Escort Repairs
October 27, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has been completing some repairs on our 1979 Ford Escort Ghia. The doors have been adjusted and the engine levels were
News
Number Plates
October 27, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has been putting the UK plates on our 1958 Austin-Healey 100/6. He measured, drilled, and painted the brackets before securing them
Panel Piping
October 27, 2023
Interior Trimmer Lydia has made some additional piping to add to the rear panels of our 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4, which will close up the
A Fond Farewell To Freddie
October 27, 2023
Change is a constant in life, and today, as Freddie completes his last day here at Bridge Classic Cars, we find ourselves reflecting on the
A Morris Pick Up Arrives
October 27, 2023
Our 1968 Morris Minor 1000 Pick-Up arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop yesterday afternoon. Now that it is here, our team of technicians will
More Work On Our DB2/4
October 26, 2023
Interior trimmer Brian has been continuing his work on the 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4. He sandblasted the metal frame legs on the front seat squab
Work Starts On A New Arrival
October 26, 2023
Classic car technician Steve has begun working on our 1979 Reliant Scimitar. He started by investigating the brake master cylinder that was leaking fluid into
Final Preparations
October 26, 2023
To prepare for our 1953 Land Rover Series 1 to be delivered to its new owner, classic car technician Jonn has assembled the hard top
2024 Mazda MX-5
October 26, 2023
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 has been unveiled to the public at the Japan Mobility Show. The unveiling marks the first time since the current generation
2 More Classics On The Way
October 26, 2023
We are awaiting the arrival of two more classics that will soon be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. 1932 Austin Ulster Manufactured
A wonderfully British classic… And, it could be yours!
October 25, 2023
The classic Austin-Healey holds a special place in the dream garage of many petrolheads. From the humble Sprite to the suave and sophisticated 3000, the
100 Years Old But Looking Great
October 25, 2023
Our 1905 Riley 9HP may be more than 100 years old but, thanks to our team of skilled technicians and our friend, Darin at Ashbocking
Door Seals And Sun Visors
October 25, 2023
Our 1972 Ford Transit Tipper has been with interior trimmers Brian and Lydia. They have been glueing the rubber door seals and fitting them to
Spitfire Bulkhead
October 25, 2023
Our 1976 Triumph Spitfire bulkhead has been modified by classic car technician Rob, to ensure the bonnet gaps are correct. Rob then finalised the door
Final Repairs For Our Europa
October 25, 2023
Before our 1970 Lotus Europa goes live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions, classic car technician Jonn has been making some final repairs. The fuel gauge
Mercedes Front Hubs
October 25, 2023
Jonn has been working on our 1987 Mercedes 500SL. He assembled the wheel bearings and hubs and fit them to the car. New discs were
Beetle Rocker Cover Gaskets
October 24, 2023
Classic car technician has been hard at work completing some of the finishing touches on our 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. Tom replaced the rocker cover gaskets
Another Car In Storage
October 24, 2023
Another stunning car has entered our secure storage facility, the Hangar. As you can see from the photos below, is very much at home surrounded
Just Arrived – Reliant Scimitar GTE
October 24, 2023
We have recently welcomed a new addition to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 1979 Reliant Scimitar GTE. It is with
Monaco To Genoa
October 24, 2023
At Bridge Classic Cars, we have spent the last 20 years building a strong reputation as The Classic Car Experts, based on our craftsmanship and
DB2/4 Boot Boards
October 23, 2023
Classic car technician Brian has been busy working on our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4. After a lot of work went into stripping the interior of
Repairing DB7 Ceiling Cloth
October 23, 2023
Classic car technician Brian has been busy repairing the ceiling cloth of a 2001 Aston Martin DB7. After removing the old glue from the headliner
Almost Ready For Competition
October 23, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has continued his work on our 1970 Lotus Europa in preparation for it to be won through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions
Work Continues
October 19, 2023
Work on the interior of our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 has continued as Brian and Lydia have made new boards for the kick panels, as
This practical classic could be yours!
