Editorial

The last Classic Inside of 2004, and looking at my editorial 12 months ago I see we were celebrating an increase in subscribers from 8,000 to 22,000 in 2003. Well that figure, as you can see, is now over 30,000 and during 2004 Classic Driver has gone from strength to strength.

Without wishing to echo The Queen's Speech (for our international readers that's the annual Christmas address to the nation from our monarch, and a not a statement of personal lifestyle), picking some highlights of Classic Insides Past one must include from a sporting angle the superb biennial Le Mans Classic as well as another magnificent Goodwood Revival meeting blessed by sweltering 'Indian Summer' weather. The auction scene was as feverish as ever, with both Christie's and Bonhams selling very big-ticket cars at both Goodwood and Le Mans, while all over the world cars changed hands for (generally) more money than previously (in fact we have one of 2004's 'Hot Properties' featured below, the Ferrari 275GTB).

On the new car front Ferrari announced both the F430, and the Superamerica, while deliveries of the superb 612 Scaglietti are now hitting the streets. I notice last year I mentioned the fact that I hadn't actually seen any Bentley Continental GTs on the roads. You certainly cannot say that now. Aston Martin has added the DBR9 to their range, an inspirational racing car destined for Le Mans next year and designed to be the 'Gentlemen's Racer' par excellence for the 21st Century.

We've also had some stories which I hope you have enjoyed on non-strictly motoring-related topics, and we're continuing that tradition this week with a look at the craftsmanship of James Purdey & Sons, as well as an innovative concept in luxury holidays. We've also got details on Damon Hill's P1 Club, something I am sure you've heard of but well worth looking into further, and a personal review of the 'Hamilton Tour' - surely one of the most exclusive motoring events out there.

Finally Christmas would not be Christmas without a special article, and I hope Tony Dron's experiences of driving the Ferrari Enzo in everyday conditions are as enjoyable for you as they were for me.

A very happy holiday to all of you - the first Classic Inside of 2005 will be sent on 7th January.

Steve Wakefield Managing Editor sw@classicdriver.com

THIS WEEK IN CLASSIC DRIVER

Aston Martin DB5 saloon

5 speed

A very good 5 speed manual DB5 in Goodwood Green with green leather interior. Recent engine rebiuld and up-rated to 4.2 litre with Cosworth Pistons and lead free spec engine. Original radio and a discrete modern system fitted. Ready to use


colour Goodwoood Green
interior colour Green
year 1964

Price P.O.R.


Dealership:

Aston London
76 Queens Circus, London SW8 4NA

Phone +44 (0) 20 7720 7787

see all details

see complete stock from this dealer

Ford GT 2005

Big wheels, red callipers and premier sound pack. This car is available in the UK and has covered just 10 miles. Viewing by appointment only.


colour Yellow with black stripes
year 2005
mileage 16 km / 10 m

Price 199.950 GBP


Dealership:

Avro Motor Cars
(By appointment only): The Circuit Centre, Avro Way, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0YT

Phone +44 (0) 1932 352220

see all details

see complete stock from this dealer

Ferrari 275GTB Long Nose

Matching Numbers

Late production 2-Cam 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB 2-Door Coupe, Red, STK# FJ112/VIN 8955 Long Nose, Torque-Tube. Engine by Skidmore. Fitted with a 6-Carb setup. Original interior and tools. Minor paint blemishes, Runs very well, Excellent car.

colour Red
interior colour Tan
drive LHD
year 1966
mileage 119.273 km / 74.113 m
Chassis No. 8955
Engine No. 8955

Price $US 440,000


Dealership:

Fantasy Junction
1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608

Phone +1 510 653-7555

see all details

see complete stock from this dealer

Bonhams Europe Auction, Gstaad, Switzerland
18th Dec 2004

Palm Beach Cavallino Classics, Palm Beach, Florida, USA
18th - 23rd Jan 2005

Barons Auction, Esher, Surrey, UK
8th Feb 2005

International Historic Motorsport Show 2005, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, UK
25th - 27th Feb 2005

see further event details

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