Engine Out
September 4, 2023
After classic car technician Tom catalogued the components of our Cobra Project, he got to work removing the engine from this classic car. Now that
Rob Harvey
Marketing Manager - Bridge Classic Cars
Lambretta – The History Of An Icon
September 4, 2023
There are some vehicles that appear from time to time that become icons of their era. When you think about iconic scooters, one of the
East Anglian Copdock Bike Show
September 4, 2023
Yesterday, 3rd September, the East Anglian Copdock Bike Show was held at Trinity Park in Ipswich. The show’s history dates back to 1992 when a
Win A TVR 2500M
September 1, 2023
Our 1976 TVR 2500M is now live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. Believed to be the car of choice that took centre stage on the
Remembering Rob George From Anglia Car Auctions
September 1, 2023
Rob George (9th February 1968 – 5th August 2023) Today, Craig and Gordon attended the funeral of the late Rob George, formerly of Anglia Car
Looking Back On The Build Of Our AK 427
September 1, 2023
Our 2020 AK 427 has been in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop for just a few days and it is already getting lots of attention.
Bodywork Begins
September 1, 2023
Now that our Ford Transit MKII Tipper has come to the end of its time in the fabrication bay, it has been moved over to
The Wolf Of Wall Street Lamborghini Countach Goes To Auction
September 1, 2023
In some films, certain cars become as iconic as the characters driving them on the silver screen. One such automotive legend is this 1989 Lamborghini
Two Familiar Faces For Sale
September 1, 2023
Two classics that have been in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop over the years are currently for sale on Car & Classic. Our 1973 Saab
The Restoration Begins
September 1, 2023
The restoration of our 1976 Triumph Spitfire 1500 has begun. This is another exciting project for us as it is for a returning customer who
Coming Soon
August 31, 2023
Soon to be arriving at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop is our 1965 Mercedes 300SE Fintail for a full restoration. As you can see from
Just Arrived – Ford Mustang
August 31, 2023
Today, we saw the arrival of our 2017 Ford Mustang GT at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. This impressive-looking Mustang will go on to be
SOLD – Our 1935 Bentley
August 31, 2023
Our 1935 Bentley Van Den Plas Saloon sold earlier this week. After making its way to us from South Africa, it will now go on
Iconic Auctioneers Start A New Chapter
August 31, 2023
Iconic Auctioneers, previously known as Silverstone Auctions, recently hosted “The Classic Sale” At Silverstone Festival 2023. The auction marked the beginning of a new chapter
Restoring Cold War Planes
August 30, 2023
Molly, Freddie, and I went back to the Bentwaters Cold War Museum yesterday. This time though, we visited the very special hangar where an incredible
Cataloguing Components
August 30, 2023
Classic car technician Tom has been going through the long process of cataloguing the components of our AC Cobra project. His main focus has been
Morris Minor Repairs
August 30, 2023
After suffering from an unfortunate bump while at home, our 1960 Morris Minor has been needing some repair work completed by classic car technician Mauro.
Painting Our Transit Bed Frame
August 30, 2023
The bed frame of our Ford Transit MKII Tipper has been in the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop with Mauro, as he has been giving it
All Coming Back Together
August 30, 2023
Lydia and Brian have been working hard on the interior of our 1959 Jensen 541R. Brian has been making and fitting the door panels, while
Beetle Interior
August 30, 2023
Classic car technician Lydia has been starting work on the interior of our 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. After undergoing lots of work on its body and
Getting Our TR6 Ready To Be Won
August 30, 2023
Our 1973 Triumph TR6 will soon be going live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. Before that happens though, classic car technician Jonn has been checking
Wattisham Family Fun Day
August 29, 2023
Bridge Classic Cars Managing Director, Craig recently spent the day with his family at Wattisham Air Field, for a family fun day. While at the
What An Arrival!
