Latest news

Our Club of the Month revealed!

Designed as the European equivalent of the Ford Mustang, the Ford Capri was first introduced in 1969 and has an established following up and down the country!

We’ve insured our first electric conversion classic!

Electric vehicles are the hot topic of conversation at the moment and it’s certainly split the opinion of enthusiasts up and down the country as to whether they would convert their classic.

Andrew Roberts explores the history of the Fiat 127

One of the main stars of this year’s NEC Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show was Lancaster Insurance’s ‘Classic Trade-Up’ 127.

Drumroll please…and the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show 2022 theme is…

We’re delighted to confirm that this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show with discovery+ theme has now been revealed as ‘Part of the Family’, which we think summarises how we feel about our classics, customers and the entire industry.

THE EARLY DAYS OF THE MOT TEST

The MOT test has once again recently been in the news, and it is so much a part of motoring vocabulary that it is intriguing to consider its roots. The 1950s saw a vast increase in private car ownership – from 18% of British households in 1950 to nearly 40% at the end of the decade.

Drive In Revisited

Drive In was Thames Television’s prestige motoring programme, commencing in 1972. The footage kindly uploaded to YouTube by Pearson describes the changing face of motoring in the 1970s.

THE VAUXHALL CHEVETTE: A CELEBRATION

Debates about Britain’s first hatchback are often as tedious as The Best James Bond. The Austin A40 ‘Farina’ Countryman of 1959 is probably the original ‘Two Box’ car with a tailgate, while the Austin Maxi of ten years later was the first UK built FWD transverse engine hatch.

MEET THE OWNER – DAMIEN RYAN AND HIS AUSTIN 1800

For too long, the ‘Landcrab’ family was overlooked in favour of other BMC front-wheel-drive cars.

MEET THE OWNER – PAUL THOMPSON AND HIS PEUGEOT 304 CABRIOLET

In the early 1970s, Paul Thompson was an apprentice at a Peugeot dealer, and one of the regular customers drove a 304 Cabriolet. “I sat in it at dinner time, and that’s when I promised myself I’d get one, one day - but on £14 a week I thought it would have to stay a dream.”

TOP TEN SOFT ROADERS

Or, who needs 4x4 in cars that look this good?

MEET THE OWNER – TIM GIDDY AND HIS JENSEN-HEALEY

I used to have a TR6 back in my youth, which in my mind, is a good comparison car. I would say they are like different generations, the Triumph is very much harking back to an older generation, and the Jensen-Healey feels much more modern.

IT WAS A DIFFERENT WORLD – TWENTY FACTS ABOUT LIFE IN 1952

1) There were circa 2.5 million cars on the road in 1952. 2) Only one in twenty Britons had access to a car. 3) Some British car marques of 1952 that are no longer with us: Armstrong Siddeley, Austin, Hillman, Humber, Jowett, Morris, Singer, Standard, Sunbeam-Talbot, Triumph, Riley and Wolseley.

THE PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP WINNER; JAKE CLAPPISON’S TRIUMPH SPITFIRE 1500

One of the 2021 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show’s highlights was Jake Clappison’s 1979 Inca Yellow Triumph Spitfire 1500 taking first place in the Pride of Ownership.

FIVE ENTRY LEVEL CARS

Aka who needs electric windows, a fuel gauge, windscreen washers, a boot floor?… 1953 Ford 103E Popular. Sixty-eight years ago, Ford proudly boasted that for just £390, you too could own the cheapest ‘full size’ new car in the UK.

THE VAUXHALL MAGNUM – A CELEBRATION

Last year we celebrated the fiftieth birthday of the Firenza, which neatly brings us to the 1973 revision of the Vauxhall’s HC family.

Meet the Owner - Nicholas Harries and his Humber Sceptre

When the Rootes Group unveiled the Humber Sceptre in 1963, they modestly proclaimed “Never before has there been a car so superbly equipped…with such performance…at so modest a price.”

THE VAUXHALL HERITAGE COLLECTION AT THE BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM

Many readers would have seen photos of Vauxhall’s remarkable heritage vehicle or had the pleasure of seeing the exhibits in the metal. So the news that Gaydon is to be the home of the collection is indeed welcome.

THE TRIUMPH TR8 REMEMBERED

Forty one years ago, production ended of one of the great post-war British sports cars. One US motoring journalist wrote, ‘I didn’t think they’d ever make cars like that again, but the Triumph TR8 reminds me why I fell in love with cars in the first place’. Countless other enthusiasts feel the same way.

THE FORD 100E: A CELEBRATION

When the Anglia and Prefect 100E made their bow at the 1953 Paris Motor Show, they marked a major development for Ford of Great Britain.

DENNIS WATERMAN 24TH FEBRUARY 1948 – 8TH MAY 2022

Dennis Waterman was a part of the lives of several generations of Britons. For some, he will be the Triumph Stag driving former Detective-Inspector Gerry Standing of New Tricks.

CELEBRATING THE MG 1300 MK. II

The 1969 Motor test of the MG 1300 Mk II was headlined “At last – real performance”, and in the previous year, Autocar found it “great fun to drive”. They also regarded it as “refined and gentlemanly and will serve equally well the enthusiast driver and his not so enthusiastic wife”.

THE TRIUMPH ACCLAIM – AN APPRECIATION

This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most important cars to bear the Triumph badge. When the Acclaim made its bow on the 7th October 1981, it pioneered Japanese involvement in the British motor industry. It was also the right car launched at the right time – an accolade not shared by many other BL products.

THE VW TREKKER – A CELEBRATION

The year is 1974, Volkswagen GB has initiated a competitor to re-name their latest import, the 182. The winner was a Mr. Nigel Purden of the Midlands with his suggestion of ‘Trekker’ – and it would be fair to say it was virtually sans rivals in the UK.

THE SHORT BUT FASCINATING SAGA OF THE RENAULT R3

It goes without saying that when the R4 made its bow in 1961, it altered Renault’s future and small European cars per se. Not only was it the company‘s first car with FWD (the front-wheel-drive Estafette van debuted in 1959) it also popularised the five-door format for the mass market.

THE REMARKABLE DAIMLER ONE-O-FOUR LADIES MODEL

The 1950s so often appear to be another world – the National Anthem played at the end of cinema bills, newsagents selling Woodbines and The Daily Herald…and vehicles aimed exclusively at the female driver.

THE ORIGINAL TOYOTA CELICA; A CELEBRATION

One of the many highlights of this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show was the opportunity to marvel at the first-generation Celica.

THE CITROEN DYANE 6 – A CELEBRATION

There is a strong case for suggesting the Dyane is one of the finest family cars of its generation. Here is a Citroën that offers all of the 2CV’s virtues – but with the bonus of a tailgate.

THE EDSEL REVISITED

The year is 1957, and the venue is the internal launch party for the Edsel. There Robert McNamara, the General Manager of the Ford division, tells the advertising guru Fairfax Cone that the company is already planning its demise even before the first customers took delivery. It did not augur well for the new marque.

THE FORD PROBE REMEMBERED

Some aspects of 1990s life now appear impossibly distant – Eurotrash on Channel 4, doomed BBC soap Eldorado and the Ford Probe. Here was a car heavily promoted by Ford, including the obligatory pompous advertisement.

THE GREAT BRITISH CAR JOURNEY

Many of us are old enough to remember when a family picnic tended to involve egg and cress sandwiches, explosive bottles of R Whites lemonade and an overheating Morris 1100 De Luxe just outside of Weymouth.

MEET THE OWNER – STEPHEN DAWES AND HIS ONE FAMILY FROM NEW FIAT 124

Sometimes, when writing about classic cars, you come across a vehicle that is incredibly rare – so rare, in fact, that you cannot remember seeing one on the road in the past three decades. Stephen Dawes’s 124 is not only one of the very few examples left; it is also a one-family-from new Fiat.

The Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire 346; An Appreciation

One of the stars of the 1952 London Motor Show was the Sapphire 346. “Truly a car of character” stated Armstrong Siddeley and this was not an exaggeration.

Best driving roads in the UK

As a classic car owner, you want to be able to drive your vintage motor on some of the best roads that the British Isles has to offer. It’s easy to forget that we’re blessed with some incredible landscapes here in the UK – it’s just a case of knowing where to find them.

Classic cars from British TV comedies

Over the decades, vintage motors have played iconic roles in many great British TV comedies. Just think: how would Del Boy have got up to his wheeler-dealer tricks without his three-wheeler?

Our favourite Ferraris

Every car enthusiast has their favourite Ferrari. Some – like us – can’t narrow it down to just one and have a whole list of Ferraris that hold a special place in their hearts.

TALKING PICTURES TELEVISION – A CELEBRATION

This week marks the sixth anniversary of a television channel that is a source of delight to classic machinery and cinema fans alike. After all, who needs the likes of Celebrity Supermarket Warehouse Shift Worker and Help – Even My Agent Has Forgotten My Name?

Coffee, rolls and Gordon-Keebles at the first Lancaster Insurance Classics & Coffee event!

We really enjoyed hosting over 200 guests at our first Classics & Coffee event on 16th April at the Classic Motor Hub in Bibury.

The Great Classic Trade-up challenge – Goodbye to the Honda Acty and hello to a BMW E36 323 convertible!

The Honda Acty Romahome proved something of a surprise hit. Late on the Sunday afternoon of the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show, an enthusiast from Lincolnshire dropped by the Lancaster Insurance stand and offered us £5,000 for it and the chance to sell it on quickly at a fair price was too good to turn down.

Laura Godtschalk and Katie, Pride of Ownership winners 2022!

“I’ve got to be honest, I’m not a person that’s usually lost for words” says 2022 Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership winner Laura Godtschalk, “but when they announced my little car had won, I was totally dumbfounded.”

Gadgets and classics - from fog lights to dash cams!

Whether it’s a dash cam or a digital radio, many classic car enthusiasts who take their cars out for long country road trips, choose to add a few modern accessories to their vehicles, so that they can listen to their favourite tunes or provide extra cover should an accident happen.

THE MG METRO AT FORTY

On 5th May 1982, British Leyland announced the latest version of the Metro – one bearing a name not seen on a new car since 1979. As the advertisements promised, it was time to “Fasten Your Seat Belts”.

Club of the month: The Fiat Motor Club (GB)

This month we’re venturing across the Mediterranean and heading to sunnier climes, as the focus of our ‘Club of the Month’ is the iconic and much-loved Fiat!

Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership – 3rd place goes to Shaun Hunter and his Escort 1.3 XL

“What a weekend we had”, says Pride of Ownership contender Shaun Hunter. “Honestly it was just amazing. I’d applied to be in the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership competition before, but with covid, everything was on hold so it was 3rd time lucky.”

Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership – 2nd place goes to Brian Kent and his 1965 Humber Super Snipe Estate!

“I’ve had so many offers for the Humber Snipe, you wouldn’t believe it, but I’ll never sell, we’re going to enjoy it. That’s what I did it for!” Brian Kent couldn’t be prouder of his 1965 Humber Super Snipe Estate, though he says himself, he’s been blown away by the reaction to his immaculate restoration.

MEET THE OWNER – AMJAD AND HIS TOYOTA CROWN S110

“The Crown was sold to me by its second owner, who had the car for 34 years but had to sell it because of the ULEZ extension last September”.

MEET THE OWNER – JOHN LANGFORD AND HIS TWO MG MAGNETTE FARINAS

To own one MG Magnette ‘Farina’ would be a sufficient distinction for many a classic car enthusiast – but not John Langford. We recently featured his white 1964 example, which is stunning in appearance and one of the rarest post-war cars to wear the famous Octagon badge.

THE END OF DATSUN

Yesterday (25th April 2022) saw Nissan announce the end of production of Datsun cars. They had not employed their subsidiary marque on a UK-market car for 38 years, but its impact on British motoring cannot be underestimated.

15 of the best classic Rovers

Here are our favourite Rovers of all time. These are all important cars from a hugely significant British brand – and all now deserve the protection of classic car insurance.

27 fast facts about the Ford Fiesta

Now in its seventh generation, the Ford Fiesta has been Britain's most popular supermini for most, if not all its 45-year life. Introduced in 1976 (and on our shores from 1977), the car made an instant impact, clocking up a million sales before the 1970s were out.

MEET THE OWNER – STEPHEN LEWIS AND HIS HUMBER IMPERIAL

If you owned a new Humber Imperial in 1966, you were almost certainly one of the elite members of your local tennis club. Not only was it a car as imposing as James Robertson Justice in Doctor in Clover, but the list of standard fittings was also positively lavish.

MEET THE COLLECTOR – CRAIG DONALD AND HIS FIAT 132 FLEET

A few classic car enthusiasts accumulate a collection of vehicles that make a Lamborghini Miura appear vaguely ordinary by comparison through a combination of hard work, patience, and dedication.

MEET THE OWNER – MICHAEL CARPENTER AND HIS VAUXHALL ASTRA 1200S TWO-DOOR

A few weeks ago, Michael Carpenter - a connoisseur of fine yet neglected 1970s and 1980s cars – contacted this writer with some exciting news.

