Our workshop manager has been working on our very special barn-find 1952 Austin A40 sports cabriolet.
After it having its first test drive late last week, the team noticed that the charge light was not switch off while running. Looking into it further, John removed the wiring to the dynamo and checked its charge rate which was measured at 17.2 which indicated that the regulator was faulty – so the team fitted a new unit to the car and all was happy afterwards. And, John even had time to fix the interior mirror.
The workshop team at Bridge Classic Cars have been making progress on our 2022 Bridge C-Type Replica. Everyday the car gets closer and closer to completion and with that, the list of major jobs get smaller.
Recently, our workshop manager has been checking off some of the smaller jobs on the tribute to a Le Mans legend. This time he has fitted the leather straps which hold down the spare wheel as well as the side reflectors onto the car.
Our 1958 Austin Healey has been back into the Bridge Classic Cars worshops at our Suffolk HQ to have a couple of jobs finished off before it had a very special date.
The team found that the original kill switch in the car wasn’t working correctly anymore so replaced it with a new one before checking the car over for the transport team to deliver to a very special photoshoot with our marketing team. The results of which, you’re going to have to wait a little while longer to see.
Our trim shop have been giving the task of repairing the seats on our incredible 1952 Fiat 1900A. The trim shop at Bridge Classic Cars is one of our busiest departments, but our trimmer Lydia has worked her magic on fixing up the seats of the classic Italian saloon.
The stitching on both seats had popped and somewhere in the cars passed, someone had attempted to fix this with superglue… So Lydia carefully unpicked each section which had been ‘repaired’ in order to fix it correctly. Then she could carefully stretch the covers back over the foam and frames.
We recently welcomed a 1964 Jaguar Mk2 3.8 to the Bridge Classic Cars for our team to take a look at a few little issues and also to service the classic Jaguar before taking back to its owner.
Here’s what our technician Julian has done ”Removed float bowls, found rear needle jet stuck on rear carburettor, replaced needle jet and cleaned float bowls etc. Replaced spark plugs, changed oil, checked all levels. Removed and resealed thermostat housing. Drained fuel from tank and filter housing and replaced with 2 gallons. Road test. Advisory notes, rear pinion seal leaking, gear stick linkage worn, rear propshaft UJ worn.”
After that, it was handed back over to our transport team to get the car safely back home.
Our restoration team have been making amazing progress on our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 at our Pettistree workshops.
Our technician Steve, who is the main technician on the project, has been getting the running gear and brake system back onto the newly refinished chassis of the classic Aston Martin. He has fitted up the original hubs in order to begin work on the brake system with the drums and all hardware in place to begin to map out the intricate network of brake pipes to connect everything up when the time comes.
Recently, Peter won our 1972 MGB Roadster through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. But before the team took the trip down to deliver the car to him personally, the workshop checked it all over and then it was handed over to our transport team to get loaded up safe and sound in our enclosed trailer for the journey to its new home.
Once we arrived, Peter met us excited to meet his new pride and joy – and raring to go on the cars maiden voyage under his ownership. You’ll be able to see the video on this very soon over on our YouTube channel.
The 1996 Jaguar XJS, which has been safely tucked up in storage for a few months, has made its way to our Pettistree workshops ahead of being transported back to its excited owner.
The classic Jaguar GT was loaded up by our transport driver Tony into our enclosed trailer and safely taken back home.
There’s been some big changes recently at our Suffolk HQ with the installation of a new set of ramps. These ramps have been put in place in what used to be the home of Bridge Classic Cars Competitions, the Atelier, but since its move into the newly launched Classics Lounge – the Atelier has now become the finishing room for our various restoration projects.
Each project will be built back up in this room before it is tested with a technician assigned to each individual car.
We recently welcomed the video team from East Anglian Daily Times to our Suffolk HQ to show them around after our announcement of being finalist in two categories for this years Business Awards.
Our marketing manager Rob was on hand to give them a tour of the workshops as well as answer any questions they had ahead of the awards evening on the 4th of July.
While Lydia was working on our 1952 Fiat 1900 A, she removed the seat cover and exposed the foam underneath.
Once she had, the original factory details that had been etched onto the foam were still visible. This is a great example of the quality, time, and effort that went into this car at the Fiat factory. As the only right-hand drive 1900 A, lots of care was clearly taken to make this a fantastic car.
Aston Martin has introduced the Valiant, a highly exclusive, track-focused, road-legal car. This new model, created by the in-house bespoke division Q by Aston Martin, is a perfect example of Aston’s ability to create pure driver’s cars. With only 38 units available worldwide, the Valiant is going to be ultra-rare with all 38 already allocated.
A Special Commission from Fernando Alonso
The Valiant was initially a personal project for Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso. Alonso wanted a lighter, more extreme version of the Aston Martin Valour, inspired by his incredible 23-year Formula 1 career. The result is a car that combines his passion for high-performance driving with Aston Martin’s engineering excellence.
He said “Valour was a spectacular celebration of Aston Martin’s 110th anniversary, and stirred me to create a more extreme, race car inspired version that was track focussed, while also delivering a thrilling drive on-road. Valiant is born from my passion for driving at the limit and I have enjoyed working closely with the Q by Aston Martin team on both the design and technical specification and believe we have created a masterpiece.”
Image: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston Martin
Performance and Engineering Excellence
The Valiant is fitted with a 745PS Twin Turbo 5.2-litre V12 engine paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. The car also features Carbon Ceramic brakes, lightweight magnesium wheels, and a host of other performance-oriented components designed to reduce weight and enhance handling.
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Advanced Suspension and Aerodynamics
The Valiant’s suspension system includes state-of-the-art Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, offering extreme control and customisation for personalised ride and handling. The car’s aerodynamics are beautifully engineered, with features like a deep front splitter, full-width carbon fibre grille, and distinctive aero discs that reduce drag and turbulence.