August 29, 2023
As most of you know by now, there are always interesting and exciting vehicles coming into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. However, from time to
Just Arrived
August 29, 2023
Today, we saw the arrival of our 2001 Jaguar XKR which will soon be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. As it has
Stripping A Classic Transit
August 25, 2023
Our 1972 Ford Transit Tipper may have only been in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop for a few days but classic car technician Mauro has
Preparing A Competition Car
August 25, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has been working on our 1980 MGB GT in preparation for it to be won through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions very
Complete And Gone Home
August 25, 2023
Our 1981 Austin Morris Mini 998 wasn’t with us very long, but classic car technician Jonn completed the appropriate repairs before waving it goodbye as
Essex Classic Vehicle Show 2023
August 25, 2023
The Essex Classic Car Show, hosted by Headway Essex, is not just a showcase of classic vehicles but is also a fantastic fundraising effort to
East Coast Truckers Convoy
August 24, 2023
The East Coast Truckers 36th Convoy is set to take place on Sunday 27th August. This is an incredible event that sees over 80 trucks
Remembering Gary Vines
August 24, 2023
We were saddened to learn about the tragic passing of rider Gary Vines during qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix. On a personal note, I
Engine Out
September 4, 2023
After classic car technician Tom catalogued the components of our Cobra Project, he got to work removing the engine from this classic car.
Now that the engine is out, it will be refurbished before being returned to the car further along the restoration process.
As you can see from the photos below, it was quite a bit of work but, now that it’s done, things can progress for our Cobra project.
Lambretta – The History Of An Icon
September 4, 2023
There are some vehicles that appear from time to time that become icons of their era. When you think about iconic scooters, one of the names that very quickly comes to mind is Lambretta. The now legendary Italian scooter has an interesting history that spans over seven decades.
The Birth Of Lambretta
The Lambretta story begins in post-World War II Milan, Italy. The man behind the scooter was Ferdinando Innocenti, who saw the need for a more affordable, efficient, and stylish scooter than the ones being produced at the time. Drawing inspiration from the scooters used by American troops during the war, Innocenti set out to design a vehicle that would cater to the European market.
In 1947, the Lambretta Model A was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. With its sleek, aerodynamic design and user-friendly features, the Lambretta quickly gained popularity and would go on to become one of the most recognisable scooters out there.
Lambretta And Mod Culture
The 1950s and 1960s were very successful for Lambretta. The brand rapidly expanded its lineup to include various models, such as the LD, TV, and SX series, each offering unique features and catering to different consumer needs. Lambretta became more than just a mode of transportation; it was a symbol of youth culture, freedom, and rebellion.
During this period, Lambretta scooters became closely associated with the Mod subculture in Britain. Mods, characterised by their stylish attire and love for modern jazz and R&B music, adopted the Lambretta as their preferred mode of transport. The scooter’s design, with its clean lines and polished chrome, perfectly complemented the Mod look.
The Mods didn’t stop at just riding Lambrettas though; they made the scooter a key element of their fashion identity. Stylishly dressed in tailored suits and parkas, Mods used their Lambrettas as fashion accessories as much as they used them for transportation. The scooter was an extension of their sharp, well-groomed image, and it became an iconic symbol of Mod culture.
Challenges and Decline
Despite its initial success, Lambretta faced stiff competition from Vespa, another Italian scooter manufacturer. The two brands engaged in a fierce rivalry, each trying to outdo the other with innovative designs and features. However, by the late 1960s, Lambretta began to face financial difficulties, and production began to gradually decline.
The oil crisis of the 1970s caused further problems for Lambretta, as fuel-efficient small cars gained popularity, leading to a lower demand for scooters. In 1972, Lambretta ceased production altogether.
Lambretta Is Still Alive
Although Lambretta disappeared from the production line, its legacy never truly faded. Enthusiasts and collectors around the world continued to cherish and restore vintage Lambretta scooters, keeping the brand’s spirit alive.
More recently, Lambretta made a comeback with a renewed focus on electric scooters. Even though these new electric models maintain some of the style and feel of their predecessors, it’s still hard to beat the feeling of riding one of the original models.
From its beginnings in post-war Italy to its modern-day revival, Lambretta has consistently captured the imagination of riders around the world. It’s more than just a scooter; it’s a symbol of freedom, style, and the open road. Whether you’re a classic scooter enthusiast, a fashion follower, or a modern commuter, the Lambretta legacy lives on, reminding us of the unique combination of fashion and transportation that defines its remarkable history.
Win Our Lambretta
If you want to relive Mod culture, then our 1977 Lambretta Jet 150 will be drawn live tomorrow (Tuesday, 5th September). There are still tickets available so you have a chance of winning your very own Lmabretta for just a few pounds.
Full details here.
Bridge Classic Cars
If you would like to see the full range of classic vehicles we are restoring, all of our current projects can be seen here.
Keep up to date with automotive news here.
