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C O N TA C T S & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS DRIVE magazine is published on behalf of H.R. Owen PLC by RWMG. For all publishing and advertising enquiries please contact: RWMG 6th Floor, One Canada Square Canary Wharf London, E14 5AX T: +44 (0)20 7987 4320 E: info@rwmg.co.uk www.rwmg.co.uk

Welcome, Before she worked for Jack Barclay in London’s Berkeley Square, Bugatti super-saleswoman Anita Krizsan found the place a little intimidating.

Now she’s on the inside (see page 60) Anita makes sure no-one else does by ensuring those outside are invited through the imposing doors to get a little closer to the mouth-watering selection of Bentleys and Bugattis on offer.

She has also instigated a give away for school kids smitten by the 1200hp Veyron Gran Sport Vitesse – their very own Bugatti badged cap, free.

“We get through boxes and boxes of caps every year,” she admits, “but I bet everyone of those children goes away determined to own the real thing when they grow up.” And if just one does, then the investment in caps will have been worth it.

Aston used to do a similar thing at motor shows, giving children a badge that read ‘Future Aston Martin owner’. With the significant changes taking place at Gaydon – new models, a tie-up with AMG and a dynamic new boss, there’s never been a better time to become a ‘present’ Aston Martin owner.

See page 50 for our verdict on the new Vanquish and Rapide S, plus an insight into AM’s next move.

Although we don’t normally ‘do’ themed issues, this edition of DRIVE does have something of a motor racing flavour about it. We uncover some of France’s old Grand Prix circuits from a time when a racetrack was created simply by closing a few public roads.

And, on page 28, we take a look at the remarkable motor sport art of the talented Tim Layzell. An award winner at the age of just 13, Tim’s work regularly attracts attention from serious collectors – and makes an excellent magazine front cover! If you like what you see, the advice is to buy now before values skyrocket, as they surely will.

DRIVE EDITORIAL TEAM Tom King: Group Marketing Manager Chris Harris: Marketing & Customer Director Matthew Carter: Editor-at-Large George Chapman: Deputy Editor & Project Manager H.R. Owen Plc Melton Court, Old Brompton Road London SW7 3TD T: +44 (0)20 7245 1122 F: +44 (0)20 7245 1123 E: enquiries@hrowen.co.uk www.hrowen.co.uk RWMG Giles Ellwood: Publisher Eren Ellwood: Managing Director Mark Welby: Creative Director George Chapman: Deputy Editor & Project Manager Jonathan Lewis: Designer publishing enquiries Call Giles Ellwood on +44 (0)20 7987 4320 or email g.ellwood@rwmg.co.uk ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call Rachel Eden on +44 (0)7793 380 012 or email r.eden@hrowenmagazine.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Nick Swallow, Mick Walsh, Julian Rendell, Paul Rubens, Matt Prior, Amanda Stretton Credit also goes to: Mark Lacey (pp14-20, pp34-39) Dominic Nicholls (pp40-43) Dominic Fraser (pp46-54) Richard Parsons (pp56-60) The Cahier Archive, eMercedesBenz.com (pp71-76)

I trust you’ll enjoy these and all the other features we’ve crammed into the pages of this issue of DRIVE. As ever, we welcome all feedback - just drop us a line on the email below.

Matthew Carter Editor-at-Large | DRIVE drive@hrowen.co.uk RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

www.RWMG.co.uk H.R.Owen, official dealer for:

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©Copyright 2014 H.R.Owen PLC 2014 Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor H.R. Owen PLC nor any of its subsidiary or affiliated companies can accept, and hereby disclaim to the maximum extent permitted by law, any liability for any loss or damage that may be caused by any errors or omissions this publication may contain. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise – without prior written permission of the publisher. Information correct at time of going to press. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or H.R. Owen PLC. Every effort has been made to trace the copyright holders of material used in this publication. If any copyright holder has been overlooked, we should be pleased to make any necessary arrangements.

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contents

REGULARS 16 UNDER LOCK & KEY: IT CAN BE DONE 36 ROAD TRIP: TWO H.R. OWEN TEST DRIVES 42 AUTOMOBILIA: ENGINES FOR THE WRIST 58 AT YOUR SERVICE: ANITA KRIZSAN OF JACK BARCLAY BUGATTI 80 KNOWLEDGE = POWER: DRIVE’S FACT MISCELLANY #2 89 FORECOURT: THE LATEST MODELS FROM H.R. OWEN 92 CHEQUERED FLAG: THE WORLD OF H.R. OWEN 98 THE BACK SEAT: AMANDA STRETTON REPORTS FROM PEBBLE BEACH

FEATURES 24 CREAM IN CHANTILLY: CHANTILLY D’ELEGANCE 30 MASTER STROKES: ARTIST TIM LAYZELL 46 AUTOMOTIVE PARTNERS: GIFT IDEAS 48 HIGHLAND FLING: ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH & RAPIDE S IN SCOTLAND 64 MAN CAVE MECHANICA: NEON SIGNS AND PINBALL MACHINES 70 DESERT FORMULA: THE 2014 ETIHAD AIRWAYS F1 GRAND PRIX 73 FRANCE’S FORGOTTEN GRAND PRIX CIRCUITS: TRACK GUIDES 83 SUPERCAR TECH EXPLAINED: HYBRID POWER

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Un de r Lo c k & K e y

It Can Be Done As varied as it is vast, this collection of near priceless automotive gems are the spoils of a tightly-run, HIGH pressure valve engineering business. George Chapman meets impassioned engineer and entrepreneur owner , Michael Oliver.

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in association with

PHOTOGRAPHY BY mark lacey

P

roudly born and bred in Hale, Cheshire, entrepreneur and engineer Michael Oliver owns what must be one of the most exquisite collection of cars, motorcycles, steam traction engines and aircraft in the country.

Comprising of more than 32 cars, 20 motorcycles, seven aeroplanes and one very famously pre-owned helicopter, this impressive amalgamation of vehicles is inspired by engineering whilst also acting as a very memorable in-house marketing tool.

A relatively unassuming Cheshire industrial estate is home to Michael’s three family-owned valve companies: Oliver Valves, Oliver Valvetek and Oliver Twinsafe. Together, the three pipeline, sub-sea and instrumentation valve companies are on target to produce a turnover of £100 million in 2015. He’s also recently acquired 17 acres of neighbouring land, “In case the company grows in the near future”.

Leaving school at 15 and following a stint as an apprentice at legendary engineering company David Brown working alongside his father, Michael decided to move to America in the 1960s where he designed a new gear rolling machine for the Ford Motor Company. After receiving draft papers for service in the US Army in Vietnam, Michael packed up and came home where he became manufacturing manager and MD with several other engineering companies. By the late 1970s, he decided to start his own enterprise, founding Oliver Valves.

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“This car is believed to be a one-off and the very first DB2/4. I’m very pleased I own it as was David Brown’s personal car, which means I now own my father’s boss’ car.”

Clockwise from top left 1974 Jaguar E-Type Series 3.

1963 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder.

1908 Garrett Showman’s Road Locomotive, ‘British Hero’.

Engine bay of 1913 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost ‘ Alpine Eagle’.

1955 MG TF 1500.

“The rest is history,” he adds. He walks across the road to a modern unit containing his trio of magnificent steam traction engines, one of which ‘Fred’ was owned by the late Fred Dibnar. Kept in fine fettle by a team of sootfaced mechanics, it’s a wonderful display of engineering in its finest form.

“Let’s go by car to the next stage of the tour,” he suggests, climbing into his brand new Rolls-Royce Phantom. Once on board he also voices his opinion on the Wraith, “My wife has one in the exact same colour as this.

It’s a fabulous car. I own six Rolls-Royces in total, I’m a very good customer.”

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Pulling in to the car park of his neighbouring factory, he points at one of his latest acquisitions, a GR4 Tornado fighter from 617 Squadron – the original ‘Dambusters’.

Entering the next unit, the iconic shapes of some of the world’s most recognisable vehicles meet your eyes; Aston Martin DB5, McLaren Mercedes SLR Roadster, Mercedes SLS, Bentley Continental R, Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Alpine Eagle, Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe, the list goes on and on…

The collection also includes more humble vehicles, such as the green 1955

MG TF 1500. Originally bought for him by his father as a 21st birthday present, Michael spent several years negotiating the sale of the car from its owner, almost 30 years later. He then had the car fully restored bar, “a curious indent on the dashboard of a stiletto heel.”

Delving deeper into this dream garage reveals more incredible vehicles making it difficult to know where to look next. Parked up against the rear most wall a Bugatti Veyron sits between Fangio’s Maserati 250F(!) and a magnificent 1905 Leon Bolle Tourer. Michael admits he has a ‘thing’ for

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Clockwise from top left 1954 Maserati 250F. 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 Cutback Prototype.

1949 Vincent Black Shadow.

1962 Austin-Helay 3000 Mk III. 1913 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost ‘ Alpine Eagle’.

Ferrari’s too – a fact proved by his stunning 1963 250 GT California Spyder in the centre of his garage. “Jodie Kidd drove this car for a TV programme recently, so no-one’s allowed to sit in it from now on,” he laughs. Several of his prancing horses stay at home, including his 1968 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 and 2010 Ferrari 599 GTO. He plans to travel to Modena in late September collect his latest purchase, the emphatically named ‘La Ferrari’. “I can’t wait to drive it around the Fiorano track,” he remarks. Michael is also the proud owner of another prized Italian thoroughbred, a pre-war Alfa Romeo 8C.

Deep in thought whilst examining his 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 Cutback Prototype Michael explains, “This car is believed to be a one-off and the very first DB2/4. I’m very pleased I own it as it was David Brown’s personal car, which means I now own my father’s boss’ car.” Asked if he’d like to be photographed in it he initially agrees before replying, “On second thoughts I won’t, I’ll sit in the Spitfire.” Michael’s Spitfire is an exact replica of an original MK4B, “The young and unexperienced pilots that flew these things were incredibly brave. The guns were filled with enough

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The ‘Borough of Lambeth’ Michael Oliver is also the proud owner of arguably one of the most famous and well-loved Spitfires ever made. Call sign ‘NK-K’, serial number P8088, ‘Borough Of Lambeth’ is a Mk IIA Supermarine Spitfire (the only MKII in the world!) manufactured at the Castle Bromwich Aeroplane Factory in February 1941. Named after the group of Lambeth Borough residents who funded her construction in war-time London, NK-K was taken on charge at No 39 MU Colerne on 1st March 1941 and delivered for active service on 21 March 1941 to 66 Squadron, Exeter.

After several months of frantic active service, the aircraft was damaged in a night landing at Matlask.

Following repair and subsequent postings all over the UK it tragically ‘dived into the ground’ on 16 September 1944 near Prees Shropshire, killing its then pilot, 22 year old F/Sgt John Cashel Barry RAAF, from Wahroonga, NSW. In 1978, the entire remains of the aircraft were recovered from the crash site by W.A.R.G. - a wartime heritage aircraft group.

Today, thanks to Michael’s son Mark, the fuselage and cockpit section have been reconstructed returning much of the damaged and twisted remains back to the correct shape. Attending a number of charity events and as an educational tool, NK-K now brings happiness to many people. It has also been modelled by Airfix and Microsoft, making it one of the most modelled and digitally re-mastered aircraft in history.

As a complete project with CAA registration it also offers the very real potential to be taken to the next stage and rebuilt to flying condition!

ammunition to last just 15 seconds of continuous firing.”

You don’t so much as interview Michael, just pin your ears back and listen. Once out of the Spitfire, he asks, “Do you like motorcycles? This is a Vincent Black Shadow – the world’s fastest when it was built and so far ahead of its time. Over here we have a racing Manx Norton and I’ve also got a Matchless G45 and AJS 7R, plus a Gilera 500/4 which makes a lovely noise.”

Other vehicles in the room include a 1958 Jaguar XK150 Roadster, 1993 Aston Martin Vantage, 1962 Austin Healy 3000 MK III, 2009 Bentley Azure,

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“Without engineers, nothing happens. It’s a fascinating and creative career choice for young people. There is a huge arena out there and serious money to be made. There are far too many students with degrees in media and drama these days.”

1999 Bentley R Mulliner, 1920 Armoured Rolls-Royce (complete with Vickers .303 machine gun), Triumph X-75 Hurricane, Carl Fogarty’s Ducati 916 SPS and many, many more!