Did you know that classic cars can be subject to inheritance tax?

Depending on your circumstances, your classic could be subject to 40% inheritance tax, which is why it’s important to ensure that you’ve considered what will happen to your prized possession after you pass away. Without putting the right plans in place, your car may not end up in the care of the person you would have chosen.

A CAR FOR THE LADIES – THE STRANGE STORY OF THE DODGE LA FEMME

1950s Detroit publicity often reads like a parody of Mad Men – none less so than the car “By Special Appointment to Her Majesty... the American Woman”.

MEET THE OWNER – DAVID BUTLER AND HIS 1965 LONDON METROPOLITAN POLICE WOLSELEY 6/110

London-set British films and television programmes of the 1960s usually featured a regular cast of vehicles.

Ford Escort Popular v Vauxhall Viva E Coupe

The year is 1975, inflation is rampant, and the aftermath of the OPEC Fuel Crisis is felt at every petrol station. But Ford and Vauxhall have the answer to these motoring challenges – the Escort Mk. II Popular and the Viva E Coupe.

20 rear-wheel drive classics

Front-wheel or rear-wheel drive? That's been one of the liveliest debates over the course of motor manufacturing history. Each format brings its own advantages. For example, front-wheel-drive (FWD) cars tend to have slightly simpler engineering than their rear-driven counterparts.

What is the London Concours event?

Presented by high-end watchmakers Montres Breguet, the London Concours is a luxurious automotive garden party that takes place right in the heart of the City of London every summer.

Where to find a classic car online

There are a few websites out there that we’d particularly recommend adding to your bookmarks, either for their ease of use or for the sheer range they offer, and we’ll run through these briefly below. And the good news is that, whatever your classic and wherever you find it, our vast experience in the sector means we’ll be able to find the classic car insurance you need.

MEET THE OWNER – KULLY DHADA AND HIS DATSUN 120Y SUNNY

THE SAAB 95 TWO-STROKE; A CELEBRATION

It is sometimes forgotten the 95 made its bow in May 1959, nine months before the 96 saloon. British sales commenced in the following year when the Saab cost a formidable £1,199 – or only £23 less than the much larger Velox PA ‘Friary’ Estate.

PROJECT CAR – IAN MACKENZIE’S FIAT 127 1050CL

Ian Mackenzie is an intrepid classic enthusiast whose fleet already includes a Wolseley 1100 and a Ford Escort Ghia. However, as we all know, there is always room for one more vehicle and he came across this second-generation Fiat 127 entirely by chance.

THE RELIANT SCIMITAR GTE – A CELEBRATION

When Reliant announced the GTE to the press in August 1968 there was, quite simply no other British car like it. The MGC GT may have been over £400 cheaper and had a similar sized engine to the Scimitar’s 3-litre ‘Essex’ unit, but it was less well-appointed.

THE MANY JOYS OF THE AUTOCAR ARCHIVE

Many of you have probably already heard about The Motoring Archive which will eventually access the back catalogues of many titles from Classic & Sports Car, Motor to What Car and Autosport.

20 front-wheel drive classics

In the early decades of motoring, almost all cars adopted the rear-wheel drive principle, with the back wheels propelling the car while the front wheels handled the steering.

The Lancaster Workshop made a triumphant return to the NEC!

After three years long years, we returned to the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show on 18 - 20th March for a truly special weekend at the NEC in Birmingham, attended by over 25,000 enthusiasts.

Hungry for more classic car events?

You know things are serious when the bookmakers get involved, and the general consensus seems to be …. it’s now odds on to be the hottest April in history! We all know that nothing is guaranteed when it comes to British weather, however we still think it’s worth taking the chance to go for a spin in your classic and visit one of a number of classic car shows up and down the country.

THE P6 ROVER OWNERS CLUB. A BIRTHDAY WITH STYLE

Life begins at 40 so they say, and it’s certainly the case for the P6 Rover Owners Club who are celebrating the remarkable landmark birthday in style this year. This is the biggest Rover Owners Club in the world, with more than 900 members.

Hearse, Harley or a carriage made of wax? Why funeral transport doesn’t have to be one size fits all…

It’s coming up to one year since HRH Price Philip made his final journey in a modified Land Rover hearse, which he designed himself and had been modifying for over two decades for the occasion.

THE BMW 5 SERIES AT FIFTY

And so to another anniversary this April newsletter, as the iconic BMW takes centre stage. Form temporary, class permanent so the saying goes, as Andrew Roberts explains.

Changing four wheelers for high wheelers

And finally…the bicycle insurance specialist Bicy has today (1st April) reported a huge increase from customers asking for insurance for their Penny-farthing, the latest inner-city fashion trend.

Classic cars and floods

Floods are becoming increasingly serious and numerous here in the UK. Indeed, the last 15 years have seen some major flooding events, almost unprecedented in our documented history.

20 brilliant buys from the '70s

The 1970s brought us some fabulous cars – many of them now undisputed classics commanding huge fees on the used car market. However, a whole other tranche of '70s motors are now nudging towards classic status, yet still relatively affordable.

A TIMEWARP FORD FIESTA MK. I

It could almost be 1978 again, for this forty-three-year-old Ford Fiesta L on sale by Performance and Prestige Vehicle Solutions Ltd. has covered just 141 miles since new. In 1981 it was donated to the Science Museum, forming part of their displays until 2017.

NEC SHOW REPORT

It is always a pleasurable challenge to encapsulate the experience of attending this years’ NEC Practical Classics Car & Restoration Show– especially after such a long absence. Here are just a few impressions but there could be so many others

DO YOU REMEMBER – THE STANDARD ATLAS?

The Atlas is the sort of vehicle mainly glimpsed in the backgrounds of 1960s British films rather than on the road. The Standard light commercial was a rather appealing machine in its heyday, but it never seemed to find a market niche despite its virtues.

THE LANCIA 2000 BERLINA AT 50

Fifty years ago, Lancia unveiled its last independently designed car. Fiat acquired the famous concern in October 1969 and for many enthusiasts the 2000 Berlina marked the end of an era. It was also one of the most delightful sports saloons of the 1970s.

Can you drive a campervan on prescription medication?

As a campervan driver, you'll know that navigating a large vehicle around Britain's road network requires high levels of concentration.

THE VOLKSWAGEN TYPE 3 AT SIXTY

It is hard to imagine the impact of the new Type 3 on German motorists. For the past 23 years, a Volkswagen car automatically meant the Beetle, but now at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show, the famous badge adorned a medium-sized two-door saloon.

25 endangered classics

The BMW E30, the first-gen Mazda MX-5, the Mini: all classic cars from decades past that you will still see in decent numbers on the roads today. Some old cars just survive well like this, whether it's thanks to a cult following (the E30), doing something extremely well (the MX-5) or just being chock full of charm and character (the Mini).

Experiencing the Isle of Man in your classic car

If you know your motorsport – and, in particular, if motorbike racing is your thing – the Isle of Man is very likely to be on your must-visit list.

MEET THE OWNER – RYAN DAYNES AND HIS DATSUN SUNNY 1200

“I came across it locally for sale with another Datsun Enthusiast - he had purchased the car from the original lady owner who bought it new after learning to drive. She kept it for 42 years so must have liked the car and felt that it met all her needs”.

Best Ford car clubs

From the elegant Zodiac to the swaggering Mk3 Cortina, Ford has produced some stunning cars over the past few decades. Each and every one of these classic Fords has a devoted fan and owner community of its own – and each of those communities is centred on a thriving owners' club.

THE VAUXHALL VICTOR/VENTORA FE AT 50

Some cars are best described as “Uber 1970s” – cars such as the FE-Series Victor This was the Vauxhall for the owner who wore Yardley Black Label aftershave– “for the man who sets the pace” – aftershave and whose role model was Peter Wyngarde as Jason King.

Best campervan trips to take with your dog in 2022

As a dog owner, you'll know that one feature can make that idyllic campervan trip even more special: being able to bring your dog along for the ride. Our four-legged friends just love seeing new sights and trying out new walkies!

25 reasons to own an electric classic car

It's clear that the electric car movement is gathering pace, with cars like the Tesla Model 3, Kia e-Niro, Volkswagen ID and Nissan Leaf now familiar sights on our roads. This is good news, because electric cars are, on balance, better for the planet than their petrol or diesel counterparts.

THE RELIANT REGAL 3/25 AT SIXTY

This year sees many automotive anniversaries and one that should not be overlooked is the 60th birthday of the Reliant Regal 3/25. It came to epitomise the British three-wheeler and represented mobility for countless families.

Our favourite soft-top 4x4s

Ever since the iconic Willys Jeep first drove its way into the national consciousness during World War II, car makers have realised that there's a place for a rugged 4x4 with a removable roof.

THE FORD ZEPHYR/ZODIAC MK. III AT SIXTY

It is April 1962, and you are in the market for a new car. Your criteria are seating for six and mid-Atlantic lines combined with dimensions that are not too excessive for town driving. So, what could be better than the new Ford Zephyr/Zodiac Mk. III range with their canted tail fins?

THE ALFA ROMEO ALFETTA BERLINA – A CELEBRATION

Of the many cars celebrating their 50th birthday this year, it would be very wrong to overlook the Alfa Romeo Alfetta. In the 1970s, it was the vehicle of choice for the sort of middle-class driver who might have also considered the Triumph Dolomite, Lancia Beta or the BMW 2002.

70 YEARS OF THE AUSTIN A40 SOMERSET

It would be fair to say the Austin A40 Somerset was not a car for the motorist who sought thrills and excitement. Instead, it offered value for money, combined with acceleration that was unlikely to dislodge the owner’s pipe.

THE OPEL KADETT A AT SIXTY

The original A-series Kadett was not exactly a common sight in this country; many Britons would only be familiar with the model via Richard Hammond’s ‘Oliver’.

THE FIAT STRADA – AN APPRECIATION

According to howmanyleft.co.uk there are but 48 Stradas on the road in the UK. It is a sad fate for the car designed with a computer, silenced by a laser and built by a robot.

The tools every classic owner should have in their garage

A large part of the joy of classic car ownership is the restoration and ongoing care. Rescuing tired old motors and bringing them back to their former glory; devoting regular Sunday afternoons to keeping your vintage car in show condition: these experiences are what owning a classic is all about.

THE BEDFORD CA AT SEVENTY

Sometimes, the callow future classic enthusiast fails to recognise a ground-breaking vehicle in their midst. During the late 1970s, this writer mainly associated the CA with panel vans of varying degrees of decrepitude lurching around Southampton.

MEET THE OWNER – IAN MORGAN AND HIS LANCIA FLAMINIA SUPERLEGGERA CONVERTIBLE

Some cars evoke a sense of awe – and a silver Lancia Flaminia Superleggera Convertible with aluminium coachwork by Touring of Milan falls into this exclusive category.

ONE FAMILY FROM NEW – MORRIS J2

Memories can be one of the most significant reasons in buying and restoring a classic vehicle. It could be the sound of the transmission, the feel of the Bakelite switches or the way the air vents hissed when you opened them.

Romantic places to see the sunrise and sunset in your campervan

The UK has a host of romantic places to witness those daily miracles, sunrise, and sunset. In this article, we're going to list a few of our favourite spots to watch these majestic natural events from the comfort of your campervan.

The Great Classic Trade-Up – and they’re off!

We thought it was ‘advantage Lancaster’ in the early stages of ‘The Great Classic Trade Up’ competition, head-to-head, with our fabulous friends at Classics World magazine.

Join us at this year’s Classic Car and Restoration Show on 18th – 20th March

We’ll be joining car enthusiasts from across the UK this March at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show on 18th – 20th March.

Introducing our Club of the Month - the Imp Club, keeping this national icon alive!

“You make me feel like Spring has sprung”, sang the late great Frank Sinatra and at Lancaster we recognise and identify with ol’ blue eyes, once the proud owner of an orange metallic 1969 Lamborghini Miura.

Unlocking the investment potential of classic cars with The Car Crowd

We’re excited to be partnering with a new and innovative classic car investment company based in Nottinghamshire.

Protect your pride and joy with Tracker UK

This Spring, why not trial a Tracker with Lancaster Insurance as we offer up a special 20% discount on the Tracker system that is taking the motor world by storm.

50 YEARS OF THE FORD GRANADA

“It was one of those March days, when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade”.

Best days out for motor enthusiasts

The classic car community is so welcoming to new owners. So if you’re looking to share your passion with like-minded folk this year, try one of these top days out for motoring enthusiasts.

The best campervan and motorhome owners’ clubs to join in 2022

Joining a members’ club helps you make the most of your campervan or motorhome. Whether you’re new to caravan ownership or a seasoned traveler, there are lots of benefits to joining a club, from exclusive access to sites to discounts and connections with like-minded people.

