In this episode of the Torque Show – Molly, Craig and Rob sit down to talk about all of the goings-on at the Bridge Classic Cars HQ including recent live draws, workshop updates and some recent automotive news. But this episode is mostly from the heart.
The team talk about people’s deep connections to cars, sometimes beyond their mortal years which becomes a different story when those left behind have to make a decision on what to do once the owners are gone. Or, the emotional attachment that we had to a car at a certain time in our lives where we have to try and somehow keep it as close to our hearts in order to fan the wistful flames of nostalgia.
Rob talks about his latest acquisition, a 1976 MGB GT (affectionately known as Orb) and how he has developed a whole new filing system for the cars history which puts Craig’s teeth on edge and shocks Molly but it does lead the team to discuss a previous idea about how, through technology, we can make sure that Rob can never do that again.
There are certain cars that make us stare and admire them no matter how much time has passed since they rolled off the production line. Some obvious ones include the Jaguar E-Type and the Lamborghini Countach.
These are the types of cars that are considered iconic but, what is it about them that makes them so deserving of that name, and are there any modern cars that might have the potential to become icons in their own right?
Simplicity and Perfect Proportions
I think that cars with iconic designs have a few things in common. They are simple and balanced, and everything is in perfect proportion. If you take the 911 as an example, the design hasn’t changed all that much. Looking back through all generations of the 911, you can see the recognisable silhouette all the way through.
Cars With a Personality
Some cars have a personality that makes them seem almost human. They make us feel something, whether it’s excitement, adventure, or nostalgia. If you look at the VW Beetle or a classic Mini, they could be described as “friendly” cars.
They’re approachable, not intimidating, and they seem to have a bit of charm. This personality creates a connection with drivers that goes beyond function. Without sounding too over the top, there are some cars that become iconic because they became everyone’s friend!
Cultural Icons
Sometimes, a car isn’t just a machine – it becomes a symbol of an era, a cultural shift, or even a lifestyle, and thus, becomes iconic. The Ford Mustang, for example, captured the spirit of 1960s America with a bold design and muscle-car attitude.
Also, think about the DeLorean. It will forever be linked to Back to the Future and has become an icon as a result.
Designs That Get Better With Time
Some cars just seem to get better with age. Rather than becoming outdated, they become classics. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing and the Jaguar E-Type are prime examples – they age beautifully and look just as impressive today as they did decades ago.
The Future Iconic Cars
As the automotive industry is experiencing its biggest shake-up in a very long time, today’s car designers have big shoes to fill if they want to create something iconic.
Just like to say thank you for looking after the Stag roof during the summer. Also, the guy who looked after us while they attached the roof – I think his name was Nick – was very kind and particularly good with my wife, who has Alzheimer’s. He made us coffee and showed us some of your amazing cars. A big thank you to him…
IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) is edging closer and closer for our Cobra project. Every step of the way it is vital that the rules are met in order for the car to pass. The front part of the wiring loom was very untidy and too long so we have now cut it down to length, run inside the conduit, taped and ‘P’ clipped every 25cm or less to meet with the IVA guidelines..
We’ve also made and fitted the side repeater indicator mounts to fit in wing vents to meet with IVA regulations.
The DVSA Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test is a UK requirement for particular vehicles to ensure they meet necessary safety and environmental standards before being registered for road use.
Vehicles requiring an IVA test include:
Kit cars and amateur-built vehicles
Imported vehicles
Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and trailers
Buses and coaches
Taxis and private hire vehicles
During the IVA test, a certified inspector thoroughly examines the vehicle to confirm compliance with UK regulations. The inspection usually covers:
Structural integrity
Lighting and signaling
Emissions and noise levels
Braking and suspension systems
Additional checks depending on vehicle type
Once a vehicle passes the IVA test, it receives an IVA certificate, which allows it to be registered and used on UK roads.
On 30th October, the National Motorcycle Museum will be host of the Classic Motorcycle Auction from H&H Classics. With over 265 classic motorcycles and vintage scooters up for sale, the auction will be one of the biggest bike auctions held by H&H. The bikes on offer actually cover more than 100 years of bike history and have an estimated value of more than £1.5 million!
Along with the wide range of bikes, the auction will also feature eight lots that are being sold for charity. These include paintings by children that have been done on unused fuel tanks from Norton Motorcycles. The proceeds from these will go to Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Pass the Smile.