Upstairs, located on a mezzanine level is a collection of miniature steam engines. Clearly very happy and relaxed amongst these rare beasts, he speaks of next generation’s engineers. “Without engineers, nothing happens. It’s a fascinating and creative career choice for young people. There is a huge arena out there and serious money to be made. There are far too many students with degrees in media and drama these days.”

The final industrial unit caters for Michael’s interest in military aircraft and boats. A glistening black Harrier jump jet dominates the room, its Rolls-Royce engine removed and in pride of place.

On the right, a very rare 1941 Mercedes V20 fast-boat engine. Further back, Idi Amin’s helicopter.

“It’s a rare old thing and I bet it could tell some tales.”

The tour finished, Michael insists on a short ride back to the factory on his charming 1937 Renault bus, a vehicle that was operated along Route 68 in Paris throughout WWII. “I greatly admire that kind of dedication to a task”, he says. “I only employ forward thinkers in business, I don’t want to work with people who will hold us back. With a company motto as clearly defined as ‘It can be done’, expect Oliver’s Valves and the associated ‘Michael Oliver Collection’ to continue expanding for many years to come. valves.co.uk

Clockwise from top left Unique collection: 19th Century steam-powered fire engine vies for space with various motorcycles, classic sports cars, 1920 armoured Rolls-Royce and MK4B Spitfire replica.

1937 Renault Bus that operated in war-time Paris.

Map of Bus Route 68, Paris, circa 1940.

Michael Oliver aboard his Spitfire replica.

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Main: Pourtout-bodied Delahaye 135 came second at Le Mans in 1938 Inset: Rare Bossaert-bodied Citroën DS coupés in owners’ club line up.

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Cream in Chantilly

A c h at e a u, a wo r l d - c l a s s f i e l d o f c o m p e t i to r s a n d a g l a s s o r t wo o f C h a m pa g n e ... N i c k S wa l low v i s i ts t h e C h a n t i l ly C o n c o u r s d’ E l e g a n c e a n d f i n d s t h at t h e F r e n c h a r e b a c k with a vengeance.

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oncours d’elegance. What could be more French than that? Quite a lot, actually. Over here we’ve got Salon Privé and Hampton Court, Italy’s Villa de’Este has been showcasing beautiful cars since 1929, and America has the biggest and most prestigious concours of them all at Pebble Beach.

But France? Cue Gallic shrug. The nation that gave us the term for a celebration of automotive design, provenance and merit has lacked a world-renowned showcase of its own. Until now. Because on Sunday, 7th September 2014 the Chateau de Chantilly hosted an inaugural Concours d’Art et d’Elegance amid the parterres and gravel walks of its 17th century water gardens. And the good news for DRIVE readers is that next year’s event will make the perfect weekend outing for a drive across northern France.

Put the words ‘France’, ‘fabulous cars’ and ‘enthusiasts’ together and the chances are you’ll find Richard Mille. A daring and innovative watchmaker, Mille is also a true petrolhead. He and his eponymous brand sponsor the historic Grand Prix at Pau as well as Classic Le Mans, where you’ll usually find him in the thick of the action at the wheel of one of his many classic racing cars.

Richard Mille was the principal sponsor of the Chantilly Concours, and so it was never going to be a timid toe-in-the-water affair. As well as a classic car concours, the one-day event included equestrian displays, haute couture, cookery workshops hosted by Michelin-star chefs and even a chance to ride in a (tethered) hot air balloon. As well as the automotive attractions, visitors could attend workshops in floristry and hatmaking, stroll through

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clockwise from top left:

Put the words ‘France’, ‘fabulous cars’ and ‘enthusiasts’ together and the chances are you’ll find Richard Mille. A daring and innovative watchmaker, Mille is also a true petrolhead.

1956 Maserati 2000 Granturismo A6 G54 (Zagato) Best of Show Winner Peter Mullin in his 1937 Delahaye 135M with Figoni and Falaschi coachwork.

AC greyhound mascot presides over AC owners’ club line-up.

Interior of the Best in Showwinning Delahaye 135M.

the chateau’s treasure-packed art galleries or even just relax while sipping a few glassfuls of Charles Heidsieck champagne, another event sponsor.

There were ten classes for the judges to deliberate over, from pre-1905 ‘ancestors’ to pre-1976 mid-engined racing cars. To honour Maserati’s centenary, there were two classes exclusively for the famous trident badge; the great coachbuilders and Maserati racing cars. There were also a couple of quirky classes to induce puzzled frowns among the passing crowds.

‘Anglaises en Italie’ had some familiar names in very unfamiliar Italian bodywork, like the Ghia-bodied Jaguar XK 140 from 1955 or Bertone’s take on the Aston Martin DB 2/4.

The coveted Best in Show was won by an entrant from the ‘great French coachbuilders’ class. But this was not a case of home advantage. It was simply

that the winning car, a Delahaye 135M Phaeton grand sport bodied by Figoni and Falaschi and known as the Star of India, was exceptional, a streamlined, art deco wonder in two-tone blue. In 1937 it must have caused a sensation, a spaceship amid horseless carriages. As far ahead of its time as a Richard Mille RM 06 is today, perhaps. Owner Peter Mullin had shipped it over from his museum in California, so it was a worthwhile journey.

Fittingly for a watch brand that pushes the boundaries of design and technology, Richard Mille sponsored the concours d’elegance award for contemporary concept cars. It attracted entries from Peugeot, Renault, Citroën, McLaren, Porsche and Maserati, the latter entering the Alfieri concept. Coachbuilders Ital Design entered the Parcour, a Lamborghini crossover, Touring brought its modern-day interpretation of the Alfa Romeo

clockwise from top left: Delahaye also won the Concours des Clubs, (Delahaye 235 pictured).

Equestrian display kept the audience entertained.

Two head-turning models (Zagato’s Aston Martin Shooting Brake on left).

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THE Le Mans Classic PIT LANE EXPERIENCE As night begins to fall over the hallowed tarmac of La Sarthe, the high-class, high-octane atmosphere of 24hr classic endurance motor racing reaches its glorious peak. Held every two years, it takes more than 100,000 spectators and nearly 500 ex-Le Mans cars to create this emphatic retrospective event - an event fast becoming a Mecca for classic sports car fans the world over and the brainchild of Swiss watch maker and racing driver, Richard Mille. Hosting a number of VIPs at the Le Mans Classic, Richard also competes in a selection of cars including his very own Lola T70 Mk IIIB - a 5.0-litre Chevrolet V8 powered sports racer of the late 60s.

Delahaye won the ‘concours des clubs’ but the standard of cars on display, artfully arranged in the woods around picnic tables, was so high that many of them could have entered the main event.

‘Disco Volante’ while Zagato came to the party with an intriguing Aston Martin Shooting Break based on a Virage. The concept cars toured the showring accompanied by models, each of whom was wearing the work of a different couturier. Meanwhile DRIVE’s (unofficial) ‘best soundtrack’ award goes to the Alfieri, which entertained the audience with its crisp, snarling V8 backbeat.

Quibbles? A couple. The competing cars were spaced a long way apart around the (vast) gardens, demanding a major trek to view them all. And the award parade could have gone with a bit more zip. But that’s nit-picking, and for sure it will be even better next year. Overall it was a fabulous event, while the gatherings of car clubs around the grounds gave you two car shows for the price of one. Delahaye won the ‘concours des clubs’ but the standard of cars on display, artfully arranged in the woods around picnic tables, was so high that many of them could have entered the main event.

Organisers Peter Auto have already confirmed that next year’s Concours will be held on the first Sunday in September. If you need any further incentive to make a note in your diary, Chantilly is a mere 2 ½ hours from Calais, so the whole event can be done as a day trip. And do it you should. When it comes to great classic car concours, the French are definitely back in business. peterauto.peter.fr/en/

Situated directly underneath the Richard Mille hospitality lounge, the Le Mans pit lane has provided the backdrop for countless dramas. The mind boggles at the number of swiftly repaired racing cars, sleep-deprived mechanics, weary drivers, frantic media and patient family members who have vied for results in these concrete pens.

Walking amongst the assorted stacks of tyres and tools it’s easy to be distracted by all the history save for the pulse-heightening sound of the pit lane buzzer as it warns of an approaching race car…

A Coca Cola-branded Porsche Kremer 935 proudly sporting the words, “Toys For Big Boys” on its flank storms into its pit box. Lucas racing lamps ablaze and turbocharged engine straining at the lack of high-speed force-fed air cooling, its pit crew spring into action. As centre-lock wheel nuts and tyre pressures are checked, the Nomex-clad driver scrambles out of his safety belts. Driver replaced and doors slammed shut, this one-time Le Manswinning beast of the late 1970s roars away from its bay, flames jetting from the waste gate as it dumps and ignites a shot of unburnt fuel.

Leaving the circuit at around 2.30am, the rain begins to fall. Climbing into the Richard Mille branded transfer bus, only the rooster tails of spray are visible over the track fences as the open-top pre-war class climb the start / finish straight. For spectators the day’s peak has passed but for those dedicated hardy endurance racers, competing in the wet in the middle of the night, the biggest challenge has just begun. lemansclassic.com

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Master Strokes

tim layzell has taken the automotive art world By storm in recent times. Mick Walsh meets the Bristol-based artist whose sports car r acinginspired creations belong far beyond the shadows.

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When 13-year old Tim Layzell won the BRDC’s 1995 Junior Motoring Artist award his destiny was set, and there was no stopping this brilliant young talent. Twenty years on his work has been exhibited from Monaco to Monterey, and his vibrant automotive studies hang in the homes of the most famous car collectors. “Back then I only wanted to paint to save enough money for that dream D-type,” says the Bristol based artist. “Now I just want to become a better artist rather than an enthusiast who likes to paint. It’s a challenge to be taken seriously when you draw cars. I didn’t get on with my art teachers because they didn’t like my automotive subjects.”

Thankfully Layzell’s parents have always encouraged his talent, and have regularly manned his art displays at historic race meetings so he can seek out inspiration around the paddock. Layzell is also a successful landscape artist, and has never really been interested in just painting a racing car on grey tarmac. For him nothing matches the romance of the great Italian roads races. Be it the pre-race Mille Miglia scrutineering scenes in Brescia, or a late afternoon battle through Collesano on the Targa Florio, his colourful style vividly brings to life these legendary events. “I don’t see myself as a car artist,” says Layzell. “The setting is key to inspiring a composition.” Take out the cars from his dramatic 1955 Mille Miglia study

of Stirling Moss’ Mercedes-Benz 300SLR roaring north to Siena chased by Eugenio Castellotti’s Ferrari 121 LM (see left), and the painting works just as successfully. “The cars have definitely got smaller in my recent paintings.”

In recent years Layzell has made the most of holidays in Italy searching out locations for future compositions. “I’d love to retrace the full Mille Miglia route one day but Sicily’s Targa Florio course is my favourite subject.

Monaco and Sebring are circuit exceptions I always enjoy painting due to the special light.”

Sicily is not surprisingly high on Layzell’s must-visit destinations but at present he’s dependent on a much-used library. “Photographers clearly loved the Targa Florio, so there’s a wealth of reference but most are in black and white. I have to put the colour in. Researching the stories behind the cars and drivers is something I really enjoy.”

A turning point in Layzell’s style was 2009 when he switched from a cream canvas base to a dark blue. “It really liberated my style when I started painting in the highlights rather than the shadows. Immediately the compositions looked brighter and more intensive. Now I search out subjects with more shadows. I’d never paint a picture set in the midday sun.”

COVER PAGE

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT

The Tortoise and the Hare - Stirling Moss in the Aston Martin DBR1 chasing Jean Behra in the Ferrari 250TR, Le Mans 1959. One-off painting currently for sale at time of print.

Long Day Ahead - The Ferrari 121LM of Eugenio Castellotti harries the Mercedes-Benz 300SLR of Moss and Jenkinson, Mille Miglia 1955. Limited to just 250 prints, each are signed and numbered by Tim.

PREVIOUS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT

Ferrari 250 GT Zagato on the shores of Lake Como, Italy. Sold.

Snakes and Ladders - Innes Ireland wrestles the big, 289 Cobra through the Sicilian mountains in pursuit of the Ferrari GTO of Luigi Mosca and Fortinbras while in the background a Porsche 904 spins, Targa Florio 1964.

Limited to just 450 prints, each are signed and numbered by Tim.

Moss on Fire - Stirling Moss, Aston Martin DBR1/2 blasts out of St.Marys, 1959 Goodwood Tourist Trophy. Sold.