Highway Code changes – what classic owners need to know

It's essential to familiarise yourself with the Highway Code – it's one of the basic building blocks of being a responsible driver. As a classic car owner, of course, another of those key building blocks is some specialist classic car insurance.

27 fast facts about the Hillman Imp

The Imp incorporated a few design features that were quite ahead of their time for the early 1960s. Features such as a folding rear bench seat, temperature, voltage and oil pressure gauges, and an automatic choke wouldn't catch on in the wider car market until the 1970s.

Cars that become tax exempt in 2022

What do the Triumph Acclaim, Fiat Panda, and second-generation BMW 5 Series have in common? Relatively little, you might think. And, in most ways, you'd be right.

Best selling cars from the 90s

From the deliciously fun Mazda MX-5 to that driving school favourite, the Mk2 Nissan Micra, the 1990s gave us plenty of engaging, characterful cars (and more than its fair share of barnstorming sports cars, too). Here are some of the decade's best sellers.

Meet The Owner – Jeremy Darvill and his 1971 Fiat 124 Special T

“When I was 17, I drove one and fell in love with it, they are so beautifully balanced and understated. Simple lines but a delight to drive it started a lifelong love affair with all things Italian.

30 amazing places to take your campervan in 2022

As the world starts getting back to normal after the pandemic, 2022 is looking like a very promising year for some amazing adventures in your campervan. Here’s our pick of some of the best adventures you, the family and the van can have this year.

40 YEARS OF THE AUSTIN AMBASSADOR

With twenty facts to celebrate this memorable car:

Best YouTube channels for petrolheads

There are some great YouTube channels for car enthusiasts – and lovers of classic cars, in particular, are very well catered for. Here are some of our favourites.

The MG Midget turns 60

We're currently wishing a very happy diamond anniversary to a very iconic British car. Yes, the MG Midget turned 60 in 2021, its first generation having hit UK showrooms way back in 1961.

THE EH HOLDEN – A CELEBRATION

The 31st of December 2020 marked the end of Holden cars, and of all the models made during their long history, the EH has a fair claim to being one of the most important. When it debuted in August if 1963, it offered room for six, a choice of two new ‘Red’ engines and a sense of quasi-American glamour that was not over the top.

Cars that use the same parts

Developing a new car is a seriously expensive business. The amount of resources that must be poured into research and development, production, testing, marketing and all the other essential stages of car production can test even the largest car makers.

17 of the best four-door classics

Here's a quick thought experiment. In your head, make a list of five to 10 of the most beautiful or iconic classic cars ever made. Done? Chances are that names such as the Jaguar E-Type, Alfa 33 Stradale, Citroen DS, Lamborghini Miura and Maserati Ghibli may have made an appearance.

30 sensational cars from the 1970s

Wedgy, angular bodies; pop-up headlights; strange slats whose sole purpose seemed to be to look space-agey and cool – yes, the 1970s were a captivating era for car design. Here are 30 iconic 1970s motors which should all be protected with classic car insurance.

An update on our ‘Great Classic Trade-up’ Challenge

Here at LI Towers, we love a classic car project, and in 2022 we aim to buy and trade up in our Lancaster Insurance ‘Great Classic Trade-up Challenge’. We’re pitting our wits against the might of the fine people at Classics World, going head-to-head in the race to buy and sell a series of classy classics.

Joy and tears as Lancaster Insurance and Practical Classics Magazine raise £16,100 for Prostate Cancer UK

Now, you may remember last year we restored a Classic VW Camper in partnership with Practical Classics, to auction off at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show at the NEC in November. The fabulous Yvette Goodge placed the winning bid helping us raise £ 16,100 for the Prostate Cancer UK charity.

Legal cover. Is it worth adding to your policy?

It’s bad enough being involved in an accident, but if your injured and it’s not your fault, you could be left facing massive bills not always covered by your normal motor policy.

Protecting your car and its future

At Lancaster Insurance we know that your classic car is an important part of your family and making arrangements to ensure that it stays that way for generations to come, can be a challenge.

Our Car Club of the Month: The Lotus Drivers Club

This February we’re delighted to introduce the fabulous Lotus Drivers club. Just one look at the terrific website of the Lotus Drivers Club and the word that immediately jumps into your mind is STYLE. Capital letters very much intended.

Top Gear of 1970s and the 1980s

Many of us have been following the brilliant ‘Top Gear’ for much of our lives and it’s changed formats and line-ups a number of times over the years. Andrew Roberts picks up the story of an amazing anniversary…

Where to see starling murmurations in your campervan this winter

Spring and summer might seem to be the obvious time to get out and about in your campervan, but it's good to remember that winter is also full of incredible wonders.

50 YEARS OF THE BMW’S M-DIVISION

May of 1972 saw the formation of one of the most famous names in performance cars. A few months earlier, BMW recruited Robert A. ‘Bob’ Lutz from Opel as their Executive Vice president of Global Sales and Marketing, who urged the company’s return to touring car coemption.

GEORGE FORMBY’S JAGUAR

On the 28th and 29th January of next year Anglia Car Auctions are selling a rather special 1959 manual gearbox Jaguar 3.4 Mk. 1. Chassis number S976920DN was once the property of Britain’s highest-paid comedian; George Formby OBE.

Best car shows to visit in 2022

There’s a wealth of wonderful car shows scheduled for 2022 across the UK. These events make a wonderful day out for any car enthusiast: aside from the rows of beautiful vehicles, there's the chance to meet and chat with fellow enthusiasts and perhaps pick up that bit of essential advice or elusive part you've been hunting for.

Agreed Valuation FAQ

One of the benefits we're proud to offer our classic car insurance customers is a two-year Agreed Valuation. But what exactly does this service entail? And how is it calculated? Read on as we dig deep into the mechanics and benefits of the Agreed Valuation through Lancaster.

The best Bond villain cars

The enduringly popular James Bond films are loved for many reasons – not least the many wonderful cars that feature throughout the series.

10 hard-top convertibles to use all year round

Winter is a good time to invest in a convertible. How so? Well, the appetite for soft-top motoring is lower at this time of year, giving you a better chance of bagging a bargain than in summer, when everyone wants a drop-top for those wind-in-the-hair thrills.

Best classic Volvos

Think 'Volvo' and, as likely as not, something very particular comes to mind – a boxy, sturdy estate car, quite possibly from the 1980s. Perhaps not the sexiest thing ever built, but definitely with its own chunky, bulletproof charm.

THE HISTORY OF DIRECTION INDICATOR

Or the story of a device that we all take for granted… 1925. Oscar A. Waltz, Jr patents a ‘turn signal’, but it never enters production. 1929. Oscar J. Simler devises a new form of a traffic signal with an array of lights. Arrows denote left and right turns, augmented by a yellow brake light and a red ‘Stop’ lamp. But, alas, it did not catch on.

MEET THE OWNERS: JOSH AND ADAM GIBLIN AND THEIR DATSUN LAUREL C230 LOW-RIDER

“We just wanted to build it into a low-rider because of the inspiration of Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre vids. Thought it would be awesome to have a Datsun on hydraulics”. It has to be said that the gulf between Dr. Dre and the Laurel’s original UK image is not so much vast as one that spans aeons.

The stars of this year's Pride of Ownership Awards

Quick guide to private number plates

For some classic car owners, a personalised number plate represents the perfect finishing touch. Here's an introduction into the world of private number plates – what they are, how to get one, and how much you can expect to pay.

THE MORRIS 1800S: A CELEBRATION

It is early 1969, and you have it all; the Scott Walker hairstyle, the Paisley shirt and a Ford Cortina GT Mk. II. Yet, you are beaten by a Morris 1800 bearing an ‘S’ logo on the boot at the traffic lights. What is the world coming to?

WHY CLASSIC CARS ARE IMPORTANT

As I have recently acquired a sixty-one-year-old Wolseley – you can read about it in a blog later this month – it is a timely opportunity to pay tribute to the people who are essential to the world of classic cars.

MEET THE OWNER - SIMON MALTBY AND HIS LONDON MET ‘SETAC’ LAND ROVER

The Land Rover was used by the nation’s constabularies almost from the outset of production in 1948. They might be seen patrolling the Mersey Tunnel, rural beats or major highways. Simon’s Series III 109 left the factory on the 8th December 1977.

WHY I BOUGHT A WOLSELEY

I had no plans to buy a car at the beginning of the year, but fate decreed otherwise. So this autumn, I became the proud owner of a 1960 London Metropolitan Police specification Wolseley 6/99 Traffic Car. Here are the twenty reasons behind this surprise purchase.

Classic cars with women's names

Down the decades, women's names have been far more popular in the naming of car models (and even one marque – hello, Mercedes!) than men's names. It may have something to do with the long-held habit of labelling cars (and boats, and other forms of transport) as 'she'.

The best Bond girl cars

From the amphibious Lotus Esprit that plunges into the sea in The Spy Who Loved Me, to the bright yellow Triumph Stag careering around Amsterdam in Diamonds are Forever, cars have always been a huge part of the appeal of the James Bond movie franchise.

Eyesight checks to do before your next drive

How often, though, do you think about whether your eyesight is up to the job? The likelihood is that you may not be checking in on your eyes, and their fitness for driving, as often as you should be.

MEET THE OWNER – JOHN NEWTON AND HIS TRIUMPH ACCLAIM CD TRI-MATIC

John Newton’s Triumph is a prime example of one of the most crucial British Leyland products of the 1980s. He encountered the Acclaim when he was “just looking for something to restore - but they are addictive!”.

MEET THE OWNER – LEE PAINTER AND HIS FORD GRANADA 3000S

For many Granada enthusiasts, the 3000S Mk 1 is one of the rarest and most desirable models. Lee Painter’s Diamond White example looks like it’s just emerged from a Ford dealership circa 1977.

10 of the best classic Renaults

When it comes to adventurous styling, the French marques – Peugeot, Citroen, Renault and others – have always been at the forefront of things.

Best classic cars from the 1960s

The 1960s were great for car design in general – and for British car design in particular. High employment, rising wages and a general renewed sense of optimism after the hardships of the post-war years meant that car ownership rose considerably across the decade.

Best turbocharged classic cars

There was a time – quite a long time, in fact, roughly between about 1975 and 1990 – when to mention that your new car was a 'turbo' would draw envious looks all around.

Modern classics to invest in now

Owning a classic car is an enormous pleasure. If the car in question is already worshipped far and wide, it can also be an expensive one.

MEET THE OWNER – GLYN ANDREWS AND HIS BELGIAN AUSTIN MAXI

People’s first question about his Maxi is invariably ‘why did you buy a LHD?’ However, it is sometimes forgotten that the Austin Maxi was sold and built overseas.

12 FACTS ABOUT THE BRITISH ICE CREAM VAN

For many years, the arrival of the ice cream van was as much a part of summer as awaiting O level results or unwatchable ITV Seaside Specials on ITV.

THE WORLD’S RAREST WEDGE?

W.B. and Sons Ltd. have a truly exclusive British car at its auction on the 4th of December 2021. Chassis Number 00099 is the first ‘Wedge’ made on the production line, and it was immediately despatched from Cowley to Longbridge to assess the production line’s build quality.

FIVE BRITISH LEYLAND SPECIAL EDITION CARS

FIVE BRITISH LEYLAND SPECIAL EDITION CARS Or five familiar Leyland cars in very exclusive guises…

MEET THE OWNER – CAMERON BURNS AND HIS MORRIS 1800

After recently succumbing to the lure of the ‘Landcrab’, Cameron Burns bought himself an 1800 Mk 3. His Morris was fitted with several decadent extras: reclining front seats, hazard warning lights, an alternator and a heated rear screen.

Rock stars and their cars

While you don't have to be a rock star to own one of these classics, it's undeniable that owning any of these automotive icons will require deep pockets. The good news is that there are hundreds of other far more affordable classics out there that can make fantastic ownership prospects.

20 FACTS ABOUT THE RENAULT 4

2021 marks the 60th anniversary of not just one of Renault’s most important models but one of the most remarkable cars in motoring history. Here are: 20 FACTS ABOUT THE RENAULT 4

Sixty Years of the BMW Neue Klasse

The 1961 Frankfurt International Motor Show looked set to be a most exciting event, not least for the new BMW priced at DM 8,500. The sales copy promised the prospective buyer ‘sportiness, refinement, genuine comfort and timeless elegance’ while the bodywork featured a distinctive ‘kink’ in the rear doors.

The Austin A110 Westminster at Sixty

When BMC introduced its second generation of ‘Big Farinas’ in late 1961, the Austin A110 Westminster immediately appealed to the nation’s bank managers. It was more formal than a Ford Zodiac Mk.

THE PEUGEOT 309; A CELEBRATION

Trivia question; what was the first Peugeot to be made in the UK? Despite popular mythology, it was not the 405 but the 309, one of the most overlooked models to wear the lion badge...

THE RAREST CARS IN THE UK: DATSUN 280C

In the late 1970s, any Datsun larger than a Laurel was a rare sight in the UK. You might occasionally find a 280C in major dealerships, but you were more likely to see them in brochures than on the road in the main.