“This, our last motorcycle and scooter auction of 2024, is one of the largest we’ve held for several years and it is a pleasure to offer such a fantastic mix. Whether you’re looking for something with a celebrity connection, racing pedigree, rarity or thrilling performance, there really is something on offer for every kind of classic motorcycle or scooter enthusiast. We look forward to meeting plenty of two-wheel fans at the sale and achieving some great results for our valued vendors.”
Mike Davis, motorcycle specialist at H&H Classics
2021 Rickman Metisse – Image: H&H Classics2005 Suzuki GSX-R750 K5 Barry Sheene – Image: H&H Classics1975 Suzuki RE5 – Images: H&H Classics1975 Norton John Player Special – Image: H&H Classics
One of the highest-valued bikes is a Tony Jefferies 1972 Triumph Trident Ex Works Racer. This rare bike, one of just 8 ‘Lowboy’ framed bikes, is estimated to sell for between £45,000 and £55,000. It has been described by the Rocket 3 Owner’s Club as ‘probably the most complete and original of all the Works bikes’ and was part of Richard Darby’s (regarded as one of the world’s best classic Triumph restorers) collection prior to his passing in 2023.
A limited-edition 2005 Suzuki GSX-R750 K5, commemorating the late racing legend Barry Sheene, will also be up for bidding, with an estimated price of £10,000 to £12,000, alongside a 2021 Rickman Metisse Steve McQueen Tribute, one of only 300 produced, expected to sell for between £17,000 and £19,000.
Another restored bike in the form of a 1942 Indian 741 B, with an estimated value of £17,000 to £19,000 will be on offer, as well as a rare 1970 Indian Interceptor, one of only 25 ‘Floyd Clymer’ models ever made. This one has an estimated value of £21,000 to £23,000.
1970 Indian Interceptor – Image: H&H Classics1972 Triumph Trident ex works – Image: H&H Classics1942 Indian 741 B – Image: H&H Classics
Other interesting lots include a 1975 Norton John Player Special, expected to sell for between £11,000 and £13,000, and a 1975 Suzuki RE5, offered without reserve, which has just five ‘push kilometres’ on the clock and is likely to be the last ‘brand-new’ Suzuki RE5 left to come to open market.
The auction will be open for public viewing at the National Motorcycle Museum from 1pm on Tuesday, 29th October, with further viewing available on the sale day, 30th October, from 9am.
More information and registration details can be found at www.handh.co.uk.
On Tuesday we called up Garry Smith to tell him the amazing news that he’s now the proud owner of our 2010 Land Rover Defender 90. Having been with us here at Bridge Classic Cars for a number of years this car was an exciting but emotional give away for us…especially me! This has been my daily now for a few years and I’ve loved it. I’ve been on many adventures in the Defender…camping, road trips. It even got me through the mud at this year’s Goodwood Revival.
But all good things have to come to an end and now it’s time for Garry to enjoy the car.
The pre delivery inspection has been completed and as I write this post, the car is currently on it’s way to Garry in the back of our trailer.
Work continues on our 1977 Triumph 2500 TC. Jon is still busy getting the car ready for the oad.
He has clean out the thermostat housing and fitted a new thermostat. The top rad hose and temp sender bulb have been fitted. We have noticed the vacuum system has a slight pressure loss so Jon has tightened all the hose clips and re-vacuumed the system. We still have a slight loss and are unable to trace it so we fill system with new coolant.
The carbs have been removed and stripped so we can clean each one in turn and fit new wax stat type jet tubes and new needle valves. We have then gone on to rebuild and refit both carbs.
Drain lift pump and cleaned out the sight glass and filter before fitting a new inline fuel filter.
The tank requires draining.
Jon has cut to length and fitted new carb breather pipes. He has remove fuel pipe from the clips and disconnected from the fuel filter. Drain fuel tank into drum and reconnect pipe.
The repairs continue as we strip and fit new off-side front bottom ball joint rubber.
Strip and fit new front pads.
Jon has adjusted both front wheel bearings and refitted wheels. We have had to investigate why the reverse lights are not working. In order to do this, we have turned ignition on and short out wiring at switch on gearbox but the lights still not working. Check power supply at switch and all is ok. Check bulbs. Replace nearside rear bulb and tighten connections to offside rear bulb and all is working ok now.
Investigate indicators not flashing and nearside front not working. Found wires to nearside light not connected so we have reconnected and tested. All ok, flashing now.
Strip and fit new points and condenser. Wire to coil to short so make an extension wire and solder ends. Fit new spark plugs. Suck out old brake fluid from reservoir and clean out.