Carrera takes Targa - Porsche 911 Carrera RSR of Herbert Muller and Gijs van Lennep, Targa Florio 1973. Limited to just 450 prints, each are signed and numbered by Tim.

Carnival - Brescia 1957 Mille Miglia Start. Team Ferrari. Sold.

NEXT PAGE Summer at Goodwood - Three British World Champions charge through the St Mary’s section of Goodwood during the 1962 TT, as Graham Hill’s Coombs Ferrari 250 GTO leads Jim Clark’s Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato and the sister Maranello GTO of John Surtees. Limited to just 450 prints, each are signed and numbered by Tim.

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“It really liberated my style when I started painting in the highlights rather than the shadows. Immediately the compositions looked brighter and more intensive. Now I search out subjects with more shadows. I’d never paint a picture set in the midday sun.”

Although Layzell started out working with oil paints, he soon switched to acrylics. “They always produce a richer contrast which helps build up depth.” As Layzell’s reputation spreads, so commissions now flood in from all corners with Bugatti and Ferrari owners requesting studies of their prized cars in exotic locations. “I’m just finishing a Ferrari 212 which the owner wanted set on the lakeside at Como, but the strangest commission so far came from a Norwegian enthusiast who has created this Porsche-based VW Camper in the style of a ‘60s race team support vehicle. He wanted me to produce a fantasy painting in the old Targa paddock surrounded

by Porsche race cars.”

As well as his signature realism, Layzell has also developed a bold graphic style that started with his A-level work inspired by Pop Art legend Roy Lichtenstein, and is now in demand to promote prestige motoring events.

“The wonderful Monaco poster designs of Geo Ham were an influence. It’s a real challenge to capture the shape and speed of a historic car with simple colours.”

Fans of Layzell’s work can now follow the fascinating progress of a new composition on Twitter @timlayzellart.

See timlayzell.com or call 01761 453076.

Bespoke Number Plate Designers

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www.fourdot.co.uk Call 020 8387 1515 for our bespoke service Drive Advert - Sept 2014 v3.indd 1

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road trip:

H.R. OWEN TEST DRIVES TA K I N G A t e s t d r i v e i s v e ry i m p o rtant w h e n b u y ing a n e w c a r . I n t h i s v e r s i o n o f R oa d T r i p, DR I VE s h a r e s t wo H . R . Ow e n d e a l e r s h i p t e s t r o u t e s d e s ign e d to h ig h l I G H T a c a r’s a b i l iti e s b ot h in b u i lt- u p a r e a s , a s w e l l a s o n o p e n A- r oa d s an d c h a l l e nging B - r oa d s . W e e v e n s h ow yo u w h e r e to s to p f o r lu n c h .

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Lamborghini Pangbourne

B471

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Lamborghini Pangbourne

L a m b o r g h i n i Pa n g b o u r n e i s lo c at e d a pp r ox i m at e ly f i v e m i l e s f r o m R e a d i n g , j u s t o f f t h e M 4. Q u i e t, p e a c e f u l a n d w i t h q u i n t e s s e n t i a lly E n g l i s h c o u n t rys i d e o n i ts d o o r s t e p, i t c o u l d b e a m i ll i o n m i l e s away f r o m t h e c o n g e s t e d s t r e e ts o f Lo n d o n…

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Chilton Despite the uncompromising looks and devilish reputation, Lamborghini’s can be used every day and perform very well on country roads. This 36 mile, 1h 10m test route is designed to allow drivers to sample the performance and handling on offer whilst also discovering just how comfortable and tractable a modern Lamborghini can be.

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Streatley Compton

Turning right out of the forecourt, pass Beale Park on your right and after three miles turn left at The Bull at Streatley. Enjoy the sweeping B4009 to Aldworth, calling in at classic car-owner favourite, The Bell Inn. If you’ve not had lunch the homemade rolls are simple but delicious. There is also ample parking.

Now well familiarised with the car, leave Aldworth back along the sweeping B4009 (it’s worth a second go), taking the fast and open A417 Wantage Road, heading north to Chilton. After a short but spirited blast south on the A34, take the East Ilsley turnoff through Compton, forking left at the Four Points Inn, signposted ‘Ashampstead’ and ‘Pangbourne’. Pass under the M4, turning left at the crossroads at Bradfield, before turning left again onto the A340, back into Pangbourne. The dealership is on your right. hrowen.co.uk/lamborghini

A340

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LAMBORGHINI PANGBOURNE A340

M4

Bradfield

M4

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Newbury A33

THE BELL INN, Aldworth

To book a test drive email: Claus.Andersen@hrowen.co.uk or telephone 0333 240 8821

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High Wycombe

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Claus Anderson General Manager, Lamborghini Pangbourne “Lamborghini Pangbourne is surrounded by undulating country roads that combine to make a very comprehensive test route. Driving a Lamborghini for example, is all about feedback.

It communicates to the driver so that you know exactly where you are on the road at any one time. It doesn’t matter what the weather is doing, our test routes are designed to highlight a car’s ability on a wide range of roads, from bumpy back roads to fast dual carriageways and motorways.”

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Maidenhead

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Slough

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Reading

Coming soon…

H.R. Owen is pleased to announce the arrival of a brand new Aston Martin franchise to the Pangbourne site, due to open in early 2015. Built alongside the existing Bentley and Lamborghini Pangbourne dealerships and benefitting from the same surrounding country roads, the arrival will cement Pangbourne as a unique multi-brand destination.

Which car?

A3290 Lamborghini Huracán

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Bracknell

Wokingham

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M3

As the replacement to the Gallardo, Lamborghini’s most popular ever model, the Huracán has some important shoes to fill. Powered M25 by a V10 engine that produces 602bhp, the Huracán also features a versatile new seven-speed dualclutch gearbox that allows drivers to access more of its performance more of the time – as you’ll discover during the test drive. As you’d expect from a Lamborghini, performance is very impressive - 0-62mph takes just 3.2 seconds. hrowen.co.uk/Lamborghini

LONDON

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Bentley Hertfordshire Si t uat e d o n t h e Hi g h St reet o f N o rt h Lo ndo n’s H a dley Green, B ent ley H e rt f o r d sh i r e is ha ndily p o si t i o ned i n s i de t h e M25 but wi t hi n ea sy rea c h o f so m e o f t h e a rea’s best dri ver’s r oa ds a nd co u n t ry p ub p i t-sto p s.

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Whether you find yourself behind the wheel of the agile Continental GT V8 S or Bentley’s flagship Mulsanne, this 68 mile route remains well clear of the M25 opting instead for the less congested, more rewarding A and B-roads. Spare around 1h 40mins for this test route.

Turning right out of the Bentley Hertfordshire forecourt, head north on the Great North Road (A1000) passing under the M25 and through Potters Bar. Once you reach Millward’s Park on your right, take the second exit on the roundabout, heading north on the A1(M).

After approximately 15 miles, leave the A1(M) at junction nine following the A505 into Baldock.

Historic coaching inn The George at Baldock is an excellent spot to relax over lunch whilst pondering your return route. Leave Baldock on the A507 – a fast, cross-country section of tarmac that highlights the Bentley range’s surefootedness and impressive power reserves.

Once at Buntingford, head south on the A10 dual-carriageway towards London for another 15 miles taking the Turnford exit. Keep left at both roundabouts passing back under the A10 on Church Lane, turning left onto White Stubbs Lane after one mile. Continue past the Paradise Wildlife Park on your right turning left at the T-junction, signposted ‘Newgate Street’. After three hundred yards turn right onto the tree-lined Tylers Causeway and continue for three miles. At the next T-junction, re-join the A1000, turning left, signposted ‘Potters Bar’.

Pass underneath the M25 once again and continue into Hadley Green, the dealership is on your left.

hrowen.co.uk/bentley To book a test drive contact: Paco.Rodriguez@hrowen.co.uk or call: 0333 014 3358

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Hadley

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Which car?

Bentley Continental GT Speed Packing 626bhp and with 820Nm, Bentley’s W12-engined, four-wheel drive Continental GT Speed can cover the 0-60mph dash in just four seconds, whilst flat out it can reach an incredible 206mph. This is a car designed to travel long distances, offering its occupants the very highest comfort levels.

Standard-fit equipment includes sports suspension, dark tint 21-inch wheels and full Mulliner Driving Specification.

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Buntingford

Stevenage THE GEORGE INN, BALDOCK

Stanstead Airport

A10 Welwyn Garden City Hertford

A1(M)

Epping Green Womley

A1000 Cheshunt Potters Bar

Enfield BENTLEY HERTFORDSHIRE

LONDON

M25

Paco Rodriguez, General Manager, Bentley Hertfordshire.

“The driving experience is a huge part of Bentley ownership – if not the biggest.

Bentley Hertfordshire is very uniquely located within easy reach of both central London and some of the South East’s best A & B roads. We actively encourage customers to take cars out for a drive, on all types of roads.

Demonstrating comfort levels is very important too, the way a Bentley rides has to be experienced first-hand.”

M25

TOOLBOX HEROS

Automobilia ENGINES FOR THE WRIST

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Cars and watches go together like nuts and bolts. Shot on lo cation at one of H.R. Owen‘s superc ar service centres, DRIVE downed tools to take these finely cr af ted time-keepers for a spin.

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1. Chopard, Grand Prix de Monaco, £6,620, watches-of-switzerland.co.uk / 2. Breitling, Emergency Night Mission, £13,570, breitling.com / 3. Cartier, Calibre de Cartier Diver, £5,700, watches-of-switzerland.co.uk / 4. Jaeger-LeCoultre, AMVOX 5, £15,500, watches-of-switzerland.co.uk / 5. Richard Mille, RM 011 ‘Felipe Massa’ Flyback Chronograph Silicium Nitride, £116,000, richardmille.com / 6. Hublot, Big Bang Ferrari Unico, £19,950, hublot.com / 7. Parmigiani Fleurier, Bugatti Aerolithe, £20,000, parmigiani.com

TOOLBOX HEROS

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Automobilia ENGINES FOR THE WRIST

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1. Zenith, Captain Power Reserve £9,100, watches-of-switzerland.co.uk / 2. NOMOS Glashütte, Zurich Datum £3,190, watches-of-switzerland.co.uk / 3. Breitling, Bentley Barnato Racing, £26,940, breitlingforbentley.com / 4. Hublot, Classic Fusion, £9,400, hublot.com / 5. Parmigiani Fleurier, Tonda 1950, £13,300, parmigiani.ch / 6. Richard Mille, RM 016 White Gold Medium Set Diamonds, £140,000, richardmille.com

gifts

AUTOMOTIVE PARTNERS Every one of thes e highly distinguished gif ts ar e produc ed by an official partn er to an automotiv e br and. From a B ugat ti watch to Maser ati headphones, prepare to want them all.

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1 NAIM AUDIO MU - SO Mu-so is the first wireless music system from Bentley’s audio partner, Naim. Finely tuned by specialist engineers in England, its powerful digital brain delivers exceptional quality in sound, commanding 450 watts of power through six custom-designed speakers to create an experience of music that has to be heard to be believed. £895, naimaudio.com/mu-so

2 P a r m i g i an i F l e u r i e r B u g a t t i Ae r o l i t h e The latest addition to the Bugatti collection takes its name from a very special one-off car, displayed at 1935 Paris Motor Show.

The Bugatti Aerolithe disappeared shortly after the show, mysteriously never to be seen again. The distinctive feature of the Aerolithe Flyback Chronograph is the rivet that crosses it from front to end. This is what joins the bodywork and solved the problem of being unable to weld the magnesium; it is also what gave the car its unique, futuristic streamlined look. The rivet technique was later adopted for its successor, the Bugatti Type 57 Atlantic. £20,000, parmigiani.com

3 Et tore Bugat ti COLLECTION The Ettore Bugatti Collection of clothing, accessories and luggage features fine Tasmania wool, sable weave cashmere, flannels with micro-patterns or mélange effects, combinations of silk satin, new jacquard techniques and exotic leathers. Flamboyant and unashamedly eccentric in tone, the range is fully integrated with the main Bugatti design codes and symbols; from the iconic blue colour to the precious dancing elephant. A special Gentlemen Driver capsule collection is inspired by the Bugatti Type 35. The Bugatti Bag, in its iconic horseshoe grill shape, is available in various sizes and with bespoke personalisation. View the collection at the newly opening Lifestyle Boutique London, Brompton Road.

