preserve and perpetuate the legacy and impact of these legendary vehicles and to honor the men and women responsible for their success. Induction into the Hall of Fame is reserved for those who have made a significant and lasting impact on the British sports car industry and hobby, making it a singular honor for a lifetime of achievement. By celebrating the memory of the dedicated individuals that played key roles, the Hall can serve as a touchstone for British sports car enthusiasts of all ages and interests, furthered by its various preservation and education initiatives.

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This year it was held on a Saturday and Sunday April 29-30; in the past it was a three-day event but post-Covid and due to economic conditions in Europe, a two-day bash seems more sensible.

Over the years the categories have changed and evolved; the races at Donington this time were:

• Jaguar Classic challenge for pre- 66 cars.
• Historic Touring Cars, 1960s-1980s.
• Ferrari Club Classics Series.
• Pall Mall Cup for pre- 66 GT and Touring Cars, pre- 63 GTs and pre- 60 Sports Cars.
• Gerry Marshall Trophy for pre- 83 Group 1 Touring Cars.
• Woodcote trophy and Stirling Moss Trophy for pre-56 and pre 61 Sports Cars.
• Dunlop Allstars pre- 66 Sports and GTs plus Classic Alfa Challenge.
• Mad Jack race for pre-WWII Sports Cars.
• Jack Sears Trophy for 1958-1966 Touring Cars

So there’s something for everyone; some of the usual categories were “mixed-up” so it was great to see different classes racing together in races of different lengths. The Pall Mall race was three hours long… what more could an Elan driver ask for? I loved it.

Aside from the on-track action there was also quite a gathering of car clubs, which were well-worth a visit in the infield; there will always be something unexpected hidden away. I’ve not seen a Ferrari 288 GTO for years and there were two side by side!

Much was made of this being the 30th anniversary of Donington Park’s sole Formula One race and there were demonstrations of several historic (that term means different things to different folks!) F1 cars during the lunch break on both days and it was great to hear and see these.

It is worth mentioning that Donington Park first came into use way back in the early 1930s and there were Grand Prix races (forerunner of F1) in the immediate pre-WWII years, with visits by both the Auto-Union and Mercedes “Silver Arrows” teams. The circuit has changed since those days: the cars no longer have to go under a narrow bridge and a long section down the very tight Melbourne hairpin, which has not been in use since the circuit was reopened by Tom Wheatcroft in the 1970s.

Under the stewardship of Dr Jonathan Palmer’s Motor Sport Vision company the circuit infrastructure has been massively upgraded and spectator facilities are now excellent. After a period of uncertainty before the MSV stepped in, it actually looked like we might lose Donington altogether, thank goodness that didn’t happen.

Full race results are available here, courtesy of TSL Timing: https://www.tsl-timing.com/event/231751

Photo Gallery

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The Spa Classic, run yearly by the meticulous guys at Peter Auto, celebrates the racing history of this great circuit, forever intertwined with the glory days of endurance racing. From 50s and 60s icons, such as the Aston Martin DB3S, Austin-Healey 3000, Jaguar E-Type, and Shelby Daytona, through the innovative, raw and fascinating days of the late ’60s and ’70s prototypes, to the halcyon days of the Group C sportscars, culminating in the more modern Endurance racing legends. Over three heavily packed days, the sports cars of yesteryear were let loose from morning until nightfall to tackle the seven-kilometer-long strip of tarmac, sharply rising and falling through the forested landscape, machines which thrived under the challenges presented by the notoriously demanding track, driven furiously in period, and no less heroically or emphatically in the modern-day celebrations of times past.

Peter Auto, under the stewardship of Patrick Peter, continues to dominate the historic racing landscape on the continent. Organizers of Le Mans Classic, Dix Mille Tours and Tour Auto, amongst others, we see here an organization dedicated to not just participating in putting on historic racing events, but ensuring the progression, through innovation, and a canny knack for attracting huge grids and a pedigree of machinery which is second to none. It’s quite remarkable to attend an event, where a Bentley Speed 8 will sit in the pits, alongside a Porsche 911 GT1 Evo and a Peugeot 905 Evo 1 Bis, whilst temporary paddocks are set up to house countless Shelby Cobras, Porsche 935s, BMW 3.0 CSLs and Lister Jaguars. What is more remarkable, is that the ticket prices for the spectator defy the usual inflation. A three-day ticket for the event costing a mere 41 Euros, a staggering achievement, one which certainly seemed appreciated by the large number of multinational fans around the circuit for all three days of the event.

New to the Peter Auto series, was the debut run out for the Formula Legends 3.5l. With the Cosworth DFV era well represented by the Masters Historic series, the next generation of Formula One cars to be revived in a historic capacity, are the naturally aspirated 3.5 liter engined models, which competed between 1987 and 1994. Bringing a more dynamic, and sensory thrill to the spectator, these high revving engines would excel at a circuit such as Spa. The first presentation of this plateau saw limited entries, but still, spirited performances from Nick Padmore in the Arrows A11 and Christian Perrier in the Rial ARC2 gave a tantalising glimpse of the potential of this category. In the first year of Formula Legends 3.5, the cars will run again at the Dix Mille tours de Castellet, with hopefully an uptick in entrants, and the resurrection of these sublime single seaters for many years to come.