We have removed the rear wheels and stripped the rear brakes. Cut off old brake pipe. Clean all components to be reused. Paint backplate black. Fit new cylinder and make new pipe. Swap automatic adjusters to new shoes and fit. Free off handbrake adjuster and clean. Re-adjust handbrake and fit drum. Strip nearside and start to repeat process.
A fantastic local organisation, the Ipswich Transport Museum has just launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £100,000 to help them restore the oldest surviving Eastern Counties bus. The vehicle in question is known affectionately as the “Tinkling Tillings” due to the distinctive noise it used to make when it was moving.
‘We think the body of this vehicle was made in 1921 or 1922, and is the oldest surviving part of an Eastern Counties bus in existence. We have already raised over £40,000 to enable the project to progress to the stage where we have a solid-tyred chassis which runs and drives. Funds raised so far will also also pay for some of the body restoration. We need to raise enough to finish the job, including rear tyres, glass, lights, seats, upholstery. railings, stairs, paintwork, signwriting and a myriad of other parts which will make it a complete vehicle’
Museum volunteer and project leader Owen Phillips
Image: Ipswich Transport MuseumImage: Ipswich Transport MuseumImage: Ipswich Transport MuseumImage: Ipswich Transport MuseumImage: Ipswich Transport Museum
‘The body of the bus was open topped and has an open-air staircase too. Ransomes built this particular body as part of batch for Eastern Counties Road Car Company at their works in Ipswich, which makes it very important to the Museum. It is another example of the many things Ransomes designed and built locally. The body survived as a storeshed on a farm in Witnesham, and we were able to acquire it a few years ago. There are still traces of red paint here and there’
Museum volunteer and project leader Owen Phillips
The body restoration work is expected to begin in late 2024 or early 2025. Once completed, the bus will be featured in the museum’s collection and used for demonstration rides at special events.
The volunteers who run the museum have completed ambitious restorations like this before so this is a project they can certainly bring to life. They have previously completed major restorations of an 1880 Starbuck horse tram and 1903 Ipswich Electric Tram, and are currently restoring a 1930 Ransomes trolleybus.
‘The Tilling Stevens Bus Project aims to recreate a typical Eastern Counties bus of the early 1920s. The chassis and running gear was built by Tilling Stevens of Maidstone. Unlike the electric trams in Ipswich, which drew current from overhead wires, these buses had to run outside the borough, so they used a petrol engine to drive a dynamo and electric motor. These ‘petrolelectric’ buses were in effect early hybrid vehicles – ahead of their time really. They established bus services across Suffolk and brought affordable mobility to many rural places for the first time
I just wanted to say it was a pleasure meeting Tony again, & thank you for delivering to me a wonderful car. Also a big thank you to all the team at Bridge Classics for providing & preparing a stunning vehicle for the competition. I consider myself extremely fortunate & lucky to now be the proud owner.
I recently heard about the Gibbs Aquada and, after a bit of research, thought it sounded like a vehicle that could have been something very special but, for whatever reason, it never reached anywhere close to its full potential!
Amphibious Cars
Amphibious cars have never quite worked out. If you look at the Amphicar, for example, they do indeed work on the road and in the water. However, they aren’t particularly impressive in either mode. That’s where the Aquada could have been the game changer.
Gibbs Technologies, based in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, was the brains behind the project that claimed to produce the world’s first high-speed amphibian (HSA), capable of over 100mph on land and over 30mph on water.
From the front, the Aquada had a look that could be compared to a beefed-up Mazda MX-5, largely because it borrowed its headlights from the MX-5. Inside though, it had a much more boat-like appearance. There were no doors, entry was boat-style, climbing over the side and the cockpit had three seats instead of the two you’re probably used to in a car. You could say it’s McLaren P1 style with the driver in a central position but that is probably taking it one step too far!
The Aquada was powered by a 2.5-litre V6 engine from the Land Rover Freelander which was positioned in the middle of the vehicle. It was rear-wheel drive and had a four-speed automatic gearbox, which delivered 175bhp, enough to get the Aquada from 0-60mph in around 8.5 seconds and up to a top speed of 110mph (on the road, obviously).
Even in the water, it wasn’t exactly slow – it could reach speeds of 30mph which, again, is much more appealing than most other amphibious vehicles.
Despite its impressive design and capabilities, the Gibbs Aquada faced several challenges that, ultimately, would lead to its disappearance. Perhaps the main issues were in the build and production.
Building a vehicle that functions as both a high-performance car and a speedboat is no easy task, and the price tag reflected that. At launch, the Aquada was priced at over £150,000, putting it out of reach for most drivers.