THE RILEY ELF AND WOLSELEY HORNET AT SIXTY

19 facts about one of the most intriguing members of the Mini family...

THE TRIUMPH SPITFIRE: A CELEBRATION

Imagine this scenario; it is the summer of 1961, and Leyland has completed their takeover of Standard-Triumph. Their executives are stalking through the Canley works and are not exactly happy at what they find.

THE AUSTIN 1800: A CELEBRATION

Any visitor to the 1964 Earls Court Motor Show looking for reasonably priced but imposing four-cylinder transport had a choice of five models.

SEVENTY YEARS OF THE BMW BAROQUE ANGEL

When the 501 debuted at the 1951 Frankfurt Motor Show, it was one of the stars of the BMW stand. This was the company’s first new post-war model and an elegant sports saloon that cost around four times the average German wage. But, above all, there were those distinctive lines that resulted in the nickname ‘Baroque Angel’.

TOP FIVE CARRY ON FILM CARS

The Carry On film remains a staple of Bank Holiday television, affording plenty of opportunities to marvel at how the pictures rarely strayed five miles beyond Pinewood. Of course, they also frequently contained some rather interesting cars…

DO YOU REMEMBER – THE THAMES 300E VAN?

In 1954 Ford unveiled its latest van – one that was ‘Sparkling with Good Points’. The nation’s fleet buyers and shop owners were promised that the Thames 300E would be ‘a credit to your business’, Not to mention that with such a fine vehicle, ‘driving ceases to be work and becomes a pleasure’

MEET THE OWNER – JOHN WILKINS AND HIS AUSTIN 3-LITRE AMBULANCE

It would be mission impossible to select a Car of The Show from the thousands of fine machines at the recent BMC & Leyland Show 2021. However, it would be fair to say that one of the vehicles that attracted the most attention was the Austin 3-Litre Ambulance owned by John Wilkins.

MEET THE OWNER: ROY HEDGER AND HIS CHRYSLER SUNBEAM

The Sunbeam was clean-cut and well proportioned in appearance, yet it took little more than 18 months to develop. Chrysler UK commenced Project R424 in January 1976, using an SWB version of the Avenger floorpan as a base.

MEET THE OWNER: BJARTE TUNOLD AND HIS ASTON MARTIN DB5

To celebrate the launch of the latest Bond film, No Time to Die, we look at the iconic Aston Martin DB5. On the 17 September 1964, the London premiere of the third Bond Film created cinema history, not least from the moment when Desmond Llewelyn’s Q orders 007 to ‘pay attention’.

MEET THE OWNER: CHAD DENDY AND HIS HUMBER SCEPTRE

Chad Dendy is the proud owner of what must be one of the most eye-catching cars on the South Coast. Any 1965 Sceptre Mk. I would cut a dash through Lee on Solent, causing amazement amongst the various holidaymakers. Ice cream parlour customers gawp at the sight of those charmingly retro ’50s line while other motorists slow down to marvel at the Humber’s sheer presence.

MEET THE OWNER: EDWARD ARMSTRONG AND HIS POLICE AUSTIN MINI COOPER S MK. II

There are those rare occasions when your rare and desirable classic turns out to be even rarer and more desirable than you first imagined. For example, 37 years ago, Edward acquired a 1969 Austin Mini Cooper S Mk.

MEET THE OWNER: JASON FARNHAM AND HIS MG MIDGET MK.I

During the heyday of Abingdon, MG’s principal export market was the USA. This splendid Midget Mk.I resides in California, and it is both Jason’s first Octagon badged car and indeed his first classic vehicle.

MEET THE OWNER: JIM BAUMANN AND HIS PANHARD PL17

A few months ago, we described the wonders of the PL17, and we now celebrate the incredibly rare British market version owned by Jim Baumann. “I always wanted a Panhard - not sure why or which one - and the enthusiasm flip-flopped between a 24 and a Dyna. But then I realised that the early PL17 had a serious amount of polished aluminium ‘bling’, and I wanted RHD!”.

MEET THE OWNER: MARK FERRIS AND HIS ROVER 216 VANDEN PLAS EFI

Mark is the proud owner of the Austin Maestro VDP we recently featured, and he has also acquired a 216 Strata Grey Metallic Vanden Plas EFi. It was first registered on the 1st August 1988 and now goes by the name “Hyacinth”.

MEET THE OWNER: MIKE STEWARD AND HIS SAAB 99 TURBO FIVE-DOOR

Whenever Mike displays his 99 Turbo at shows, he frequently hears comments along the lines of ‘Never seen that before’ or despite the Saab’s very formidable presence, ‘it does not exist’.

MEET THE OWNER: NIGEL RICHARDSON AND HIS AUSTIN 1800

Local summer shows and fairs are so often a source of fascinating machinery. You might attend a fete with a vague expectation of bookstalls selling copies of Harry Potter for fifty pence, the delights of “Ferret World”, and a brass band playing In The Mood. But, then, you note a display of cars in a far corner of the field.

MEET THE OWNER: PADRAIC O’RIORDAN AND HIS MERCEDES BENZ 300SE

It is difficult to appreciate just how exotic any new Mercedes Benz Fintail would have appeared to the average Briton in the early to mid ‘sixties. t that time, even the cheapest 190 seemed to belong to a Cold War cinema drama, preferably one with a score by John Barry.

MEET THE OWNER: ALLAN JONES AND HIS FORD CAPRI MK.I SPECIAL

The first limited edition Capri was the 1971 Vista Orange, followed in June 1972 by the ‘Special’ based on the 1600GT 2000GT or 3000GT in XLR guise. The additional equipment included opening rear windows, a bonnet bulge, an alternator, a heated rear screen, a map lamp, hazard warning lights and, of course, ‘sports wheels’.

ON PARADE: AN RAF SPECIFICATION STANDARD VANGUARD VIGNALE

In the 1950s and well into the 1960s, the Vanguard was associated with the Royal Air Force. So from Brize Norton, Malta and Aden to Gan, Akrotiri, and Gibraltar, you would find highly polished Standards bearing RAF roundels. And today, the Vignale Estate, owned by the social media Influencer ‘Mrcarstagram’, is a reminder of the sort of car you might see in a black and white British Pathé newsreel.

Alex Cursley Hyundai Coupe Cup with Lancaster Insurance Season review 2021

'Together with Lancaster Insurance we’ve won the 2021 Hyundai Coupe Cup!' This makes us the most successful Coupe with two series wins and the most number of races won ever.

Classic cars used in crime

These are some of our favourite classic crime cars, from both fact and fiction. Some of these still make realistic ownership prospects today. They now enjoy iconic status (and not just down to certain criminal associations), so be sure to protect them with some specialist classic car insurance.

Our 2021 Car Club of the year

Now ladies and gentlemen… a drum roll please! We are delighted to announce the winner of the Lancaster Insurance Car Club of the year for 2021 is …The Morris Register Club!

Z CARS AT SIXTY

Exactly 60 years ago, the BBC broadcast a new police drama series that would go on to capture the imagination of the viewing public. It featured some of the most recognisable vehicles in TV history as Andrew Roberts explains…

Our favourite seven-seater classic cars

There has always been a need to carry larger families around. During the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, these mass-transport duties were carried out by big, sturdy estates, many of them French. Later, people carriers (or MPVs) entered the fray, joined more recently by a new generation of seven-seater SUVs.

10 reasons to visit the British Motor Museum

In short, the museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the cars that we have produced over the decades – and, of course, for all fans of classic and vintage cars. Which includes us here at Lancaster Classic Car Insurance and, we imagine, many of our customers.

What should you do if your campervan is stolen?

If you do become the victim of campervan theft, there are several simple steps you need to go through. The essentials include contacting the police and your cover provider.

Discover Portmeirion by classic car

There’s something genuinely unique about Portmeirion. Nestled into a crook of the rocky coastline of North Wales, with the bleakly impressive Snowdonia just inland and vast grey slate mines within a few minutes’ drive, you would expect Portmeirion to be a classic Welsh fishing village, clinging resolutely to its stretch of shoreline.

A classic road trip to the WWI battlefields and Ypres

A leisurely weekend drive in your classic car is always a huge pleasure. Sometimes, however, you might long for some more adventurous classic motoring. A tour of the WW1 battlefields of France and Belgium ticks a lot of boxes. For one thing, it makes for a fascinating and incredibly moving experience.

12 of the weirdest UK destinations to visit by campervan

We’ve aimed for a good geographical selection so, wherever you’re based, there should be something reasonably near at hand. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, fill up the fuel tank, check the campervan insurance is up to date… and tick them all off the list!

THE MONKEEMOBILE REMEMBERED

The Monkeemobiles had room for seven with bucket seats at the front and a wraparound bench at the rear. Jeffries also extended the nose and tail by foot, installed a taller windscreen and modified tail lamps, augmented the coachwork with side-exit exhaust pipes and even a parachute.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS; DINKY TOYS

Ninety years ago, Meccano Ltd. unveiled their range of ‘Hornby Modelled Miniatures’ as companions to their O Gauge railways.  However, by April 1934, the firm branded them as ‘Dinky Toys’, and they dispensed with the suffix was dropped in the following year.

10 of the best road-going rally cars

Rallying's 1980s and 1990s heyday produced a whole new type of performance car: the homologation special. These were road-going versions of the snarling rally champions that their makers had to produce in sufficient numbers for the latter to qualify for racing.

Classic Hondas we love

Something similar can be said of Honda, which in its relatively short history (it only properly came into being in 1949) has dedicated itself to some quite brilliant feats of engineering, whether out on the F1 track or in the car showroom.

20 amazing locations for classic car photoshoots

You love your classic and you want to document – and show off to others – just how beautiful and iconic it is. Beyond presenting it in the metal, some beautiful photos are the next best thing.

THE ROVER 75 REVISITED

The 75 seems to be starting to disappear from our roads; to see one parked outside of the local post office is to perform a slight double-take. It is also too easy to forget that they made their bow twenty-three years ago.

CHRISTINE: BRITISH STYLE

During the first Lockdown, this writer watched many car-related films and too much daytime television. The latter gave me a lifelong aversion to most chat shows, while the former led me to ponder; would the plot have worked in a British production?

THE BEST OF THE CORGI 007 CARS

Or, which of these three die-cast models would you have wished for on Christmas Day?

Our favourite classic Peugeots

We've said it before and we'll say it again: French cars are big on style. For much of its history, though, Peugeot was perhaps the exception that proved the rule: many a 1950s, 1960s or 1970s Peugeot was more about practicality than panache.

A quick guide to trickle chargers

In the case of a car that's getting regular use, the alternator plays the crucial role of maintaining a near-full state of charge – but for a car that's getting less use, and a battery that's been allowed to run down, the alternator won't be much use.

Is it worth buying a classic write-off?

Without thinking for too long, give us your definition of a 'write-off'. It's probably something like: a car that’s been involved in an accident and has been left completely undriveable, fit only for the scrapyard.

Best classic cars for dog lovers

So, you want to combine two of your life passions: dogs and classic cars. Specifically, you want a classic car that has plenty of vintage appeal but that also provides a safe and enjoyable ride for your beloved canine.

DO YOU REMEMBER THE NISSAN PRIMERA?

What compiling a list of cars that now appear to have almost vanished, one question kept recurring to this writer - i.e. when I did last see a Primera? In fact, it comes as a faint surprise to recall that Nissan displayed the prototype at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show as the Primera always seems a car associated with the ‘nineties, a vehicle for the John Major years as opposed to the late Margaret Thatcher era.

THE ITC WHITE JAGUAR; A CELEBRATION

As many readers know, ITC was the television production company that specialised in men of mystery pursuing fez-wearing villains across ‘Somewhere foreign’ (aka the Elstree Studios car park).

MEET THE OWNER; STUART COOKE AND HIS EX HAMPSHIRE CONSTABULARY ROVER P6B 3500S

Any police Rover P6B is automatically a very special vehicle, but HBK 875N once served as Earl Mountbatten of Burma’s official staff car on the Isle of Wight. Wadham Stringer (Portsea) Ltd.

A TIMEWARP FORD FIESTA MK. I

It could almost be 1978 again, for this forty-three-year-old Ford Fiesta L on sale by Performance and Prestige Vehicle Solutions Ltd. has covered just 141 miles since new. In 1981 it was donated to the Science Museum, forming part of their displays until 2017.

THE ORIGINAL TOYOTA CELICA; A CELEBRATION

One of the many highlights of this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show was the opportunity to marvel at the first-generation Celica. In the early seventies, the Toyota appeared to stand apart from the offered Ford Capri Mk. I, Sunbeam Rapier, Vauxhall Firenza or MGB GT, a scaled-down Mustang for a very reasonable price. And that was precisely its raison d’être.

Mazda MX-5 buying guide

Mazda's MX-5 drop-top made huge waves on its launch in 1989, and its four generations have found legions of admirers worldwide ever since. Its combination of lightweight driving thrills, reliability and affordability have made the MX-5 a much-loved acquisition, both new and used. So, could an MX-5 work for you – and if so, which one?

