Prince Albert II of Monaco has recently been test-driving the Pioneer 25, a hydrogen-powered racing car developed by Extreme H. These tests took place ahead of the Monaco Hydrogen Alliance’s annual forum, where the Prince drove the car from the Palace of Monaco through the principality’s streets, as you would have seen in Formula 1 races.
The Pioneer 25 has a 75 kW hydrogen fuel cell, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. That is a great example of the potential of hydrogen technology in achieving high-speed, zero-emission mobility.
“Hydrogen represents an important pathway to a sustainable future, offering solutions to reduce emissions across multiple sectors.”
Prince Albert II
Extreme H plans to launch the first hydrogen-powered off-road racing series in 2025, and adds to the growing trend towards sustainable motorsport.
Kindly provided by Ress, this pendant is made from 3 grams of Michael Schumacher’s first Formula 1 car.
It comes with a certificate of authenticity and is going to be a perfect gift for any Formula 1 fan.
Thank you to Mike and the rest of the team for this incredible prize!
One response to “Advent Calendar Day 7 – The Schumacher”
Philip Wyatt
Thank you Bridge st for sending me the Schumacher pendant. I was very pleased to win a piece of history. It will go to my grandson Toby for Xmas.. many thanks again, Phil Wyatt
Christmas can be a lonely and difficult time for people in care, so for the 2nd year running the Bridge Classic Cars team have loaded up our hamper and headed out on the road with a fleet of classics to try and spread the festive cheer.
Molly, the Bridge Classic Cars team and the other members of The Three Chordettes braved the early December weather to visit 4 care homes around Suffolk to bring them classic cars, mince pies and a whole heap of nostalgia to their residents.
This is the Torque Show, and we’re out on the Mince Pie Drive.
On 5th December 2024, a small group of us from Bridge Classic Cars took part in our second Mince Pie Drive. This is where we take some of our classic and special cars to local care homes for the residents and staff to take a closer look at. We also take lots of mince pies to share with them too.
The cars that did the Mince Pie Drive this year were our 1961 Austin Mini 850, our 1955 MG Magnette, our 1993 Bentley Turbo R, and our 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera S. I was driving my Magnette so I was very happy behind the wheel all day, Nick was also very happy driving the 911, Tony had the Bentley, and Molly, along with the rest of The Three Chordettes went in the Mini.
We took the cars and mince pies to four local care homes – Henley House, The Willows, Silver Birch, and Haughgate House. It was so nice to see some of the residents reminisce about cars they have owned in the past and some even shared some very special stories from their younger years that our cars reminded them of.
At lunchtime, we parked up outside Christchurch Mansion so that members of the public could get up close and admire our cars too. We always like offering people the opportunity to see the cars they love in person so it was great to see the classics being enjoyed.
The whole point of our Mince Pie Drive is to spread a bit of festive cheer to those who may not be with their loved ones at Christmas. This is the second time Nick, Molly, and I have taken part in the event and this year was just as special as the first. The addition of Tony certainly went down a treat with many of the residents!
The whole team here hopes that things like our Mince Pie Drive will inspire more people to be kind, not just at Christmas, but throughout the rest of the year too.
Limited100 is based in Nottingham and specialises in limited edition, handcrafted automotive wall art.
The name explains the concept very well, each print is limited to just 100 examples and each individual order is numbered with where it fits in the run of 100. The subject of the prints is always a desirable car and the images are taken by top automotive photographers.
To add to the desirability of the prints, every piece is handmade in Nottingham using top-quality, sustainable materials such as eco-friendly framing and water-based paints. Each print also comes with a certificate of authenticity, signed by the artist and curator, confirming its limited-edition status.
I’d like to say a big thank you to Simon, founder of Limited100 for being so generous with prizes offered in the Bridge Classic Cars Advent Calendar competition 2024.
Looking ahead to September 2025, Goodwood Revival will feature 15 races across the weekend of Friday 12th – Sunday 14th. These are:
Freddie March Memorial Trophy A tribute to the Goodwood Nine Hour races of the 1950s, the Freddie March Memorial Trophy has featured on every Revival race list since 1998. The 60-minute two-driver race will include cars such as Jaguar C-Types, Aston Martin DB3S’ and Allard J2Xs.
Sussex Trophy The Sussex Trophy has been on the schedule for all-but-one of the Revival. This is a race for the World Championship sportscars and production sports-racing cars that raced from 1955-1960 like Lotus 15s, Lister-Jaguar Knobblys and Jaguar D-Types in action.
Madgwick Cup The Madgwick Cup has taken on several different forms at the Revival. This year, the 25-minute race will feature sports racing cars under 3-litres that raced between 1960 and 1966. With smaller engines than many of the other cars competing over the weekend, the race will feature the likes of Lotus 23Bs, Elva MK7s and Brabham BT5s.