East Anglian Copdock Bike Show
September 4, 2023
Yesterday, 3rd September, the East Anglian Copdock Bike Show was held at Trinity Park in Ipswich.
The show’s history dates back to 1992 when a small group of classic motorcyclists wanted to explore the idea of displaying their personal collections of bikes. The idea was to allow people of all ages to get up close and personal with the machines they were so passionate about.
Since that first idea, the East Anglian Copdock Bike Show has grown into one of the most popular motorcycle shows in the area. It is a family-friendly event and has something for everyone whether you have an interest in motorbikes or not.
The show is all about raising money for local charities and, so far, more than half a million pounds has been raised.
This year’s show looked to be a great success and we hope to be able to make it there ourselves next year.
In the meantime, the Bridge Classic Cars Bike Meet is making its debut this month so, if you want a fix of motorbikes while waiting for the Copdock Show to return in 2024, all the information you need is here.
Win A TVR 2500M
September 1, 2023
Our 1976 TVR 2500M is now live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
Believed to be the car of choice that took centre stage on the TVR stand at the 1976 British Motor Show, this beautiful classic certainly comes with a fascinating back story.
- Believed to be the 1976 British Motor Show Car for TVR
- Recommissioned back to the road from 2012 to 2014
- 2.5-litre inline-six and 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
- Classic exterior/interior colour combination
- Limited to 3333 tickets
- Bridge Classic Cars Pre-Delivery Inspection
Remembering Rob George From Anglia Car Auctions
September 1, 2023
Rob George (9th February 1968 – 5th August 2023)
Today, Craig and Gordon attended the funeral of the late Rob George, formerly of Anglia Car Auctions. As we have purchased and sold many classic cars over the years through ACA, we felt it right that we pay tribute to the life and legacy of Rob.
Everyone here at Bridge Classic Cars sends our condolences to Rob’s family and friends.
Anglia Car Auctions said on their website:
Robert George 1968-2023
We are very sad to hear of Rob’s passing. Rob was a valued, former member of the ACA family, both in business and personally. Although not involved in the business in recent years, Rob was known to many of you.
Looking Back On The Build Of Our AK 427
September 1, 2023
Our 2020 AK 427 has been in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop for just a few days and it is already getting lots of attention.
Before it goes live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions ready to be won, we have been looking back at some photos that its previous owner has provided us with of it in various stages of its build.
Bodywork Begins
September 1, 2023
Now that our Ford Transit MKII Tipper has come to the end of its time in the fabrication bay, it has been moved over to the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop ready for work on its body to begin.
It’s always an exciting time when one part of a restoration is finished and a new one is about to start.
Our Transit Tipper will likely be in the paintshop for a little while but, by the time it leaves, it will be looking very different.
The Wolf Of Wall Street Lamborghini Countach Goes To Auction
September 1, 2023
In some films, certain cars become as iconic as the characters driving them on the silver screen. One such automotive legend is this 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Edition, which famously made an appearance in Martin Scorsese’s 2013 film, ‘The Wolf of Wall Street.’
One of the two Lamborghinis used in the film is going to auction at RM Sotheby’s Luxury Week on 8th December 2023 in New York.
1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Edition
Introduced in the early 1970s, the Countach was the embodiment of automotive innovation. As the vehicle most responsible for bringing the “Italian Wedge” style of supercar to the foreground, the 25th Anniversary Edition was styled by Horatio Pagani and was produced from 1988 to 1990.
With its scissor doors, sharp angles, and wedge-shaped profile, the Countach was something of a masterpiece and a symbol of excess and luxury. It was, in many ways, the perfect car for the extravagant world depicted in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street.’
The Wolf of Wall Street Lamborghini
Martin Scorsese’s ‘The Wolf of Wall Street,’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio as the infamous Jordan Belfort, is a film recognised for its portrayal of wealth and lavish lifestyles in the world of finance. In a scene that perfectly captures this spirit, this specific white Lamborghini Countach is featured alongside Belfort (DiCaprio) while he is under the influence of various substances, creating a memorable moment that has become a pinacle point in the film.
RM Sotheby’s describes the car:
- One of the automotive stars of the Martin Scorsese film The Wolf of Wall Street
- Used on set alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, who played high-flying financier Jordan Belfort; similar to the car that was dramatically destroyed in a memorable scene
- The most advanced iteration of the legendary Countach, featuring improvements developed by the great Horacio Pagani
- Said to be one of 12 US-specification examples delivered in Bianco Polo over Bianco
- An already iconic supercar that is further elevated and immortalized by its time on the silver screen
The Upcoming Auction
This very special Countach is the first collector car to be announced for RM Sotheby’s boutique New York sale—an exclusive auction of extraordinary vehicles held during Sotheby’s Luxury Week on the 8th of December.
