More than 58,000 classic car fans flocked to the Footman James Classic Motor Show at Birmingham’s NEC from 16-18 November.
The Classic & Sports Car stand featured one of the event's highlights, a fantastic Auto Union D-type (above), while the 1500 cars on show included everything from bubble cars to Maseratis and Rolls-Royces.
Standout clubs included the Riley RM Club, the Sunbeam Talbot Alpine Register and Club Peugeot UK, which went for the event’s ‘What's the story’ theme by showcasing the evolution of the 200 series with models as diverse as a 204 estate and a roadgoing version of the 205 T16 rally car.
One of the most eye-catching vehicles featured on the National Sreet Rod Association’s stand. Paul Bacon’s beautifully fabricated Cosmotron was inspired by Ed Roth’s Beatnik Bandit and – not that you’d ever guess – is based on a BMW Z3, though you could spot a straight-six beneath the induction gear. The group was in the running for the Most Interesting Selection of Cars in the C&SC Club Awards (full report to follow).
Displays of Skodas and Saabs highlighted how fortunes can change for different manufacturers. Nigel Skorka-Brown brought his fabulous rally replica ’64 Octavia (below), which he purchased 10 years ago.