Author Archives: Mike Cowlam

Yorkshires Twisted Automotive, the world-renowned specialists in re-engineering iconic British 4x4s, has unveiled its first-ever Range Rover project: the Twisted interpretation of a Range Rover Classic (TRRC). Following 25 years of perfecting the Defender, Twisted has applied its ‘anti-ordinary’ philosophy to the two-door Range Rover Classic. The TRRC is a project rooted in deep personalContinue reading “Twisted unveils its first-ever interpretation of the Range Rover Classic”

I love a good auction. Not just the really exclusive ones (like this one) but every kind of car auction. The on-line catalogues are a great source of information about the models whose values are falling or on the rise. They also bring unfamiliar models to my attention which I can read up about later.Continue reading “70 of the world’s most desirable cars for sale”

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse Car giants Lancia are bringing back its stylish Gamma model from the seventies in SUV form with testing well underway. The Gamma was launched in 1976 to compete in the executive market. It boasted sharp Pininfarina styling and powered by an all aluminium 2.5 litre flat-four engine. It cameContinue reading “Iconic Italian coupe to return as SUV”

The successful completion of the expedition across Africa was a PR success.  The cars, Wait and See were sent on a tour of Jowett dealers across the UK and then used at the factory for moving parts around. Both cars were rebodied with Long 2 bodies with a Dickie seat. Car number 1 (Wait) wasContinue reading “Wait and See Part 2:”

David Metcalfe is a true classic car enthusiast.  With 30 classic cars in various stages of restoration he probably has the largest and most diverse personal collection that I have come across.  He recently told me about one of his cars that would be 100 years old in 2026.  That is remarkable, though it’s notContinue reading “Wait and See: A story of Yorkshire grit.”

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse Is the classic car world driving into a crisis with ageing owners and a growing skills shortage? Did you know? Of the 1.9 million classic vehicles registered in the UK, owners average 66 years old. And when it comes to servicing and restoring these classics the knowledge and skillsContinue reading “Driving ambition – attracting more young people into the classic car sector”

​If you are a classic car enthusiast in West Yorkshire then you are probably familiar with The Carding Shed in Holmfirth. It is a great combination of traditional British food, vintage retailing and classic car workshop. It makes for a grand day out where most family members can find something to enjoy. Throughout the yearContinue reading “Looking for a trip out?”

One way to make a relatively ordinary car more appealing is to produce a special edition. This is a popular technique used by all the major manufacturers. Sometimes it is just a special paint job, extra stripes or something more substantial such as alloy wheels and different trim. A good example is the new ŠkodaContinue reading “Škoda Motorsport celebrates 125 years of success.”

I must confess that I have never been to the Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional, but I love the concept. I am surprised that more people don’t adopt the idea, perhaps within a bigger show. These cars were mundane, even in their day and today they stand out only because they have survived. These boringContinue reading “Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional”

The Goodwood Revival (18-20 September) will mark the centenary of Maserati’s first major triumph at the Targa Florio, with an exceptional collection of cars. No marque in history has embraced the highs and lows of motorsport more enigmatically than Maserati. From beautiful cars and legendary drivers to glorious victories – and occasional setbacks – MaseratiContinue reading “Goodwood Revival to celebrate Maserati’s racing centenary”

For me, Race Retro is the first event of the season and a must visit for any enthusiast of historic motorsport. If you are thinking of getting into motorsport then you can literally apply for your licence, take your medical, find a race or rally series and buy a car. But the best part isContinue reading “Race Retro 2026”