With its unique connection to the film and its association with the larger-than-life character of Jordan Belfort, it is estimated to sell for $1,500,000 – $2,000,000 (Approximately £1,183,000 – £1,578,000).
Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions, at RM Sotheby’s, said “The ‘Wolf’ Countach, along with the other cars that will be on offer, perfectly embodies what we set out to accomplish when we decided to host a sale during Sotheby’s Luxury Week. Scorsese, DiCaprio, Lamborghini, and New York—all make for an incredible pedigree. The sale will feature other similar cars—unique, highly collectable, with a degree of provenance, low mileage, or one-off specifications. Our team has a great track record of curating boutique sales such as this, and we look forward to showcasing this during Luxury Week.”
Two Familiar Faces For Sale
September 1, 2023
Two classics that have been in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop over the years are currently for sale on Car & Classic.
Our 1973 Saab 96 V4 is currently under auction on the site until 4th September at 8:25 pm, while our 1974 Triumph GT6 MKIII is going live later today at 1:00 pm.
1973 Saab 96 V4
Described as:
- Restored and maintained regardless of cost in current ownership
- Presented in an authentic-looking and head-turning tribute
- Complete with detailed records itemising work done and associated spend
- Over £25,000 spent since October 2019
- ULEZ exempt
1974 Triumph GT6 MKIII
Our former competition car is described as:
- A great looking example of a late model MKIII Triumph GT6 from the final production run
- Presenting in an eye-catching Magenta livery with plenty of bright chrome in evidence
- Complete with a pristine and faithfully original-looking cabin
The Restoration Begins
September 1, 2023
The restoration of our 1976 Triumph Spitfire 1500 has begun.
This is another exciting project for us as it is for a returning customer who currently lives in France. It is for this reason that the left-hand drive configuration will stay with the vehicle.
We have already restored three classic cars in our customer’s garage, and we are very much looking forward to making progress on the 4th. Undoubtedly, this one is going to be a stunning car when it is complete.
The restoration has been started with classic car technician Rob getting to work on stripping down the car.
Coming Soon
August 31, 2023
Soon to be arriving at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop is our 1965 Mercedes 300SE Fintail for a full restoration.
As you can see from the photos below, it will need a lot of work before it is back to its former glory but, with the attention of our team of skilled technicians, we hope to see it leave the workshop as a beautiful classic car.
Just Arrived – Ford Mustang
August 31, 2023
Today, we saw the arrival of our 2017 Ford Mustang GT at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
This impressive-looking Mustang will go on to be a competition car through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions with the new owner being found very soon.
Our previous competition Mustang proved to be very popular and we are expecting the same from this one!
SOLD – Our 1935 Bentley
August 31, 2023
Our 1935 Bentley Van Den Plas Saloon sold earlier this week.
After making its way to us from South Africa, it will now go on to its new home with its proud new owner.
There’s no denying that this is a beautiful classic and it comes as no surprise that it was a popular listing on Car & Classic. As excited as we are to see it leave us to be admired by another enthusiast, it will be slightly sad to not see it in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop every day.
Iconic Auctioneers Start A New Chapter
August 31, 2023
Iconic Auctioneers, previously known as Silverstone Auctions, recently hosted “The Classic Sale” At Silverstone Festival 2023. The auction marked the beginning of a new chapter for the freshly rebranded auction experts and turned out to be a fantastic launch, as four new auction world records were set, an exclusive ‘Lord of the Manor of Silverstone’ title was acquired, and an impressive total sale value of £7 million was achieved!
1998 Subaru Impreza STi 22B
The first world record of the auction came in the form of the 1998 Subaru Impreza STi 22B – Chassis #000/400 – Ex-Colin McRae. This iconic vehicle was delivered to the late Colin McRae MBE in November 1998 as one of just three 22B prototypes ever built. The other two prototypes were delivered to David Lapworth and Colin’s co-driver, Nicky Gist.
In a TV interview, Colin once said that the 22B is one of his favourite cars but “it gets you into bother”. If even the legend that was Colin McRae got into “bother” while driving the car, it gives you an idea of just how capable this machine truly is.