On top of that, regulatory issues posed significant hurdles. As the Aquada had to meet both automotive and maritime regulations, the process of getting it approved for road and water use was complex and time-consuming. These challenges, combined with the high production costs, limited the commercial success of the Aquada, and production eventually had to be stopped.
The Future Of Amphibious Vehicles
While the Gibbs Aquada may not have become a mainstream vehicle, it does go to show that things that are said to be impossible can be done. What I find most exciting is that there are still some examples of the Aquada floating around (excuse the pun!)
To me, that means its journey might not be completely over and, at some point in the future, someone might try to finish the Aquadas story. If that happens, we still might see them out on the road and in the water.
Computer controlled self leveling with variable ride height
Suspension Retraction
GIBBS proprietary HSA Technology – Hydraulic
Steering
Rack and pinion power assist
Brakes
All round power assisted brakes. Front ventilated
Drive
Rear wheel drive
Wheels and Tires
6.5Jx16 F 215/60/R16 R225/60/r16
Propulsion Type (marine)
Single GIBBS Amphibians proprietary HSA Water Jet
Lights
Road and Marine Navigation Lighting
One response to “Gibbs Aquada – The Amphibious Car That Almost Was”
James Ramsey
I worked for Gibbs Technologies at the time of the development of the Aquada. Interesting times during the build and testing phase. Early days we test drove either a boat or a car until such time that we built a prototype that could do both. A major milestone. The second milestone was being able to get it onto a plane. Interesting product, great colleagues, pity it didnt go much further.
Jon has been busy in our workshop! In this update, he has began repairs on the 1977 Triumph 2500TC which is in with our team at our Suffolk HQ to be recommissioned. First off, was a couple of simple jobs such as fixing a brake/stop light and replacing the windscreen wipers before Jon could move onto the more serious jobs.
To begin with, Jon started to look into the cooling system on the car. Looking into the system, he found that it had quite a lot of debris and corrosion in areas so he carefully removed all of the hoses to inspected them for damage or wear, before carefully blowing them out and cleaning them on the bench before taking the classic Triumph outside to run water through the system and flush anything left over out of the engine.
Once flushed, Jon could remove the thermostat and check it over before cleaning it out thoroughly and refitting it along with the newly cleaned hoses and getting the car back on a ramp.
October 21, 2024 10:11 amPublished by Nick Skinner
Our workshop is well versed in all things Jensen 541 – having restored over a dozen of these classic GT cars (with 2 more in our workshop currently going through their restoration journey). So, when it comes to getting this beautiful 1956 Jensen 541 back up and running the team were eager to jump in.
Our technician Jon has been working on this particular car. He has been stripping down the interior in order to gain access to the gearbox as part of the team prepping for a clutch replacement. Jon has carefully gone through the systems to make sure that everything is undone as well as assess each component for its condition and operation.
As part of the clutch replacement, Jon has also serviced and inspected the car thoroughly which involved a repair to a HT lead and new spark plugs for the straight-six. While the car is up in the air, it gave Jon the chance to remove all of the wheels to inspect and strip down the brakes. All of the brake shoes were due for replacement, so they have been removed and are off to be refurbished. This exposed the backing plates for Jon to take a closer look at, cleaning up the units and repainting areas which had bare metal exposed.
Our technician Steve has been working on the 1975 Cobra Replica, checking off the jobs needed to get the ready for its inspection and certification. At this point, Steve has been working on the throttle cable to control that thunderous V8 that lives under the bonnet.
After test fitting, Steve noted that the access hole for the cable in the bulkhead/pedal box doesn’t actually land anywhere near the accelerator pedal. So, Steve had to remove most of the pedal assembly to redrill a new access hole for the cable to run.
Whilst working under the dash, Steve has worked his magic on the heater for the car. After testing the unit and pressurizing the system, he could strip it all back down and paint it in matching black ahead of it being installed back onto the car.
The gearbox for our 1960 Jensen 541R project is back in the building. The transmission had been with a trusted specialist for a rebuild as part of the project to get this incredible classic GT back on the road.
The Bridge Classic Cars workshop team have been going full steam ahead with preparing the 1979 Ferrari 400. Our technician, Jon, has been heading up the project from the moment the car came into our workshop a couple of months ago.
To begin with, Jon has had to replace the heater valve nestled deep under the scuttle of the classic Ferrari and on the back corner of the glorious V12. Once the new heater valve arrived, Jon had to make some modifications to get the unit to fit and operate correctly while also modifying the clamp attachment before getting it ready to fit back into the car.