Marco Mattiacci, Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer of Aston Martin said: “Valiant is a modern masterpiece. A creation of Q by Aston Martin, inspired by a racing legend and conceived using the latest F1® inspired technology, exotic materials and obsessive weight reduction. It focuses on placing the driver in a truly unique, intense and emotional driving experience. The ultimate blend of performance, track-focused dynamics and hypercar intensity, Valiant embodies Aston Martin’s determined commitment to build rare and extraordinary cars for true drivers”.
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A Design of Power and Precision
The Valiant’s aggressive and muscular design is both functional and aesthetic. The extensive use of lightweight carbon fibre shapes the car’s profile, ensuring stability and minimising drag. From the side fenders to the rear wing, every element of the car has been designed to enhance performance and create a powerful visual impact.
Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s Director of Vehicle Performance, said: “With Valiant we’ve shifted the emphasis towards much-increased track capability while retaining enough useability to remain enjoyable on the road. We’ve moved the dial in every key area to extract greater performance and deliver more excitement; increased power delivery from the V12 to develop 745PS; perfecting the chassis set-up with Multimatic ASV dampers; re-sculpting the body to produce more downforce; and employing lightweight materials and processes to reduce mass. Above all we have put the driver right at the heart of the action; honing control weights for maximum satisfaction; perfecting the shift action of the manual transmission; ensuring the increased handling limits remain accessible and rewarding. It all combines to create an amazing experience Valiant owners won’t find in any other car”.
An Interior Focused on the Driver
Inside, the Aston Martin Valiant is all about the driver. The two-seat cockpit uses exposed satin-finish carbon fibre and lightweight materials to create a race-ready environment. A unique steering wheel and bespoke gearshift enhance the driving experience, while Recaro Podium seats and a built-in half-cage ensure comfort and safety.
Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, said: “Valiant is an extrovert. One look leaves you in no doubt of its intentions. A true thoroughbred aimed at being enjoyed to the full on a racetrack, yet still useable on the road, it takes clear inspiration from motorsport, expressing its character through dramatic, muscular form and a plethora of beautiful, functional details. Amongst these are aero disc wheel covers, which are a nod to the mighty ‘Muncher’ Le Mans car, and a quartet of large diameter titanium exhaust pipes which honour the internal combustion and celebrate the soundtrack of Aston Martin’s magnificent V12”.
Public Debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed
The Aston Martin Valiant will make its first public appearance at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11th -14th. Fernando Alonso, the first customer, will take the Valiant for a spin on the famous Hill Climb course, showcasing its true capability.
First deliveries are due to commence in Q4 2024.
What You Need To Know About Aston Martin Valiant
Ultra-exclusive, track-focused, road-legal extreme Valiant special edition developed through bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin
Originated from a personal commission by Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver Fernando Alonso
Continues the brand’s long tradition in developing highly collectable special edition models
Powered by 745PS 5.2 litre Twin-Turbo V12 engine mated to a bespoke 6-speed manual transmission
Bespoke chassis specification features Multimatic ASV dampers and recalibrated electronics for enhanced track capability
Spectacular all-carbon fibre bodywork with aerodynamic features reduces weight and increases downforce; pared-back, lightweight interior enhances connection and driver focus
Stunning styling reimagines iconic legendary ‘Muncher’ Le Mans racer using cutting edge materials and technology
Further weight savings achieved with use of magnesium, titanium and advanced 3D printing for key components
Production strictly limited to 38 units globally and first deliveries to commence in Q4 2024
Public debut set for 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the hands of Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver Fernando Alonso
Our last competition MGB sold out in just a few days.
Now that lucky winner Peter has taken delivery of his beautiful classic roadster, we thought it only fair to offer you one more chance to win an MGB for yourself.
Another new member of the Bridge Classic Cars fraternity, this stunning 1973 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12 which arrived this morning at our Pettistree HQ in Suffolk.
The car will be assessed and looked over by the team very soon who will report back their findings for the cars owner.
This week, we’ve welcomed a few new classics to our Suffolk HQ – the first being this beautiful 1973 Porsche 914.
Revered by many for its lightweight, low-slung simplicity, the 914 is the equivalent of the 1970’s Boxster and was a favourite amongst sports car fans of the time. So, it’s always a pleasure to have one arrive at our workshop for the team to take a look at.
McLaren Automotive CEO, Michael Leiters thinks that the UK could and should be leader in the electrification of supercar production if investment can be sought for the domestic supply chain.
He said that the current UK supply chain is not equipped to meet the unique performance requirements of electric supercars. He wants the UK government to provide a strategy for investment in future powertrain technologies.
“A clear industrial strategy, led by investment in the domestic supply chain, will deliver growth, support jobs, help decarbonise the economy and secure a vibrant future for the UK performance car industry.
It’s time we regained confidence in our sector by investing in a world-class domestic supply chain to support the development of tomorrow’s high-performance vehicles.
The UK was once the world’s largest vehicle exporter. Today it remains home to some of the world’s most admired performance car brands, as well as the majority of Formula 1 racing teams.
We must harness the skills, knowledge and ingenuity of the UK motorsport and performance car industry to create a global, high-performance centre of excellence.
UK-based luxury and sports car brands command tremendous pricing power thanks to their rich histories, intrinsic brand value and class-leading performance attributes.
As a result, the productivity gross value added of McLaren employees is 51% higher than that of the UK automotive manufacturing sector as a whole.
With more than 90% of McLaren supercars being exported, the UK performance car industry provides an excellent return on investment for taxpayers.
The costs of this technological shift are astronomical, especially for low-volume, highly specialised suppliers.