With its final sale price of £480,000, another world record now belongs to Iconic Auctioneers and serves as a testament to McRae’s legacy in the world of rallying.
A Famous Pair of 1980 Ford Capris
As expected, there was lots of interest in these two Ford Capris. Recognised for their cultural significance and starring roles in the cult TV show ‘The Professionals,’ they sold at the equivalent sale price of £93,375 each which beat the auction world record for road-going Capris, which was set by Iconic Auctioneers (then Silverstone Auctions) in 2019 when one sold for £68,625.
With the pair selling as a single lot for £186,750, Arwel Richards of Iconic Auctioneers said “Ford Capris are among the hottest modern-classic cars for collectors right now and when you add in the fact that these two Capris featured in the much-loved cult TV show we knew we were onto a winner with them.”
1989 FIA Ford Sierra RS500 – Ex-Andy Rouse
Andy Rouse’s ‘missing’ 1989 BTCC RS500 was sold accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Andy himself, offering rock-solid provenance from the car’s original builder and driver. As you can imagine, bidding was highly competitive and the final sale price of £370,500 set a new auction world record.
1981 Ford XR3
An exceptional 1981 Ford XR3, boasting an incredibly low mileage of 992 miles and coming from one owner from new, sold for the record-breaking sale price of £33,750. In stunning condition due to it being in storage since 1984, it was recommissioned with new fuel and water pipes, and a new exhaust prior to going to auction.
Iconic Auctioneers – The McRae Collection
The McRae Collection featured three vehicles from the personal collection of the late Colin McRae. With winning bids from three different countries (Ireland, America, and the UK) these rally legends will be spread across the globe.
The 1992 Subaru Legacy RS ‘Group A’ sold for the staggering sale price of £414,500, while the 2005 Ford Escort MkII McRae, sold for £157,500, and the 1977 Chrysler Sunbeam Ti Group A Rally Car achieved £90,000.
Nick Whale, Chairman of Iconic Auctioneers, said: “We feel truly privileged to have been entrusted by the McRae family with the sale of three of Colin’s favourite cars. Despite the passage of time, Colin is still one of the biggest names in the world of rallying. These cars play a significant role in the history of rallying and so we are not surprised by the level of interest they generated around the world and the prices they achieved.”
Lord of the Manor of Silverstone
The ancient title ‘Lord of the Manor of Silverstone’ was sold for £111,375. The winning bidder not only earned the right to be officially recognised as “Lord” on official documents but also gained the privilege of exercising unique rights associated with the title such as being able to ‘hold court’, appoint a Bailiff and ale taster!
Iconic Auctioneers
Iconic Auctioneers will return to the Silverstone Festival in 2024 for their 14th year as the exclusive auction partner. In the meantime though, the team are inviting entries for their next sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show from the 10th to 12th of November.
Restoring Cold War Planes
August 30, 2023
Molly, Freddie, and I went back to the Bentwaters Cold War Museum yesterday. This time though, we visited the very special hangar where an incredible team of volunteers restore aircraft for future generations to admire and appreciate.
We were actually there to do some filming for an upcoming episode of Talking Classics and we all had a fantastic time talking to Dennis and Rob, who were hard at work on some very impressive Cold War aircraft.
Much more information and photos will be coming soon but, in the meantime, here are some snippets of what went on, and details of some of the exceptional planes we were able to get up close and personal with.