After it was back in the car, Jon could begin testing. The first stage was to refill the coolant and pressurize the system to check for any leaks and then he can began to tune and check over the V12, but on a brief start up Jon noted that the car is now running on all 12 cylinders.
With the engine now ready to run, levels topped off in both the V12 and the automatic gearbox, Jon could turn his attention to making sure the luxury classic GT car stopped. He inspected each individual caliper as well as tracing all the brake lines and pipes back to check for corrosion, pinches or leaks. Once Jon got to the nearside front caliper, he noticed a very slight weep when the caliper was under pressure. Upon inspection, he found that previous to the car coming to us someone had stripped out the threads on the caliper and retapped it from 7/16th to 1/2 inch, Jon found a suitable bolt and had our technician Paul turn it down in a lathe to make a suitable union.
While waiting for Paul to machine the bolt, Jon stripped down the speedometer which he found small shards of plastic obscuring the warning lights. Once he had cleaned out the unit, he reassembled and got it back into the car.
With the new union suitably modified, Jon could remake the brake line which runs to the caliper. After bending up new pipework, he found that with the new union in place the top brake pipe would not tighten where someone had previously modified the unit and the threads were very badly worn.
After being transported to our friends at Auto Transmissions, our 1973 Rover P5 had some mobile work completed by Jonn and John.
Here are Jonn’s notes about the repair:
Travel to Mersea island to attend to car. Poor running reported. Strip carbs and remove float bowl tops. Clean out. Remove suction Chambers and blow through jets and float bowls. Reassemble both carbs. John remove and clean spark plugs and refit. Remove fuel filter and clean out. Refit and fill with 10ltrs fuel. Turn ignition on to fill filter and carbs and check for leaks, ok. Road test but engine pinking under acceleration. Adjust timing and raise idle speed and retest, ok. Return to workshop.
In this week’s Torque Show, the Bridge Classic Cars team sit down to talk about how online car platforms are changing and the impact that has on both traders and consumers, before having a chat about a very important moment in every petrolheads life… when we passed our driving tests of the back of a recent study by Young Drivers.
We take a look at this week’s live draw for our latest competition cars before Molly grabs a couple of minutes with our Technician Jon to talk us through what goes into getting a car ready for competition and then ready for its new owner with our 2010 Land Rover Defender 90 which leads us on nicely to take a look back at our most famous Defender, given away during our Evening With TV adventurer Ed Stafford.
Staying in the workshop for a bit, Molly talks to our paint technician Mauro who is hard at work getting a Rover 75 Estate back into better than new condition before catching up with our workshop manager and all-round good guy, Big John.
Finally, head back over to the Classic Lounge with Molly and she rejoins Craig and Rob to talk about some recent changes to our competitions as well as sharing some of the awesome comments we’ve recently got on our other episodes of Torque Show.
To celebrate 60 years of the Aston Martin and James Bond relationship, Aston Martin has released the DB12 Goldfinger Edition. Limited to just 60 units, this car has been created by Aston’s personalisation and bespoke service – Q by Aston Martin.
DB12 Goldfinger
It was back in 1964 when the DB5 first appeared alongside James Bond in Goldfinger. That provided the inspiration for the new DB12 colour scheme of Silver Birch. The colour makes the Goldfinger Edition look great but, this is taken one step further with 21” multi-spoke wheels with a diamond treatment finish, black brake calipers, and bespoke gold side strakes. There’s also a a special Aston Martin logo in silver with black enamel and a chrome ‘Q’ fender badge
Inside the DB12 Goldfinger Edition, you get fluted leather Sports Plus seats that feature a Prince of Wales check perforation, much like a traditional James Bond suit. This pattern extends to the door inserts, headliner, and treadplate. If that wasn’t luxurious enough, you also get 18k gold-plated accents on the drive mode rotary dial, roller controls, and gear selector!
If you’re a James Bond fan, then you’ll appreciate the ‘eight of hearts’ embroidered onto the driver’s sun visor, a reference to the iconic pool scene in Goldfinger where the card plays an important role.
Image: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston Martin
DB12 Specification
The Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo engine, producing a power output of 680PS (approx 671hp) and 800Nm of torque.
The DB12 also features Aston Martin’s latest infotainment system, developed entirely in-house and, for the Goldfinger Edition, the Bowers & Wilkins halo audio system comes as standard.
VIP Treatment
Each DB12 Goldfinger Edition comes with a collection of bespoke gifts. These include a custom car cover, a luxury key presentation box, and a Silver Birch Speedform model. One of the most unique offerings to new owners is a 35mm film strip from the iconic Furka Pass scene in Goldfinger. To add even more exclusivity, a limited-edition golden copy of Aston Martin magazine is included too.