Today, customer demand for electric supercars remains extremely low as the technology is not sufficiently mature to rival the performance of today’s hybrid and combustion engine offerings, which makes it a risky investment both for OEMs and their suppliers.
But we have an opportunity to invest in next-generation, high power-dense battery cell manufacturing and ensure the UK is at the forefront of future performance car powertrain technology.
Even hybrid vehicles, which we expect will account for the majority of supercars sold throughout this decade, require the need to locally source high-performance battery technology due to the EU ‘rules of origin’ requirements on exported vehicles.
Today, our hybrid McLaren Artura powertrain has 64% UK content. If this car was a pure EV, the UK content of the powertrain would reduce to 13% because we cannot currently source the relevant componentry in the UK.
Look at the McLaren P1 – a technological trailblazer which proved the capability of high-performance hybrid technology long before electrification was in the mainstream.
Developing a pure EV McLaren supercar, which can rival – if not exceed – the performance and driver-engagement of today’s supercars, could help drive the transition towards pure electrification among mass-market customers.
In the future, a thriving UK supply chain specialising in cutting-edge, high energy density cells would not only support supercar production but also other advanced manufacturing needs such as vertical take-off aircraft and drones.”
Last Thursday, we hosted our Sunset Classic Car & Bike Meet and it was a huge success.
It was the first time most of our guests had seen inside The Classic Lounge and we were blessed with a warm sunny evening to enjoy and admire all of the cars and bikes that joined us.
The bar was open for guests to have an evening drink and the workshop doors were up so they could get a closer look at some of the impressive classics we are currently working on.
The high-performance motorsport division of the DRVN Automotive Group, Boreham Motorworks, has entered a worldwide brand license agreement with the Ford Motor Company. This partnership will see the production and remastering of some of Ford’s most historically significant road, race, and rally icons.
The first vehicle to be revived under this agreement is the Ford RS200. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this new version of the RS200 will be a ground-up build, designed as a road-legal, Group B-inspired driver’s car. Originally launched in 1984, the Ford RS200 was engineered for the World Rally Championship, featuring a mid-engine layout, an advanced four-wheel-drive system, and a lightweight composite body. Its return will no doubt be met with celebration as one of the most admired rally cars of the 20th century.
In addition to the RS200, Boreham Motorworks will also produce blueprint-accurate, period-sympathetic continuations of other iconic Ford vehicles, beginning with the Ford MK1 Escort. First introduced in the late 1960s, the MK1 Escort quickly became a motorsport legend due to its lightweight design and advanced suspension setup, which provided exceptional handling and agility on both road and rally stages. This remastered MK1 Escort will be produced in very limited numbers and will carry continuation VIN numbers, preserving its historical authenticity.
Boreham Motorworks will offer these exclusive vehicles alongside membership to The Boreham High-Performance Club. This invitation-only club gives members driving experiences on a global scale.
At least five more iconic Ford vehicles will be celebrated in this series, with the Ford MK1 Escort continuation making its public debut later this year. Interested parties can register their interest directly with Boreham Motorworks right now!
This collaboration comes at an already exciting time for Ford Performance Motorsports, which is expanding its racing programs globally. Upcoming projects include the Mustang GT3 at Le Mans, a new Ford Raptor for the Dakar rally in 2025, and Ford’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport.
Bugatti has once again set a new standard in the hypercar world with the introduction of the Bugatti Tourbillon. Following the incredible lineage of the Veyron and Chiron, the Tourbillon marks the beginning of a new era, blending cutting-edge technology and mechanical genius as this beautiful new car combines an all-new V16 engine with an electrified powertrain!
The Bugatti Tourbillon, named after the intricate and timeless watchmaking invention, represents a move away from tradition for the French car manufacturer. Instead of the iconic W16 engine, the Tourbillon features an all-new 8.3-litre, naturally aspirated V16 engine, paired with an electric powertrain. This hybrid system, developed in collaboration with Cosworth, delivers a mindblowing 1,800 horsepower.
The advanced powertrain includes a front e-axle with two electric motors and an additional motor at the rear. The result… insane agility and traction. With this hybrid setup, the Tourbillon has a top speed in excess of 250 mph!
You can clearly see that the Tourbillon has been designed with both beauty and function in mind. It features Bugatti’s signature horseshoe grille, Bugatti Line, a central ridge, and a dual-colour split. In very simple terms…it’s beautiful!
Aerodynamically, the Tourbillon is equally as impressive. It includes a submerged rear wing that provides perfect equilibrium at high speeds and an advanced diffuser concept that enhances balance and efficiency.
Taking inspiration from horology (the study of time and the art of measuring it), the cabin of the Tourbillon has a fixed hub steering wheel paired with a Swiss-made analogue instrument cluster. The centre console is made from crystal glass and anodised aluminium and houses intricate mechanical switches and a deployable high-definition digital screen.
Again, my words don’t seem to fully convey how beautiful this car truly is.
The Tourbillon’s chassis and body structure are made from next-generation T800 carbon composite, which integrates the battery as a structural element. This integration enhances rigidity and weight savings. Additionally, the use of advanced materials and 3D-printed components contributes to a lighter, stiffer structure.
The Bugatti Tourbillon is set to begin customer deliveries in 2026 and will be limited to just 250 units. With a starting price of just over £3.2 million, this hypercar is set to be a highly collectable vehicle.
All that being said though, I feel like this is one car I need to drive just once so I can experience its power and beauty firsthand.
It doesn’t seem that long ago but it has already been two weeks since the Suffolk Show 2024.
The Bridge Classic Cars team had a great time on our stand talking to fellow petrol heads and sharing lots of exciting information about our new Members’ Club, competition cars, and much more.