…and so to the racing. Spa, as is well documented, and cemented in the mind of anyone with more than a passing interest in motorsport, contemporary or historic, is a legendary track, not made famous by a single remarkable corner, but a culmination of the numerous challenges presented by the circuit. Whether the tight pinch point at La Source, the testing Eau Rouge through Raidillon section, the battle with the kerbs at Les Combes or the high speed balancing act through Blanchimont, the challenge is real and unrelenting, with the unpredictable Ardennes weather ever ready to throw a spanner in the works at any given moment.

Indeed, what was predominantly a dry and favorable weekend, still produced a couple of heavy downpours, adding to the excitement towards the end of the Group C race, as Philip Kadoorie negotiated the treacherous conditions on a set of worn slicks to take the victory in his Porsche 962C. The Porsche 2 liter Cup started under torrential rain, proving challenging for the first portion of the race. Seb Perez and George Gamble, undeterred by the inclement conditions, continued their scintillating qualifying form to romp home to first place.

I fear there are no adequate descriptors for the experience that one has watching fields of this quality at a circuit as revered at Spa. Peter Auto must be congratulated on the manner in which they continue to deliver historic racing events across Europe with such pedigree and panache. Next up for Peter Auto is the Grand Prix de l’Age d’Or at Dijon Prenois in a couple of weeks, before anticipation of Le Mans Classic in the 100th year of the event at La Sarthe.

Photo Gallery

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Brokered by Kidston SA, a company founded by Simon Kidston – the nephew of Glen Kidston, who won the 1930 Le Mans 24 Hours at the wheel of a Bentley – this car represents the beginning of the Bentley legend, and the establishing of the tradition of ‘The Bentley Boys’. Kidston, Clement, Duff and others like Sir Tim Birkin, Dr Dudley Benjafield or one-time Bentley Chairman Woolf Barnato would become known as The Bentley Boys for their hard-charging racing lifestyle. As company founder W.O Bentley said of this group’s antics: “The public liked to imagine them living in Mayfair flats. Drinking Champagne in nightclubs, playing the horses and the Stock Exchange, and beating furiously around the racing tracks at the weekend. Of several of them, this was not such an inaccurate picture.”

This car, Chassis 141, was entered and driven by Canadian WW1 veteran, adventurer and Bentley dealer John Duff at the Double 12 Hour Record at Brooklands (24-hour racing was banned so locals could sleep), covering 2,082 miles at 86.79mph and setting 38 international records. He then asked W.O Bentley to prepare his dependable car for a new 24-hour race to be held at a place in France called Le Mans. Although Bentley thought it mad, he agreed and lent factory test driver Frank Clement to co-drive. After 24 hours at the wheel – during which they set the lap record of 66.69mph, in a car with rear brakes only – they finished joint 4th, despite having run out of fuel due to stones puncturing the tank

Bentley and The Bentley Boys would return to Le Mans for the following year’s 24-hour race. And this time they would win. From 1927 to 1930, Bentley won the Le Mans 24 Hours four times in succession, marking one of the most dominant runs in the history of the race. And it’s all down to the pioneering achievements of Chassis 141 in convincing company founder, W.O. Bentley, that his cars were capable of not only completing a 24-hour race, but winning it.

W.O himself said that he owned a great deal to John Duff and Chassis 141. Following the Le Mans 24 Hours races in 1923 and 1924, Bentley sold 700 vehicles in two years – all of this from a young manufacturer that had only delivered its first car in 1921. It’s not an overstatement to say that the success of the Bentley brand as a whole can be traced back to these achievements.

But, in time, Chassis 141 lived a more mundane life. It was later used as a tow vehicle, and then had its rear bodywork altered into a shooting brake by the local undertaker. During the late ’40s it was used by its lady owner to transport her St. Bernard dogs to shows. And then it was forgotten, only resurfacing again in the early 1980s when the owner of the Donington Car Museum, Tom Wheatcroft, received a call from a 97-year-old lady offering him two old cars in her barn, a Bentley and a Voisin. He bought them with no idea of the Bentley’s history, and it sat as a project until a motoring journalist identified it as the long-lost first Bentley to race at Le Mans. A deal was eventually reached with Australian collector Peter Briggs, whose Brabham Formula 1 car was on loan to the Donington Museum. The Brabham stayed at Donington, and the Bentley headed to Australia to be restored and eventually become a centrepiece of Briggs’ York Motor Museum near Perth. Its return to Britain brings its history full circle.

Commenting on the transaction, Simon Kidston said:

“This week the most famous motor race in the world celebrates its 100th birthday and its pioneering early competitors remain as intriguing as ever. This Bentley isn’t just an old car, it’s a turning point in motor racing history and a cornerstone of the Bentley legend. And personally, having inherited a family passion for cars which was accelerated by my ‘Bentley Boy’ uncle, helping to bring this Bentley home feels really satisfying. It won’t be leading a quiet life: it’ll be lining up on the grid of the Le Mans 100th anniversary race for vintage cars next month. I hope its original drivers will be looking down and smiling.”

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