Additionally, owners will receive a magnum of 2007 vintage Champagne Bollinger. The champagne is individually numbered and presented with four exclusive Bollinger 007 glasses, housed in a bespoke Globe-Trotter Air Cabin Case. The case even mirrors the design of the car, featuring a Silver Birch exterior and Prince of Wales check interior.
Image: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston MartinImage: Aston Martin
“The partnership between Aston Martin and the James Bond franchise is something that is always treasured. It is an incredible occasion to be able to recognise six decades of this partnership with an extraordinary special edition, and pay homage to the very first—and perhaps most famous—Aston Martin Bond car.”
Marco Mattiacci, Aston Martin’s Global Chief Brand and Commercial Officer
Aston Martin’s Next Generation
The DB12 Goldfinger Edition is part of Aston Martin’s next generation of vehicles, which began with the introduction of the DB12 in 2023. This generation also includes the new Vantage, the DBX707, and the recently unveiled Vanquish.
Deliveries of the DB12 Goldfinger Edition are set to begin in the second quarter of 2025.
I’ve been shortlisted in the Rising Star category for the Motor Trader Industry Awards 2024! On 20th November, Craig and I will be heading to London to join the other finalists at the awards ceremony being held at the Grosvenor House Hotel.
When I opened the email and saw the announcement, it was a big surprise to see my picture alongside the other nominees. As the news has now started to finally sink in, I’m genuinely proud to have made the shortlist.
The automotive world is a big and competitive industry, and being recognised in a category like Rising Star feels incredibly validating. Whether I win or not, just being acknowledged as someone making a bit of an impact in the industry means a lot to me.
What makes this even more special is that this is the second time in 2024 I’ve been recognised in an automotive awards ceremony as a rising star. It’s times like these that reassure me I’m on the right track and hopefully, I am contributing something positive to the industry that I am becoming more and more involved with.
The Motor Trader Industry Awards are all about bringing together some of the brightest and most innovative people in the sector. I’m really looking forward to meeting the other finalists and celebrating the accomplishments of everyone in the industry. Whether I win or not, just being in the same room as so many talented individuals, is going to be an incredible experience.
It takes 45 lessons for the average learner to pass their driving test. With lessons ranging in price from around £25 per hour up to somewhere around £50 per hour, learning to drive is an expensive thing to do.
Even without the financial element, just the amount of time required for these lessons soon adds up. However, 17-year-old Josh Burford, from Lichfield, managed to come up with a strategy that allowed him to pass his test after just 5 on-the-road lessons and a little over a month after his 17th birthday.
Image: Young DriverImage: Young DriverImage: Young Driver
He summed up how he did it in 12 steps:
1. Don’t wait until you’re 17 to start learning to drive Josh had driving lessons with Young Driver from the age of 10. Because driving lessons take place on private property, they’re completely legal. They take place in dual-controlled cars with qualified instructors, as the aim is to learn in the same way you would at 17. Mock road systems are set up, and there’s other learners practising at the same time, so you get experience of other traffic. Josh had a lesson every couple of months or so, to keep his skills up, meaning that before he even became a teenager he knew how to work the clutch and the gears. As Josh explains: “When I had my first on-the-road lesson at 17, the instructor recommended I put straight in for my test.”
2. Apply for your provisional licence as soon as you can You don’t need to wait until you’re 17, you can do that from 15 years and nine months. Do it early so there’s no hold-up when you turn 17 as you won’t be allowed to learn on the roads without one.
3. Ask around for recommendations of instructors Look for an instructor you can build a rapport with and bear in mind some have very long waiting lists. It is worth contacting them a few months before your 17th birthday to enquire.
4. Practice makes perfect Josh explains: “In the 50 days between turning 17 and taking my test I practised with my parents when it was possible, just on day-to-day journeys we would have been making anyway. If they were taking a trip to the shops, I drove. It might only have been 10 minutes, but it all helps. And it meant I had to keep practising parking!”
5. Book your theory test as soon as you can – and make sure you prep for it You can take your theory test at 17 as long as you have a provisional licence. Josh passed his theory test nine days after his 17th birthday. Josh said: “Get the Highway Code and start reading it at least three months prior to your theory test. Do a little bit when you can, here and there. Also, use an app with theory test practice exams and hazard perception tests too.”
6. Pay attention as a passenger It’s easy to zone out in the car or look at your phone. But pay attention and ask questions. Look at lane discipline and get a feel for roundabouts and more complicated road systems.