One of the highlights for us was winning the Best Motor Vehicle Stand. The trophy and certificate now take pride of place on our ever-growing awards display in The Classic Lounge.
Yesterday, we hosted a very successful Cars by the Coast event.
After meeting at the brand-new Classic Lounge at Bridge Classic Cars, we spent some time catching up with everyone, having a coffee, and, of course, admiring all of the cars that came along.
Before heading off, Nick gave everyone a short briefing about the route, where we were going, and the plan for the rest of the day.
Then we all set off to Aldeburgh via the scenic route to enjoy some time down by the coast.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, we all had a great time!
Join us for an exclusive Bridge Classic Cars members’ tour of the Morgan factory on Tuesday 3rd September 2024. This unique experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and heritage that have defined Morgan cars for over a century.
Event Details:
See the traditional skills and the latest modern technology that goes into each Morgan sports car. Our tour guide will tell us all about the work that is needed when building every single Morgan by hand.
Our tour will begin at 10:20am and will last approximately 2 hours. A member of the Bridge Classic Cars team will meet you at the factory beforehand and we will all enjoy the tour together. No matter where you are in the country, we can’t wait to meet you in Malvern and admire some incredible cars with you.
Food is available from the onsite cafe
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the artistry and tradition behind one of the UK’s most iconic car manufacturers. Whether you’re a long-time Morgan enthusiast or new to the brand, this tour promises to be an unforgettable experience.
I have booked a couple of Premier inn rooms (just up the road from the factory) for a friend and I who will be attending.
I thought I would let you know as we spoke about it last week. Speak soon. James Bartrup
A collaboration between eBay and the charity Mission Motorsport is taking a 2016 Subaru BRZ, which was previously a Category N (CAT N) vehicle due to crash damage, and bringing it back to life. To make things more interesting, it’s being done entirely with parts purchased through eBay’s Assured Fit,Certified Recycled Parts, and My Garage services. The project aims to highlight not only the range of products available on eBay but also their affordability.
Mission Motorsport’s work on the BRZ involves veterans and former service personnel, providing them with hands-on experience and career opportunities in the automotive world. Once the car is fully rebuilt, the plan is to transform it into a race-ready vehicle compliant with MSUK specs. It will then compete in the Race of Remembrance at Anglesey in November, marking the 10th anniversary of the fundraising event. During the race, the team managing the car – from drivers to pit crew – will consist mostly of individuals who use wheelchairs or have significant lower limb injuries.
Mark White, Operations Manager at Mission Motorsport,said: “We knew from its eBay listing that our Subaru had sustained front and rear damage, but it wasn’t until we got our hands on the BRZ that we could completely understand the scale of our challenge facing our former services personnel. We’ve sourced replacement light clusters, body panels, suspension components and even a seat using eBay Assured Fit, perfectly showcasing the breadth and scale of choice available to motorists through the online marketplace.”
For those unfamiliar, a CAT N classification indicates that a vehicle has been in an accident but hasn’t suffered any structural damage. Among the four damage categories (A, B, S, and N), CAT N is considered the least severe.
eBay’s research, conducted through a Freedom of Information request, reveals that 186,423 cars and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) were categorized as CAT N in 2023. This figure is slightly lower than in 2022 (186,999) and significantly less than the pre-pandemic numbers of 195,938 in 2019. During the pandemic, numbers dropped even further, with 156,071 in 2021 and 142,524 in 2020, largely due to reduced traffic and fewer accidents.
Despite these numbers, more than 80% of UK motorists don’t fully understand what CAT N means. However, once informed, 26% would consider purchasing a CAT N vehicle, provided there are significant savings – with 28% saying they’d only buy if the price was at least 30% below market value. A CAT N classification means the insurer deemed repair costs to exceed the vehicle’s total value, even though it can be made safe and roadworthy again. Vehicles marked as CAT N often sell for less, even after repairs. Interestingly, 42% of the 2,000 surveyed motorists said they’d feel safe buying a repaired CAT N vehicle.
For those choosing to buy and repair a CAT N vehicle, eBay’s Assured Fit makes sure they find the right parts using vehicle registration data. The Certified Recycled program offers OEM quality parts from end-of-life vehicles, providing cost savings and extending the lifecycle of these parts.
Laura Richards, Category Lead at eBay car parts and accessories, said: “Consumers are seemingly unaware of insurance write-off categories and what they really mean. With some fixes to get them back on the road being relatively straight forward, the parts motorists might need are easy to find through eBay using the My Garage function. Meanwhile our Certified Recycled programme provides quality assured reclaimed parts at even more affordable prices.”
eBay’s study also highlighted the most common cars classified as CAT N write-offs in 2023. The Ford Focus topped the list with 7,217 cases, followed by the Ford Fiesta (6,422), Vauxhall Astra (6,363), Volkswagen Golf (6,123), and BMW 3 Series (5,283). Classic British cars like the Lotus Esprit, Ford Anglia, Jaguar XJS, Morris Minor, and Triumph Spitfire were also among the CAT N vehicles last year. Surprisingly, high-end models like the Ferrari California, Aston Martin Vantages, and Porsche 911 Targas also made the list.
Motorists can also purchase directly from OEMs like Ford, Toyota, Lexus, BMW, MINI, Jaguar Classic, and Land Rover Classic through official eBay stores too. This means you can have the confidence of a genuine part for a much better price.
To demonstrate this, eBay compared the prices of Certified Recycled Parts to new ones. For example, a rear bumper for a Ford Focus could save motorists £242.84, and a Vauxhall Astra boot lid could save up to £609.43 by opting for a Certified Recycled Part.
It will be interesting to see if the project is successful and if everything needed to bring the car back to life can be found on eBay alone.