For more info contact: lifestyle@bugatti.com

4 Bowers & Wilkins P 5 Se r i e s 2 M o b i l e H i - F i Get closer to your favourite music wherever you are with P5 Series 2, the noise-isolating headphones from Bowers & Wilkins - official Maserati audio partner. The latest version features an all-new drive unit design that raises sound quality to new levels, while high-quality materials ensure a luxuriously comfortable fit. Think of it as your own personal concert – to go. RRP £249.99 bowers-wilkins.co.uk

Concert for one P7 Mobile Hi-Fi headphones Lose yourself in music with P7. Engineered to raise the bar for mobile sound quality with a Hi-Fi loudspeaker approach to headphone drive units. Listen and you’ll see. bowers-wilkins.co.uk

F I T T E D W I T H N E W 8 - S P E E D A U T O M AT I C TRANSMISSIONS AND A SERIES OF HIGH

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PERFORMANCE UPGRADES, GEORGE CHAPMAN HEADS TO THE WILDS OF SCOTLAND TO S A M P L E T H E R E V I TA L I S E D A S T O N M A R T I N VA N Q U I S H A N D R A P I D E S .

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day driving Aston Martin’s updated V12-engined super-tourers on some of the best roads in North West Scotland called for an equally memorable location. The gloriously restored Aldourie Castle, a private residence on the shores of Loch Ness complete with Scottish piper and butler, seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Showcasing an all-new 8-speed Touchtronic III automatic gearbox as well as a host of other engineering developments, the 2015 two-door Vanquish and four-door Rapide S models are substantially faster, more dynamic, lighter and more efficient than ever before. Supplied by ZF, the new transmission offers a shift speed far quicker than any human can manage (130 milliseconds to be exact), featuring a wider selection of ratios that help to deliver better acceleration and higher top speeds. Incorporated into Aston Martin’s rear-mounted transaxle layout for the first time, this state-of the-art gearbox boasts an impressive weight saving over the 6-speed unit it replaces. Aston Martin has also introduced new paint colours, plus fresh wheel and interior options.

Since its re-launch in 2012 as the successor to the DBS, the Vanquish GT’s muscular carbon-bodied styling and well-judged ride have attracted buyers looking for a stylish, mature offering in this segment.

Parked at The Torridon Hotel near Achnasheen, a few hour’s drive from Inverness, the 2015 model, complete with new 10-spoke forged alloys, remains a mightily handsome beast. Producing 568bhp and a maximum of 630Nm, the 5.9-litre V12 Vanquish can now offer performance to match; the 0-60mph dash is dealt with in just 3.6 seconds - an improvement of half a second over last year’s model, whilst top speed also increases significantly from 183mph to 201mph.

The new tr ansmission offers a shift speed far quicker than any human can manage ( 1 3 0 m i l l i s e c o n d s t o b e e x a c t ) , f e at u r i n g a

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568bhp 201mph

ullapool

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The Torridon

beauly inverness

ALDOUrie CASTLE drumnadrochit

t h e Va n q u i s h w o r k s i t s way i n t o yo u r h e a r t a lo n g s i d e t h e m y s t e r i o u s T o r r i d o n h i l l s t h at h av e b e e n aw e - i n s p i r i n g v i s i t o r s T o t h i s pa r t o f S c o t l a n d f o r g e n e r at i o n s .

Leaving the Torridon Hotel, heading West on the brilliant A896, the Vanquish’s new found grunt and improved high-speed cornering ability can be unleashed. The V12 engine absolutely roars when provoked. The Ferrari F12, its natural rival, may be faster in a straight line, but the Aston’s engine and new 8-speed ‘box operate so harmoniously with one another, it’s difficult to imagine a finer marriage of power and control. As you begin to relax at the controls relying on its fade-free ceramic brakes and composure over rough, twisty roads, the Vanquish works its way into your heart alongside the mysterious Torridon hills that have been awe-inspiring visitors to this part of Scotland for generations.

A train travelling adjacent to the road in the opposite direction appears in the distance. With the V12

2015 Aston Martin Vanquish Price from £192,995 Engine

5.9-litre V12

Power/Torque

568bhp / 630Nm

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Transmission Eight-speed automatic with electronic shift-by-wire

0-60mph 3.6 seconds Top speed

201 mph

Economy/CO2

22.1 mpg / 298 g/km

Four driving modes

2015 Aston Martin Rapide S Price

From £147,550

Engine

5.9-litre V12

Power/Torque

552bhp / 630Nm

Transmission Eight-speed automatic with electronic shift-by-wire

0-60mph 4.2 seconds Top speed

203 mph

Economy/CO2

21.9 mpg / 300 g/km

singing at 6,000 rpm, ‘Sport’ button glowing and exhaust bypass valves wide open, ScotRail’s passengers are treated to a fly-past to remember.

And so to the Rapide S - a car that because of its four-door layout, is easily overlooked as a true driver’s car. Fitted with the new 8-speed unit and with power from the V12 upped to 552bhp, the Rapide S now lives up to the name. Capable of 0-60mph in just 4.2 seconds (down from 4.7 seconds) and a top speed of 203mph - flat out, it’s intriguingly 2mph faster than the Vanquish. As the road ahead empties of traffic, the Rapide S quickly transforms from tourer to sports car.

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Threading the five metre long four-door, four seat coupe along narrower roads surrounding sleepy Scottish towns and villages such as Cannich and Drumnadrochit, it’s easy to forget about the two full-size seats and 223-litre boot lurking behind you. So easy in fact, the decision is made to stop and pick up two young gap year hitchhikers along with their huge backpacks. The added weight does little to dilute the performance and handling on offer.

Attempting to catch out the transmission changing up and down the ‘box carelessly, the system entertains as far as it sees necessary before matching the correct gear to road speed with frightening accuracy. Providing the driver with instant response at all times, it’s the ‘hewn from the same rock’ feeling both motor and transmission install that leave you smitten.

Many buyers will be in search of outright performance at this price point and Aston Martin has certainly answered its critics in that respect. What is perhaps more impressive is how well matched the improved engine and chassis are to such an advanced transmission, which is highly positive news for the British maker. However, facing ever-tightening emissions standards and with the arrival of engines from Mercedes’ performance division AMG, for the next generation of Aston Martin cars, it may soon be time to say farewell to one of the last, great V12 engines still in production. Until then, it’s time to enjoy these magnificent creations the way the maker intended – on the open roads of the Scottish Highlands.

Bosch Engine Management

THE V12 Aston Martin Engine Aston Martin’s iconic V12 engine first entered production in 1999, fitted to the DB7 Vantage Coupe and Volante. Developed

by Cosworth and built by Aston Martin at Ford’s Cologne factory in Germany, it produced 420bhp and 540NM. In 2001, Aston Martin launched the V12 Vanquish complete with a drive-by-wire throttle and six-speed electrohydraulic manual transmission, producing 450bhp. The Vanquish was swiftly followed by the DB9, designed and developed on the aluminium VH platform, also producing 450bhp. Following a very successful race programme including class wins at Le Mans, the V12 was fitted to the DBS in 2007. In 2009, the £1.15 million One-77 supercar featured an extreme evolution of the V12 engine, whilst the Virage in 2011, saw power reach 490bhp. Finally, the famous V12 made it into the current shape Vanquish and Vantage V12 in 2012, where it now produces 568bhp and 630Nm of torque.

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The Big Plan With AMG’s involvement now imminent, Julian Rendell speaks with Global Sales Director for Aston Martin, Christian Marti, on the exciting times ahead for the much-loved British maker.

Aston Martin has the builders in. Not to throw a lick of paint about the place, but a major £20m expansion of manufacturing facilities, logistics stores and offices that will take Aston into the next phase of its storied 101-year history. The centrepiece of this expansion is a £500m investment — the biggest in the company’s history — and a new chairman in the shape of Andy Palmer, a Brit whose long career at Nissan has made him one of the most influential global car industry execs.

Most critically, the huge investment will deliver a new generation of Vantage/DB9/ Rapide models based on a new, aluminium body architecture and using powertrains and electrical architecture supplied by Mercedes-Benz. The first fruit of this effort is expected to be the DB9 replacement, on sale around 2016/17, and a signal that Aston’s future is solidly secure.

Like all luxury car-makers, Aston was hit hard by the 2008 financial crisis, which put ambitious plans for new models on hold. At the same time, new investors were required to give the financial balance sheet a reboot while a search was started for a technology partner to supply new powertrains and electrical architectures. Mercedes-Benz has stepped into the latter role, its involvement significant not just for the all-new 500bhpplus AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that will power the new Astons, but also for the five per cent ownership stake ‘Benz will take.

Together these developments add up to a bright and secure long-term future, but importantly business is today buzzing along, as Aston Martin’s global sales director Christian Marti gleefully points out. “The global markets for luxury sports cars have recovered since 2008 to pre-crisis volume,” says Marti, “and we see that the shrinking markets in continental Europe are more than balanced by sustained growth in China and Asia.” The US is still Aston’s biggest market, followed by the UK, Germany, Japan and China, the latter dominated by luxury saloon and SUV sales rather than Aston’s trademark two-seaters and two-plus-twos. “Our sports cars are selling well in the Western world, while the Rapide would have a 70 per cent share of our sales in China,” says Marti.

Encouragingly, sales in the UK are booming this year, powered by the new Vanquish (driven here) and revised DB9 and V12 Vantage. Says Marti: “The UK market has seen tremendous growth this year to achieve similar sales numbers as in 2007 and 2008.”

Overall, global sales have stabilised at around 4,200 cars a year, the number recorded in 2013 and forecast for 2014. Of course these sales reflect a post-boom reality in which Aston has re-sized its business around a smaller slice of the global luxury car pie. It would not be a surprise, however, if a range of desirable all-new models, likely to be complete around 2020/21, returned Gaydon to the heady record of 7,300 sales a year achieved precrash in 2007.

Also built-in to the new business plan are two important new divisions, which should also boost balance sheet profitability. First is the return of Lagonda, one of the great names pre-WW2, and best known now for the angular-looking luxury saloon launched in 1976.

“We have seen some specific customer demand in the Middle East and responded with a beautiful limousine that represents the genes of our historic Lagonda brand,” says Marti.

A purposeful-looking four-door luxury saloon, the new Lagonda will be based on today’s DB9/Rapide structure and built in the same facility at Gaydon where the limited run £1.1m One-77 supercar was assembled. To be sold only in the Middle East and built in very limited numbers, the Lagonda will reflect its exclusivity with a suitably select price tag.

A second, new business strand is also based around exclusivity, the ‘Q by Aston Martin’ personalisation service, which borrows its name from the James Bond technical branch. Q will allow buyers to choose unique trims, paint finishes and equipment, just as Bentley uses Mulliner and Ferrari has Tailor-Made. “Q by Aston Martin is the ultimate expression of taste and individualism in which our designers work hand in hand with the Q team and our customers.”

Customers will also surely be impressed by the huge investment, highly-respected new chairman, new models and new business areas. Aston Martin is going places.

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n o w it ’ s

y o u r t u r n

Where To Stay Positioned on the southern shore of Loch Ness, Aldourie Castle is a five-star residential property available only for private hire to one individual booking. Several holiday cottages are also available.

First recorded as a mansion house in 1626, it displays archetypal Scottish Baronial architecture, complete with fairytale turrets and spires.

Witnessing the passing of General Wade’s troops, becoming a meeting place for the Lovat Scouts, playing an important part in the life of the famous artist GF Watts and as the perfect stop off for Victorian aristocrats – Aldourie has become interwoven with Scotland’s history.

Boasting a 500-acre woodland estate complete with its own marina from which to explore the infamous Loch Ness, the 19th Century property has over the past few years been sympathetically restored to its original grandeur and beauty, with attention to detail applied to every room.

How To Get There Aldourie Castle is situated just five miles from the city of Inverness and a thirty minute transfer from Inverness Airport. The location offers easy access to the empty, open roads of the North West Highlands. aldouriecastle.co.uk

The Trafalgar Penthouses BATTERSEA REACH, LONDON SW18

T R U LY B R E AT H TA K I N G

Located on the top two floors of Trafalgar House, Battersea Reach, these stunning duplex penthouses offer unrivalled views across the London skyline. With exquisite entrance lobbies, elegant interiors and grand terraces, these homes set a truly impeccable standard throughout.

NOW LAUNCHED

Prices on application, register today at:

WWW.BATTERSEAREACH.COM

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7978 4141 Email: BatterseaReachSales@stgeorgesl.com Battersea Reach Sales and Marketing Suite Battersea Reach, York Road, London SW18 1TX Open weekdays 10am – 8pm, Weekends 10am – 6pm

Computer generated image of previous Battersea Reach penthouse terrace is indicative only.