October 19, 2023
It’s one of the most popular and practical classics out there! Beloved by generations of petrolheads and casual admirers at large, it is of course
Fast Fords – From 1908 – 2023
October 19, 2023
Fast Fords have been a consistent part of the automotive industry for as long as most of us can remember. From the introduction of the
Body And Running Boards
October 19, 2023
Our 1905 Riley 9HP has been with a friend of Bridge Classic Cars, Darin, from Ashbocking Joinery. While our one-off car is with Darin, he
Europa Steering And More
October 19, 2023
Our 1970 Lotus Europa has been in the hands of classic car technician Jonn. He drilled and fitted a new washer jet. Jonn then drilled
A New Seat Cover
October 18, 2023
Interior trimmer Lydia has been making a new seat cover for our 1967 Suzuki TR 250. Before making the seat cover properly from Alcantara, Lydia
Next Steps
October 18, 2023
Classic car technician James has been working on our 1972 Ford Transit Tipper. Since leaving the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop, it is now in the
Escort Repairs
October 27, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has been completing some repairs on our 1979 Ford Escort Ghia.
The doors have been adjusted and the engine levels were checked before the coolant was topped up.
Our classic Escort will soon be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
Number Plates
October 27, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has been putting the UK plates on our 1958 Austin-Healey 100/6.
He measured, drilled, and painted the brackets before securing them on the car. Both the front and back number plates were then fitted.
Panel Piping
October 27, 2023
Interior Trimmer Lydia has made some additional piping to add to the rear panels of our 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4, which will close up the gap between the panel and the roof. This improves the movement when you open the boot lid.
A Fond Farewell To Freddie
October 27, 2023
Change is a constant in life, and today, as Freddie completes his last day here at Bridge Classic Cars, we find ourselves reflecting on the contributions he has made during his tenure as Marketing Manager.
Freddie’s time with us has been full of progress, improvement, and success. From the introduction of Bridge Classic Cars Competitions to a wide range of other marketing projects, his vision and leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the business growth.
As Freddie leaves the office for the last time and prepares to start a new chapter in his professional life, we extend our gratitude for all he has done. The work we are doing today is largely built on the foundations he laid during his four years here.
Thank you, Freddie, for everything. Your presence will be sincerely missed. Everyone here at Bridge Classic Cars wishes you well in your future endeavours.
A Morris Pick Up Arrives
October 27, 2023
Our 1968 Morris Minor 1000 Pick-Up arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop yesterday afternoon.
Now that it is here, our team of technicians will thoroughly inspect and assess this beautiful classic before it eventually goes live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
More Work On Our DB2/4
October 26, 2023
Interior trimmer Brian has been continuing his work on the 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4.
He sandblasted the metal frame legs on the front seat squab frames. He then glued 10mm of foam on top of the original front seat back foam before trimming it to size. The old covers from the rear seat base panels were removed and new foam was added on top of the original.
Brian then removed the centre console cover and sandblasted it before adding more foam to it. The tool tray was also cleaned up.
Work Starts On A New Arrival
October 26, 2023
Classic car technician Steve has begun working on our 1979 Reliant Scimitar.
He started by investigating the brake master cylinder that was leaking fluid into the servo. The servo diaphragm was leaking air when the brakes were applied so both parts will need an overhaul.
The door switch contacts were found to be corroded so Steve dismantled these and cleaned them ready for reassembly.
Lydia then shaped and improved the fit on the front carpet mat, which allowed her to finish fitting this and glue it down. After this, she noticed that the rear seatbacks were faded and worn, so Lydia decided to replace them. She then refitted the handles and tacked them down at the edges to hold them in place.
Final Preparations
October 26, 2023
To prepare for our 1953 Land Rover Series 1 to be delivered to its new owner, classic car technician Jonn has assembled the hard top roof, bolted up the panels and removed the roof for full assembly.
He then fitted the seals between the panels and the edges before measuring up and cutting and glueing all door seals in position. Jonn then stripped and fit the new nearside wheel cylinder as well as bleeding and adjusting it. He then refitted the wheel and torqued it up.
The assembled roof was then fitted to the Land Rover and the fixings and door top halves were secured. Rear door hinges were fitted before the rear door and tailgate were put on the vehicle too.
Jonn fitted grommets to the holes in the roof and sides before he painted the exposed new bolts in the panels in cream to match the roof.
The PDI was carried out and, once Jonn is happy with the road test, our Series 1 will be ready to leave the workshop.