At Bridge Classic Cars, we always try to do our bit to raise awareness of important causes. When a member of the team was diagnosed with cancer a few months ago, it quickly became apparent that several members of the Bridge Classic Cars team have experienced cancer first-hand.
After reaching out to our friends and family, we brought together a group of men to help break the silence and encourage conversation about what it means to be diagnosed with the ‘Big C’.
Although things have come a long way, there is still a stigma around men talking about emotional topics. The aim of this project is to show that men can talk about the impact that cancer had on them and their families. We have put together a 35-minute video that shows the conversation that took place in the hope that more of them happen as a result.
Voices That Need to Be Heard
Cancer is often dealt with in silence, especially among men. Societal expectations and personal fears can create barriers to open discussion. Our project seeks to take down these barriers. Our video captures raw, honest conversations about the fears, the struggles, and the triumphs of living with and beyond cancer. The men in the video talk about their initial reactions, their treatments, and the emotional toll the disease has taken on them and their loved ones.
The Silent Supporters
The video also features the voices of the wives and partners who have stood by these men through their cancer journey. Their perspectives highlight the ripple effect of cancer, showing how it touches not just the individuals diagnosed but also their entire support networks. These women speak of their own fears, their roles as caregivers, and the strength they’ve found in supporting their partners.
Offering Support and Friendship
Ultimately, this project is about offering support and friendship to those impacted by cancer. It’s about reminding everyone that they are not alone in their journey. The bravery of the men and women featured in our video should serve as motivation for more people to speak up and share their stories. We hope that this project will ignite a broader conversation, one that extends beyond our circle and into the wider community.
Please watch the full video when it goes live at 8pm on Thursday – set a reminder here.
Since its launch in 1994, Race for Life has grown from a single event in Battersea Park to a nationwide fundraiser. Over the past three decades, it has raised over £970 million, funding groundbreaking research that has helped improve cancer survival rates and treatment options.
At the weekend, I went to the Race For Life held at Trinity Park in Ipswich, as my brother was taking part in the 5k event. In addition to the 5k, there were also 3k, 10k, and Pretty Muddy courses too. There were so many people in attendance, whether taking part or spectating, and I enjoyed spending the morning with my family watching the amazing fundraisers cover their chosen distance, all while raising much needed funds for Cancer Research UK.
There were stories being shared of survival and loss, hope for the future, and a big sense of gratitude. It was great to hear that, in Ipswich alone, £140,000 had been raised in this year’s Race For Life.
Cancer has impacted a lot of the team here at Bridge Classic Cars. We have been working on a project that will soon go live to help start conversations and offer support to all those who are facing cancer.
My brother raised around £300 which will all go toward funding research that will hopefully, one day, stop cancer from impacting anyone else.
Cazoo had all the potential to be a huge success and to change the car buying process for millions. Founded in 2018 by Alex Chesterman, who also started LoveFilm and Zoopla, Cazoo aimed to make buying a used car as easy as any other online purchase. Despite early success, the company recently entered administration.
What happened at Cazoo and why did something so promising end up in its current situation?
Initial Success and Rapid Growth of Cazoo
Cazoo grew quickly, heavily investing in marketing and expanding into Europe. Their goal was to streamline the car buying process, allowing customers to purchase, finance, or lease a car entirely online, with home delivery. This model gained significant traction during the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional car buying was disrupted, and the convenience of online purchases became highly attractive.
Financial Challenges and Strategic Errors
Despite its outward success, Cazoo had financial problems behind the scenes. Their aggressive growth led to high expenses, especially in marketing and sponsorships. The business model required substantial capital for inventory and logistics, which became increasingly difficult for the company to afford. The used car market is known to be very complex, with high overhead and logistical costs, and Cazoo struggled to manage these.
Consumer Preferences and Market Dynamics
Cazoo’s model was based on the assumption that consumers would be comfortable buying used cars online without a test drive. However, many buyers still prefer to see and test the car in person before making a decision. The economic environment, including rising inflation and interest rates, also affected consumer confidence and spending, putting even more strain on Cazoo.
Image: CazooImage: CazooImage: CazooImage: Cazoo
Operational and Financial Strain
By March 2023, the company faced substantial financial difficulties, missing a $5.3 million (approximately £4.2 million) interest payment and failing to file its accounts on time, which led to a non-compliance notice from the New York Stock Exchange. The company looked for additional funding and explored selling parts of its business, but these efforts were unsuccessful. The board ultimately decided to cease operations, leading to the company entering administration and approximately 200 job losses.
There were once around 700 people employed by Cazoo, however, the majority of these were made redundant in March when the company remodelled from a dealer into a marketplace where customers bought and sold cars.
Competitive Landscape and Market Adaptation
Competition in the used car market also contributed to Cazoo’s challenges. Traditional dealerships and other online car retailers enhanced their digital offerings, making it difficult for the business to sustain its market share. Established dealerships, which offer both online and in-person services, provided a more flexible and resilient model compared to Cazoo’s online-only approach.
The End of Cazoo
Cazoo is/was a company of high ambitions and significant challenges. Their attempt to revolutionise the used car market with an online-only strategy faced numerous issues. High operational costs, rapid growth, fluctuating market conditions, and stiff competition overshadowed their initial success. While the idea of simplifying car purchases online was innovative, the practical challenges of the used car market proved insurmountable (at least on this occasion).
This weekend will see the running of the 92nd edition for what is to many, and myself included, the greatest endurance race on earth. The fabled, 24 hours of Le Mans. It is a race that I fell in love with from a very early age thanks to a illustrated book I bought at school Book Fair named simply ‘Racing Cars’. It drew me in and captured me from a very early age and would inspire many of my life choices that followed, from working on racing teams to picking up a camera in some instances.
