Edition 38/2007 49.074 subscribers
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EDITORIAL
I think I have, at a stroke, made a contribution towards saving the planet while also considerably reducing the car manufacturer's costs of running a test fleet and launching new models in exotic climes.
On Wednesday afternoon I was able to carry out an intensive, undisturbed appraisal of a luxury car, courtesy of a motorway closure that rendered me immobile for nearly two and a half hours. What conclusions have I drawn?
Well it was certainly quiet. The visibility from the leather-lined cockpit was good, although some variation in the scenery would have been appreciated, and I couldn't help wondering why the Stickleback Fish Company van displayed an octopus logo. Blame that on global warming or a faulty nuclear reactor's outflow pipe perhaps.
The car was British, so comparisons with a Gentleman's library may be made, although the reading matter was a little wanting; I found the pace of the 'Satellite Navigation and Entertainment System' a little turgid, while the 'Manufacturer's Warranty', a noble document though it may well be, more suited perhaps for bedtime reading.
The moment of release came as a surprise. With much dashing back to vehicles, stubbing-out of cigarettes and hastily twisted ignition keys the tranquillity was broken. Released from the temporary blockage, the traffic resumed its journey with the force of a cannonball from a giant's peashooter.
Back to 'ride-comfort', '0-60 times', 'handling in extremis' etc, all of which you will read about in weeks to come.
Until then, enjoy this week's ClassicInside.
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Steve
Wakefield |
THIS WEEK IN CLASSIC DRIVER
Novitec Rosso Ferrari 599 GTBRespected German Ferrari-tuner Novitec Rosso has launched an upgraded version of the Ferrari 599 GTB. By re-mapping the electronics and fitting a new exhaust system with two 90mm tail-pipes on each side of the car, Novitec claims the modified 599 has an extra 25bhp. read more... |
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H&H at Duxford 10th October 2007Includes full lotlistH&H is continuing its 2007 auction programme with another regional sale, this time held at the superb Imperial War Museum at Duxford. The 71-car entry has a cosmopolitan feel, with star billing shared by a 1956 Cooper T39 'Bobtail' and this rhd 1968 Ferrari 330 GTC. read more... |
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Colorado Grand 2007'Lightning rarely strikes twice,' or so the saying goes. Yet last year I was privileged enough to be invited to co-drive on the Colorado Grand; and was elated when a late invite came once again for this year's running of one of America's finest vintage car touring events. read more... |
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Book Review: 'Aston Martin: Power, Beauty and Soul'The Special Projects Cars RevealedAustralian author David Dowsey charts the history of Aston Martin under Ford ownership, including the one-offs commissioned by collectors in the 80s and 90s. read more... |
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The 2007 Caramulo MotorfestivalThe Caramulo Motorfestival was the first major classic car and motorcycle event in Portugal to combine competition driving, a rally and a hillclimb. This year the wide-ranging entertainments attracted over 14,000 people to the otherwise calm and relaxing mountain village. read more... |
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CLASSIC LIFE
Lufthansa Private Jet: Flights on DemandLufthansa Private Jet, the flight service which offers customers 'à la carte mobility', has become a firm fixture in Lufthansa's strategy. According to Thierry Antinori, Executive Vice President Marketing and Sales at Lufthansa Passage Airlines. read more... |
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THE CLASSIC DRIVER PREMIUM CAR MARKET
MODERN
Bentley Continental GT Mulliner
colour Moonbeam |
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Burr walnut veneer doors and rear quarter inserts, Phone prep, massage seats, TV tuner, 19" Chrome Alloy Wheels.
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Supercars ExeterTown/City:
Exeter, UK |
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CLASSIC
Ferrari 250 GT SWB
colour Bleu Ultrascuro |
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Offered exclusively for sale by Morris & Welford is this immaculate and extremely well prepared steel bodied Short Wheelbase Berlinetta with interesting competition features.
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Morris & WelfordTown/City: |
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SPORTING
Porsche GT2 R
colour White |
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Delivered to G-Force racing in Dec 1996, won the 1998 European GTR series, other race history.
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Gmund CarsTown/City:
Knaresborough, UK |
EVENTGUIDE 2007
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04.10. - 07.10. Geneva Classics, Geneva, Switzerland |
SERVICE
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