2024 Mazda MX-5
October 26, 2023
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 has been unveiled to the public at the Japan Mobility Show. The unveiling marks the first time since the current generation was released in 2015, that subtle exterior design updates have been made to Mazda’s award-winning sports car. These changes include a fresh LED headlight design that now incorporates daytime running lights as well as redesigned rear LED lights. There is also a new paint colour that has been added to the MX-5 lineup in the form of Aero Grey.
Interior Of 2024 Mazda MX-5
Inside the 2024 Mazda MX-5, drivers have access to a larger 8.8-inch central touchscreen multimedia display and an updated instrument panel. The expanded central screen gives greater navigation mapping clarity, while the advanced MZ Connect system improves user functionality. To highlight how the MX-5 is moving into the future, USB-C ports have also been introduced with this new model. As in previous versions, the new MX-5 offers wireless Apple CarPlay and also features a new frameless rear-view mirror. While all these changes are great, the interior maintains the same driver-focused cabin and driving position we have come to expect from an MX-5.
Mazda MX-5 – A Benchmark For Sports Cars
Throughout its more than three decades of existence and across four generations, the Mazda MX-5 has consistently set the standard as a pure lightweight sports car that prioritises driver engagement. The philosophy of Jinba Ittai, driver and machine working in perfect harmony, is something that has always been present in every Mazda vehicle, and the new MX-5 is no exception. The 2024 Mazda MX-5 continues to deliver this philosophy and, as a result, has created another fantastic example of open-top driving with all the agility, lightweight construction, and balanced handling you could want from a sports car like this.
On The Track & On The Road
In all models of the 2024 Mazda MX-5, the new Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) track driving mode doesn’t kick in until a later parameter is hit. The result of this is a more dynamic driving experience while still keeping the driver safe and secure. This can be particularly useful for those who are taking to the track for the very first time.
The accelerator’s response has been improved to provide more precise throttle control, and the electric power steering has been adjusted. This has led to a reduction in steering rack friction and, as a result, a more natural and fluid response to driver input.
Specifications
As with previous versions of the MX-5, 2.0-litre cars fitted with a manual gearbox come with a front strut brace, limited-slip differential, and Bilstein dampers as standard. However, the 2024 MX-5 introduces a new Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential, featuring a cam mechanism added to the conical clutch. This mechanism is lightweight, compact, and highly durable. The cam angle is set differently for deceleration and acceleration which creates optimal limiting force of slip during both actions. This enhancement of slip limiting force during cornering when the unloaded rear wheel is lightened improves stability.
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 also introduces additional safety features across all models, including Lane-Keep Assistance and Intelligent Speed Assistance. The Traffic Sign Recognition system has been updated to improve signage recognition too.
2024 Mazda MX-5 Release
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 is set to arrive in the UK in March 2024 when it will look to continue the successful formula that has seen more than 25,000 fourth-generation MX-5s sold in the UK since its launch in 2015. The new 8-model range maintains its engine lineup, offering a choice of 1.5-litre 132ps and 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engines for both the Roadster and Retractable Fastback RF models. The Prime-Line model pairs with the 1.5-litre engine, the Exclusive-Line can be ordered with both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre engines, and the range-topping Homura is exclusively available with the 2.0-litre engine.
Jeremy Thomson, Mazda UK Managing Director, commented on the 2024 Mazda MX-5, saying, “When it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has established itself as a benchmark sports car, and with the 2024 Mazda MX-5, we continue to offer one of the most exciting and satisfying to drive cars money can buy.”
“Our engineers created a sports car that incorporates our ground-breaking Skyactiv technology, modern safety and superb efficiency with the driver-focused enjoyment for which the MX-5 is loved. The MX-5 is Mazda’s brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products. Mazda’s unceasing commitment to refining the vehicle over its 30-year history is highlighted again with the subtle but focused updates to the 2024 MX-5, which ensure this car continues to be an affordable, engaging, world-class sports car”.
Full pricing and specifications for the 2024 Mazda MX-5 in the UK will be announced at a later date.
Mazda MX-5 At Bridge Classic Cars
As it turns out, several members of the team here at Bridge Classic Cars own or have previously owned an MX-5 and here is a selection of them.
2 More Classics On The Way
October 26, 2023
We are awaiting the arrival of two more classics that will soon be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
1932 Austin Ulster
Manufactured in 1932, this is a stunning box saloon.
