Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast, owner, expert, or collector. It’s fair to say that nothing is quite as exciting as attending a car event and being surrounded by like-minded people and engineering masterpieces. If you’re struggling to decide on which event to attend this year, we’ve put together a list of our favourites.
For classic car fans this is the true New Year! Hosted by the vibrant capital city, Paris, it is an extravaganza of classic, vintage and hypercars from around the world, with some of the most recognised names in the industry in attendance or having stands. With 3 auctions over the 5 days of the event there is bound to be something that takes your eye. Prices can range from tens of thousands, up to rare Bugatti’s expected to go for c€5m. To cap it all off, if you get bored of all the automobilia you can always retreat to the classical city of Paris.
This is a fantastic show, situated in the heart of the capital, that we look forward to year after year. Currently, in its 6th year, the London Classic Car Show boasts over 500 cars on display. Located at Olympia for the first time this year, there is an opportunity for classic car enthusiasts to start or expand their collection with over £70m worth of cars available for purchase between the 20-23 February. This includes an Aston Martin DB4GT, Mercedes-Benz 190SL, and a Maserati Ghibli 4.9 SS Spyder.
The Goodwood Members Meeting has well and truly established itself on our calendar and is always a great way to spend the weekend. If you’re a fan of historic racing cars, you won’t be disappointed as the 78th Members Meeting will be full of demonstrations and racing, including a display to celebrate the Lotus 72 alongside other iconic Formula 1 cars. Unfortunately, it is only open to Goodwood Road Racing Club members or fellows, but you can join the fellowship for just £39 a year.
Taking place in Essen, Germany, Techno Classica is an international celebration of all cars classic and vintage. With 20 exhibition halls and over 1,200 exhibitors there definitely won’t be a shortage of cars for fans to see. There are also around 2700 collectors selling cars, making it a prime opportunity for some shopping.
Festival of Speed is one to put on your list for the summer. One of Britain’s biggest motoring events, 2020’s theme will be “The Maestros – Motorsport’s Great All-Rounders”. Main features include the classic Hillclimb, First Glance Paddock, and the Main Paddock “F1 Pitlane” where you can sneak a peek at the cars brought by the current F1 teams. The sights and sounds are something special as is the heritage of the Goodwood Estate.
One of the greatest vintage sports car events and held at Circuit de la Sarthe (24 Hours of Le Mans) this is simply a treat for any motor racing enthusiast. Occurring only every 2 years, means that it is one to prioritise on your list so you don’t have to wait too long for the next one. Cars are separated by periods, making up 6 different grids. This year there is also an addition of Group C Racing, Endurance Legends, and Porsche Classics. Having been to the main Le Mans event in 2019 we can’t wait for this biennial event.
Home of the British Grand Prix, the Silverstone Classic is always one that is eagerly anticipated. In this three-day car and race event, there will be displays from over 100 car clubs, historic motor racing, and live music in what is truly an exciting festival to attend. In total there will be over 1000 cars gracing the famous and historic circuit. It is also an opportune time to find that next car to add to your collection at the Silverstone Auctions. A great value alternative to Goodwood Revival, though ideally you’d do both!
We couldn’t resist but add the third event of the year held at Goodwood Circuit. This 3-day festival is full with the glamour of the 1940s-70s fashion due to its period dress code, hundreds of rare cars driven by champions past and present, a funfair and so much more! It is one of the world’s most popular motor race meetings and is a throwback to the glory days of the Goodwood Circuit. One to attend at least once in your life! This year they will be celebrating the 75th Anniversary of VE day with a parade on the circuit, surrounded by period vehicles of 1945. Get dressed up and join in. We will be.
Located at Hampton Court Palace, Concours of Elegance is truly a unique opportunity to see some of the rarest cars from around the world. This includes a collection of eight Ferrari Dinos (each in a different factory-original colour), and others that have yet to be seen in the UK. The timetable is soon to be announced and we can’t wait! One of the most prestigious events in the UK classic car calendar. The clue is in the title.
Set on the beautiful lawns of Blenheim Palace (birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill), Salon Privé is one of the most exquisite motor shows in the UK. Exhibiting some of the most celebrated cars from around the world, the first day is dedicated to Concours d’Elegances where you are sure to see a rare and magnificent array of motors. Salon Prive has the vibe of a classical English Garden party, so sit back and live like a Lord or Lady for the day, sipping champagne in the Autumn sunshine (you might want to arrange a chauffeur back).