Goodwood Trophy Recalling the earliest days of the Goodwood Motor Circuit, the Goodwood Trophy typifies post-war motorsport. With a grid of Grand Prix and Voiturette cars that raced between 1930 and 1951, a variety of cars across two decades will take to the historic Circuit with previous grids including ERAs, Maserati 6CMs and the BRM Type 15 V16.
Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy The Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy pays homage to the original two-wheeled duel at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in 1951. For 500cc Grand Prix motorcycles that raced between 1948 and 1966 including Norton Manx 30Ms and Matchless G50s, each bike will be ridden by a pair of riders and compete in two races across the weekend for a cumulative result.
Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy Previously known as the Kinrara Trophy before being re-named in 2020, the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy returns to the Revival race list for 2025. Named in honour of the late Sir Stirling Moss – or “Mr Goodwood” – closed-cockpit GT cars that raced before 1963 will take to the track for a 45-minute two-driver race. The race is known for welcoming some of the most valuable and beautiful cars in the world including Jaguar E-Types, Aston Martin DB4GTs and Ferrari 250SWBs.
Whitsun Trophy The fastest race of the weekend, the Whitsun Trophy has been part of the Revival since 2001. The Whitsun Trophy spotlights sports-racing prototypes that raced between 1960 and 1966 including Lola T70 Spyders, McLaren M1Bs and Ford GT40s, making for some incredible racing across the weekend.
Fordwater Trophy In 2023, the Fordwater Trophy became the very first all-sustainable fuel race to take place at Goodwood. In 2025, the Fordwater Trophy will see race-inspired production sports and GT cars from 1964-1966 race on the track, including Lotus 26Rs, Ford Mustang GT350s and Alfa Romeo TZ1s.
St Mary’s Trophy Alternating between the celebrated decade each year, the 2025 St Mary’s Trophy will welcome a collection of 1950s production-based saloon cars. A two-part race across the weekend, it will feature Austin A40s, Alfa Romeo Giulietta Tis and Jaguar Mk1s and a VIP line-up of drivers on the Saturday.
Chichester Cup The Chichester Cup brings together a grid of small but nimble front-engined Formula Juniors like Lola Mk2s, Alexis Mk2s and Elva-BMC-100s. The 25-minute time trial brings together the cars once driven by the future F1 stars of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.
Richmond & Gordon Trophies Celebrating a golden era of Formula 1, the Richmond & Gordon Trophies welcome a fleet of 2.5-litre Grand Prix cars from 1952-1960. What happens in this one is you get massively competitive racing between front and rear-engined cars including Lotus 16s, Maserati 250Fs and Cooper T5s.
Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration The Revival meeting’s blue riband race features closed-cockpit GT and selected prototype cars and is a clear nod to the history and heritage of the Motor Circuit when the RAC TT was held there from 1960 to 1964. The fastest and most iconic grand touring cars from Goodwood’s golden era go head-to-head in the 60-minute two-driver race.
Glover Trophy Retaining its name from the early race meetings at Goodwood, the Glover Trophy brings together Grand Prix cars from 1961-1965 – as an insight into the history of Formula 1 racing at the Motor Circuit – raced at Goodwood by the likes of Sir Jackie Stewart, Jim Clark and Graham Hill. Named in honour of the trophy, which was awarded at Goodwood’s Easter Meetings, the race will feature cars such as Lotus 25s, BRM P261s and Lotus 18s.
It’s a busy Mini today in the workshops as we prepare for our Cooper S to be delivered to Geoff later in the week. We’ve carried out the pre delivery inspection and noticed a fuel leak from carb float bowl.
We’ve taken the car outside to warm her up.
Checked for previous fuel leak and no signs of leak anymore.
Next up, we’ve carried out a long road test, under different driving conditions using P1 fuel. We’ve cruised at 30, 50, 60 and 70mph and all seems to be ok. The car accelerates well at all speeds. The idle speed is a little erratic but doesn’t stall or cut out at all and drives lovely. We’ve rechecked for fuel leak and it appears to have stopped now. We suspected the needle valve was stuck in offside carb.
Now, it’s time to make history here at Bridge Classic Cars as we fill her up with our new P1 fuel, right to the brim.
Rob then took the car away for some final bits of filming but annoyingly the fuel leak has reappeared. Jon has remove the float bowl lid, freed off the needle valve and checked over and now all seems ok.
Now on to Mini number 2, our 1961 Austin Mini 850. Molly has been out to shoot the car today and has reported that it struggles to stay running. Jon has now attended to the stalling issue by removing the air filter and carburettor suction chamber and piston.
We have thoroughly cleaned both and checked for piston free fall in suction chamber. It was a bit sticky so we have lubed up, refitted and refilled the damper oil. The air filter has been refitted.