The body was rebuilt between 2009 and 2010 and has been finished in the rich dark British racing green and black cycle wings. It also had an engine rebuild around 2011 which included a Phoenix crank, aluminium deep sump, Honda pistons, and SU carb.
It also has an uprated twin front damper system and we are very much looking forward to seeing our Ulster arrive at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the very near future.
1968 Morris 1000 Pick-Up
Our 1968 Morris 1000 pickup is a charming British classic. It may look small but it beautifully combines utility and style.
We have had multiple Morris vehicles as competition cars in the past and they have all been very popular, and this one looks to be no different.
A wonderfully British classic… And, it could be yours!
October 25, 2023
The classic Austin-Healey holds a special place in the dream garage of many petrolheads. From the humble Sprite to the suave and sophisticated 3000, the Austin-Healey has earned its pedestal.
Bridge Classic Cars Competitions is giving you the chance to win one of these truly engaging and wonderful classic British sports cars with our 1958 Austin-Healey 100/6.
With stunning red paintwork and a complimenting black leather interior and white piping, this ‘big Healey’ has got charm and character which could only come from a long-legged, drivers Healey.
Fitted with a beautiful 2.7-litre inline-six and 4-speed manual gearbox, this soft-top sports car has got the perfect set-up to be enjoyed on a back road blast or a relaxed road trip.
Recently imported from South Africa at the start of 2023, the car has gone through a recommission by the Bridge Classic Cars team which included a full brake system rebuild as well as some mechanical jobs to get this wonderful classic ready for its new home.
During its time in South Africa, the car took part in several grand-touring rallies and drive-outs including most recently in the 2022 running of the Cape 1000.
The vehicle comes with a full UK registration, 742XWA, as well as several folders of workshop manuals and dating letters and certificates from the Austin-Healey Club and the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust.
Enter now for your chance to win one of the most sought after classic British sports cars.
100 Years Old But Looking Great
October 25, 2023
Our 1905 Riley 9HP may be more than 100 years old but, thanks to our team of skilled technicians and our friend, Darin at Ashbocking Joinery, this is one special car that looks as good as it ever has.
With the wood sections of the car being worked on and fitted to this one-of-one prototype, it certainly shows just how far our Riley has come since we first pulled it out of a barn a couple of years ago.
Door Seals And Sun Visors
October 25, 2023
Our 1972 Ford Transit Tipper has been with interior trimmers Brian and Lydia. They have been glueing the rubber door seals and fitting them to the door frames.
They have also been doing some remedial work on the sun visors, as they are no longer self-supporting. Lydia added some heat shrink to the attaching tubes to see if this could stiffen them up.
Lydia ended up inserting a piece of tubing into the sunvisor and attaching this firmly into place. This provided the resistance needed to hold the sun visor up when back in the vehicle. Combined with adding heat shrink to the support arms, the sun visor now stays in whatever place it is pushed to.
Spitfire Bulkhead
October 25, 2023
Our 1976 Triumph Spitfire bulkhead has been modified by classic car technician Rob, to ensure the bonnet gaps are correct. Rob then finalised the door gaps before repairing the anti-roll bar brackets on the chassis.
The boot lid was repaired and trial fitted before the front wheel arches were removed from the bonnet to allow the paint shop to paint the underside of the bonnet.
Alan from the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop then stripped the panels back to bare metal ready for epoxy primer to be applied. The chassis has been epoxy primed and painted in java green.
Final Repairs For Our Europa
October 25, 2023
Before our 1970 Lotus Europa goes live on Bridge Classic Cars Competitions, classic car technician Jonn has been making some final repairs.
The fuel gauge was reading full and off the scale. However, when the tank was drained there were 15 litres inside. Jonn was unable to remove the sender in situ as it had been bonded into the tank. As a result, Jonn had to strip and remove the fuel tank. He removed the fuel pump assembly from the top and removed the sender from the side after chipping away the old bonding material.
The mating surfaces were cleaned before the tank was rinsed and blown out. After it had been left to dry, Jonn manufactured a cork gasket for the fuel pump. He then fitted the fuel pump back in order and in the same position.
While waiting for a new sender, Jonn moved on to removing the steering wheel and switches so he could knock the old top steering column bush down further inside the tube. A new top column bush was fitted and lubricated in its place. The components were then all refitted in reverse order.