How to buy a classic Saab 900

With their bulletproof bodywork, strong performance, and design cues niftily borrowed from their fighter aircraft siblings, Saabs have always offered something a little different to the discerning driver.

The Cars of Cannonball Run

When it came out in 1981, the action comedy film The Cannonball Run was a huge box-office success. And it's not at all hard to see why – the film’s combination of an all-star cast, a simple but exciting storyline (an illegal road race across America) and some of the most desirable cars of its era more or less guaranteed huge ticket sales.

Do's and dont's of classic barn finds

Like many other vintage motoring fans, the news about 174 classic cars being revealed in a massive North London warehouse got us properly excited here at Lancaster. Standout cars from the enormous haul of vehicles included a Triumph Stag, several vintage VW campers, a handful of R107 Mercedes SL convertibles and a lovely BMW 2002, the 3 Series' 1970s predecessor.

Audi TT buyers guide

The TT has since been through three generations, each time available as both a 2+2 coupé and roadster, and in a variety of engines from a perfectly capable 1.8-litre four-cylinder, up to a 3.2-litre V6.

Club of the Month - The XJS Club

Christmas Club of the Month this December visits the XJS Club, an odyssey to the great grand tourer with a membership stretching all over the globe, where the star is very much the car!

Duel at fifty

After a hearty festive meal, chances are this Christmas, you’ll settle down by the fire to enjoy a movie. If you’re spoilt for choice why not try this one, which made the name of one of the most famous directors in history, Steven Spielberg.

Congratulations to this year’s Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership winner!

Another main event at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show this year was the Lancaster Pride of Ownership stand, showcasing the best classic cars in competition and celebrating the rarest and most cherished vehicles.

TOP TEN DINKY TOYS

At Lancaster Insurance we’re hoping every classic enthusiast gets all they wish for under the tree this Christmas, but if you can’t squeeze a Ferrari 250 GTO next to the boxes of mince pies, why not try these for an extra special stocking filler?

We’re getting serious about salvage this Christmas, so you don’t have to say goodbye…

This Christmas, why not treat yourself to a fantastic new Lancaster deal that could mean you save your classic car, should the very worst happen. Thanks to a fabulous new policy add-on, if your classic is categorised as a total loss, you are now NOT ONLY paid out on your written off car, but you’ll also be FULLY reimbursed if you buy back the salvage.

How to plan a classic trip to Jersey

Nestled just a few miles off the French coast, but decidedly British in feel, the island of Jersey makes an excellent weekend or week-long break. What’s more, a classic car is the very best way to take in its charms.

What a weekend our ‘Great British Road Trip’ to the 2021 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show turned out to be!

What a weekend our ‘Great British Road Trip’ to the 2021 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show turned out to be! The event, which took place on 12th – 14th November, was attended by around 63,000 enthusiasts over the three days, marking a triumphant return after last year’s postponement due to Covid.

Campervan owners’ guide to Newquay

Summing up the appeal of the seaside town, Cornwall Live says Newquay “has long been a firm favourite with holidaymakers thanks to its beaches, from the breath-taking sandy shores of Lusty Glaze to the surfer's paradise Fistral Beach”.

Classic cars and their modern counterparts

It might be your favourite family hatchback, born in the 1970s and now into its eighth generation. Or it could be an iconic design from the 1950s that got a cute modern reinterpretation for the 21st Century.

10 of the best grand tourers

Run your eyes down any of those '50 most beautiful cars of all time' lists, and you'll find that most of the models included fit into one of two categories: sports cars and grand tourers.

Our 50 favourite classics of all time

Contentious? Probably. Subjective? Utterly. Chock full of the most memorable cars in automotive history? Most certainly. Strap in for our list of 50 favourite classics of all time...

10 bargain roadsters ready for next summer

Next summer is still a little way off, which makes now the perfect time to invest in an affordable two-seater convertible...

10 things you need to know about campervan insurance

From 'will I be covered for driving on the Continent?' to 'what exactly is covered in my policy?', we bet you've got a few questions when it comes to taking out a specialist campervan insurance policy.

Our favourite Mercedes classics

Even if you’re not familiar with the classic Mercedes slogan – the best or nothing – you’ll know that the name has become synonymous with style, luxury and reliability. The S-Class series has long been a long-running Rolls Royce rival, while the SL dynasty of roadsters has been responsible for some of the most elegant soft-top cars in automotive history.

Best driving roads in the world

The definition of a brilliant driving road can come down to a few different factors. Some routes are the products of some truly stunning feats of engineering, of the heroic ways in which humanity has pitted itself against nature.

TOP FIVE LONDON MOTOR SHOWS

Autumn is traditionally the motor show season, and from 1937 until 1976, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders favoured Earls Court. Here are five of the London events that this writer wished he were old enough to have seen in person...

MEET THE OWNER: ROY HEDGER AND HIS CHRYSLER SUNBEAM

On Saturday 23 July 1977, ITV viewers were treated to a new commercial in the commercial break of Mr and Mrs. None other than Petula Clark informed the world that the Chrysler Sunbeam would “put a smile on your face”...

Campervan adventures to have this autumn

While those warm, sunny months are now very much in the rear-view mirror, autumn has plenty going for it – namely Halloween, Bonfire Night and a whole host of Christmas festivities! It also represents one more opportunity to get out in your campervan before the year is out and winter takes hold.

THE MINI CLUBMAN; A CELEBRATION

When the British Leyland Motor Corporation launched the Clubman in October of 1969, the copywriters worked overtime. There were references aplenty to its size, not to mention “For the first time a Mini has wind up windows in padded doors”, which was slightly economical with the truth.

ENVOY; A VAUXHALL FOR CANADA

The overseas marketing of a British car under a different name is a widespread phenomenon. US motorists were offered the ‘Austin Marina’ and Triumph badged Standards while Chrysler promoted the Hillman Avenger as the ‘Plymouth Cricket’.

Our favourite classic Skodas

Like some other classic car brands – hello Triumph, Rover, Peugeot – the Czech automotive giant Skoda started out producing bicycles. For much of the 20th Century, however, Skoda produced a series of well-liked, affordable cars for the Czech domestic market and beyond.

Our top 10 ‘must do’ Classic Motor Show activities!

There’s only two more days to go until the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show 2021 opens this Friday 12th November. To help you decide whether or not to book a last minute ticket for the event , we’ve compiled our top 10 list of activities that will be taking place at the show over the weekend...

Road Trip Ready with Art by Bex’s RETRO MINI HIRE

Rebecca East, known as Bex from Art by Bex is well-known as a talented Artist of Iconic Cars.

MG Owners Club (MGOC) Race Championship – race report Rounds 16 and 17: Pembrey 9-10th October

As the headline sponsor of the championship, we share a race report for the final meeting of the season. For the final meeting of the season, the drivers made the long journey down the M4 for our first visit to Pembrey since 2019.

How to plan a Cotswold road trip

The Cotswolds would seem made for a road trip in a classic car. For one thing, it is  – like your beloved classic itself – a beautiful and relatively unspoilt corner of England, where traditions (and we'll come to a few of those later) continue year after year.

DO YOU REMEMBER THE ORIGINAL PROTON?

The 1988 Motor Show at the NEC marked the arrival of a new marque to British motorists, albeit one whose products resembled a 1983 Mitsubishi Lancer Fiore. Here was a car that promised “Japanese Technology, Malaysian Style”, at a very reasonable price.

MEET THE OWNER – DON WAKENSHAW AND HIS LEYLAND MARINA SIX

One of the rarest versions of the Morris Marina was never available in the UK. 1973 saw the Australian-built Red Six debut, with power from a 2.6-litre version of the E-Series engine. Today, Don, who resides in New Zealand, owns a very rare example of one of BL’s most intriguing models.

'Puff the Magic Wagon’ stars with Lancaster Insurance at the Classic Motor Show

Lancaster Insurance will embrace the post Covid state of excitement amongst classic car enthusiasts from all over the world, as the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show with discovery+,hits the NEC this November.

Celebrating the iconic Mini Cooper

If any car sums up the sheer joy, excitement and pure fun associated with owning a classic vehicle, then surely the Mini Cooper is right at the top of the list. The iconic ‘60’s racer immortalised in the 1969 Michael Caine caper, The Italian Job, has delighted fans and owners alike on the open roads and on the racetrack for more than 60 years.

Meet the Owner - David Sefton and his Jaguar Mk X

David Sefton says: “The Mk X feels quick, planted to the road and makes for a smooth ride over what are my local and incredibly knobbly and potholed ridden roads (very much representative of the UK’s roads as a whole).

Best classic road trips near London

Sometimes you’ve just got to get out of the city, haven’t you? And the good news, if you’re based anywhere around London, is that you are blessed with dozens of tempting day-trip options. Within two hours of the capital you’ll find beautiful old university cities, quaint half-timbered market towns, elegant riverside villages – and so much more.

Peugeot 205 buyers' guide

The early to mid-1980s were a brilliant time for superminis. October 1980 brought us the iconic Austin Metro, with its legion of celebrity fans including the then Lady Diana Spencer: the second-generation VW Polo came exactly a year later.

For the Discerning Owner; The Bristol 407

Sixty years ago, ownership of a new 407 denoted a rare combination of exquisite taste and access to a large amount of funds. It was an understated machine that appeared to stand apart from the Aston Martin DB4, Bentley Continental or Jensen 541S.

The Ultimate Sporting Estate? 1969 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 Crayford

The great motoring writer Tom McCahill regarded the 300SEL 6.3 saloon as the “World’s best car” – but more exclusive still is this 1969 Crayford Estate version.

FIVE BRITISH LEYLAND SPECIAL EDITION CARS

The Special LE made its bow on the 5th of April 1978, for £2,965.95. For this modest sum, the buyer gained five-speed transmission, Sundym tinted glass, a passenger door mirror, a lockable fuel cap, a push-button radio, a tachometer and a leather-covered steering wheel.

Our favourite 80s coupes

The 1980s were a decade for conspicuous consumption – 'greed is good' and all that – and, as such, were a fruitful time for brash, lavishly styled, rapid (and thirsty) sports cars.

10 cars that epitomise French style

Here are 10 cars that, for us, illustrate the French way of doing things. You can find more brilliant French cars in our list of the 30 best French classic cars.

BMW E30 3 Series Buyers Guide

With its chrome-heavy, late 1970s looks, the first iteration of BMW’s iconic 3 Series saloon, also known as the E21, might be the most sought after by some vintage car fans – but if you want a classic that you can live with every day and even get a good dose of sporting fun out of, the second generation 3 Series (or E30) may be your best bet of all.

The best female rally drivers

Motorsport may remain, even to this day, a somewhat male-dominated world – but there have been some legendary female drivers, and nowhere more so than in the tough, demanding and stamina-quenching world of rallying.

MEET THE OWNER – IAN MACKENZIE AND HIS FORD FIESTA XR2 MK.I

“I bought it two years ago - I’d just finished a six-year restoration of my Mark III Wolseley Hornet and decided to sell it, so wanted something different from my usual BMC/BL fare. It was on eBay as a classified in Cheshire, so only just over the Pennines from me.”

THE TRIUMPH DOLOMITE: A CELBRATION

The year is 1971, and motorists reading The Illustrated London News learned some rather depressing news; “paralysed by strikes and other factories slowed down for lack of components.

THE WORLD’S RAREST WEDGE?

W.B. and Sons Ltd. have a truly exclusive British car at its auction on the 4th of December 2021. Chassis Number 00099 is the first ‘Wedge’ made on the production line, and it was immediately despatched from Cowley to Longbridge to assess the production line’s build quality.

What's a limited-slip differential?

You may or may not be familiar with the phrase 'limited-slip differential' (or limited-slip diff, or more simply LSD). If you've spent much time around either 4x4s or sports cars, however, the chances are that you may be familiar with the concept.

The Ford Thunderbird: A Celebration

As the story goes, the Thunderbird resulted from the designer George Walker and Ford’s division general manager Louis D. Crusoe admiring sports cars at the 1951 Paris Motor Show.

MEET THE OWNER - ROBERT CRAWFORD AND HIS SAAB GT850

Fifty-five years ago, a 14-year old motor enthusiast named Robert Crawford was moderately awestruck by his father’s new car; a dark blue 96 ordered from the Ayr dealership Cambuslea Garage.

‘Puff the Magic Wagon’ stars with Lancaster Insurance at the 2021 Classic Motor Show

Lancaster Insurance will embrace the post Covid state of excitement amongst classic car enthusiasts from all over the world, as the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show hits the NEC this November. In its ninth year as headline sponsor, Lancaster Insurance will watch the sensational ‘Puff the Magic Wagon’ take centre stage at stand 250 in Hall One.

How to preserve the value of your classic car

The age and condition of their various components means that classics will need a little more care and attention if they are to retain that vintage sparkle that you love them for.