A race not only against competitors across multiple classes, skill levels and speeds but against the track itself and more importantly than that… time. The old adage says ‘to finish first, first you must finish’ and that is very true when it comes to Le Mans. As seen in recent years, teams will be leading all the way up until the last few moments (or seconds) of the race only for a decision made hours earlier or a simple lapse in concentration have them pay dearly for it – an example being Toyota in 2016, who lost their outright win when their #5 car lost power and ground to a halt with a minute lead… because it had run out of fuel due to a miscalculation.
Every race creates a legacy or a story for each person that attends this weekend in the middle of France, some see it as every true petrol head’s pilgrimage – to the Devil’s roundabout.
What began as a simple street race in the early 1920’s has grown into an industry all of its own. With teams throwing everything they possibly have at a class or all out win on this one weekend in June. Famously, when the legendary W.O Bentley first heard of this mad-hat idea by a customer of his, John Duff, told him of a 24 hour long race in France he wanted a car prepared for he thought it simply wasn’t possible. But with a sense of duty to his customer, W.O attended the race as support and supplied his test driver Frank Clements to act as a 2nd driver. After this first race in 1923, Bentley would become one of the names so entrenched in the early history of this legendary race which survives until this day.
Each decade has held its heroes. With the introduction of new classes, formats, driving styles, engines and rules it has allowed for certain manufacturers to dominate and ultimately drive other teams to push harder and harder – Jaguar vs Mercedes, Ford vs Ferrari, Sauber vs Porsche vs Jaguar, Toyota vs Peugeot, Audi vs everyone else… you get the picture. It has also been a sight of much tragedy and loss, but within the motorsport world its an accepted risk but in 1955, a true tragedy occurred which involved civilian spectators and would ultimately lead to Mercedes withdrawing from competition for the decades which followed and because of both of these aspects, the loss and the triumphs it has pushed the development of numerous safety systems in both racing and road applications.
It has also helped teams pushed the boundaries of performance (and endurance) which have found its way into the cars we drive everyday such as tuning for both performance and for fuel efficiency which came about after a rule change in the 1970’s limited engine size due to the fuel crisis and actually runs up until today with cars only being allowed to use a certain amount of fuel over a certain amount of time (the same also applies to tyres and tyre technology).
The only breaks and delays in the races history have been due to world events entirely out of the control of drivers and teams. The race of course didn’t run from 1940 and would only begin again in 1949 due to the 2nd world war and the rebuild of the automobile industry across the globe needed to form the competition. And then during those almost surreal months/year of the COVID-19 pandemic where the race was postponed until September of 2020.
This year, the 2024 race, will see the introduction to several new manufacturers across the competition as well as a new class – GT3. After the former GTLM/GTE designations ended last year, the new cars for this years race included the new Ford Mustang GT3 under the wonderfully competitive and steady hands of a Ford Racing/Dempsey Proton Racing partnership (Ford formerly ran their Ford GT at Le Mans and secured a class win on their debut with the car so… no pressure). The highest echelon of the paddock of course is the Hypercar category, a selection of hybrid and non-hybrid all out racers makes up this clique with manufacturers such as Porsche, Cadillac, Glickenhaus and Ferrari (who would take both the Le Mans win in 2023).
Although the drivers have become god-like, think of Kristensen, Ickx, Miles, Barnato, Turner, Schneider, Conway, Koboyashi, etc. Their machines have also past into folklore for a plethora of reasons. This mechanical beast mentioned in hush whispers and held in such high regard that they are treated sometimes like the most priceless pieces of art in the world but at their core, they were build for one singular purpose – to be the fastest and most well-built piece of machinery in France on that single beautiful summer’s weekend.
I find myself in a wonderful, almost otherwordly, fortunate position where my job is to be surrounded with classic cars every day of my working life. Photographing and capturing what is only a snapshot of the lives that these machines have led, and its a privilege that I sometimes have to pinch myself to bring it all back that it is indeed real. Those of you who know me, or those who have met me at events, know that I could talk the hind legs off a horse about automotive history and its because of these machines…
Being that I work for a classic car company, being Bridge Classic Cars – I thought it best to wind back the clocks and ride that wave of nostalgia into the shores of yesteryear by taking a look at some of the racing cars which have inspired so many.
It is a rare chance to get up close and personal with these tremendous pieces of history. Many of them are cordoned off from the public and only to be gawked at in the pages of a magazine who have been allowed to photograph the car for 20 minutes. But, thankfully, there are still places for us who fall to our knees at the alter of octane and pray to the gods of speed. Wonderful events such as Goodwood Revival, Members Meeting and Festival of Speed, Silverstone Classic, Masters Historic, Dubai GP Revival and so many more where you can see these cars being used at a percentage of their original anger and chaos, but well within their limits. Many of the cars are seen statically, and most recently (last summer) I got to spend a wonderful afternoon with my dear old Dad at one of the best I’ve been to and surrounded by a class of racing cars which is a very small, select and special group – Le Mans Winners.
The Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace is a wonderfully, eclectic affair. At it’s core, its a car show much like the ones which stretch across this country during the dry months of the year – but like we mentioned, this one contains some of the greatest pieces of machinery ever built but we’re going to talk about the Le Mans winners which formed the welcoming committee as you walked through the beautiful lime arches which opened onto the South Lawn Gardens at the palace.
We began with the famous motto about winning at the beginning of this piece, well each one of these machines stands as a testament to these words and sentiment. Some of them, multiple times.
Let’s begin at the start and go through the timeline of these Le Mans Winners history.
It’s 14th and 15th of June 1924.
Following from the previous years triumph, a 4th place overall but more important finishing of the race, W.O Bentley had decided to fully commit to the race in 1924 with what would be Bentley’s first factory team effort in the shape of a beautiful black 1924 Bentley 3-Litre, known as ‘Old Number 8’ and so began with story of the legendary ‘Bentley Boys’.