AT YO U R S E RV I C E #7

A Bug’s Life A s t h e B u g at t i V e y r o n ’ s p r o d u c t i o n r u n c o m e s to a c lo s e , DRI V E ’ s Mat t h e w Ca rt e r m e e ts A n i ta K r i z s a n, Ja c k B a r c l ay ’ s h i g h ly s u c c e s s f u l B u g at t i s a l e s p e r s o n a n d t h e k e y h o l d e r to o n e o f t h e l a s t b r a n d n e w a n d u n r e g i s t e r e d e x a m p l e s ava i l ab l e .

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nita Krizsan first saw the Bugatti Veyron at Salon Privé, London’s annual concours d’elegance, in 2005. It was love at first sight. “I was mesmerised by the look of the car,” she remembers. “I had never seen anything more beautiful. To my mind it was an example of fine art… perfection.”

At about the same time, she used to walk past the imposing façade of Jack Barclay’s Berkeley Square showroom in London on her way to work at another car dealer, but found herself too shy to come in and look at the cars on display.

Things have changed somewhat over the ensuing nine years. Today, Anita goes into Jack Barclay every day where she works as the UK’s only Bugatti sales person. And she’s pretty good at it, too. With Anita heading the team, Jack Barclay is the world’s most successful Bugatti Partner, responsible for selling no fewer than 20 new and pre-owned examples of the fantastically powerful, expensive and exclusive machines over the last couple of years.

The target for 2014 is somewhat more modest – just four cars, but there’s a good reason for that. After nine years in production, the last Veyrons have been built and are awaiting customers.

Europe’s final car is now the focus of Anita’s attention. Sitting in the Jack Barclay showroom is her ‘baby’, a Grand Sport Vitesse 16.4, the ultimate expression of the Veyron. It’s 8-litre, 16-cylinder quad turbo engine develops an astonishing 1200hp and a 1500Nm wall of torque. That stunning specification is matched by the car’s exterior finish with visible carbon fibre panels finished in blue, set off by polished aluminium front wings and mirrors.

PERSONAL SERVICE

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It sits menacingly in the window of the showroom where it spends its time being snapped by passers-by on their camera phones. The window starts each day sparklingly clean but quickly becomes covered in fingerprints as they try to get as close as possible to the car.

A panel on the window gives the car’s specification and performance: 0-60mph in 2.6 seconds and a top speed of 254.04mph. That last figure with its extra 0.04mph somehow encapsulates the precision engineering that has gone into the Veyron project. Another example, perhaps, is the price. Without turning to an aide memoire, Anita recites the exact figure, apologising ‘as it’s a little unusual, thanks to the car’s specification’.

The figure is €2,156,300. With a sharp intake of breath I ask what sort of person – aside from extremely wealthy – will be spending that amount of money on a car. “There’s no typical profile for a Bugatti owner,” says Anita.

“There’s no typical career profile, no typical age, no typical type of person.

“The one thing they have in common, aside from the ability to buy such a car of course, is an appreciation of what the car represents – the unique combination of dynamic performance, heritage and art.

“Many Veyron owners regard the car as a piece of sculpture, which is fitting given that Ettore Bugatti’s brother Rembrandt was a sculptor.”

“I had never seen anything more beautiful. To my mind it was an example of fine art… perfection.”

Turning to the car in the showroom she says: “The other thing to remember is that nobody needs a Bugatti. They’ve got to want one. Whoever buys this car might be a collector, an investor or an enthusiast… but they will be passionate about the car.”

Although clearly passionate about the cars herself – at one point in the interview Anita spots a small smudge on the polished aluminium bodywork and discreetly removes it with the corner of a handkerchief – she says the best part of the job is dealing with the people.

Originally from Hungary, Anita started working as an administration assistant in a car dealership, primarily as a way to improve her English.

But she quickly found she enjoyed the environment and over the next few years moved to the reception desk and then into sales. She has experience of working with wealthy individuals when selling Minis and BMW for H.R. Owen before moving to sell brands like Porsche, Jaguar and Land Rover.

She moved to Jack Barclay four years ago and took over the Bugatti side of the business in November 2011.

Selling a Veyron, whether new or pre-owned, is not the work of a moment, not a mere business transaction. Rather it is the start of a relationship. “At Bugatti I am dealing with some highly successful people and time is one commodity they never seem to have much of. Yet when I take prospective customers to Molsheim, to the factory to see the cars being built, things seem to slow down. They relax and are able to immerse themselves in the heritage of the Bugatti legend. Going to the factory is one of the best parts of the job.”

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“The one thing they have in common, aside from the ability to buy such a car of course, is an appreciation of what the car represents – the unique combination of dynamic performance, heritage and art”.

Another pretty good part is actually driving the car. “I have been lucky enough to drive a Veyron, a Vitesse, at 350km/h, on a track in Spain,” says Anita. “It was just amazing… and effortless. It’s a very easy car to drive, it all works so beautifully.”

So what happens next? With perfect timing, given the ending of the Veyron line, Anita will be leaving Jack Barclay in a couple of months to have a baby of her own, her first. But she’ll be back in 2015 ready to start selling the Veyron’s successor… whatever that might be (and Anita’s not saying).

In the meantime, though, the last of the Veyron line still has the ability to turn grown men into schoolboys. As we prepare to leave the showroom, photographer Richard cannot resist sitting in the driver’s seat and taking a selfie on his camera phone. It’s that sort of machine. hrowen.co.uk/bugatti

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LAST CHANCE...

Jack Barclay Bugatti is very pleased to offer the new and unregistered Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse 16.4, featured in this article. The sale represents a unique opportunity to purchase one of the remaining brand new examples - before production comes to an end.

The specification showcases a stunning combination of polished aluminium and blue carbon-fibre bodywork.

Price â‚Ź2,156,300 Engine

8-litre, 16 cylinder quad-turbo

Power/Torque

1,184 bhp, 1500 Nm of torque

0-60mph

2.6 seconds

Top speed

254.04 mph

Exterior: Polished aluminium/blue carbon fibre Blue carbon fibre door panels Blue carbon tinted air intakes Blue brake callipers Mirror shine grilles Polished aluminium wing mirror Covers Aluminium roof rails 20� Two tone diamond cut wheels Interior: Gaucho / Lake blue leather

DRIVE_BUGATTI_MKI.indd 1

17/06/2014 09:35

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m a n c av e m e c h a n i c a A LO N G S I D E T HE WATCH O N YO U R W R I S T AN D T HE C L A S S IC CA R IN YO U R G A R A G E , A L LOW D R I V E TO S U G G E S T T WO HI G H L Y C O L L EC TA B L E MAN CAV E M U S T- HAV E S T HAT S HA R E A V E RY R E T R O A P P EA L .

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Neon Signs Installing an immediate ‘night on the town’ atmosphere, no man cave is complete without a neon sign. For inspiration, GEORGE CHAPMAN visits zany Walthamstow wonderland, God’s Own Junk Yard.

In the early 1970’s, ‘King of Neon’ and expert tube bender Chris Bracey worked as a graphic designer. By the mid-70s, he was busy re­signing the majority of Soho’s infamous establishments, reinventing the visual landscape with the colours of the fairground and exotic typography. Chris’ love of old signs and fascination with the unusual inspired him to produce neon and bulb artworks.

Created by hand, his pieces encompass new, original illuminated sculptures, salvaged signs, vintage signage, old movie props and retrospective display pieces. Alongside his prestigious art pieces, Chris also creates unique pieces from discarded objects. Historical imprints of the 1950s seaside and circus figure as motifs in his work alongside Americana and rock ‘n roll. A passionate recycler, Chris re­fashions pieces from salvaged iconic signs, spent window displays and discarded neon from yesteryear before they disappear forever. Repaired and resurrected, pieces are reworked and reincarnated for a new era. Many of the iconic pieces, ‘God Save the Queen’ and ‘Seduce Me’ have fetched large sums of money at Philips De Pury and Sotherby’s auction houses.

To create the effect, neon tubing is heated and bent into shape and filled with rarefied neon or other gases. When a voltage is applied to electrodes inserted through the glass, an electrical glow is discharged. Very often a phosphorescent coating is applied ­- the colour of the light emitted by the tube may be just coming from the gas or the light from the phosphor layer. Pure neon gas is used to produce only a third of the 100 available colours. The greatest number of colours is produced by filling with another inert gas, argon, plus a drop of mercury which is added to the tube immediately after purification.

Chris’ cavernous Walthamstow industrial unit ‘God’s Own Junkyard’ glimmers with floor­-to-­ceiling items, including many of the iconic movie pieces he has created over the years. The ‘HOTEL’ neon from The Dark Knight (starring Heath Ledger) is displayed next to the ‘STARK’ sign that Chris made for Captain America. An oversized top hat sign emblazoned with ‘Tuxedos’ and ‘Rainbow Costumes’ are two of the many pieces Chris made for Stanley Kubrick’s last movie Eye’s Wide Shut.

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Describing the interior as “what the inside of my brain looks like”, a pair of neon eyeglasses encased in black perspex is a nod to TJ Eckleburg, one of the dominant symbols of The Great Gatsby, which Chris fashioned after watching the 1974 version starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow.

He’s produced pieces for Scandal, Superman IV, Tomb Raider and the re­ make of Tim Burton’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. His credits also include many of the James Bond movies and Daniel Craig’s debut 007 flick, Casino Royale. Recent commissions include Dark Shadows and Brad Pitt’s post-apocalyptic movie, World War Z. “I want God’s to offer serious pos­ sibilities as a mutable space and for it to feel like a film set. As it’s much bigger than my last place, I really wanted to have fun with it and make it as Bladerunner as possible. I have a reclaimed shed that I filled with God and Jesus signs and turned it into a chapel. Now though, I think I’m going to tilt it for a while, so it looks a bit like the Kansas house that lands in Oz. That car,” he says, gesturing to the front of a what looks like a Bentley, “I did that for Tim Burton for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

Chris holds the largest collection of neon in Europe and one of the largest in the world. Following sell out shows in London and Los Angeles, his 2014 schedule includes exhibitions in India, Moscow and Singapore.

Among the art pieces that Chris sells through Scream gallery, the space showcases vintage signs from as far back as the 1930s and original circus signs made by Chris’ father. A God’s Own Junkyard studio range is also sold through a pop­-up store at Selfridges, London.

Visit: godsownjunkyard.co.uk or email: chris@godsownjunkyard.co.uk

Pinball Machines Hugely popular in the fifties through to the seventies, electro-mechanical pinball machines, with their bellchime rings and score-roll clack make charming man cave additions. Paul Rubens meets a South Londoner at the helm of this arcade revival.

Gleaming chrome, beautiful paintwork and complex machinery ticking away perfectly: if you appreciate classic cars then it’s not hard to understand the attraction of a beautifully restored vintage pinball machine.

The similarities are striking: both are visually stunning, both rely on old-fashioned craftsmanship and precision engineering beneath the hood, the most sought after ones are increasingly rare and valuable, and as well as being good investments both also exist to be shown off and enjoyed.

Pinball designers also frequently look at cars for inspiration when choosing a theme for a new table, resulting in machines with names including Stock Car, Road Race, Grand Prix, Nitro Ground Shaker and Corvette. Stern Pinball, the only large scale manufacturer still in business, even produced a Mustang pinball machine this year to celebrate the brand’s 50th anniversary.

But it’s rare to see a pinball table “out in the wild” in a pub or arcade these days, or in a French café or an American drug store for that matter.

That’s because the great Chicago-based pinball manufacturers of the past such as Gottlieb, Williams, and Bally have been driven out of the business by video games and gaming machines.

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The majority of pinball machines that are still working are now in private hands, and most of these are relatively modern electronic pinball machines from the 1990s.

But there’s a growing interest in the restoration of rare “classic” pinball tables: these are machines that were made in a much earlier period - from about 1955 to the early 1970s.

Unlike the electronic machines from the 1990s these vintage pinball tables are completely electro-mechanical, relying on relays, solenoids stepper units and score reels rather than microchips and dot matrix displays to make them function. Natural wear causes each of these parts to behave slightly differently, giving each table its own unique personality.

And unlike the electronic tables which feature digital sound effects and licensed sound and video clips from films or television shows, the only sounds that classic pinball machines make are bell chimes, the noise of the silver ball bouncing off the mushroom-like pop bumpers, and the clack of the score reels as they tot up the points as they are scored.