MG Owners Club (MGOC) Race Championship – race report Rounds 12 and 13: Snetterton 18th September

As the headline sponsor of the championship, we share a race report for the penultimate meeting of the season.

MEET THE OWNER – MELISSA JARDINE AND HER NISSAN LAUREL C31

Melissa Jardine’s fascination with the Laurel stemmed from her family’s old car. In 1993 her father exchanged the Nissan for a base-model Ford Sierra, but such a fine vehicle could never be forgotten.

THE AUSTIN A30 AT SEVENTY

The year is 1951, and one of the star attractions of the London Motor Show is the latest small Austin. Countless visitors to Earls Court marvelled at the ‘chassis less’ construction – a ‘first’ for Longbridge, the smart lines and the new 803cc OHV engine.

Police cars through the years

Over the decades, the UK’s police forces have patrolled our roads in a huge variety of vehicles. From the humble Morris Minor to the luxury barge that is today’s fourth-generation Range Rover, and from the pootling Austin Allegro to the lightning-quick Rover SD1 3500, vehicles of all sizes, speeds and spec levels have been used by our various regional law and order forces.

The best fibreglass cars

Since its debut in the 1953, first-generation Chevrolet Corvette, fibreglass has played a small but significant role in the history of car production.

Classic military vehicles we love

You'll know by now that we love our classic cars here at Lancaster, and are proud to be able to provide classic car insurance for many of the wonderful motors that still adorn Britain's roads and driveways today.

Best Alpine drives

The Alps are home to some of Europe's most dramatic scenery – and many of the winding mountain roads that snake through them make for thrilling, engaging drives.

SIXTY YEARS OF THE SIMCA 1000

On the 27th July 1961, Simca commenced building a car that was to dominate French roads until the late 1970s.

Meet the Owner: Geoff Taylor and his 1978 Austin Allegro 1500 Special LE

Limited edition cars tend to fall into one of three categories. There are those made to commemorate the demise of a long-running or even iconic model. There are those built to clear the showrooms before the launch of a significant new model or at least an elaborate facelift.

Classic owners' Q&A

As a current or prospective classic car owner, you're likely to have a wealth of questions swirling around in your head. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the most-asked Q&As to help you on your ownership journey.

Classic car paint colours

Whether it's a fierce red evoking white-knuckle motorsport success, or a suave 1960s silver that instantly conjures up evildoers defeated and Martinis shaken, not stirred, some of those classic motors just need to be seen in a certain colour.

MEET THE OWNER: JOHN WATERHOUSE AND HIS RENAULT R8

In 1973, John Waterhouse, the National Coordinator of the Renault 4CV Register of Australia, acquired a Trinidad Rouge 956 cc, one owner R8 with his wife, Alex.

MEET THE OWNER: STEVE BAXTER AND HIS AUSTIN A55 CAMBRIDGE MK. II

Any Austin A55 Cambridge Mk. II is a splendid machine, but Steve’s example is particularly notable as his granddad purchased it new in 1961...

MISUNDERSTOOD? THE CHRYSLER ALPINE

What was the Car of The Year for 1976? The BMW 3 Series? The Renault 30TS? No, it was the Chrysler Alpine, a most underrated vehicle and only the second British-built five-door FWD hatchback after the Austin Maxi.

Six of our favourite classics from American Graffiti

Some films define a generation. Other films perfectly evoke a bygone age. A third, rare class of films manages a balancing act between the two – both crystallising a past era and reflecting on its own age, and perhaps even drawing parallels between the two.

A quick guide to online car auctions

Among the many new ways of doing things that the pandemic has ushered in, a particularly interesting development to us here at Lancaster Insurance has been the growth in online car auctions, for the trading of classic and historic vehicles.

The UK’s best eco-friendly campsites

Over the past few years, eco-friendly camping has surged in popularity here in the UK. A survey by motorhome and campervan rental business Camptoo revealed a staggering 436% increase in web searches for ‘eco camping’ since 2017.

Can you tow with a classic car?

Think back, for a minute, to your childhood days spent vehicle-watching through the windows of your parents’ car. Do you remember which cars you would commonly see hauling caravans or heavy trailers around the British countryside?

FORTY YEARS OF THE VOLKSWAGEN POLO SERIES II

October of 1981; cold, damp, and Dave Stewart with Barbara Gaskin with It’s My Party topping the charts. At least the motoring press offers relief from such gloom, with news of the latest Volkswagen Polo, a car unlikely to be mistaken for any rival.

THE LAST OF THE WOLSELEYS: A TRIBUTE

Forty-six years ago, Clive Richardson of Motor Sport compared the recently launched Citroën CX with a new British rival. He concluded:“If the Citroën was worthy of the ‘Car of the Year’ award, the credit must go to the CX 2200; the 2000 has too many pitfalls.

THE PRISONER MOKE TO BE AUCTIONED AT THE NEC

One of the many attractions of the Silverstone Auction at this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show is a vehicle that genuinely merits the term ‘television icon’. HLT 709 C is an Austin Mini Moke, built on 15th May 1965 and registered a month later in London.

A RENAULT FIT FOR A QUEEN – THE STORY OF THE ROYAL DAUPHINE

The year is 1968, and a young motoring enthusiast named Garry Dickens encounters a Dauphine in the yard of a Somerset car dealer. At that time, it was in a rather sorry condition, but its history was undeniably fascinating.

40 YEARS OF THE TRIUMPH ACCLAIM

Forty years ago, British Leyland unveiled the last car to wear the Triumph badge and the first Japanese car to be made in the UK. To celebrate, here are 20 facts about the Acclaim...

FAMILY CAR MEMORY: THE RENAULT R8

You rarely forget your first car, and mine was a 1964 Renault R8. However, that statement needs a certain amount of qualifying; a) it is the first car of which I have concrete memories, and b) back in 1973, it definitely belonged to my parents rather than me.

Meet the Owner - Bjarte Tunold and his Aston Martin DB5

To celebrate the launch of the latest Bond film, No Time to Die, we look at the iconic Aston Martin DB5. On the 17 September 1964, the London premiere of the third Bond Film created cinema history, not least from the moment when Desmond Llewelyn’s Q orders 007 to ‘pay attention’.

Club of the Month - P6 Rover Owners Club

The P6 Rover Owners Club (P6ROC) was established in 1982. It’s non-profit making and voluntarily run by Deborah Stanley and a team of dedicated enthusiasts ensuring the survival of all P6 models in the 2000, 2200 and 3500 ranges.

Classic & Sports Car Club Awards

It is time to celebrate your car club heroes, as Classic & Sports Car’s Club Awards, in association with Lancaster Insurance, returns for 2021.

Camper Round the Coast Review

The Lancaster Insurance and Practical Classics team undertook their epic Camper Round the Coast tour from 6-10 September.

Classic car auctions to visit this autumn

Buying at auction can be an excellent way to get hold of a classic car and, in this article, we'll run through a few of the fine-looking classic car auctions coming up throughout autumn 2021

10 breath-taking Alfa Romeos

Throughout their 111-year history, Italian carmakers Alfa Romeo have produced some astonishingly beautiful cars; some awesomely potent ones; and a select few that have managed to marry both elegance and power.

Morris Marina Owners Club – 50th anniversary charity run

The Morris Marina Owners Club are continuing their celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the launch of the Morris Marina in 1971 and the belated 40th anniversary of the launch of the Morris Ital in 1980.

Ford road trip with Kelsey Media

On Saturday 7 August our Own Brands Manager, Dave Bex and Paris Wakelen from our Car Club team joined Classics World’s Joe Miller for a road trip from Haynes International Motor Museum in Yeovil to Ford Fair 2021 at Silverstone.

FIVE OVERLOOKED JAMES BOND VEHICLES

As No Time To Die, Bond Film No. 25, is due for release at the end of the month, here is a short tribute to five, often overlooked, 007 vehicles...

THE TRIUMPH DOLOMITE: A CELBRATION

The year is 1971, and motorists reading The Illustrated London News learned some rather depressing news; “paralysed by strikes and other factories slowed down for lack of components.

THE CAVALIER MK. II: ONE OF VAUXHALL’S MOST IMPORTANT CARS

The year is 1981, and you are visiting the London Motor Fair. Older readers will recall how the NEC Motor Show was staged every two years, leaving scope for the Motor Trade Association to produce its own event at Earls Court.

The Story of the Renault Frégate

The Frégate is more likely seen in vintage brochures than on the road, but it was more than a footnote in Renault‘s history. Firstly, it was their first post-war large car, and secondly, its styling inspired the Dauphine.

How to buy a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow

Rolls-Royce started producing the Silver Shadow in four-door saloon form only, and it's easy to see why: this classic, simple, upright form suits the car's looks and branding so well.

Great gift ideas for car lovers

What do you get as a gift for the car lover in your life? Turns out that there are myriad options out there, be they driving experiences, fun toys, reading matter – or a whimsical artwork documenting their lifelong auto obsession.

A history of British Leyland

It's probably fair to say that the name 'British Leyland' conjures up mixed associations these days – pride in the postwar boom years of British motor manufacturing, to be sure, and in some iconic individual cars such as the Range Rover and Jaguar XJ-S.

How to plan a campervan holiday to Denmark

Denmark is deservedly one of Europe’s top locations when it comes to campervan holidays and it’s not hard to see why, with a terrific range of activities and landscapes to explore.

THE MINI COOPER: A CELEBRATION

Sixty years ago, the British Motoring Corporation introduced to the public the latest versions of the Mini, the Morris Cooper and its badge-engineered twin, the Austin Seven. At first glance, they seemed to be a sporting version of the ‘Super Mini’ launched a few months earlier. However, keen drivers paid close attention to the race-tuned to 997cc 55 bhp engine with twin SU carburettors, close-ratio gearbox and front disc brakes.

THE SINCLAIR C5 REMEMBERED

For many years, the Sinclair C5 has been regarded as a joke along with Sigue Sigue Sputnik records and The Roxy on ITV. It deserves a better fate, not least because it represented a new form of motoring, an electrically powered tricycle that anyone aged over 14 could drive on the road sans tax, licence or insurance.

John Challis 16 August 1942 –19 September 2021

The late John Challis was always a welcome sight on the screen. His height and commanding presence on TV often saw him cast as police officers in Z Cars or villains, such as the venial Scorby in the Fourth Doctor adventure The Seeds of Doom.

Where are the UK’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty?

Britain’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty make excellent destinations for a campervan trip: representing, as they do, some of our islands’ most treasured landscapes, they are liberally dotted with campsites to allow everyone to linger amongst the beauty for a while.

DO YOU REMEMBER – THE VAUXHALL VX 490 FIVE-SPEED?

The year is 1977, and this writer is poring over the latest Vauxhall brochure, a pastime almost as entertaining as The Goodies on BBC2. Suddenly, he comes across an FE even more glamorous than the VX2300 GLS.

Fifty Years of The Persuaders!

Tony Curtis! Roger Moore! Aston Martins! Dinos! John Barry’s music! Terrible clothes! Worse dancing! Here are 20 facts about ITC’s grooviest TV series...

What is the Heart 200?

The Heart 200 is a new, 200-mile touring route around some of central Scotland's most dramatic, beautiful, and storied landscapes – centred around the cities of Perth and Stirling as well as The Trossachs system of glens, hills and lochs, and the rugged Perthshire Highlands.

A history of Lotus

Esprit. Eclat. Elite. For any petrolheads growing up in the 1970s and 1980s, these names held a certain aura – whether glimpsed among the latest pack of Top Trumps or streaking by on the motorway.

60 YEARS OF THE TRIUMPH TR4

60 years ago this month, Triumph unveiled a new sports car that left traditionalists aghast. It had a full-width body with vestigial tail fins, winding windows, and even fresh air vents on the facia.

40 YEARS OF ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES

And to celebrate, here are twenty facts about the programme:

What are kei cars?

Out of difficult circumstances can come brilliant things – and few things illustrate that better than the Japanese kei car.

What are the different types of classic campervan?

So, you've decided that a campervan could be the way forward for you and your family. Congratulations, first and foremost, on a great choice. Miles and miles, and days and nights of affordable, open-road motoring and camping await you.

Meet the Owner – Craig Gorton and his Wolseley 24/80

At first sight, the Gorton Wolseley appears to be an exceptionally handsome example of the 15/60 – until you notice the badges. This is a 24/80 Mk 1, a six-cylinder product of BMC-Australia that was never available in the UK.

Club of Month - The Deux Chevaux Club of Great Britain

The Deux Chevaux Club of Great Britain, or 2CVGB, is a friendly and knowledgeable group, of all ages and backgrounds, dedicated to preserving, restoring and enjoying Citroën A-Series models.

Ford v Vauxhall sales wars of the 1970s and 1980s

During the 1970s and 1980s, car market watchers had a fascinating time following the ongoing sales rivalries between two of Britain's biggest-selling car marques, Ford and Vauxhall.