Gloster Meteor F.8
Currently under restoration.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Gloster Aircraft Company
Purpose: Single-seat day fighter
Crew: One
Wingspan: 37 ft 2” / 11.8 metres
Length: 44 ft 7” / 13.5 metres
Height: 13 ft / 3.9 metres
Weight (Empty): 10,684 lb. / 4,846 kg
Service ceiling: 43,000 ft / 13,106 metres
Engines: 2x Rolls Royce Derwent 8
Performance: 598mph at 10,000 ft
English Electric Lightning F.53
Currently under restoration.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: English Electric
Purpose: Single-seat fighter
Crew: One
Wingspan: 34 ft 10″ / 10.6 metres
Length: 55 ft 3 ” / 16.8 metres
Height: 19 ft 7 ” / 5.97 metres
Weight (Empty): 31,068 lb / 14,092 kg
Service ceiling: 54,000 ft / 16,000 metres/zoom ceiling >70,000 ft
Engines: 2 × Rolls-Royce Avon 301R
Performance: Mach 2.0 /1,300 mph / 2,100 km/h at 36,000 ft
Lockheed T-33A
Currently under restoration.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Lockheed
Purpose: Jet Trainer aircraft
Crew: 2
Wingspan: 39ft 1” / 11.9 metres
Length: 37ft 9” / 11.5 metres
Height: 11ft 8” / 3.56 metres
Weight (Empty): 8.367 lbs / 3.795kg
Service Ceiling: 48,000ft / 14,630 metres
Engine: 1x Allison J33-A-5
Performance: 600 mph
Range: 1100 Miles / 2050 km
Sepecat Jaguar GR.1A
Currently under restoration.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Sepecat
Purpose: Ground attack
Crew: One
Wingspan: 28 ft 5” / 8.64 metres
Length: 50 ft 11” / 15.52 metres
Height: 16 ft 1” / 4.92 metres
Weight: 16970 lb. / 7700 kg
Service ceiling: 45930 ft / 13920 metres
Engines: 2x Rolls Royce Adour
Performance: 1056 Mph
We would all like to say a big thank you to Dennis and Rob for taking the time out of their busy schedules to show us around and answer our questions. We look forward to seeing you both again soon.
Cataloguing Components
August 30, 2023
Classic car technician Tom has been going through the long process of cataloguing the components of our AC Cobra project.
His main focus has been on the engine, as this will soon be removed from the vehicle so it can be refurbished before going back into the car at a later date.
This is a very exciting restoration project so we are very much looking forward to seeing it progress through its time here in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
Morris Minor Repairs
August 30, 2023
After suffering from an unfortunate bump while at home, our 1960 Morris Minor has been needing some repair work completed by classic car technician Mauro.
Mauro has been focused on repairing the front wing that seemed to take the brunt of the impact. Hopefully, it won’t be too much longer before the fully recovered Minor goes back home to its owner.
Painting Our Transit Bed Frame
August 30, 2023
The bed frame of our Ford Transit MKII Tipper has been in the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop with Mauro, as he has been giving it a fresh coat of paint.
After applying epoxy primer to the bed frame, he went on to paint it black using DTM paint.
Once the freshly painted bed frame is reunited with the rest of our Transit Tipper, it will be a positive step forward on the restoration journey of the vehicle.
All Coming Back Together
August 30, 2023
Lydia and Brian have been working hard on the interior of our 1959 Jensen 541R. Brian has been making and fitting the door panels, while Lydia has been focussing on the interior carpets and seats of our classic Jensen.
The restoration of this beautiful car is getting closer and closer to being finished and we are looking forward to seeing this progress continue.
Beetle Interior
August 30, 2023
Classic car technician Lydia has been starting work on the interior of our 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
After undergoing lots of work on its body and chassis, it’s great to finally see the interior begin to go into the classic Beetle, known affectionately as Delilah.
Door cards have been fitted, carpet has been installed and Lydia’s work will continue as she puts the interior of our Beetle back together.
Getting Our TR6 Ready To Be Won
August 30, 2023
Our 1973 Triumph TR6 will soon be going live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. Before that happens though, classic car technician Jonn has been checking it over to make sure everything is ready for its lucky new owner.
Part of Jonn’s work included getting all of the rear lights working, replacing the aftermarket steering wheel with a more period-correct one, and getting the stereo loom ready for the stereo to be fitted.
The stereo was then fitted and tested and found to be working as expected. Jonn went on to adjust the handbrake as well as fitting new door locks on both sides. A new clutch pedal anti-slip pad was fitted too.
Wattisham Family Fun Day
August 29, 2023
Bridge Classic Cars Managing Director, Craig recently spent the day with his family at Wattisham Air Field, for a family fun day.
While at the event, Craig took some photos of the wide range of military vehicles, entertainment, and family-inspired activities that were ongoing, including a flyover from the iconic Red Arrows.
Craig and his family had a fantastic day and will certainly be going back again next time.
What An Arrival!
August 29, 2023
As most of you know by now, there are always interesting and exciting vehicles coming into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. However, from time to time, something extra special and attention-grabbing comes through the door.
Today is one of those times, as we welcome our 2020 AK 427 in the style of an AC Cobra.
What makes this even more exciting is the fact that you will have the chance to win this impressive vehicle for yourself through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions very soon.