Jonn glued the repaired horn contacts and refitted the steering wheel. All the switches and the horn were tested and found to be working fine. Fixing points for the washer bag to hang in the front compartment were drilled and made before the connecting pipes were fitted.
Jonn also mounted the number plates.
Mercedes Front Hubs
October 25, 2023
Jonn has been working on our 1987 Mercedes 500SL. He assembled the wheel bearings and hubs and fit them to the car.
New discs were also fitted before the wheels were refitted. Jonn checked and adjusted the bearings. The bearing nut needed to be tightened, which Jonn did as well as fitting a dust cap.
Beetle Rocker Cover Gaskets
October 24, 2023
Classic car technician has been hard at work completing some of the finishing touches on our 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Tom replaced the rocker cover gaskets as well as the driver’s side front arm ball joint cover.
Our classic Beetle is now very close to leaving us and going home to its owner.
Another Car In Storage
October 24, 2023
Another stunning car has entered our secure storage facility, the Hangar.
As you can see from the photos below, is very much at home surrounded by other rare, classic, vintage, and sports cars.
More information about classic car storage can be found here.
Just Arrived – Reliant Scimitar GTE
October 24, 2023
We have recently welcomed a new addition to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 1979 Reliant Scimitar GTE.
It is with us for some minor electrical work which will soon be completed by our team of experienced technicians.
Monaco To Genoa
October 24, 2023
At Bridge Classic Cars, we have spent the last 20 years building a strong reputation as The Classic Car Experts, based on our craftsmanship and attention to detail through our restoration projects.
Recently though, we entered the world of marine services, alongside our colleague Jack, an experienced Superyacht captain with over 20 years experience on the open waters.
Craig had the privilege of sailing a SAFE boat from Monaco to Genoa on behalf of a customer.
From Classic Cars To Luxury Yachts
We have been restoring, storing, and transporting classic cars for 2 decades so, moving luxury vehicles from one place to another is something we excel at. While sailing customer’s marine vessels to them is very different to transporting classic cars, we take the same approach in regard to our core values of dedication, commitment, and delivering world-class service.
Marine Services – Monaco to Genoa
With our Captain Jack at the helm of the boat, the journey from Monaco to Genoa was successful despite some horrendous weather in the form of heavy rain out at sea.
Upon our arrival in Genoa, the SAFE boat was carefully docked in preparation for it to be taken on the next leg of its journey to meet its owner and their yacht in America.
The Safeboat
The equivalent of a Land Rover on the water, a SAFE boat offers improved visibility and maximises deck space. It is extremely robust, fast, and extremely manoeuvrable.
Although the one we sailed was for private use, these boats make great choices for response operations, law enforcement, research missions, search and rescue, and dive operations. This one though, is used for travelling from yacht to shore by its owner’s, friends and family.
Marine Services From Bridge Classic Cars
If you have a boat or yacht that you need to transport, then we may be able to help you. Simply email info@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk with your initial enquiry and we will do our best to help.
And we couldn’t resist a couple of classic car spots too whilst in Genoa…
DB2/4 Boot Boards
October 23, 2023
Classic car technician Brian has been busy working on our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4.
After a lot of work went into stripping the interior of this rare classic, things continue to progress in its restoration journey in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
Brian removed the boot boards from the car so he could clean up the metal strips. Once this was done, he cleaned up the metal trims and the rubber strips. These will be used later on in the restoration process.
A new dash tray backboard was made too and the interior light panel was cleaned up. Lydia also cleaned up the base of the seat with a heat gun and then thinners and a scotch brite pad were used to remove the black underseal.
Repairing DB7 Ceiling Cloth
October 23, 2023
Classic car technician Brian has been busy repairing the ceiling cloth of a 2001 Aston Martin DB7.
After removing the old glue from the headliner board and material, Brian repaired the damaged areas of the board.
He then glued the new foam to the headliner board and cut out all the holes required before fitting the new material.
Almost Ready For Competition
October 23, 2023
Classic car technician Jonn has continued his work on our 1970 Lotus Europa in preparation for it to be won through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions very soon.
After working out where he was going to route the choke cable and how it would operate, Jonn drilled the dash route cable and secured it in the dash. He then connected it at the carburettor end and tested it.