TEN COUPES FOR AUTUMN

Or, as the cold weather approaches, ten ways to enjoy sporting motoring in a certain amount of comfort...

What does classic car insurance cover?

We're often encouraging you to arrange some classic car insurance for your beloved vehicle here at Lancaster. But what does classic car insurance cover – and how does it differ from common or garden car insurance?

How to prepare your car for a classic car show

If you’re thinking of attending your very first show as an exhibitor how can you prepare your car to get it looking its best? Whether you’re just flashing the car for fun or hoping to take home a trophy, here’s how to get it looking its best.

How will the E10 fuel change affect you?

From September 2021 a change is coming into effect which will see UK petrol stations around the country replacing E5 as the standard grade in place of renewable unleaded E10 fuel.

MEET THE OWNER: JAMES MACBETH AND HIS MINI CITY

James is the Managing Director of Auto Windscreens and his Mini is a car that would have been unthinkable to the average economy-minded driver 41 years ago. No City would have featured an electric blue paint finish, alloy wheels and whitewall tyres, as this was the entry-level model.

A TRIBUTE TO THE CHAMPIONS

Many readers will be sad to read of the passing of the American actor Stuart Damon. For much of the 60s and 70s, he was based in the UK and enlivened many an ITC programme.

Only 26 Still On the Road: The Mitsubishi Starion

Classic & Sports Car recently announced the rather depressing news that just 26 Starions remain on the road in the UK. They were one of the most desirable sports coupes of their generation and possessed a distinctive style that set them apart.

THE VAUXHALL WYVERN AND VELOX E AT 70

70 years ago this month, Luton assured motorists that ‘Whatever point of view you judge from – performance, appearance, or anything else – you are going to agree that these new Vauxhalls are really something’.

TOP TEN SUMMER TOURING CARS

Or four seats, and the ability to take advantage of any moments of the August weather: Citroën Visa Décapotable - Citroën sold just 2,633 examples of the Décapotable, one reason being Heuliez’s bodywork inflated the price far beyond a standard 11RE.

Best Yorkshire road trips

From the dramatic chalk cliffs of its long North Sea shoreline to the gentle, chocolate-box beauty of its mellow Dales, Yorkshire has one of the widest varieties of attractive landscapes of any British region.

Exploring Exmoor in your classic car

Straddling Somerset and Devon, the vast open spaces of Exmoor contain some of Britain's most dramatic and windswept landscapes, and some of its most beautiful driving routes.

All about SORN

As a classic car owner, and possibly a member of an owners' club, you will very likely have heard the term 'SORN' – and, perhaps, got little further than understanding that it's some sort of designation for cars – often classics – that are not currently on the road.

12 FACTS ABOUT THE BRITISH ICE CREAM VAN

For many years, the arrival of the ice cream van was as much a part of summer as awaiting O level results or unwatchable ITV Seaside Specials on ITV.

THE SINGER VOGUE AT SIXTY

This month sees the 60th anniversary of a car that never professed to offer the excitement of a Jaguar E-Type or a Mini Cooper – yet was a vital aspect of British motoring of the late Macmillan era.

TEN FILM AUTOMOTIVE ERRORS

One night, when this writer was at low ebb, he found himself watching the long-forgotten 1987 Burt Reynolds/Liza Minnelli vehicle Rent-a-Cop

THE FORD TRANSIT MK 1 – A CELEBRATION

The term ‘icon’ is one vastly overused in the media, from soap actors in with the dramatic power of Stingray, to popstars who have extended their range by learning a fourth chord. Similarly, in terms of British motor vehicles, only a select group may be genuinely described as ‘iconic’ - including the Transit Mk 1. Put simply, this was the Ford that redefined the light commercial.

MEET THE OWNER – CHRIS LEE AND HIS RENAULT 12 TS

Chris’s Renault 12TS looks as though it should be gracing the Renault GB brochure for 1977. Those of us of a certain age will remember this splendid publication...

THE STORY OF THE SLOUGH-BUILT 2CV

In April 1954, William Boddy of Motor Sport was so taken with the Citroën 2CV he wrote ‘Certainly from now on I shall look with scorn at cars of low power output which employ heavy lumps of cast-iron surrounded by water for engines’.

THE FIAT 126 – A TRIBUTE

When Fiat unveiled the 126 in 1972, they faced two considerable challenges. Firstly, the Nuova 500 was an extremely hard act to follow – the car that tempted many a Vespa or Lambretta rider towards the joys of four-wheeled transport.

Best classic company cars

It’s funny how the passage of time changes our view of certain vehicles. Executive models might have seemed worthy but dull back in their day – but a few decades on, many have attained classic status.

Our favourite dad cars from the 70s and 80s

If you’re ever nostalgic for the cars of your youth, you’re not alone. As a child, your dad’s car seemed enormous and all-powerful and some of the smells and textures stay with you forever.

15 reasons why we love the Vauxhall Chevette

Arriving on the scene in the middle of the 1970s (1st May 1975, to be precise), the Chevette heralded a new departure for Vauxhall, its clean, simple looks a world away from the more elaborate styling of the Victor and Cresta from the 1960s.

The history of Radford coachbuilders

We were very excited to learn, earlier this year, of the exciting relaunch of Radford – one of the most prestigious coachbuilders in British automotive history.

A classic car owner’s guide to the new ULEZ zone

Anyone who's driven the streets of central London at any time over the past couple of years will have been aware of a comprehensive new measure to clamp down on air pollution in the city (and no, we're not talking about the already well-established Congestion Charge here).

MEET THE OWNER – ALEX SINGLETON AND HIS MG MAGNETTE MK 4

We recently featured John Langford’s 1964 Magnetite Mk 4 Farina, and today, we pay tribute to Alex’s 1966 example.

THE VOLVO C70 – THE FORGOTTEN SAINT CAR

The 1990s are now looking not so much remote as impossibly distant. As the popular phrase goes, when did you last see a Rover 600, a first-generation Ford Mondeo, or indeed a first-generation Volvo C70?

Camper Round the Coast – vote now for your favourite beach!

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Practical Classics magazine to create a very special journey – a whistle-stop fundraising tour of Britain’s finest beaches in a VW Campervan. And we need your help.

The best cars with straight-six engines

The Jaguar E-Type, the BMW M5, the 'James Bond' Aston Martin DB5 and that gullwing-door Mercedes – some iconic cars, down the decades, have sported straight-six engines.

The campervan owner's guide to Henley Royal Regatta

There are many major fixtures in the British sporting calendar but one of our favourites is the Henley Royal Regatta.

Our favourite European Car of the Year winners

It was back in 1964 that a group of enterprising motoring magazines from across Europe first got together and decided to vote on the best new car to have emerged across the continent that year.

The best classic car owners' clubs to join this year - Part 3

You probably know this by now, but we are big fans of classic car clubs here at Lancaster. We believe that, for all owners of classics, joining a car club is an invaluable first step.

Green card scheme for EU country car visits scrapped

Good news for anyone considering a continental classic car tour this summer, after it was announced that millions of people will no longer need an insurance ‘green card’ before taking their car to EU countries.

The history of the Highway Code

Which book is ever-present on the best-seller lists – yet can also claim to have saved thousands of lives?

Club of the month - The Green Lane Association

Formed in 1995, the Green Lane Association (GLASS) is the National User Group for those who enjoy using the Country’s network of ancient unsurfaced public roads and vehicular rights of way.

A beginner's guide to hillclimbing and sprints

You may be the proud owner of a classic motor with a sporty bent – an MGB GT, say, or an early Mazda MX-5, or a Mk2 Golf GTI. And perhaps you've wondered idly, from time to time, what it would be like to enter your classic into the odd motorsport event.

Best kayaking locations in the UK

In this article we’ll explore a little bit more about this amazing activity – the best places to do it, how to get a licence if you need one and some top tips to keep you safe while you’re out on the water.

MEET THE OWNER – PETER OKONSKI AND HIS HILLMAN HUNTER GLS

In 1973, a new Hunter GLS was somewhat of a Q-Car – even if the owner specified the ‘Limelight’ paint finish.

Meet the Owner – Simon Frith and his Datsun Skyline 240K GT

Owners of once-familiar 1970s saloons are very familiar with the opening line ‘my dad/mum/grandfather/uncle/headmistress/postman had one of those’.

The Remarkable Panhard PL17

Experiencing a Panhard PL17 was an experience on a par with entering the National Motor Museum for the first time or encountering the Genevieve Darracq in the metal – something never to be forgotten.

The Škoda S110R – A Celebration

In the late 1970s, many a young “Ton-Up” driver in their customised Ford Anglia 105E (a la The Young Ones) was amazed to be overtaken by a rear-engine coupe.

Meet the Owner – Ian Evans and his Zündapp Janus

A 1958 Zündapp is not the ideal vehicle for motorists who wish to maintain a low profile. Whenever Ian Evans goes for a spin, the reaction of other road users, along with many pedestrians, is ‘what on earth is that?’

A history of the Dakar Rally

Strap yourselves in and check the GPS, as we take a white-knuckle ride through the colourful history of the world’s most demanding endurance rally

Ten of the best military museums in the UK

Did you know that we insure lots of old military vehicles here at Lancaster as well as classic cars? From old military Land Rovers to full-on tanks, we’ve got you covered!

THE MALCOLM OYSTON FORD PROBE COLLECTION

Not long ago, we profiled the Ford Probe. So today let’s celebrate the collection of Malcolm Oyston who owns no fewer than six UK-market cars.

Quick guide to classic wheels

When it comes to your classic car, every detail matters. That’s why, if you decide you want to change the wheels, it’s a big decision.

The best classic car owners’ clubs to join this year (Part 2)

Here at Lancaster, we have been supporting car clubs for the last three decades. We love the camaraderie between owners, meeting lifelong friends and sharing vital tips and knowledge about the vehicles we love the most.

Classic cars made in Coventry

To celebrate Coventry's year as UK City of Culture 2021, we decided to look into the city's illustrious motor manufacturing history.

A history of Morgan

From their factory on the edge of the Malvern Hills, British car markers Morgan have been at the leading edge of sports and race car manufacture for over a century.

The UK’s best picnic spots for campervans in 2021

Now is the time to start getting out and enjoying the marvels of the UK countryside in your campervan. Pack up the cool box and picnic rug, check the tyre pressures, make sure you're equipped with some decent campervan insurance because it’s time to hit the open road.

Common risks for campervan drivers you didn’t suspect

You’ll be familiar with the common risks associated with life on the road – drink driving, other road users, adverse weather conditions, driving behaviour – and even a few hazards linked specifically to campervans, such as the different dimensions and turning circles.

10 restoration projects to tackle in 2021

Restoring a classic car can be a hugely rewarding process. This is work that requires real concentration and dedication, and will get you deep inside the working parts of your chosen vehicle.

Future classics from the 2000s

You might think it's a little too soon to start earmarking future classics from the 2000s, a decade that seems not long gone. But we’re always thinking about the next great classics here at Lancaster and protecting them for the future.

L J K Setright – A Celebration

When the world was young and the Ford Fiesta 1300S Mk 1 was causing a minor sensation in outer suburbia; this writer was a devotee of Car magazine.

How to keep mice and rats out of your classic car

If you find you’ve got a mini passenger in your Mini Cooper, what action can you take? We’ve put together our top tips for ridding your Riley of rodents – and prevent them from sneaking back.

DO YOU REMEMBER – THE STANDARD ATLAS?

The Atlas is the sort of vehicle mainly glimpsed in the backgrounds of 1960s British films rather than on the road. The Standard light commercial was a rather appealing machine in its heyday, but it never seemed to find a market niche despite its virtues.

At last…home insurance that’s built for the classic car enthusiast

At Lancaster Insurance, we understand that while your classic is your pride and joy, home is where the heart is.

Classic car touring holidays

In this article, we’ll find out all the details – what you can get up to, where you can go, and some examples of companies running great classic car touring holidays that you can get involved in.

THE LANCIA 2000 BERLINA AT 50

Fifty years ago, Lancia unveiled its last independently designed car. Fiat acquired the famous concern in October 1969 and for many enthusiasts the 2000 Berlina marked the end of an era. It was also one of the most delightful sports saloons of the 1970s.

20 FACTS ABOUT THE RENAULT 4

Today marks the 60 birthday of not just one of Renault’s most important models but one of the most remarkable cars in motoring history.

Club of the Month – Gay Classic Car Group

June is Pride Month so what better way to mark the wholesale celebration of Britain’s LGBTQ community, than by having Gay Classic Car Group (GCCG) as our Club of the Month?

MEET THE OWNER – CAMERON BURNS AND HIS MORRIS 1800

After recently succumbing to the lure of the ‘Landcrab’, Cameron Burns bought himself an 1800 Mk 3. His Morris was fitted with several decadent extras: reclining front seats, hazard warning lights, an alternator and a heated rear screen.

Best and worst classic car names

When it comes to having a favourite classic car, you might look for the whole package. Not only can that mean the drivability, the style, the shape or the character, but also the feelings of nostalgia it may evoke in you.