Road test and adjust idle speed.
The brakes pull to the right slightly under hard braking which we will need to address but otherwise the car now drives fine.
We have adjusted the front brakes and retest and now it is much better.
It’s a timeless design that’s graced everything from classic cars to stately homes. It’s roots can be traced back to medieval Scottish farmers and but its look comes from the style and sophistication of the 1930s – Houndstooth.
Celebrating the long and unique connection between this humble pattern and classic automobiles, Bridge Classic Cars Houndstooth Print Limited Edition T-shirt takes a vintage icon and restores it for the modern world.
With the handprinted process, each of our T-shirts is entirely unique.
This exclusive design is limited to just 150 T-shirts. Once they are gone they are gone!
The most up to date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
Boreham Motorworks has announced the launch date of its all-new Ford Escort Mk1, a modern reimagining of the iconic and extremely well-loved model. On Thursday 12th December 2024, at 9am, the car will finally be revealed for the first time.
The new model will pay tribute to the Escort’s RS lineage and has been designed to combine classic charm with modern performance.
“At DRVN, we understand that true automotive passion comes from the connection between driver and machine – a relationship forged in the sound, feel, and response of a car designed to be driven. The Ford Escort Mk1 embodies this ethos, blending timeless design with performance that inspires confidence and joy. We design for the road, not the runway. We embrace everything drivers love about cars.”
Boreham Motorworks is determined to keep the spirit of the original Escort so the new MK1 will be powered exclusively by petrol engines paired with a manual gearbox. There will be no hybrid or electric options.
The company said: “Our heritage guides us, and our future insists upon it. We won’t cancel our heritage; we will evolve it.”
The new Escort MK1 has been given the powerful title of the “One True Descendant,” and will no doubt get lots of attention in just over a week’s time.
Boreham Motorworks to reveal Ford Escort Mk1 on December 12th 2024Image: Boreham Motorworks
Winning a classic car for just a few pounds is always an exciting prospect. However, imagine winning your dream classic without having to pay a penny.
The winner of today’s competition will receive £100 of site credit added to their account. This means they can buy tickets for any of our current or future competitions up to the value of £100 without using any of their own money!
The most up to date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
Coachbuilt Whisky is a premium blended Scotch whisky that combines spirits from Scotland’s five whisky regions – Speyside, Highland, Islay, Campbeltown, and Lowlands. The blending process results in a rich, deep, and complex flavour profile, which is then further enhanced by finishing the whisky in Sherry casks from Spain.
Co-founded by whisky expert George Koutsakis and Formula 1 legend Jenson Button, Coachbuilt Whisky uses coachbuilding as an inspiration for their approach, hence the name, Coachbuilt.
We stock Coachbuilt Whisky in The Classic Lounge at Bridge Classic Cars as we think it perfectly matches the feel of the venue (and it tastes great too!)
The most up to date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
In the New Forest in Hampshire, you’ll find one of the most interesting places for petrolheads – the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. Although, even if you aren’t a typical “car person”, the museum is still an incredible place to visit.
Established in 1952 by Edward Douglas-Scott-Montagu as a tribute to his father, the museum has grown into an award-winning display of around 300 vehicles, all of which have played a part in automotive history.
The museum’s collection covers all the way back to early horseless carriages to some of the latest makes and models. A personal favourite of mine is the 1000bhp Sunbeam that is currently being restored at the museum.
This car, known as ‘The Slug’ was the one that Major Henry Segrave drove on Daytona Beach at more than 200mph on the 29th of March 1927. This was the first time that any car had ever reached this speed and set a new land speed record. Now, almost 100 years later, the museum is slowly bringing this ground-breaking car back to life thanks to its fundraising campaign.
The museum is part of the Beaulieu Estate, which also includes the Palace House, home to the Montagu family since 1538, the ruins of Beaulieu Abbey, and so much more.
The most up to date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
In one of the final auctions of 2024, Collecting Cars is offering a special Land Rover Collection. The online sale will run from December 1st to December 8th and will include some of the most sought-after Land Rovers in the world.
Land Rovers In The Auction
Perhaps the main event of the sale is a 2011 Land Rover Defender SVX ‘Spectre’, seen in the James Bond films Skyfall and Spectre. If that didn’t make this Defender special enough, Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations have turned it into a “Bigfoot” off-roader with 37-inch tyres. It also comes with original documentation, including a signed Spectre plaque.
Continuing the Bond theme, a 2021 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 Bond Edition is also going up for sale. One of only 300 made, it has a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine and is definitely an attention-grabber.