But perhaps the biggest difference between electronic pinball machines and classic electro-mechanical tables comes down to aesthetics: many classic tables are works of art in their own right.

That’s because when these machines were built the most important way to differentiate one game from another and to attract players was by the artwork: the hand designed illustrations on the playfield - the surface on which the pinball moves around - and on the back glass where the scores are displayed.

The style and theme of the artwork captures the prevailing mood and fashion at the time each machine was built, turning each one into a kind of time capsule. A machine such as Genco Fun-Fair from 1958 features characters in conservative post war dress shooting at a carnival side-show.

The far more racy 1963 Bally Star Jet captures the swinging sixties mood perfectly: its centre piece is an astro-girl, with cartoon flying saucers in psychedelic colours in the background.

Many of these tables are now half a century old, so happening on one in good condition and full working order is almost impossible. But there’s a small group of pinball craftsmen around the world who specialise in restoring these machines to their former glory.

Giacomo Malvermi operates a pinball workshop in South London called Pinball Creative, from where he restores about two dozen pinball tables every year. Restoring a single machine can involve hundreds of hours of work.

“The idea I have is to restore pinball machines from the period I think is the golden age back to the condition they were in when they were made,” he says. “My passion is restoring things and making them beautiful.”

“Most of my customers used to play these machines in the past, and see them as a work of art as much as a piece of memorabilia,” he adds.

But not all of these machines are destined to be luxury toys taking pride of place in a “man cave.” Interior decorators looking for something beautiful and out of the ordinary are also becoming an increasingly important source of sales, Malvermi says.

must HAVE

Sound System One aspect of your man cave that is arguably best brought right up to date is the sound system. For the world’s most advanced Hi-Fi technology that is designed by engineers to create the best listening experience, look no further than British firm Naim Audio - official audio partner to Bentley Motors no less. DRIVE examines two of their latest offerings.

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A fully restored machine cost is likely to cost around £4,000 - £5,000, although Malvermi sold a rare example for £12,000 at a recent Christie’s auction.

The restoration process starts with the refurbishment of the wooden cabinet, which is then repainted using paints which are painstakingly colour-matched to the originals.

Meanwhile the legs and other metal work are removed and sent off to be re-chromed, while the playfield is stripped down and cleaned. If the playfield is worn or faded it is sent to a playfield specialist company in Germany for repairs and touch ups. This company also retouches the backglasses or, if necessary, reproduces them by hand painting original designs onto glass - a process which by itself can take over thirty hours to complete.

And while all this is going on the stepper unit and other mechanical parts are removed, cleaned and refurbished or replaced so the machine is restored to perfect working order. Finally the machine is reassembled, new bulbs and rubber parts are fitted, and the machine is play tested to ensure that it works exactly as it should.

Once completely restored, a classic pinball machine needs a degree of care and attention paid to it to keep it going. Malvermi recommends cleaning tables every month or so, and a service every six months. Much like a vintage car, in other words.

Naim Statement Consisting of the NAC 51 preamplifier and the NAP S1 mono power amplifier, the Naim Statement is the result of three years development to create the ultimate amplifier. Cased in a solid billet of CNC-machined untreated aluminium with isolated individual sections to avoid unwanted interference, the NAP S1 alone is rated at a massive 746 watts (equivalent to one horse power) into 8ohms, making it incredibly loud and powerful.

RRP £135,000, (see below).

pinballcreative.co.uk

PINBALL MACHINES: DID YOU KNOW? 1. The pinball is a 1 1/16 inch diameter (about 3 cm) steel sphere that weighs 2.8 ounces (80 g). On a normal (unwaxed) table, the ball can reach speeds of up to 90 mph (145 kph).

2. The wiring that runs from the controller board to the rest of the machine is massive, usually consisting of over a half-mile (0.8 km) of wire.

3. The pinball playfield itself is usually made of a wood base coated with several layers of paint and finish. The playfield is inclined at a 6-to-7-degree angle toward the player, creating a hill on which the ball is influenced by gravity.

4. Pinball was banned from the early 1940s to the mid-1970s in most of America’s big cities, including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

5. Hugh Hefner is a huge Pinball Fanatic. He has cooperated with pinball companies for at least three Playboy-themed pinball machines over the years. According to a former editor at Playboy, the magazine’s editorial offices had a Bally Fireball machine in the ‘70s.

Naim Mu-so If you’d rather spend your hard-earned on one of Bentley’s cars but can appreciate the need for a soundtrack in your den, the Naim Mu-so is an all in one music player (also know as a ‘soundbar’ in the industry) that offers much of Naim’s expertise in streaming and amplification in one stylish and top quality package. Beautifully finished in aluminium, the Mu-so offers connections for your TV, USB and analogue line-in plus wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

RRP £895. For more information or to receive a demonstration, visit kjwestone.co.uk or contact 020 7486 82 62.

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Desert Formula Combining the theatre of FORMULA 1 with the United Arab Emirates’ guaranteed sunshine, world-class accommodation and top-flight service produces one of the motoring calendar’s must-see events. Finishing with a huge party, DRIVE warms up for the 2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix.

The finale of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship season arrives at the incredible Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi in 2014. With double points on offer to drivers and the promise of a huge after-race concert, the 2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix is an annual fixture on the F1 calendar that is not be missed.

Staying at Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, the only hotel in the world spanning a Formula 1 track, motorsport fans are treated to a unique spectator and hospitality experience. Designed by Hani Rashid and Lise Anne Couture of New York based Asymptote Architecture, Yas Viceroy is covered by a sweeping veil known as the Grid Shell, comprising of more than 5,000 pivoting and colour-changing LED panes.

Each generous-sized guestroom features custom furnishings designed to reflect the hotel’s striking architecture and stylish design.

The exclusive Marina Executive Suites, offer floor-to-ceiling windows and breath-taking views across the Yas Marina and its Formula 1 circuit. A total of 11 dining and lounge venues serving cuisine from around the world, with the hotel’s ESPA spa and wellness facilities to ensure guests can relax, unwind and enjoy the race.

Abu Dhabi will come alive with music over the weekend with the return of Yasalam, the largest city-wide programme run by any Formula 1 host city. Spectators will be wowed by world-class events including a firework display, international

performers and a flypast of Etihad Airways’ new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, due to enter service in 2015. The new Dreamliner is the world’s first major airliner to use composite materials as the primary material in the construction of its airframe.

To reach Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways operates three direct daily flights from London Heathrow and twice daily from Manchester with a flight time of around seven hours. A number of raceinclusive packages consisting of grandstand tickets, flights, hotel accommodation and more, can be booked via etihadholidays.co.uk The 2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix, coincides with the opening of Yas Island’s new mega-retail destination. The 235,000 square metre Yas Mall will contain 450 stores and a 20-screen cinema complex. Other exclusive events in the calendar include the 2014/2015 Volvo Ocean Race Abu Dhabi Stopover, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship and the 2014 ISAF Sailing World Cup Final.

Abu Dhabi is also home to Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme parks, where the new Karting Academy featuring Arabia’s first electric karts allow visitors to travel at speeds of up to 80 km/hr. tcaabudhabi.ae/en etihadholidays.co.uk viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/abudhabi

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2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix Abu Dhabi • ‘Abu Dhabi enjoys year round sunshine with average temperature during November over the race weekend of 24 degrees C. Yas Viecroy • The Race Weekend package at Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is from £898 per room/night (AED 5,650) and includes the hotel pass with access to various F1 event areas and the four after-race concerts.

Minimum 4 night stay.

• The Ultimate Race Weekend package includes private helicopter transfers, Presidential Suite accommodation complete with rooftop pool, private chef, ESPA treatments and VIP access tickets to the event and after-race concerts.

Prices from £54,040 per room/night (AED 329 000).

Etihad Airways • Etihad Airways operates daily flights from the UK departing from London and Manchester and from June 2015, Edinburgh. Flight time from the UK is around 7 hours.

Yas Marina Grand Prix Circuit Capacity: 60,000 Opened: October 2009 Architect: Herman Tilke Length: 3.451 miles (5.554km) Turns: 21 Lap Record: 1:40.279 Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull Racing

YAS ABU DHABI

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F r a n c e ’ s

F o r g o t t e n

Grand Prix C i r c u i t s

W h e t h e r yo u ’ r e h o l i day i n g i n t h e P y r e n e e s o r t h e A l p s , t h e N o rt h o r t h e S o u t h , F r a n c e ’ s m a n y e x- G r a n d P r i x c i r c u i ts , o f t e n s e c t i o n s o f c lo s e d p u b l i c r oa d s a r e d ot t e d a l l ov e r t h e c o u n t ry j u s t wa i t i n g to b e e x p lo r e d – a n d d r i v e n, a s M at t h e w C a rt e r e x p l a i n s .

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G r a n d

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C i r c u i t s

albi

Saint-Juéry

I n t h e e a r ly 1930 s u n t i l 1955 ( wa r y e a r s a s i d e ) , Albi in Southern France hosted a number of Formule Libre and non-championship F1 races on a fast but narrow and bumpy tree-lined street circuit beside the river Tarn.

Known as ‘Les Planques’, the triangular circuit ran to the east of the city near the village of Saint-Juéry and, at one point, even involved a railway crossing.

Originally around 5.5 miles long, the circuit was shortened in 1951 and then abandoned altogether in 1955 after the dreadful Le Mans crash. Racing transferred to a purpose-built airfield track nearer to the city centre where F3 and other junior races are held to this day.

Among the winners of the Albi Grand Prix were Tazio Nuvolari, Raymond Mays and Juan Manual Fangio, while the very first race held in 1933 was won by works driver Pierre Veyron in a Bugatti Type 51. The modern Bugatti company named its Veyron supercar after the 1939 Le Mans winner.

Albi

Circuit d’Albi est. 1930

Montplaisir

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REIMS

Virage DE Muizon

I t ’s s o me h ow f i t t i n g t h at R eims , the home of the champagne industry, should have hosted the French Grand Prix during the 1950s and 1960s.

The fast circuit lay to the west of the city and used public roads in a triangle shape linking the villages of Thillois, Bretelle, Muizon and included the ultra-fast N31 Soisson to Reims main road (now a dual carriageway).

Reims-Gueux circuit

Fast? Put it this way, Ferrari driver Lorenzo Bandini’s pole position time for the 1966 Grand Prix represented an average speed of 141mph.

While driving the circuit at those speeds today is not advisable, it is possible to make a pit stop.

The start/finish straight on the N27 near Gueux still houses old grandstands, the control tower and well as pit buildings in a ghostly tribute to men like Jack Brabham, who won that last Grand Prix in ’66.

Virage de Thillois

Bratelle Nord est. 1926

Bratelle Sud

Courbe du Calvaire

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G r a n d

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C L E R M O N T- F E R R A N D gravenoire

Sa id to be even t w ist i er and fa ster t h an t h e le gendary Nür b urgri ng, the 5-mile long Clermont-Ferrand circuit is not strictly a street circuit. Rather, it was built as a permanent track using public roads around extinct volcanic plugs in the Auvergne mountains, west of Lyons and east of Limoges.

Le Belvedere

Le Carriere

Known as the Charade circuit, the tricky-to-learn circuit included no fewer than 51 corners, three of them sharp hairpins, and there was a 180m height differential between the highest and lowest points.

The combination of high speed corners, the swoops and the plunges caused drivers to complain of motoring sickness while volcanic stones littering the side of the track caused different problems as Helmut Marko, now the head of Red Bull’s driver development programme, discovered in 1972. His F1 career was ended when he was blinded in one eye by a stone thrown up by Emerson Fittipaldi’s Lotus.

Charade hosted four French Grands Prix and was used in John Frankenheimer’s film Grand Prix. The last race on the long 5-mile circuit was held in 1988, but a shorter version is still used. charade.fr

Circuit Louis Rosier est. 1958

rosier

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rouen

U n d o u bt e d ly o n e o f E u r o p e ’s f i n e s t c i r c u i ts , the 4-mile long Rouen-les-Essarts circuit was laid on public roads around a wooded valley in the Grand-Couronne, near Rouen, north west of Paris.

Despite using public roads, it had permanent pits and grandstands and witnessed some enthralling racing, including five French Grands Prix. The last one was held there in 1968 and, tragically, is remembered as the scene of a fiery accident that killed Jo Schlesser. Although used for racing throughout the 1980s, it was closed down in 1994 for economic and safety reasons.

virage du nouveau monde

combe de l’etoile

virage samson

virage des six fréres

Rouen-Les-Essarts est. 1950

In 1999, all evidence of its past life was wiped clean with the demolishing of the pit, grandstands, Armco barrier and track signs. Sadly one of its more notable features, the cobbled Nouveau Monde hairpin, was resurfaced with smooth asphalt.