What were the best coupes from the 1990s?

The 1990s were a thrilling time for motor enthusiasts. Racing was graced by legends such as F1’s Michael Schumacher and Rallying’s Colin McRae, while car manufacturers pushed boundaries with exciting and innovative designs.

The history of Morris Motors

If you stop to think about truly iconic British vehicles, or indeed companies, it won’t be long before the name Morris pops up. Morris Motors was one of the true giants of 20th Century Britain, operating through both world wars and creating a range of successful, iconic vehicles.

The MG Midget – A Celebration

When MG introduced “The new Midget” in June of 1961, some Abingdon traditionalists were decidedly unhappy. A Mr. R. Gowring ranted in a letter to Motor Sport:

Our favourite Reliant cars

The 20th Century in the UK was full of motoring success stories and many have endured to today (think Rolls Royce, which started in 1904 and Vauxhall from 1903. However, for every 20th Century brand that is still active, there are about a hundred who are now defunct.

20 iconic cars from history

Classic cars become iconic for several reasons. They can symbolise bygone eras or represent strides forward for the car industry of their day. Meanwhile, they can achieve fame for their performances on the big screen or the world’s toughest racetracks.

Classic road trip gadgets and accessories

So you’ve got your dream classic car but have you got all the right accessories and gadgets to go with it?

A classic car owner’s guide to potholes

Classic car owners know there’s no feeling quite like getting your dream set of wheels, keeping it in great nick, and taking it out on the road.

THE REMARKABLE DAIMLER ONE-O-FOUR LADIES MODEL

The 1950s so often appear to be another world – the National Anthem played at the end of cinema bills, newsagents selling Woodbines and The Daily Herald…and vehicles aimed exclusively at the female driver.

MEET THE OWNER - SIMON MALTBY AND HIS LONDON MET “SETAC” LAND ROVER

The Land Rover was used by the nation’s constabularies almost from the outset of production in 1948. They might have been seen patrolling the Mersey Tunnel, rural beats or major highways.

THE FORD PROBE REMEMBERED

Some aspects of 1990s life now appear impossibly distant – Eurotrash on Channel 4, short-lived BBC soap Eldorado and the Ford Probe.

Tips for driving a campervan at night

Driving a campervan at night brings all kinds of different challenges and risks. It’s important that you’re tuned in to what they are and have a strategy for dealing with them so you can minimise the chance of an unwelcome – and potentially serious – incident on the road.

Which classic cars do Top Gear presenters own?

The Top Gear line up has changed a few times in recent years, but – for now at least – the BBC have settled on the presenting trio of Paddy McGuinness, Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff and Chris Harris.

A quick guide to Sir Stirling Moss

His passing in April 2020, aged 90, was an emotional day for fans of motor racing. One of the true legends of the sport, a daring driver known best for his years on racing’s greatest stage – Formula One.

THE AUSTIN MAXI REMEMBERED

One of the more pleasing developments of the past 20 years is the gradual retirement of the “British Leyland Joke”. They are occasionally revived in the form of (very) tired piano references, but BL products are now mainly assessed on their merits.

THE TRIUMPH ACCLAIM – AN APPRECIATION

This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most important cars to bear the Triumph badge. When the Acclaim made its bow on the 7th October 1981, it pioneered Japanese involvement in the British motor industry.

The best supercars of the 1980s

Depending on who you speak to, the 1980s, with its big hair, big shoulder pads and even bigger personalities, was either a decade that should be fondly remembered or forgotten altogether. The supercars from this era were equally ‘bold and brash’, with their large rear-wings and over-sized vents – and we love them for it.

Murray Walker - A life in motorsport

The death of legendary Formula 1 commentator Murray Walker, aged 97, led to an outpouring of tributes, underlining how much of an admired figure he was in the world of motorsport.

RARER THAN RARE – THE HILLMAN GT

Back in 1969, a new Hillman GT was the perfect car for “String-Back-Driving-Gloves Man”. It had it all: the rev counter mounted atop the dashboard, the high-backed front seats and, of course, the ‘Go-Faster’ stripes. At £962, it was also £24 cheaper than a four-door Ford Cortina GT, while there was more than enough room in the glove box for a bottle of Hai Karate.

Our Club of the Month revealed!

Designed as the European equivalent of the Ford Mustang, the Ford Capri was first introduced in 1969 and has an established following up and down the country!

We’ve insured our first electric conversion classic!

Electric vehicles are the hot topic of conversation at the moment and it’s certainly split the opinion of enthusiasts up and down the country as to whether they would convert their classic.

Andrew Roberts explores the history of the Fiat 127

One of the main stars of this year’s NEC Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show was Lancaster Insurance’s ‘Classic Trade-Up’ 127.

Drumroll please…and the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show 2022 theme is…

We’re delighted to confirm that this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show with discovery+ theme has now been revealed as ‘Part of the Family’, which we think summarises how we feel about our classics, customers and the entire industry.

THE EARLY DAYS OF THE MOT TEST

The MOT test has once again recently been in the news, and it is so much a part of motoring vocabulary that it is intriguing to consider its roots. The 1950s saw a vast increase in private car ownership – from 18% of British households in 1950 to nearly 40% at the end of the decade.

Drive In Revisited

Drive In was Thames Television’s prestige motoring programme, commencing in 1972. The footage kindly uploaded to YouTube by Pearson describes the changing face of motoring in the 1970s.

THE VAUXHALL CHEVETTE: A CELEBRATION

Debates about Britain’s first hatchback are often as tedious as The Best James Bond. The Austin A40 ‘Farina’ Countryman of 1959 is probably the original ‘Two Box’ car with a tailgate, while the Austin Maxi of ten years later was the first UK built FWD transverse engine hatch.

MEET THE OWNER – DAMIEN RYAN AND HIS AUSTIN 1800

For too long, the ‘Landcrab’ family was overlooked in favour of other BMC front-wheel-drive cars.

MEET THE OWNER – PAUL THOMPSON AND HIS PEUGEOT 304 CABRIOLET

In the early 1970s, Paul Thompson was an apprentice at a Peugeot dealer, and one of the regular customers drove a 304 Cabriolet. “I sat in it at dinner time, and that’s when I promised myself I’d get one, one day - but on £14 a week I thought it would have to stay a dream.”

TOP TEN SOFT ROADERS

Or, who needs 4x4 in cars that look this good?

MEET THE OWNER – TIM GIDDY AND HIS JENSEN-HEALEY

I used to have a TR6 back in my youth, which in my mind, is a good comparison car. I would say they are like different generations, the Triumph is very much harking back to an older generation, and the Jensen-Healey feels much more modern.

IT WAS A DIFFERENT WORLD – TWENTY FACTS ABOUT LIFE IN 1952

1) There were circa 2.5 million cars on the road in 1952. 2) Only one in twenty Britons had access to a car. 3) Some British car marques of 1952 that are no longer with us: Armstrong Siddeley, Austin, Hillman, Humber, Jowett, Morris, Singer, Standard, Sunbeam-Talbot, Triumph, Riley and Wolseley.

THE PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP WINNER; JAKE CLAPPISON’S TRIUMPH SPITFIRE 1500

One of the 2021 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show’s highlights was Jake Clappison’s 1979 Inca Yellow Triumph Spitfire 1500 taking first place in the Pride of Ownership.

FIVE ENTRY LEVEL CARS

Aka who needs electric windows, a fuel gauge, windscreen washers, a boot floor?… 1953 Ford 103E Popular. Sixty-eight years ago, Ford proudly boasted that for just £390, you too could own the cheapest ‘full size’ new car in the UK.

THE VAUXHALL MAGNUM – A CELEBRATION

Last year we celebrated the fiftieth birthday of the Firenza, which neatly brings us to the 1973 revision of the Vauxhall’s HC family.

Meet the Owner - Nicholas Harries and his Humber Sceptre

When the Rootes Group unveiled the Humber Sceptre in 1963, they modestly proclaimed “Never before has there been a car so superbly equipped…with such performance…at so modest a price.”

THE VAUXHALL HERITAGE COLLECTION AT THE BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM

Many readers would have seen photos of Vauxhall’s remarkable heritage vehicle or had the pleasure of seeing the exhibits in the metal. So the news that Gaydon is to be the home of the collection is indeed welcome.

THE TRIUMPH TR8 REMEMBERED

Forty one years ago, production ended of one of the great post-war British sports cars. One US motoring journalist wrote, ‘I didn’t think they’d ever make cars like that again, but the Triumph TR8 reminds me why I fell in love with cars in the first place’. Countless other enthusiasts feel the same way.

THE FORD 100E: A CELEBRATION

When the Anglia and Prefect 100E made their bow at the 1953 Paris Motor Show, they marked a major development for Ford of Great Britain.

DENNIS WATERMAN 24TH FEBRUARY 1948 – 8TH MAY 2022

Dennis Waterman was a part of the lives of several generations of Britons. For some, he will be the Triumph Stag driving former Detective-Inspector Gerry Standing of New Tricks.

CELEBRATING THE MG 1300 MK. II

The 1969 Motor test of the MG 1300 Mk II was headlined “At last – real performance”, and in the previous year, Autocar found it “great fun to drive”. They also regarded it as “refined and gentlemanly and will serve equally well the enthusiast driver and his not so enthusiastic wife”.

THE TRIUMPH ACCLAIM – AN APPRECIATION

This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most important cars to bear the Triumph badge. When the Acclaim made its bow on the 7th October 1981, it pioneered Japanese involvement in the British motor industry. It was also the right car launched at the right time – an accolade not shared by many other BL products.

THE VW TREKKER – A CELEBRATION

The year is 1974, Volkswagen GB has initiated a competitor to re-name their latest import, the 182. The winner was a Mr. Nigel Purden of the Midlands with his suggestion of ‘Trekker’ – and it would be fair to say it was virtually sans rivals in the UK.

THE SHORT BUT FASCINATING SAGA OF THE RENAULT R3

It goes without saying that when the R4 made its bow in 1961, it altered Renault’s future and small European cars per se. Not only was it the company‘s first car with FWD (the front-wheel-drive Estafette van debuted in 1959) it also popularised the five-door format for the mass market.

THE REMARKABLE DAIMLER ONE-O-FOUR LADIES MODEL

The 1950s so often appear to be another world – the National Anthem played at the end of cinema bills, newsagents selling Woodbines and The Daily Herald…and vehicles aimed exclusively at the female driver.

THE ORIGINAL TOYOTA CELICA; A CELEBRATION

One of the many highlights of this year’s Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show was the opportunity to marvel at the first-generation Celica.

THE CITROEN DYANE 6 – A CELEBRATION

There is a strong case for suggesting the Dyane is one of the finest family cars of its generation. Here is a Citroën that offers all of the 2CV’s virtues – but with the bonus of a tailgate.

THE EDSEL REVISITED

The year is 1957, and the venue is the internal launch party for the Edsel. There Robert McNamara, the General Manager of the Ford division, tells the advertising guru Fairfax Cone that the company is already planning its demise even before the first customers took delivery. It did not augur well for the new marque.

THE FORD PROBE REMEMBERED

Some aspects of 1990s life now appear impossibly distant – Eurotrash on Channel 4, doomed BBC soap Eldorado and the Ford Probe. Here was a car heavily promoted by Ford, including the obligatory pompous advertisement.

THE GREAT BRITISH CAR JOURNEY

Many of us are old enough to remember when a family picnic tended to involve egg and cress sandwiches, explosive bottles of R Whites lemonade and an overheating Morris 1100 De Luxe just outside of Weymouth.

MEET THE OWNER – STEPHEN DAWES AND HIS ONE FAMILY FROM NEW FIAT 124

Sometimes, when writing about classic cars, you come across a vehicle that is incredibly rare – so rare, in fact, that you cannot remember seeing one on the road in the past three decades. Stephen Dawes’s 124 is not only one of the very few examples left; it is also a one-family-from new Fiat.

The Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire 346; An Appreciation

One of the stars of the 1952 London Motor Show was the Sapphire 346. “Truly a car of character” stated Armstrong Siddeley and this was not an exaggeration.

Best driving roads in the UK

As a classic car owner, you want to be able to drive your vintage motor on some of the best roads that the British Isles has to offer. It’s easy to forget that we’re blessed with some incredible landscapes here in the UK – it’s just a case of knowing where to find them.

Classic cars from British TV comedies

Over the decades, vintage motors have played iconic roles in many great British TV comedies. Just think: how would Del Boy have got up to his wheeler-dealer tricks without his three-wheeler?

Our favourite Ferraris

Every car enthusiast has their favourite Ferrari. Some – like us – can’t narrow it down to just one and have a whole list of Ferraris that hold a special place in their hearts.

TALKING PICTURES TELEVISION – A CELEBRATION

This week marks the sixth anniversary of a television channel that is a source of delight to classic machinery and cinema fans alike. After all, who needs the likes of Celebrity Supermarket Warehouse Shift Worker and Help – Even My Agent Has Forgotten My Name?