The car had been prepared at Bentley’s Cricklewood works for the race. A majestic, simple and rugged 3-litre tourer was chosen and been fitted with four-wheel brakes, mesh covered headlights and a wrapped fuel tank to protect from debris along with numerous other upgrades for the cars drivers, Duff and Clements from the year before. Famously during that years race, the car was sabotaged by a rival team and resulted in an overly long pitstop for the car but this didn’t both ‘Number 8’ who would take the flag in 1st place and cement the Bentley name into the winners circle of what would become the worlds toughest race.
This car would begin the run of famous Bentley Le Mans wins, taking 5 trophies between 1924 and 1930 culminating eventually with the cars spiritual successor taking the crown in 2003… more on that later.
The formula of a tough, reliable and simple car would form the basis of champions for the next several decades but in the early 1950’s, this would change somewhat.
After being somewhat decimated and punished following the second world war, Mercedes would look back to move forward and set the stage for their rise from the ashes of worn torn Europe. Before the war, the ‘Silver Arrows’ would dominate Grand Prix racing across the continent and also be part of the highest of class of luxury, style and engineering.
In 1952, Mercedes would return to France with their W194 300SL, the car which would be the genesis of the iconic Gullwing road cars. The W194 was the first German car to win the 24 hours of Le Mans at the 1952 race thanks to its exceptionally strong but light tubular steel spaceframe and lightweight aluminium bodywork. Paired with a simple but punchy 3-litre straight-six to supply it with the performance it needed.
Hermann Lange and Fritz Reiss were given driving duties for the now legendary ’21’ which would cross the line first followed by its sister car for a one-two finish. Just 10 W194’s were ever built and ’21’ was the most successful and prolific of them all.
Following the horrific events of the 1955, Mercedes would withdraw from factory competition efforts for a long time afterwards.
The greatest leaps in technology, design and performance would occur over the following decade. The introduction and rudimentary understanding of aerodynamics would begin to play a role in the sport, whilst progress in braking, tyre and safety equipment would go to stake a claim in the 1950s and 1960s being the ultimate time in sports car racing.
Especially the early 1960’s with cars such as the 1963 Ferrari 275P.
Since his time with Alfa Romeo, Enzo Ferrari would have his eye on Le Mans. The ultimate proving ground for a manufacturer and perfect place to advertise your companies prowess as a sports car and racing car builder.
In 1963, the 275P would be Maranello’s offering to the speed gods. A radical departure from the norm, the mid-engined V12 car was put in the hands of factory drivers Bandini and Scarfiotti (both of whom sadly would not see the end of the decade) who took the car, which in 1963 was actually a 250P, to its first victory at the 1963 running of the race. They won the race by an incredible 16 laps (or 125 miles if anyone is interested) with the car sporting a 3.0-litre ‘Testa Rossa’ (Red Head) V12. The 250P was actually a development of the 1962 246SP… but in June of 1964 the paddock would see a familiar face once again. The sight of the iconic Cavallino Rampante, but this time much more angry.
The 1964 car was taken back to the factory and reworked, this time with a 3.3-litre V12 and being piloted by Vaccarella and Guichet. That year, the car would set a distance record at Le Mans covering 2917.5 miles at an average speed of 122.2mph across the 24 hours, and giving Ferrari they’re first back to back Le Mans wins. This was in fact, the last time that the Scuderia would win the top level of Le Mans until 2023 the 275P’s great, great grand daughter’s the trio of 499P’s crossing the line in formation.
The 1960’s would see big changes at Le Mans. It now wasn’t a gentlemanly fight, it was the pride of nations and the future of manufacturers resting solely on the race. Famously depicted in the recent film Ford Vs Ferrari, the battles for supremacy didn’t entirely come down to luck or circumstance but rather the might of a pen on a checkbook and the skill of the driver.
Ford would win Le Mans in 1966 and 1967, as a factory team. Originally the cars had run in 1965 but due to Ford management interfering with the set up of the cars from the team principals none of them survived. I won’t go into the entire history of the GT40 programme (believe me I could) but it’s worth looking at the most successful GT40 at Le Mans out of all of them, Number 6.
It’s real name is actually Chassis 1075.
Yes, that livery… These car’s actually had nothing to do with Ford. The factory GT40 effort had been stopped in 1967 after the ‘J’ cars but in 1968 John Wyer of JW Automotive Engineering (with the backing of Gulf Oil) would field their newly built GT40, in full Mk1 spec, to take on a field of Porsche’s with the superb pairing of Pedro Rodriguez and Lucien Bianchi behind the wheel, both of them masters when it rained and at that point in history there was a saying ‘it will always rain at Le Mans’.
Thanks to their expert car control as well as the GT40’s rugged mechanicals (and knowing what broke on the Mk1’s in 1965) the GT40’s would pick off their rivals throughout the race. By the end of the 24 hours as the flag fell, the GT40 and its team were winners.
But in 1969, 1075 would come back and do it all over again. This time with the timeless pairing of Jackie Oliver and Jacky Ickx who took it all the way to the finish line in second place… right up until the final lap when they would snatch the lead away from Hans Hermann in a factory Porsche 908 just before the line giving 1075 (number 6) as well as the team their first taste of Le Mans success, and they would be back very soon with a different car to challenge it the following year.
As the 1970’s dawned on the racing horizon, the cars themselves would change drastically. Their styling becoming more alien than elegant. Wings, intakes, difusers, splitters and open cockpits would play a pivotal role in this decade of top level motorsport with the introduction of the Group 5 rules.