The electric window switches were fitted to the centre console and wired in as Jonn refitted it. He then cable-tied the DLC cable up under the dash, refitted all trims and cleaned everything up.
The wiring to the offside door in the kick panel area was fitted along with grommets to the jacking holes in each sill. Jonn finally tightened the water hoses at the rear of the engine.
Work Continues
October 19, 2023
Work on the interior of our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 has continued as Brian and Lydia have made new boards for the kick panels, as well as removing the seat frames and the old covers from the dash top panels and dashboard trays.
Our DB2/4 is a very special car so it is great to see things progressing very well on it already.
This practical classic could be yours!
October 19, 2023
It’s one of the most popular and practical classics out there! Beloved by generations of petrolheads and casual admirers at large, it is of course the Morris Traveller.
Bridge Classic Cars Competitions wants to put you in the drivers seat while you take the scenic route and enjoy what the world has to offer with our 1965 Morris Traveller.
With its beautiful pale blue paintwork and its signature exterior woodwork, our ‘Moggy’ Traveller is the perfect classic for the whole family.
It’s 1098cc 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed gearbox, our classic Morris Traveller combines simplicity with character and reliability.
With our stunning Morris Traveller, you’ll always be tempted to take the long way home and savour the scenic route.
Enter now to win 1965 Morris Traveller on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
Check out the full gallery and video below:
Fast Fords – From 1908 – 2023
October 19, 2023
Fast Fords have been a consistent part of the automotive industry for as long as most of us can remember. From the introduction of the Model T through to the newest electric models, Ford has always been a popular car of choice for racers and everyday drivers alike.
Ford Model T
The Ford Model T was introduced in 1908 and quickly gained popularity as an affordable and reliable mode of transport for its time.
In 1922, racer Noel Bullock entered a race with his Model T that he affectionately called “Old Liz”. As “Old Liz” didn’t have paint or a roof, spectators of the race compared the car to a tin can. After surprising many people, Noel and “Old Liz” won the race and the nickname for all Model Ts became “Tin Lizzie”
Ford GT40
The 1960s was a decade when Fast Fords made a big impact on the track and road. This was when iconic models like the Ford GT40, originally designed to beat Ferrari at Le Mans, made itself famous. If that wasn’t enough, in 1966, Ford achieved a historic 1-2-3 victory at Le Mans, showcasing just how successful their Fast Fords could be in endurance racing.
Ford introduced the Mustang in 1964, which was hugely popular with the American public. It offered a combination of style and power that was unrivalled in its era. Models like the Shelby GT350 and GT500, with their thundering V8 engines, became legends in their own right. The Shelby Mustangs represented a golden age of American muscle cars and certainly made their mark in automotive history.
Ford Escort
In the 1970s, the Ford Escort RS1600, with its high-revving 1.6-litre engine and rally pedigree, became a symbol of Ford’s commitment to manufacturing practical performance cars. The Escort would dominate the World Rally Championship, and its rallying success would influence Ford’s performance-oriented models going forward, establishing a tradition of creating cars that worked both on and off the track.
Ford continued to evolve its performance lineup by introducing the Ford Capri, a sporty coupe that offered affordable speed and style. It found success in various racing series, including the European Touring Car Championship.
Turbocharging Fast Fords – The Mighty Cosworth
The 1980s saw the birth of an icon in the form of the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth. The Sierra RS Cosworth, designed in collaboration with Cosworth Engineering, was a rally-inspired car with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine. A distinctive whale-tail spoiler and powerful engine made the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth an instant classic, both on the road and on the rally stage. The Sierra RS Cosworth claimed numerous victories in the World Rally Championship.
The Sierra RS Cosworth’s success led to the development of the Ford Escort RS Cosworth, another turbocharged legend that maintained Ford’s rallying dominance. These cars showcased Ford’s ability to combine performance and innovation, setting the stage for future fast Fords.
Ford Focus ST and RS
In the 21st century, Ford continued its legacy of performance with the creation of the Ford Focus ST and RS models. These hot hatches, known for their combination of practicality and performance were just as popular as the previous Fast Fords.
The Ford Focus RS featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre engine, all-wheel drive, and a drift mode, which allowed drivers to enjoy controlled oversteer on the track. This combination of power, handling, and agility earned the Focus RS a large following and status as a modern classic.
