Editorial

Opinions are divided on ‘retro’ models, cars produced today that mimic designs of years gone by. To some they are an affordable, reliable version of models that may well have looked wonderful at the time, but are nigh-on impossible to drive now and available solely to the world’s wealthiest collectors. Others say leave well alone – the past is the past and a modern designer’s ‘interpretation’ of classic styling combined with up-to-date running gear and wheels and tyres usually leaves a lot to be desired.

My take on this lies in the latter camp, however I can’t help a certain sneaking admiration for the creators of the Devaux Coupé you see adorning the masthead of this week’s ClassicInside. I think the ‘big’ 16" wheels make a difference, and effect a look less home-grown than usual. It’s also been trimmed and finished to the highest standard. As always, the decision’s yours as to whether you like it or not.

It’ll be an abbreviated ClassicInside next week as we’re off to Monza for the Ferrari World Finals. It’s Michael’s last hurrah in front of the tifosi and if he’s there as world champion it will be one of the most extraordinary feats ever in the history of the sport. As everyone is saying, if there’s one man who could do it...

Full report from Monza in a couple of weeks time, as well as driving impressions of the car that defines the term ‘sporting estate’; Audi’s RS4 Avant.

Until then,

Steve Wakefield Managing Editor sw@classicdriver.com