One of the most celebrated and revered names in racing at this time was Matra-Simca. Beginning in 1972 as the MS670, this open cockpit prototype was fast out of the box. In 1973 and 1974, the car was re-engineered and upgraded to make it more and more competitive against its rivals which saw its performance under the strict Group 5 rules as a challenge to be pursued. In both of those seasons (’73 and ’74) the car would take first place at Le Mans, ‘taking the double’ as it was so called.
Driven by the French dream team of Henri Pescarolo and ex-Porsche factory driver Gerard Larrousse, the MS670 would go on to prove that it was truly a force to be reckoned with taking not only the 24 hours of Le Mans but also the manufacturers championships in both of those years too. In 1975 however, they wouldn’t contend the title. Choosing instead to focus on road car production.
The 1970’s would be a beautiful decade for native teams. Beginning in the 1970’s with Matra-Simca but towards the end of the decade, it would also be a local french team that would contend the title for the Devil’s Roundabout.
The 1979 Rondeau M379B was a curious machine. This car holds an interesting distinction in that it is the only car to have won Le Mans with a driver/builder (think McLaren or Brabham taking their Formula 1 titles) in 1980. A local to Le Mans, Jean Rondeau would pair himself with compatriot Jean-Pierre Jaussaud to take their Group 6 car to all out victory behind the wheel of his creation. The car itself was a prototype built and developed by Jean Rondeau but powered by a full-blooded 3.0-litre Cosworth DFV mounted inside the closed cabin fibreglass, aluminium and steel racer.
It’s now quite the jump, through the 1980s and 1990s, through the Group C era and all of that to a car that holds a very special place to me personally, because this is the first car I saw win Le Mans.
Growing up in the Middle East, we would occasionally get some European sports channels. Mainly it was football (which I couldn’t play or understand), the odd cricket match (if we were lucky) and the big F1 races (this was before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix). It was 2003, and I managed to catch a sight of a green car with a Union Jack on it, cross the line at the greatest race on earth.
We mentioned before ‘Old Number 8’, the 3-litre Bentley which had won Le Mans back in 1924, well I was watching this cars successor cross the line with a modern interpretation of everything it represented. The Speed 8 ‘Number 7’.
After a 70 year break from the sport, and under the new ownership of Volkswagen, Bentley had worked to develop a car which could bring back that glory to the marque and its heritage. Driven by Guy Smith, Tom Kristensen and Rinaldo ‘Dindo’ Cappello, Number 7 would cross the line before my 10-year old eyes and make me completely, totally and unashamedly fall in love with this ballet of performance, this poetry in motion, this theatre of noise, speed and skill which lasts until this day and remains as true as I write these words as that day I opened the book at my school Book Fair.
Today sees the launch of the brand new Bridge Classic Cars Members’ Club, an exclusive community for classic car enthusiasts across the UK. This is very different to anything we have done before and the whole team is extremely excited to move into a whole new chapter for the business.
The Classic Lounge – An Exclusive Location For Members
The Classic Lounge is a bespoke venue designed exclusively for members. It offers a stylish and comfortable space for car lovers to gather, share their passion, and enjoy a host of exclusive events and activities.
Exclusive Events and Experiences
Members of the Bridge Classic Cars Members’ Club will have access to a curated calendar of unique experiences, including factory tours, wine tasting, live music, track days, and more. Some highlights of the 2024 calendar include:
The Bridge Classic Cars Members’ Club is open to anyone in the UK with a love for cars. Membership provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the classic car culture, meet like-minded individuals, and participate in unforgettable experiences.
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced an investment of over £1 million to aid the UK police in their fight against vehicle crime. This funding will bolster police operations in known theft hotspots and support crucial intelligence-gathering efforts.
Earlier this year, JLR’s CEO, Adrian Mardell, strongly disagreed with claims that Range Rovers were particularly susceptible to theft. Despite this, many owners have reported steep increases in insurance premiums, with some even struggling to secure coverage at all.
Insurance costs can vary widely based on factors like the driver’s record, vehicle storage location, and existing security features. Luxury vehicles, often targeted by thieves due to their high resale value abroad, face higher premiums as a result.
JLR faces a unique challenge given its lineup of premium models, with the Range Rover brand especially popular among celebrities, politicians, and royalty. These vehicles come with hefty price tags—starting at £104,000 for the Range Rover and £75,000 for the Range Rover Sport. However, the brand has also garnered a reputation for being theft-prone.
Earlier this year, Mardell criticised reports that labelled the Range Rover as Britain’s “most stolen vehicle,” acknowledging the serious issue of organised vehicle theft but argued that JLR had been unfairly targeted. He emphasised the company’s significant efforts to enhance vehicle security and accused the insurance industry of not fully considering available information when setting premiums.
This latest investment in police funding is part of JLR’s ongoing efforts to reassure customers and reduce insurance costs. Last year, JLR launched its own insurance products to assist customers who struggled to find coverage, though some Range Rover owners have still reported difficulties in obtaining quotes.
The new funds will provide additional dedicated resources for several police forces to address vehicle theft across the country. It will also support the creation of a national policing unit focused on gathering intelligence on vehicle thefts and increasing police activity at ports where stolen cars are often shipped abroad by criminal gangs.
JLR is already collaborating with police by sharing information to help locate and recover stolen vehicles, and it has trained around 650 officers in these efforts. Simultaneously, the company continues to improve the security of its vehicles. According to data from the Police National Computer, since January 2022, only 0.2% of new Range Rovers and Range Rover Sports have been stolen.
Patrick Mcgillycuddy, Managing Director of JLR said “We are constantly developing our systems and security features and through our close collaboration with police, we stay ahead of any emerging methods and quickly deploy anti-theft measures. This additional investment, coupled with our other ongoing and proactive action, shows our commitment to supporting the authorities in having a tangible impact on combating this issue in the UK.”
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