It is still possible to drive around the original circuit configuration. The old track is about 12kms south of Rouen and 5kms north of Elbeuf. The Nouveau Monde hairpin marked its southernmost tip from where the track climbed through Sanson to Gresil and then back towards Rouen.

virage du paradis

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PAU

D ow n i n t h e s o u t h o f t h e c o u n t ry, nestling in the shadow of the Pyrenees, lays genteel Pau. Popular with British visitors since Wellington had a garrison there in the early 1800s, it has much in common with Monte Carlo… notably motor racing through its streets.

courbe du parc beaumont chicane foch

The French Grand Prix took place on public roads near the town in 1930, but for 1933 the competition moved to within the city walls. With steep climbs, fearsome drops and tight hairpins, the track is both scenic and daunting.

Circuit de Pau-ville

In the 1950s and early 1960s it was used for various non-championship F1 races (in 1961 Jim Clark won his first F1 event there) while from 1964-1984 it was a mainstay of the European Formula 2 series. Despite the narrowness of the track in places, it was even used for Formula 3000 single seaters from 1984-1998.

More recently still it has been the venue for France’s round of the World Touring Car Championship, and also holds races races for F3 and Formula Renault cars.

If you want to enjoy motor racing as it used to be, head for Pau next May and prepare to be thrilled as the Grand Prix de Pau Historique takes over the town. grandprixdepauhistorique.com

est. 1930

chicane du croisement virage de la gare

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TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY DESIGNED WITH DESIGNED THE WITH BEST CAR THE BEST CAR TO MAKERS MAKERS TO ENHANCE THE ENHANCE THE PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR CAR. OF YOUR CAR.

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21/02/13 12:39 21/02/13 12:39

MOTOR RACING

KNOWLEDGE = power Fact Miscellany #2

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MOTOR RACING EDITION

Between 1950, when the F1 World Championship began, and 1960, the Indianapolis 500 formed part of the series.

The youngest driver to win a Grand Prix is Sebastian Vettel, who was 21 years, two months and 11 days old when he won the 2008 Italian GP.

In 1932, 12-year-old Wilbur Brink was killed by a wheel that became detached from Billy Arnold’s Miller when he crashed at the indy 500. The boy wasn’t even at the track but at home: the wheel flew out of the circuit, bounced across nearby Georgetown Street killing young Wilbur in his front yard.

Only the Italian and British Grands Prix have been held every year since the World Championship began in 1950: each has been run 65 times.

The oldest driver to win Grand Prix was Luigi Fagioli who was

52 years and

22 days old when he won the 1951 European Grand Prix at Reims.

Italian Lella Lombardi, who started 12 GPs between 1974-1976, is the only woman to have scored (half) a point. She was sixth in the accidentshortened 1975 Spanish GP.

The BMW 1.5-litre fourcylinder turbo engine from 1985 is considered to be F1’s most powerful unit, developing a reputed

1,400HP in qualifying trim.

Louis Meyer, Indy 500 winner in 1936, was the first to drink a bottle of milk on the rostrum.

The tradition continues today.

MOTOR RACING

81

When Alan Jones won a Grand Prix in his 1980 championship year he sprayed orange juice not champagne… the Williams team was sponsored by Saudi Arabian companies where alcohol is forbidden.

Damon, son of Graham Hill, is to date, the only son of a World Champion to become World Champion. Will he be joined by Nico, son of Keke, Rosberg this year?

Murray Walker, the voice of F1, created the slogan ‘Trill makes budgies bounce with health’ when he worked in advertising.

Mark Webber’s

infamous back flip in the 1999 Le Mans race saw the tail of his Mercedes CLR at least 30 feet in the air at its highest point. He was unhurt.

Until 1923, An F1 driver all Indy racers had to carry a

riding mechanic.

burns an average 600 calories per Grand Prix and loses

4kgs

in weight.

The last ‘Le Mans’ start – drivers started the race by running to their cars from the side of the track – took place in 1969.

Eventual winner Jacky Ickx walked across in protest… and was nearly run over.

Indianapolis, home of the Indy 500, is nickname The Brickyard as the track was originally paved with 3.2 million bricks.

The Group B rally cars of the mid-1980s had around 500hp.

Technical restrictions were few

and just 200 examples had to be built for homologation: hence the Ford RS200.

Supercar Tech Explained - Hybrid Power When it comes to a technology’s reputation, what matters most is where it first found its fame.

With the industry’s range-topping luxury and supercars now featuring hybrid power, Matt Prior reassures that it’s far from doom and gloom.

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84

H

ear someone talking about the V10 engine in an Audi RS6 and you’ll hear them call it “a Lamborghini engine”. That it’s turbocharged and built by Audi, in Hungary, doesn’t matter. A similar unit appeared first in the Gallardo, so forevermore there will be an Audi with a Lamborghini motor. And, quite deliberately, not the reverse.

Hybrids haven’t had it so lucky. Hybrid powertrains gained their reputation by improving the economy of affordable family cars. Which means they’re considered worthy, but are not exactly synonymous with performance and luxury.

Pity. Because if the BMW i8 or LaFerrari hypercar has taught us anything, it’s that hybrid technology can offer more than just a reduction in carbon dioxide output. Used intelligently, hybrids can take performance, economy – and luxury – into another dimension.

A hybrid powertrain, put simply, comprises an electric motor and

its accompanying batteries, coupled to a conventional petrol or diesel engine. The electric motor does the internal combustion engine a favour, and vice versa. Loosely speaking, the more powerful the motor and beefier the batteries, the more influential they are, to the point where some hybrids – like BMW’s i3 Range Extender – are pure electric cars whose engine is only there to generate electricity. But it’s the detail of when and how each part of the hybrid system operates that opens up new possibilities. An electric motor, for example, makes its maximum torque from a complete standstill. A petrol engine can’t do that because, generally speaking, the higher you rev a petrol engine, the more power it makes.

Couple an electric motor to the petrol engine, then, and you can effectively use the electric motor’s willingness from rest, to plug any holes in the engine’s response.

85

In the LaFerrari’s case, it turns a high-revving 790bhp petrol car into a 950bhp hybrid one that’s wildly responsive at any engine speed.

Add the words ‘plug-in’ to ‘hybrid’ too and you’re talking about a car whose electric capabilities go way beyond just helping out the engine.

Bentley’s Hybrid Concept (see next page), based on the Mulsanne and revealed earlier this year, is a case in point.

In this concept form it increases the Mulsanne’s power output by 25 per cent and reduces its carbon dioxide emissions by a staggering 70 per cent. But those figures are only half of the story. The car can also be plugged into the grid to charge its batteries, so can be driven on electric power alone for up to 31 miles. That means it won’t emit anything at all on some journeys, thus improving urban air quality and potentially exempting it from some inner-city surcharges.

Ferrari LaFerrari Price £1,150,000 Engine

6.3 L V12, electric motor & KERS

Power/Torque

950bhp / 970Nm

Transmission

SEVEN-speed DUAL CLUTCH, automated manual

0-62mph

2.9 seconds

Top speed 217+Mph

hrowen.co.uk/ferrari

86

BENTLEY MULSANNE HYBRID CONCEPT Price tbc Engine

6.75-litre V8 twin-turbo,

electric motor

Power/Torque

More than 505bhp / 710Nm

(25% increase in power expected)

Transmission tbc 0-60mph Less than 5.0 seconds Top speed tbc

hrowen.co.uk/bentley

The eerie quietness and sublime smoothness of an electric motor’s seamless power delivery, meanwhile, suits a luxury car to the ground.

And because an electric motor is never more powerful than it is from a standstill, driving an electric car can be a fantastically responsive experience.

Bentley’s chairman, Wolfgang Dürheimer, says the Hybrid Concept is “true to Bentley’s values of outstanding luxury and effortless performance”. If our experience of the best new hybrids is anything to go by – and they’re highly efficient, technically interesting and frequently engaging – he’s not wrong.

Some 90 per cent of Bentley’s model range will be available in hybrid form by the end of the decade, and the company won’t be alone in the luxury world in offering highly desirable part-electric vehicles.

Perhaps then, finally, the word ‘hybrid’ will lose the association with its more prosaic beginnings.

Matt Prior is Road Test Editor for Autocar Magazine.

Vertu for Bentley As Bentley embraces new technology on offer with the Hybrid Concept, the brand has also recently announced a five-year partnership with luxury smartphone manufacturer Vertu. Built by hand at its Hampshire factory, the first ‘Vertu for Bentley’ device will appear in October 2014 offering Vertu’s premium services – including the concierge feature, access to a range of private members’ clubs and an exclusive Bentley application. Created using fine materials, the new devices will be jointly-designed by both companies. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors said, “The collaboration expands Bentley’s luxury range into the cutting-edge world of mobile communications and offers customers a new way to experience the world of Bentley.” vertu.com

UK-RD-Velvet-Your Kensington-210x297mm.indd 1

16.07.14 11:34

FORECOURT H . R . O w e n s ho w roo m

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WIND TURBINE: Aston Martin V12 Va n ta g e S R o a d s t e r Billed as the most visceral and engaging opentop experience in the Aston Martin line-up, the new V12 Vantage S Roadster made its debut at the Pebble Beach Automotive Week. Featuring a new stainless steel sports exhaust and the latest 565bhp 6.0-litre V12 - a power unit it shares with the new Vanquish, it’s the brand’s fastest and most powerful convertible yet. Other new additions include three-stage adaptive dampers, allowing drivers to choose between Normal, Sport and Track driving modes and a seven-speed Sportshift III automated manual gearbox that has reduced the 0-60mph time to just 3.9 seconds. Flat out, this V12-engined soft-top can reach 201mph.

Available to order: Now / In showroom: December 2014 / Delivery: Winter 2015 / List Price: £147,000 / hrowen.co.uk/aston-martin

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L E PAT R O N: ‘E t to r e B u g at t i’ G r a n d Sport Vitesse

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The sixth and final model of the Bugatti Legends series is dedicated to ‘Le Patron’ himself, founder Ettore Bugatti. Like all Legends series cars, it is based on the 1,184bhp Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse - the world’s fastest production roadster ever built. Inspired by the 1932 Type 41 Royale, the body features handpolished, clear-coated aluminium for almost the entire front of the car, including bonnet, wings and doors - a first for the French maker. “Ettore liked to describe his creations as ‘Pur Sang’, as thoroughbreds.

In dedicating this Bugatti Legend to him, we are staying true to his philosophy of aesthetically functional beauty for the automobile by using pure and natural materials such as polished aluminium and the finest cordovan leather,” explains Achim Anscheidt, Chief Designer at Bugatti.

Available to order: Now (Limited to 3 only) / List Price: €2.15 million / hrowen.co.uk/bugatti

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R E D, W H I T E O R B LU E : Bentley Mulsanne 95 To mark its 95th anniversary in the UK, Bentley has announced the exclusive Mulsanne 95 ­a special edition of the brand’s most luxurious, flagship model. Hand crafted by Bentley’s Mulliner division in Crewe, all 15 examples are reserved exclusively for customers in the United Kingdom. It is available in three bespoke exterior colours; Britannia Blue, Empire red and Oxford White, featuring several eye­ catching design touches, including 21­ inch wheels and ‘NINETY FIVE’ scripted and Union flag­d-etailed treadplates. The front and rear seats and passenger fascia panel display an embroidered ‘95’ emblem. The Mulsanne 95 also features a particularly special wood veneer, sourced from a huge walnut tree which fell at Fulbeck Hall in Lincolnshire during a heavy storm in 2007. As with all Bentley Mulsanne models, the 95 is powered by the maker’s 6.75­litre twin turbo V8, producing 505bhp.

Available to order: Now / In showroom: N/A (Built to order) / October 2014 / List Price: To order / hrowen.co.uk/bentley

S H OW S TA R : B u g at t i V e y r o n G r a n d S p o r t V i t e ss e 1 6 . 4 Currently on display at Jack Barclay Bugatti, Mayfair, this very unique Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse 16.4 is one of the very last new and unregistered examples available. Underneath its polished aluminium and blue carbon-fibre bodywork lies an 8.0-litre W16 quad turbo engine that produces 1,184bhp and 1,500Nm. To find out more about this exquisite car, turn to page 56 and meet the most successful Bugatti salesperson in the world, Jack Barclay’s Anita Krizsan.