2011 Land Rover Defender ‘Spectre’ Image: Collecting Cars2011 Land Rover Defender ‘Spectre’ Image: Collecting Cars2021 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 – Bond Edition – VAT Q Image: Collecting Cars2021 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 – Bond Edition – VAT Q Image: Collecting Cars
A 2014 Defender 90 Works V8 70th Edition, a modern take on the classic Defender, was built to celebrate the brand’s 70th anniversary. Another nod to Land Rover’s heritage is a 2015 Defender 110 Heritage Edition. It only has 695 miles on the clock so is pretty much brand new! A bespoke 2016 Defender 110 XS, featuring over £60,000 of custom upgrades is also likely to do very well.
2014 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 Works – 70th Edition Image: Collecting Cars2016 Land Rover Defender 110 XS – Bespoke Image: Collecting Cars1983 Land Rover 101 Forward Control Image: Collecting Cars1980 Land Rover Series III 88 Image: Collecting Cars
“The Land Rover marque has always been a firm favourite, and its enduring legacy since the Fifties ensures it remains a cornerstone of the global collector car market for both classic and modern models. Our Land Rover Collection pays tribute to this iconic brand while meeting market demand for some of the rarest and most sought-after variants. Over the past year, we’ve observed a significant rise in sales of classic Series models (Series I, II, and III) alongside limited-edition, low-volume bespoke Defenders. From the sale of a Range Rover Classic in 2019 to the introduction of this carefully curated collection, the continued popularity of our platform highlights how Collecting Cars has redefined auctions for buyers and sellers worldwide.”
Edward Lovett, Founder and CEO of Collecting Cars
Collecting Cars
Collecting Cars has something of a relationship with the Land Rover brand as, back in 2019, when the business first launched, the first car it sold was a Range Rover Classic. This adds some significance to the upcoming Land Rover Collection.
It’s Friday, which means the latest episode of Torque Show! Molly, Rob and Gordon sit down in the Classic Lounge to talk about the latest classic (and not so classic) car news that has happened this week.
With it being the end of the year, it is well and truly awards season… @TopGear have named their car of the year, the best used cars of the last 12 months have been announced, which the team can’t help but talk about, but more towards our world is the historic awards with Best Restorations by @theroyalautomobileclub9480 including a stunning 1927 @bentleymotors and a 1939 ERA GP2. And, the award given to a very special 1937 @bugatti which has remained largely untouched for nearly 80 years!
Then, we sit and celebrate our friends at the @NationalMotorMuseum winning best Museum and Collection whilst looking back at our incredible time their for the International Autojumble and the sensational 1927 Sunbeam 1000hp restoration their team are currently undertaking and the plans coming up for that project.
Also, Molly let’s you in on a very special Christmas secret….
All of this and much more in this weeks Torque Show.
November 29, 2024 1:43 pmPublished by Nick Skinner
The SEAT Leon is 25 years old this year. Since its release in 1999, the Leon has been extremely popular in the compact car sector. Over the years, SEAT has sold more than 2.5 million units of the Leon worldwide making it one of the most successful SEAT cars to be made.
Image: SEATImage: SEATImage: SEATImage: SEAT
Four Generations of the SEAT Leon
First Generation (1999): Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the original SEAT Leon reintroduced the brand to the compact segment with features such as four-wheel drive and a six-speed gearbox, offering up to 180 horsepower.
Second Generation (2005): Under the guidance of Walter de Silva, the second iteration adopted a bold, aerodynamic design and featured unique recessed rear door handles for a sporty, two-door appearance. This generation also prioritised efficiency and performance.
Third Generation: The third generation brought advanced infotainment systems, driver assistance technology, and full LED lighting to the compact car segment. It became the best-selling generation, with over one million units sold.
Fourth Generation (2020): Introducing advanced connectivity and multiple powertrain options, the latest Leon continues to set benchmarks. Its e-HYBRID variant was SEAT’s first plug-in hybrid.
Image: SEATImage: SEATImage: SEATImage: SEAT
SEAT Leon Accomplishments
The Leon has earned titles such as the “Car of the Year” in Spain and Portugal and “Import Car of the Year” in Argentina. On the racetrack, it made history with back-to-back World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) titles in 2008 and 2009, becoming the first diesel-powered car to win an FIA world title.
It has also made appearances in films like Men in Black: International and the tv series Dark and Sherlock
British car production saw a drop of 15.3% in October, with 77,484 vehicles manufactured, marking the eighth consecutive month of decline. This downturn was largely attributed to ongoing factory retooling for next-generation zero-emission vehicles, as reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Both domestic and export markets experienced setbacks, with output falling 4.7% and 17.6%, respectively.
The production of electrified vehicles – including battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models -made up nearly a third of the total output at 24,719 units. However, this figure also represented a decline of 32.6% compared to the previous year. Since January, UK factories have produced 239,773 electrified vehicles, with 71.8% destined for export.