More details to follow, so keep your eyes open for this one…
Just Arrived
August 29, 2023
Today, we saw the arrival of our 2001 Jaguar XKR which will soon be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
As it has just arrived with us, it will now go through an inspection and assessment with our team of classic car technicians but, from first impressions, things are looking good already!
Stripping A Classic Transit
August 25, 2023
Our 1972 Ford Transit Tipper may have only been in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop for a few days but classic car technician Mauro has already been hard at work stripping it, ready for repairs to be made to its paint.
Once the strip down is complete, work will continue on our Transit Tipper and we are very much looking forward to seeing its great looks improve further.
Preparing A Competition Car
August 25, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has been working on our 1980 MGB GT in preparation for it to be won through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions very soon.
After charging the battery, Jonn inspected and cleaned the brakes and was happy with their condition. A new choke cable was fitted and the tappets were adjusted. Jonn went on to clean the rocker cover ready for a new gasket to be fitted.
The jet depths were set and our MGB GT is now almost ready to go to the lucky winner when the live draw takes place in a few days time.
Complete And Gone Home
August 25, 2023
Our 1981 Austin Morris Mini 998 wasn’t with us very long, but classic car technician Jonn completed the appropriate repairs before waving it goodbye as it returned to its owner.
While working on the car, Jonn noticed that the engine oil level was low so this was topped up. The radiator was also topped up. Jonn then went on to remove the carb pistons and chambers so he could inspect and set them.
The jet depth was measured with a vernier so Jonn could adjust accordingly.
Once Jonn had finished working on our classic Mini, it was time to say goodbye as it left the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
Essex Classic Vehicle Show 2023
August 25, 2023
The Essex Classic Car Show, hosted by Headway Essex, is not just a showcase of classic vehicles but is also a fantastic fundraising effort to help generate vital and life-changing funds for people living with an acquired brain injury.
On Sunday 24th September, Castle Park in Colchester will be full of incredible cars to admire as well as plenty of food, drink, and entertainment for all the family. The Bridge Classic Cars team will also be in attendance.
Headway Essex is an organisation that supports individuals with acquired brain injuries and has planned this event with a dual purpose. Attendees can indulge in their passion for classic cars, seeing some beautiful vehicles up close and personal. Meanwhile, the funds generated from this event will fuel Headway Essex’s crucial initiatives, and their mission of creating a positive impact on families and communities.
More information can be found here.
East Coast Truckers Convoy
August 24, 2023
The East Coast Truckers 36th Convoy is set to take place on Sunday 27th August. This is an incredible event that sees over 80 trucks take children with disabilities from Norwich to Pleasurewood Hills, before returning via the seafront at Great Yarmouth.
This is a big day for all involved and it is all for an extremely good cause.
Everyone here at Bridge Classic Cars wishes everyone taking part the very best and we hope the day goes smoothly.
Sunday 27th August 2023 – approximate timings :
10:00 – Leave Colman’s (opposite County Hall), Norwich
10:30 – Acle Roundabout
10:45 – Great Yarmouth (Vauxhall)
11:00 – Gorleston
11:30 – Arrive at Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park
*****
17:00 – Leave Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park
18:00 – Marine Parade (Seafront), Great Yarmouth
19:00 – Arrive at Colman’s, Norwich
Remembering Gary Vines
August 24, 2023
We were saddened to learn about the tragic passing of rider Gary Vines during qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix.
On a personal note, I attended high school with Gary. Although we lost contact upon leaving school, I remember, even back then, that he had a huge passion for motorbikes. At just 33 years old, it’s sad to see such a promising talent and nice guy pass away so early in his life.
A statement on behalf of the Manx Grand Prix Races said:
“It is with a heavy heart that the organisers of the Manx Grand Prix Races can confirm that Gary Vines, 33, from Colchester, succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident during the first qualifying session of the 2023 event. The accident occurred at Ballagarey on his first lap of the session.
Gary was a regular competitor at the Manx Grand Prix, making his debut in 2015 where he took a highly impressive victory in the Newcomers B Race. He earned another podium in the 2018 Lightweight Race and also secured top-ten finishes at the Classic TT. He competed in the Supersport Races at the 2022 and 2023 TT Races, posting his fastest-ever lap of the TT Mountain Course this year at an average speed of 118.488mph.
Everyone involved in the organisation of the Manx Grand Prix would like to express their deepest sympathies to Gary’s family, his partner, his loved ones, and friends.”