Ford GT
In 2016, Ford introduced a modern interpretation of its classic Ford GT supercar. The 2016 Ford GT paid homage to the iconic GT40 and its Le Mans victories. With a twin-turbo V6 engine, carbon-fibre construction, and a range of cutting-edge features, the new Ford GT was a true supercar in every sense.
The Ford GT made a triumphant return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2016, winning the GTE Pro class, 50 years after the historic 1-2-3 victory of the original GT40.
Looking to the Future: Electric Fast Fords
As the automotive industry evolves, Ford is not only committed to maintaining its tradition of fast cars but also adapting to new technologies. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, an all-electric SUV, is a prime example of Ford’s determination to blend performance and practicality with sustainability.
More electric models have been released and more are still to come. Let’s hope that the change from petrol and diesel to electricity doesn’t dampen the spirit of Fast Fords too much!
Win One Of The Iconic Fast Fords – Our 1991 Ford Escort RS Turbo
Bridge Classic Cars Competitions wants you to find your Levi jeans, your Ellesse sweatshirts and dig out the classic Reebok wedges from the loft and get behind the wheel of this, our 1991 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2.
Finished in A9 black, which according to the history file was refreshed in 2018, with the iconic grey Recaro sports seats complimenting its grey cloth interior, our Escort RS Turbo looks just as good, and as menacing, as it first did 32 years ago.
- An iconic and nostalgic performance car for an entire generation
- Recently refurbished Black paintwork with grey interior
- A 1.6-litre engine with uprated turbocharger and supporting upgrades
- Dyno print out from 2005 claiming 180BHP and 180LB/FT of torque
- The perfect performance car to relive your younger days!
- Limited to 4499 tickets
- Bridge Classic Cars Pre-Delivery Inspection
Full details can be seen on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
Body And Running Boards
October 19, 2023
Our 1905 Riley 9HP has been with a friend of Bridge Classic Cars, Darin, from Ashbocking Joinery.
While our one-off car is with Darin, he has been starting the first phase in the process of mounting the front body and running boards.
Before the running boards are fitted to the car, Darin has been shaping them and it already looks like great progress is being made.
Europa Steering And More
October 19, 2023
Our 1970 Lotus Europa has been in the hands of classic car technician Jonn. He drilled and fitted a new washer jet.
Jonn then drilled out the panel in the offside front arch and routed the new washer pipe through into the car. He then connected it to the push switch on the dash and then from the switch to the washer jet.
The steering rack gaiters were stripped and removed and the ball joint rubbers were secured. Jonn fitted new rack gaiters and secured them before centralising the steering rack and refitting the track rod ends evenly.
After refitting the wheels and torquing up, Jonn carried out tracking checks and adjusted as needed. Finally, the steering was set to 0 degrees 20 minutes toe in.
A New Seat Cover
October 18, 2023
Interior trimmer Lydia has been making a new seat cover for our 1967 Suzuki TR 250.
Before making the seat cover properly from Alcantara, Lydia made a mockup to ensure her idea would work. She used a piece of scrap fabric to work out the shape and add all the fixings she needed, and this also gave her the time to work out the fluted design for the topmost seat.
Once Lydia had completed the base part of the seat, she moved to the back. The backrest needed to be fixed to the seat, so she drilled some holes to allow her to bolt the backrest onto the seat. She then attached the foam padding, which is quite thin to allow maximum rider seat space.
Lydia fixed the backrest cover to the wood and added decorative piping to the edge. This helps to close up the gap between the fibreglass seat and the material. Next, she checked that the front flap lifted as it should to allow access to the bolts underneath. These are so you can attach it to the motorcycle as and when needed.
Next Steps
October 18, 2023
Classic car technician James has been working on our 1972 Ford Transit Tipper. Since leaving the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop, it is now in the main workshop where the next phase of its restoration will take place.
James repaired the wiring to the rear chassis earth, replaced the unsafe and incorrect fuel hoses under the bonnet, and replaced the split vacuum pipework from the carb to the distributor.
He also tightened the fixings for the bottom front panel and replaced one missing bolt. Our classic Ford Transit Tipper was then checked for oil leaks, and James noticed that the output shaft seal at the rear of the gearbox/propshaft was misaligned and leaking.
The overflow pipe to the top of the radiator was also repaired and re-secured.
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