Exports to the EU, the largest market for UK cars, dropped by 34.6%, while shipments to the US almost doubled, rising by 96.2%, driven by the popularity of luxury and premium models. Despite a 5.3% year-to-date increase in production for the UK market, overall manufacturing output remains 10.8% lower than the previous year, with exports down 14.8%.
Image: SMMTImage: SMMTImage: SMMTImage: SMMT
The decline continues due to weak demand for electric vehicles and rising operational costs, challenging the industry’s transition to greener technologies. Despite over £20 billion in investment announced last year to support EV production, the outlook for UK manufacturing remains less than ideal. Projections for 2024 and 2025 estimate production levels of 911,000 and 839,000 vehicles, respectively, significantly below pre-pandemic figures.
Industry leaders are calling for urgent government intervention to help aid competitiveness. Proposals include energy cost reductions, supportive market regulations, and trade agreements promoting free and fair commerce. Without these measures, UK car production risks falling below 750,000 units by 2030, threatening jobs and economic stability.
“These are deeply concerning times for the automotive industry, with massive investments in plants and new zero emission products under intense pressure. Slowdowns in the global market – especially for EVs – are impacting production output, with the situation in the UK particularly acute given we have arguably the toughest targets and most accelerated timeline but without the consumer incentives necessary to drive demand. The cost of stimulating that demand and complying with those targets is huge and, as we are seeing, unsustainable. Urgent action is therefore needed and we will work with government on its rapid review of the regulation and the development of an ambitious and comprehensive Industrial Strategy to assure our competitiveness.”
A preserved Bugatti from the 1930s, once owned by the King of Belgium, has been awarded the title of Car of the Year at the International Historic Motoring Awards (IHMA). Sponsored by Lockton Insurance, the event took place at the Peninsula London on November 22nd, and showcased excellence in the world of classic and collector cars.
The Car of the Year award was one of 16 presented during the ceremony, which was attended by over 400 guests from around the world, including actor Rowan Atkinson, World Land Speed Record holder Andy Green, and car designer Ian Callum. Other famous faces included Richard Hammond, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance chair Sandra Button, and automotive influencer Supercar Blondie (Alex Hirschi). The audience also featured leading car collectors like Miles Collier, Bruce Meyer, and Fritz Burkard, as well as representatives from organisations like the Petersen Automotive Museum, Revs Institute, and Jaguar Land Rover.
The judging process, which involved months of nominations and scrutiny by an international panel of 34 experts, ended in the public voting for the Car of the Year. Thousands of votes were cast, reflecting the widespread interest in the awards. Rowan Atkinson, an advocate for classic cars, delivered a keynote speech celebrating the heritage and cultural significance of automotive history.
Now in its 14th year, the IHMA continues to honour outstanding achievements in the collector car industry. This year’s event marked the return of the awards under the leadership of its original founders, Geoff Love and David Lillywhite, who first launched the initiative in 2011. The 2024 ceremony was supported by several high-profile partners, including the Petersen Automotive Museum, Nyetimber, and Octane and Magneto magazines, reinforcing the global appeal and prestige of the awards.
Fritz Burkard and his daughters with the Bugatti Type 59 that won Car of the Year – image credit Thomas Alexander Photography.The Auto Union Type 52 Audi Tradition that won Bespoke Car of the Year – image credit Audi.
“We were delighted to host the biggest and best edition of the International Historic Motoric Awards so far, with many of the world’s most important car collectors and industry movers and shakers, proving once again that the IHMA is the only truly international awards event in the collector car industry.”
Geoff Love, Hothouse Media co-founder and managing director
Winners
Book of the Year, sponsored by Hortons Books: The Last Eye Witness, by Doug Nye (Porter Press International)
Breakthrough Event of the Year: The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance
Club of the Year, sponsored by Lockton Performance Vintage Sports-Car Club
Museum of the Year, sponsored by The Yohan Poonawalla Collection: Revs Institute
Specialist of the Year: Jim Stokes Workshops
Young Achiever, sponsored by The Petersen Automotive Museum: David Kibbey
Motorsport Event of the Year: Goodwood Revival Meetin
Industry Supporter of the Year: Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance
Bespoke Car of the Year, sponsored by Octane: Auto Union Type 52 ‘Schnellsportwagen’, by Audi Tradition / Crosthwaite & Gardiner
Personal Achievement of the Year: Bruce Meyer
Outstanding Use of Media: Goodwood Road & Racing
Restoration of the Year, sponsored by Classic & Sports Finance: Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport by Saoutchik, restored by Chropynska
Rally / Tour of the Year, sponsored by SBX Cars: The Peking to Paris Motor Challenge, by HERO-ERA
Motoring Event of the Year, sponsored by Magneto The 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
Global superstar Ed Sheeran is releasing the video for his new song “Under the Tree” at 2pm today.