Available to order: Now (only one available) / List Price: €2.15 million / hrowen.co.uk/bugatti

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CARBON MONOCHROME: A s t o n M a r t i n Va n q u i s h C a r b o n The 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish and Vanquish Volante will soon be available in limited edition Carbon form - designed to compliment the model’s recent performance upgrades and all-new 8-speed automatic transmission. Offered in Carnon White or Carbon Black, both models come as standard with new 10-spoke gloss black alloy wheels, black headlight detailing and black side window surrounds. Inside, quilted leather door cards and seats combine with herringbone-pattern carbonfibre detailing and black anodised speaker grills to create a very focused specification. Buyers will also have the option of adding highlights of colour through an accented brake caliper, interior stitch or welt, giving the customer the freedom to decide how much accent colour to use. The Vanquish Carbon coupe can go from 0-60mph in just 3.6 seconds and boasts a top speed of 201mph.

Available to order: Now / In showroom: January 2015 / Delivery: March 2015 / List Price: Coupe: £199,995 / Volante: £211,995 / hrowen.co.uk/aston-martin

H . R . O w e n g ro u p n e w s

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M A SE R A T I : O F F I C I A L C AR OF Wormsley

R o l l s - R oyc e : G a l l e ry at Wo r m s l e y Summer 2014 Working with Getty Images, Rolls-Royce and H.R. Owen created a pop-up art gallery at the Getty family estate, Wormsley, for the summer season 2014. Thousands of cricket fans and operalovers have now seen the exhibition which celebrates a Century of British Icons, with photographs from the famous Getty Images archive and a Rolls-Royce Wraith as the centrepiece. For those who missed the exhibition, it moves to the Getty Images Gallery in central London for a week from 13th October. gettyimagesgallery.com

Summer 2014 That most Italian of brands, Maserati, spent the summer season learning about cricket at the Getty family estate, Wormsley. Maserati was adopted as the official ‘Car of Wormsley’ and sponsored a range of cricket matches and opera performances at the stunning country venue. wormsleycricket.co.uk

Your exclusive offer for films at Curzon Cinemas

M a s e rati

Pop

up

c i n e ma

23rd-24th and 30th-31st July As part of the Maserati centenary celebrations Maserati and H.R. Owen teamed up with Curzon Cinemas to curate a tailor made quality pop up film experience at two of London’s iconic public spaces during July; Duke of York Square in Chelsea and Broadgate in the City of London. VIPs and the general public were given the chance to enjoy a summer evening and carrelated movie surrounded by beautiful Maseratis.

unlimited

Curzon has been making the cinema experience memorable since 1934, with 10 venues from the historic Grade II listed Mayfair to the contemporary Victoria, with state-of-the-art projection and superior seating.

H.R. Owen customers can get a saving of £50 on their top tier Annual Membership, entitling you to two tickets to unlimited films and events at any London Curzon, plus much more. Redeem online at curzoncinemas.com/membership , at your local Curzon box-office, or call 0330 5001331 quoting code ‘mas50’.

Code valid for Auteur level membership for London cinemas only. Offer ends at midnight on 31/10/2014. For terms and conditions of Auteur membership please see the Curzon website.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

93

Boodles 2014 17th-21st June The Boodles Tennis Challenge is an international five day tennis event held at Stoke Park in Buckinghamshire. A total of 15 cars from across the H.R. Owen group were on display including the new Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, Bentley Continental GT V8S and Maserati Ghibli.

Guests enjoyed cooling Veuve Cliquot and delicious food from five-star Stoke Park, overseen by head chef Chris Wheeler.The tennis wasn’t bad either! In the perfect sunshine, the Dutchman Robin Haase defeated Germany’s Jan Lennard-Struff 6-3 6-7(1) 10-7 in the final to take The Boodles trophy.

First

Point

:

Drive

Day

8th July Billed as a day to remember for 40 customers of First Point, H.R. Owen’s recommended insurance partner, this exclusive closed-roads test drive experience started at the picturesque, 400-acre Foxhills Country Club, from where customers had a chance to drive the newest models from Ferrari and Bentley. Guests were driven to the private Longcross test track studios, where they experienced the best of these marques in a way that is not possible on the road, whilst learning about the cars and improving their driving technique.

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St Johns Wood : Supercar Pageant 22nd June Owners of over 50 rare and valuable cars took over St Johns Wood High Street for the second year of the St Johns Wood Supercar Pageant in aid of Rays of Sunshine. As proud sponsors of the event H.R. Owen brought cars from across the group including the new Lamborghini Aventador Roadster.

British Grand Prix 6th July H.R. Owen Ferrari once again took a prime suite at Silverstone for the British Grand Prix. Over thirty guests came along to watch the action and it proved to be an extremely exciting race. The huge second lap accident when Kimi Raikkonen came off happened right in front of the suite and whilst it took over an hour to restart the race, the rest was just as exciting! Everyone commented on what a great view the Brooklands suite offers with much of the overtaking action in the DRS zone on the Wellington Straight happening directly under guest’s noses. If you would like to join us next year, contact Owen.Rothwell@hrowen.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

95

H.R. Owen Skydive for Rays of Sunshine 19th July A team of fearless fundraisers from H.R. Owen leapt into the

unknown by taking part in a sponsored skydive to raise funds for the children’s charity Rays of Sunshine. Despite being told that there was only a 50% chance that skydives could go ahead due to the inclement weather, five brave H.R. Owen employees jumped in tandem skydives from Redlands Farm Airfield in Swindon early on Saturday morning. Everyone jumped from approximately 10,000ft and everyone landed safe and exhilarated! The skydive saw staff members Ashley Clarke, Alicia Daly, Sheree Oliver, Jade Harrison, Emma Fagan and Lisa Brown all conquer their fears and raise money for the charity, which H.R. Owen then matched. raysofsunshine.org.uk

Salon Privé

Concourse of Elegance

3-5th September Ferrari yet again had a strong presence at the highly prestigious Salon Privé, held at Syon House just outside London. H.R. Owen’s usual two-car plot was this year expanded to five to include LaFerrari, the fabulous one-off F12 TRS as well as the current line-up of F12 Berlinetta, FF and the star of the show, the new California T. The Pommery and barbecued lobster was very well receievd, as it is every year, and the weather held off too. The event goes from strength to strength and this year’s Concours d’Elegance featured the best lineup yet.

5-7th September The third annual International Concourse this year took place at the stunning Hampton Court Palace in Surrey. Sixty of the world’s rarest motor cars ranging from 1896 to the present day from all around the world were judged for the highly prestigious ‘Best of Show’ award. Headline sponsors Bentley and Ferrari added to the display of classics with the latest from their current product ranges. H.R. Owen Ferrari displayed the new California T, the F12 Berlinetta and the fabulous one-off F12 TRS. H.R. Owen’s five Bentley dealers attended with a picnic on the lawn for guests and displayed the latest models from Crewe including the new GT Speed and Mulsanne LE95. Image courtesy of Ian Hunt.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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Y a c h t i n g & F i n e D i n i n g : A s t o n M a r t i n C h e lt e n h a m 3rd July A group of VIP customers from the Cheltenham dealership joined Aston Martin Cheltenham hosts on an exclusive driving event to Torquay where they enjoyed lunch on the luxurious Triple 7 yacht. Customers met in Taunton before attracting a lot of attention in convoy on the way to Torquay Marina! Once parked in prime position on the sea front, guests were greeted & invited to board 777 for a champagne reception on the sun deck. Shortly after, lunch was served by Michelin starred chef of The Elephant, Simon Hulstone.

Simon kindly introduced each dish personally, and participated in a relaxed Q&A session with the guests. After lunch, French V200 Championship winner Bob McCarthy treated guests to adrenaline trips around Torquay Bay in a high performance powerboat.

G o o dwo o d F e s t i va l o f S p e e d 26-29th June Ferrari North Europe took its usual hospitality suite in the Gurney Pavilion overlooking the first bend on the famous hillclimb. H.R Owen took a number of clients over the four days hosting a variety of events including an overnight stay at the beautiful Coworth Park in Ascot and a rally on the Saturday.

Several guests also visited the Lord March Ball on the Saturday night. The new California T made its UK debut on display both in the suite as well as in the supercar paddock. LaFerrari also made its public debut. The entire range was driven up the hill each day by our team of professional drivers.

The Bentley Motors stand saw the first public reveal of the limited edition Continental GT3-R the most dynamic and fastest-accelerating Bentley ever produced. Inspired by Bentley’s race-winning Continental GT3 racer, the GT3-R combines reduced weight with torque vectoring and shorter gearing to deliver a breathtaking driving experience.

R

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26/06/2014 15:37

the back seat

T

owards the end of summer as the nights are drawing in, my thoughts turn to the highlight of my automotive year - the Goodwood Revival and then promptly on to what I’m going to wear. It is a brilliantly British event where the most important historic race cars in the world are out at full throttle and those attending - myself included, enthusiastically embrace dressing up in period, often whacky outfits. It attracts the very best cars and marques from around the world as well as top name drivers and celebrities with capacity crowds.

There is, however, another event from which I have just returned, which challenges the Goodwood powerhouse, and what an amazing event that is.

Car week on the Monterey Peninsula is a car lover’s dream, made up of a number of separate events from the lowly auto-jumbles to major Concours events, with pretty much everything in between. My trip to California started predictably with the hire of a convertible sports car (with pony on the front), and despite it being in the opposite direction from San Francisco airport, a trip across the Golden Gate Bridge.

First stop was the auto-jumble. Not one for getting sentimental over broken junk, I confess to struggling slightly, but judging by the crowds and by the fact it was possible to purchase not just a one, but also a two-day ticket, it clearly has its aficionados.

In and out in an hour and $400 lighter due to a charming leather Ferrari watch box, it was on to Carmel, known for its cowboy gun-slinging former mayor and for being a town of industrial-level kitsch.

Here we came across the first Concours of the week. Well, it was hard to miss. The centre of town had been entirely closed-off for the day and hordes of people were wandering about. Police officers were everywhere, keeping order and making sure people like me parked facing the right way. There was no doubting that big business was rolling into town as every inch of pavement, hotel and restaurant was bursting to capacity.

The first of the major events was the ‘Grand Tour’ which is a pre-event for the grand finale of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on the Sunday.

For this 90km road trip, every car in the Concours was actively encouraged to take part and earn extra points. So despite it being a cold morning, cloaked in rain and mist, hundreds of extraordinarily expensive cars braved the elements and took part.

This was not just going to be a beauty contest for cars – they had to move too, (though there were a few accidents prematurely ending some competitors’ weekend involving brake failure and hills). Hardcore enthusiasts lined the road to see the cars off and the beautiful Route 1 to Big Sur was lined with enthusiastic onlookers, photographers and families enjoying a free day out.

But, the high-point of the week was the Pebble Beach Concours itself. It has been America’s premier classic car show since it was founded in the 1950’s and, unlike the Revival which takes place on a race circuit, this event takes place at a venue designed for another major sporting activity - golf. Sitting by the famous 18th tee, I was informed that it is one of the most beautiful courses in the world and there was no denying the amazing view looking out over the Pacific early in the morning as the cars, more perfect than they had ever been in period, took up their allocated positions. Over the years, ‘Pebble’ has morphed from a simple car show into the most glorious spectacle, celebrating everything that is outrageous and delightful in equal measure and not everyone who attends is all that interested in cars…

Here I met Lolly, a black poodle. She and her owner were clearly not particularly automotive, but were thoroughly enjoying the spectacle fitting in perfectly with the extravagant displays on the manicured lawns. She’d even had her toenails painted to look her absolute best. When I asked if this was Lolly’s ideal day out, I was told yes, but that she also loves chasing rabbits!

I’m back home now and Goodwood is upon us. I’m longing to get back and see the pits filled with the cars I dream of and to smell the air thick with Castrol R. But, I am also looking forward to the dressing up and when I do, I shall think of Lolly. We all like to dress up from time to time and drop into the dream. We can chase rabbits when we get home.

Amanda will be presenting coverage of the 2014 Goodwood Revival on ITV4 from 24th September.

American car shows are quite different to British ones.

Ex-Le Mans driver and presenter of ITV’s Goodwood Revival coverage, Amanda Stretton reports back from car week at Monterey, California - home of the equally glamorous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

ILLUSTRATION BY mark welby

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