Classic convertibles from Nice storm the col du Turini

| 19 Feb 2014

More than 50 classic convertibles took part in the third Prom' des Neiges from Nice to the col du Turini.

The droptop-only event organised by the Automobile Club of Nice Côte d'Azur (founded 1896) set off on the 80km run in search of snowy peaks on 16 February.

Leaving Place Garibaldi in mild weather, the classics enjoyed favourable conditions all the way to the top of the legendary 1607m col.

In the three years since it started, entries have quadrupled and this year every participant made it to the rally's destination following Alexis Froger's roadbook.

Plenty of British classics took part, including Austin-Healey Lotus, Morgan, Triumph and more, but the star was again the impressive 1933 Hotchkiss AM80 of Claude Alquier.

One of the rarest vehicles taken part was a Mini-based Domino Pimlico brought along by specialist the Mad Garage in Nice.

Christian Proud-Diaz, president of the Automobile Club de Nice Côte d'Azur, drove his 1993 TVR Chimaera 400 HC on the event and said: "At the club, we like to organise our events very seriously, but always with a small grain of madness!

"The first year, many people thought we were probably daft for daring to set up this Prom' des Neiges, but basically it is a good way to prove that our old ladies can cope with mountain roads even in the heart of winter."

Click here for more info on the club and the event.