Ed is local to us as he grew up just down the road from the Bridge Classic Cars workshop here in Suffolk.
The video was filmed in Southwold and Bridgerton star Claudia Jessie is also seen in it. The new song will feature in a Netflix film directed by Richard Curtis, called “That Christmas”.
We always like to celebrate our local area and success stories. Right now, you can’t get much more successful than Ed Sheeran and we are very much looking forward to seeing the video when it is released later on.
Today marks exactly one month until Christmas Day!
As scary as it is to think about how quickly this year has gone, it’s probably wise to get your Christmas shopping done soon to avoid the rush and stress of leaving it until the last minute.
We have a collection of products that could make the perfect present for the classic car fan in your life.
Bridge Classic Cars Clothing
Our clothing range features some extremely limited edition t-shirts that are as special as the classics we admire as well as some of our traditional Bridge Classic Cars clothing.
This style of jacket first appeared in the 1930s however, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the Harrington Jacket really took on its classic and stylish look. With the Bridge Classic Cars logo over the number 20, very few of these jackets will ever exist so it’s a fantastic addition to the wardrobe of a classic car lover.
If clothing isn’t the right match for the person you’re buying for, then we have our Members Club that comes with benefits such as discounted tickets, exclusive events, and members-only competitions.
Alternatively, we have our gift vouchers that can be used on any of our current or future competitions.
Winning a classic car for just a few pounds is always going to be amazing. However, if the recipient of a gift voucher wins one, you will always be known as the person who gave them the best gift of all time!
Auctions are always a fantastic place to see rare, interesting, and even unique vehicles being offered for sale. Quite a lot of the time, it’s the cars we see on TV that appeal most. That’s why it looks like the H&H Classics auction in Buxton on Wednesday this week is going to be extremely popular. There are several lots that are examples of makes and models featured in the Disney+ show Rivals.
From The TV show Rivals
In Rivals, Freddie Jones, played by Danny Dyer, drives a Jaguar XJS. There are two 1988 convertible XJS for sale at the auction this week. Both have the V12 badge and low mileage. The first is finished in Red and has only had 2 owners from new. With 47,000 miles on the clock, it is believed to be one of the first 1000 V12 convertibles produced. Estimate: £18,000–£22,000
The second XJS has Glacier White paintwork over an Isis Blue leather interior and has covered 34,000 miles from new. Estimate: £16,000–£20,000
Image: H&H Image: H&H Image: H&H Image: H&H
Fans of Rivals will know that Lord Tony Baddingham, played by David Tennant, is often seen on screen with a Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit MK1. H&H also have 2 examples of this model in their Buxton auction. One is finished in the eye-catching colour combination of Blue over Silver with Blue Connolly leather upholstery and matching Blue Wilton carpets. It certainly has some power to go with its imposing size too as it has a 6750cc V8 paired with a 3-speed automatic gearbox. Estimate: £7,000–£9,000
The other example is a 1987 Silver Spirit with 86,000 miles on the clock and comes from long-term ownership. Estimate £8,000 – £10,000
Image: H&HImage: H&HImage: H&HImage: H&H
Also seen in Rivals is the Triumph Stag used by Basil Baddingham, played by Luke Pasqualino. H&H has you covered with this as well. A 1974 model that has undergone an extensive mechanical overhaul is available in Wednesday’s auction with an estimate of £14,000–£16,000. A second Stag will also be available with no reserve. This one has been with its current owner for 20 years but is in need of restoration.
Image: H&HImage: H&HImage: H&HImage: H&H
Additional interesting lots include a Range Rover Classic Vogue 4.2 LSE from 1993, one of only 3,000 manufactured and is being offered with no reserve, and an Austin Mini Clubman Estate from 1970, previously owned by a 109-year-old woman who was once the “oldest woman in Wales”. This one has an estimate of £8,000–£10,000.
“It’s great to see some iconic classics currently on the small screen, often proving that the car is the star! Many of these homegrown icons are highly desirable, conjuring up fond images of a time gone when the roads were quieter and the cars provided pure driving joy.”
James McWilliam, sales manager at H&H Classics
All lots will be available to view in person at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton from midday on Tuesday 26th and from 9am on Wednesday 27th November, while the sale then commences at 1pm. Anyone looking to bid on one of the lots can do so in person, online, by telephone or by leaving a commission bid.
For more details about any of the cars or to register to bid, visit www.handh.co.uk.
In this week’s Torque Show – Craig, Rob and Nick sit down to talk about the automotive news on everyone’s lips: The Rebrand of @jaguarcars .