7. Book your test as soon as the instructor says you’re ready You will need to pass your theory test first though. When Josh first applied for his driving test, he couldn’t get one for five months – which he booked so he knew he had it in the diary if all else failed.
8. Use an app to monitor for driving test cancellations Josh used a paid-for app called Testi which issues alerts for cancelled tests. His directly booked test wasn’t until November, but after booking one in August via Testi, he then managed to get one in July, which he took and passed.
9. Do your test somewhere you know Josh recommends being somewhere you know: “There are reports that people are travelling the length and breadth of the country to find an earlier test. However, I wanted to be somewhere where there was a likelihood I would know the roads. Travelling hours away would have added to my stress levels.”
10. Spend some time getting to know your car Are you confident about putting on the lights, windscreen wipers and so on? You may be asked to show these in the test and you want it to be as automatic as possible.
11. Use YouTube to help you prep Josh explains: “I watched YouTube videos on the driving test routes near to me, so I could familiarise myself with them. Sometimes I went and drove them, other times I just watched a video. I think it helped me to stay calm in the test as it seemed a little more familiar, even though mine ended up being one I’d just watched online.”
12. Don’t panic Josh’s final advice is about keeping your cool. He said: “If it feels like it’s all going wrong, don’t panic. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed – and if you have, use it as experience. You’ll know more about what to expect next time round.”
On Saturday, we welcomed Darren and Anthony from EMG Ipswich to Bridge Classic Cars, as we teamed up to host our MG Cyberster Test Drive Day. Based at The Classic Lounge, the day was all about giving people the opportunity to experience what could very well be the future of electric sports cars.
The MG Cyberster
The Cyberster, MG’s eye-catching electric roadster, looked great surrounded by classic cars and out on the road. We had two examples available on Saturday, a Camden Grey example that was on static display (this is my personal favourite colour choice) and a Dynamic red version that was taken out by around 20 people for test drives throughout the day.
The main feedback that was given about the car…it’s fast…very fast!
It’s not just about its speed though. I was fortunate enough to take the Cyberster out for a drive and I found it incredibly easy to drive. For a car that sounds so complex and sophisticated, I was expecting to work hard behind the wheel but, in fact, it was an extremely relaxed and comfortable drive. The only thing to be careful of is that you can quite easily find yourself going very fast in a very short period of time!
Test Driving The Future
It was a fantastic experience to be surrounded by both the past and the future of MG as we had a collection of classic MGs (and others) on display alongside the Cyberster. I really enjoyed the conversations about the potential future of the automotive industry and how EVs, like the Cyberster, might fit into that.
Anthony and Darren were on hand to provide detailed insights into the technical aspects of the Cyberster, guiding guests through the car’s features, battery life, charging options, and performance stats. This collaborative event marks what I hope is an ongoing relationship between Bridge Classic Cars and EMG Ipswich, as bringing the classic and modern motoring worlds together is something that is an exciting prospect.
Thank You
We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who came along and took the Cyberster out for a drive. We hope you enjoyed the experience and we hope that we will see you all again very soon.
Another thank you to Anthony and Darren for joining us on Saturday and for demonstrating what the Cyberster can do!
This week, the team headed to the incredible Imperial War Museum in Duxford for the recent H&H Classics auction where two of our cars were being represented surrounded by the most sensational display of aircraft anywhere in the UK.
Molly caught up with Tony, our logistics coordinator, to find out more about what goes on behind the scenes of moving our competition and restoration cars around the length and breadth of the country to and from their homes and our Suffolk HQ – after unloading our 1929 Dodge DA Six.
Next up, Molly managed to grab Paul Cheetham during the set up for the auction – one of the wonderful team from H&H to chat through how the process of the auctions work and a bit of an insight into the history (and future of both H&H and the wider auction world).
We took a look back at the live draw of our 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2 which was won by a very excited Andrew and then finish up with a look at our ‘Evening with the Three Chordettes’. A brilliant evening of vintage music and a chilled out atmosphere in the Bridge Classic Cars Classic Lounge.
I just wanted to say thank you for the Gin that was a prize in your recent competition.
I believe someone tried to call me on the day but I was abroad at the time so the call didn’t come through, but it was a nice surprise on my return home.
In the very near future, we will be seeing the AC Ace back out on the roads of Britain.
AC Cars, Britain’s oldest active vehicle manufacturer, has recently announced the upcoming return of one of the most beautiful cars ever made. The new version of the Ace will, of course, be inspired by the recognisable classic AC Ace but will have evolved to fit in with modern driving conditions.