We have a chat about our history with Jaguar’s such as our E-Type competitions, caring for a real SS100, building our idea of the perfect ‘Fast Cat’ and some of the other incredible classics to come out of Coventry over the past 90 years whilst also talking about what the future could hold for one of the most famous and lorded marques in automotive history.
We take a stroll through and react to some comments on our social media channels through out the week about the reimagining of @jaguarcars from the everyday enthusiast to members of parliament. We also take a look at this week’s live draw, a special prize for one of our amazing Members in the form of a bottle of Coachbuilt Whiskey plus a sneak peak at our next competition if the future of Jaguar isn’t quite for you… Take a look at this week’s episode of Torque Show.
November 22, 2024 4:51 pmPublished by Nick Skinner
Toyota has recently demonstrated a concept model that explores how hydrogen gas, which is generated while driving, can be used to potentially increase the efficiency of liquid hydrogen as fuel.
By capturing vaporised hydrogen, known as “boil-off gas,” which is typically lost to the atmosphere, this new technology could improve energy efficiency making it a viable solution as a fuel source.
The potential shown has led Toyota to seek collaborators to further develop and refine this concept.
Motorsport
Toyota introduced the concept during the final round of the 2024 ENEOS Super Taikyu race series in Japan. A GR Corolla was equipped with liquid hydrogen technology and took part in the event. As Toyota has a big involvement in motorsport, it makes sense that they use races like this to test various ideas, all of which are aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.
Challenges of Liquid Hydrogen
Liquid hydrogen has a higher density compared to gaseous hydrogen. An advantage of this is that you can store more of it in a tank of the same size. However, a downside is that “boil-off” occurs. This is where the vapourised hydrogen evaporates out into the atmosphere without being used to power the car which then cancels out some of the benefits of being able to store more hydrogen in the tank in the first place. In very basic terms, boil-off gas is released without being used, resulting in a potential loss of energy.
Turning Boil-Off Gas Into Energy
Toyota’s new system involves capturing boil-off gas and converting it into usable hydrogen fuel. The process uses a self-pressuriser that uses the gas’s own pressure to amplify it by two to four times. This eliminates the need for external energy, such as electricity, to pressurise the hydrogen, making the process more sustainable and efficient.
Image: ToyotaImage: ToyotaImage: ToyotaImage: Toyota
Generating Electricity From Boil-Off Gas
The surplus boil-off gas from this pressurisation process is redirected to a small Toyota fuel cell stack. Through a chemical reaction, the stack generates electricity, which can power components like the liquid hydrogen pump. This approach can potentially supplement or even replace the alternator’s role, further improving overall energy efficiency.
Safety Considerations
Toyota ensures that any remaining boil-off gas not used in energy generation is safely converted to water vapour via a catalytic process and then released from the vehicle, prioritising both efficiency and safety.
It will be interesting to see what the future holds for liquid hydrogen.
Our friends at H&H Classics have had a very successful 2024 so far and I’m sure that will continue as they host their final auction of the year – the Winter Classic Car Sale, at Buxton’s Pavilion Gardens on Wednesday, November 27th.
Rare and Desirable Cars
The auction will feature 135 lots including some single-owner and very rare vehicles. One of these is a 1975 Iso Lele Sport which is estimated to sell for between £35,000–£45,000. It is one of just 12 right-hand-drive versions ever made and could be considered a credible competitor to the Aston Martin DBS and Ferrari 365GT 2+2.
Another special car is a 1936 MG SA Tickford Drophead Coupe which has been owned by a single family since new. Estimated to sell for £30,000–£40,000, it comes with an original sales invoice and a history file detailing its past restoration work.
Another interesting car going up for sale is a 1972 BMW 3.0 CS. This one has been in the same family for the last 40 years and has been fully restored. It also comes with its original green logbook and service book. The estimated sale price is £45,000–£55,000.
You can view all lots at Pavilion Gardens from midday on Tuesday, November 26th, and from 9am on Wednesday, November 27th. The auction itself begins at 1pm and bids can be placed in person, online, via telephone, or by submitting a commission bid.
One response to “H&H Classics’ Final Auction of 2024 in Buxton”
Mark Watson
Some very desirable cars there. In particular
Lot 13 the Beetle 1303. Fully restored and with the longer wheelbase and disc brakes-a stylish daily driver.
Lot 107 Car of the year in 1966 and steadily improved over the years. The TX is the top of the range and very sort after. Fully restored and again very stylish
A few little electrical issues have occurred on our 1936 Riley Nine so we’ve welcomed the car back in to look at the problem. Turns out, a mouse has made it’s way in and has chewed on a few wires. We have addressed the issues, tidied up the wiring and the car is good to go once again.
November 21, 2024 4:52 pmPublished by Craig Ranson
The UK automotive industry is highly likely to miss electric vehicle sales targets for 2024. As a result, manufacturers could face penalties due to the rules set out by the UK government in the Zero Emissions Vehicles Mandate.
Nissan has stepped up and is pushing for the government to review the mandate in order to prevent the UK automotive industry from effectively subsidising EV sectors in other countries, at the expense of investment in Britain.
Industry Challenges and Falling Sales
The ZEV Mandate was designed to encourage the transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to EVs. In the mandate, one of the targets set was that 22% of the total market share should belong to EVs. Manufacturers have been aggressively discounting EVs but, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), this will actually only be 18.5% by the end of 2024. It’s also worth bearing in mind that the target is due to rise to 28% in 2025.
If these targets are not met, manufacturers face pretty substantial fines. They can avoid these fines by purchasing credits from EV-only brands, many of which are based abroad. This arrangement could lead to UK-based manufacturers having to financially support overseas industries, while negatively impacting UK innovation and production.
Nissan
Nissan has said that the brand remains committed to a fully electric future, having invested heavily in EV models and technology through its Sunderland operations. However, it has proposed immediate adjustments to the ZEV Mandate, including:
Allowing manufacturers to borrow credits from future years to meet current targets.
Introducing a two-year monitoring period for 2024 and 2025, instead of imposing penalties.
These measures aim to provide manufacturers the flexibility to adapt to ever-changing market conditions while still achieving the long-term goal of 80% EV sales by 2030.
Nissan has consistently supported the aims of the UK’s ZEV Mandate and have been working with Governments and partners towards a fully electric future since the first Nissan LEAF arrived in 2010. The Mandate risks undermining the business case for manufacturing cars in the UK, and the viability of thousands of jobs and billions of pounds in investment. We now need to see urgent action from the Government by the end of the year to avoid a potentially irreversible impact on the UK automotive sector. We are committed to working with Government and industry partners on a long-term solution, but action is needed urgently to ensure we protect UK car manufacturing and ensure we can all realise and support the transition to zero emissions and carbon neutrality.”
Guillaume Cartier, Chairperson for the Nissan Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania (AMIEO) region.
The UK Economy
Nissan’s Sunderland plant employs over 7,000 people and contributes more than £2 billion annually to the UK economy. The company is also advancing its EV36Zero initiative, integrating EV and battery production with renewable energy. This includes efforts in battery recycling, skills development, and vehicle-to-grid technology.
Aerial view of Nissan manufacturing plant site in Sunderland. Image: Nissan
One response to “ZEV Manadate – Nissan Propose Changes”
Iain Logan
If EV cars are seen as the way forward then the government needs to make it more attractive to own one by dramatically improving the charger infrastructure, in order that travelling any decent distance is not seen as such a planning challenge. It’s far easier to find a petrol station than it is an EV charging point.
This, of course, ignores the sustainability of EV cars and the cost of building them in terms of global resources and the harm to countries providing some of the minerals needed.
I was fortunate enough to be shortlisted in the Rising Star category and, although I didn’t win, I had a great time and it was a proud moment for me to see my name and picture appear on the screen in front of 800 people from within the motor industry.
“It was great to see Bridge Classic Cars being recognised amongst some of the best motor industry professionals in the country. It was a great night and, although Rob didn’t win this time, I’m sure we will be back in the future and won’t leave empty-handed”
Craig, Manaing Director, Bridge Classic Cars.
We met some really interesting people and it was certainly special to have so many talented automotive professionals in one place at the same time.
Rory Bremner hosted the award ceremony so we spent a lot of the time laughing at his impressions and jokes so, all in all, it was a fantastic event.
Obviously, I would have liked to have won but I am still very pleased that I was recognised as a finalist and I hope that next year, we will come home with several trophies!
Our 1979 Ferrari 400 has gone into the next round of preparation by our workshop. This time, Jon and Pete have been on the underside of the classic V12 grand tourer to get it back up and running properly.
Jon began by fitting up new front brake pads into the calipers before turning his attention underneath the car. On inspection, Jon noted that there was a very slight blow coming from the exhaust so with that Jon and Pete removed the centre section to inspect it fully and try to find where this blow could be coming from.
After going out on road test, Jon noted that the blow had become a lot better. With that, he has added a bit more paste to the nearside front joint and whilst it cures, he is charging the battery up ready for more test drives.
November 21, 2024 10:48 amPublished by Nick Skinner
The little 1970 Fiat 500 has been on the ramps at our Suffolk HQ for the team to get the last few bits and pieces done on the car before it is handed over to our marketing team to become a future competition car.
Jon has recently replaced the track rod ends on the car which was simple enough and then he could readjust the tracking on the car. After that, Jon took the car on road test – and after a small idle speed adjustment – the car is ready for a good clean and then to become a competition car in the near future.
November 21, 2024 10:27 amPublished by Nick Skinner
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