A New Chapter For The AC Ace
The return of the Ace comes in two models: the AC Ace Classic and the AC Ace Bristol Classic, with each version paying tribute to different periods in the original AC Ace’s evolution.
The AC Ace Bristol Classic features the “smiling face” front end, which will certainly please the classic Ace fans, while the AC Ace Classic has a more streamlined front – a nod to the final iteration of the original model.
The Specifications
Both models have a carbon-fibre body and are powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine, producing more than 300bhp. This is paired with a precision-engineered six-speed manual gearbox and a specially tuned exhaust system (to make sure the car sounds as good as it looks and drives!)
The car weighs just 1,100kg and can accelerate from 0-62 mph in a shade over 4 and a half seconds. This performance is further enhanced by a torque output of around 375Nm.
Image: AC CarsImage: AC CarsImage: AC Cars
Past Meets The Future
The team at AC Cars have merged traditional styling with modern construction techniques. The chassis remains true to the original but the addition of carbon-fibre bodywork makes the new models lightweight and strong. The 15″ wire wheels maintain the classic aesthetic while the modern fuel injection and engine management systems add performance and reliability.
The timing of the AC Ace’s return is particularly relevant at the moment as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of the original model’s competition debut. The original Ace would go on to a class victory at the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans, before going on to more success in the SCCA National Championships, and achieving class victories at the Sebring 12-Hour race for three consecutive years.
Availability And Price
Delivery of the AC Ace Classic and AC Ace Bristol Classic is due to begin in summer 2025. Each car will be assigned an official chassis number, authenticating its status as a genuine AC creation.
Pricing for both the AC Ace and Ace Bristol Classic begins at £175,000, inclusive of VAT.
“The new AC Ace and Ace Bristol Classics demonstrate conclusively that a classically styled car can possess outstanding performance and handling characteristics. By returning to the foundational themes of lightweight construction and powerful performance, AC Cars Classics has achieved a delicate balance between grace and modern capability.”
David Conza, CEO of AC Cars
Technical Specifications
2.3-litre straight-4 cylinder EcoBoost engine,
6-speed manual gearbox
Built around a robust 3-inch steel tubular frame chassis.
Today, Craig and Gordon are at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford for the latest auction hosted by H&H.
As you can see from Craig’s photos below, there is a huge range of cars available to buy and, as they are surrounded by planes too, they look even more appealing.
Yesterday marked the 44th birthday of the Austin Metro.
The Metro was once a common sight on roads all over the country and was launched as a competitor to the highly successful Ford Fiesta; with the idea that it would eventually be the successor of the ever-popular Mini but now, they are rarely seen. That doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be celebrated though!
I remember when I was younger, my grandad had a dull yellow Metro which was parked on his driveway every time I visited. It was his loyal daily for a long time before finally being replaced by, ironically, a Ford Fiesta!
44 years is a long time for a car to be around so there must be hundreds more memories that people have relating to these plucky hatchbacks of the 80s.
In October 1980, British Leyland unveiled their answer to the Ford Fiesta – the Austin Mini Metro.
Before this happened, the Metro had already gone through two prototype designs (ADO 88 and LC8) before the familiar shape we all know was finally set in 1979. The launch itself was a very big deal at the time with this new car taking over the headlines in both printed form and on television.
The ad campaign, which probably hasn’t aged well, was a group of Metros chasing various cars made outside of the UK, and forcing them out of the country.
From Austin to Rover
Over its 18-year production run, the Metro went through various name changes:
Started as Austin Mini Metro
Dropped the ‘Mini’ to become just Metro
Transformed into the Rover Metro in 1990
Had its final form as the Rover 100 from 1994
The Numbers
Over 2 million Metros were built
In 1980, you could get a basic model for £3,095
By 1998, the Rover 100 cost £6,525
Share Your Metro Stories And Photos
I spoke about my grandad’s Metro earlier and I’d love to hear your memories of the Metro too. If you have a story of a Metro you’ve known or any photos, we would love to see them!
What an incredibly exciting start to the week this week at Bridge Classic Cars HQ. Tony set up bright and early to delivery our first car, the Dodge DA to Duxford for this weeks H&H Classic Auctions.
Then it was a return to the workshops to pick up car number two, our Vauxhall Wingham to get that safely over to Duxford too.
Meanwhile I joined Molly and nick over at Duxford to record this week Torque Show. We caught up with Paul from H&H Classic Auctions and had a little wander around the aircrafts. The full episode will be out later this week on our YouTube channel.
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