Classic car insurance specialist Footman James is calling on classic vehicle owners to make their voices heard over new Government vehicle emissions proposals that could have serious unintended consequences for Britain’s enthusiast community.

The Department for Transport has launched a consultation on in-use vehicle emissions, proposing tougher rules to ensure vehicles continue to meet the emissions standards they were built to comply with when new.

While the stated aim is to tackle poor maintenance, emissions tampering and deliberate ‘delete’ modifications, Footman James is warning that the proposals could also catch responsible owners simply trying to keep cherished cars on the road.

Under the proposals, vehicles could be deemed non-compliant and their owner fined if emissions control systems no longer operate as originally approved. The consultation also goes further, indicating that the removal or manipulation of certain systems –  such as DPFs, GPFs, catalytic converters, AdBlue/SCR systems and diesel EGR systems – would be treated as illegal, regardless of whether there is an impact on the vehicle’s real-world emissions.

Footman James believes this risks creating a perfect storm for modern classics. Many cars from the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s are now entering classic status, but were built with increasingly complex emissions equipment, including catalytic converters, lambda sensors, EGR systems, early engine management, DPFs, AdBlue systems and manufacturer-specific control software.

As these cars age, original parts can become unavailable, prohibitively expensive, or unsupported by manufacturers. Existing legislation demands that owners fit only type-approved components to the emissions control system, yet vehicle manufacturers are not required to keep these components in production indefinitely.

That means the proposals may close one loophole, as the Government sees it, while opening another: a legal gap where a part is required by law, but no longer available. In cases where the OEM part has been discontinued and no compliant aftermarket alternative exists, there may be no lawful repair route left.

That could leave owners with an impossible choice: scrap an otherwise usable, treasured and infrequently used vehicle, or keep it running in a way that the new rules could treat as illegal.

Footman James is calling for a specific exemption for historic, classic and modern classic vehicles where the owner can show that the vehicle is responsibly maintained, but that a compliant repair route for a failed emissions component is not reasonably available.

Sam Smith, Head of Footman James, said: “Classic owners are not the problem this policy is trying to solve. The Government is right to target deliberate emissions cheating, but it must not accidentally punish the people preserving Britain’s motoring heritage.

“The danger here is that a cherished modern classic could be maintained with care and sail through its MOT – including the emissions test – yet still be treated as non-compliant because an obsolete emissions component has failed and can no longer be sourced. Modifying the vehicle or fitting a non-original replacement part to keep it running safely could be deemed illegal under these plans.

“As a result, this proposal risks penalising preservation, not pollution.”

“If the Government wants to make these systems a continuing legal requirement, it must also recognise what happens when the parts no longer exist. Otherwise, the law will be demanding repairs that owners have no lawful way to make.

“We need rules that go after deliberate delete services and emissions defeat devices – not responsible owners trying to do the right thing.”

Footman James says the issue is particularly important for ‘youngtimers’ – vehicles that may not yet qualify for historic status but are already valued, preserved and insured as classic cars. Vehicles from the 1990s and early 2000s are among the most exposed. They are old enough for parts supply and manufacturer support to become a problem, but new enough to have factory emissions systems that could fall within the scope of the proposed rules.

Footman James is encouraging owners, clubs, specialists, restorers and the wider classic vehicle sector to respond to the consultation and call for proportionate safeguards.

The company is asking supporters to make three points to Government:

1. Enforcement should target deliberate emissions defeat, not responsible preservation.
2. Owners should not be penalised where compliant repair is impossible, unavailable or disproportionate.
3. Classic and modern classic vehicles should be given a clear exemption where required emissions components are no longer reasonably obtainable.

The consultation, which can be found here, is open until 11:59pm on 6 September 2026.

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Special Jaguar stars in racing father’s classic car auction
By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

Lewis Hamilton’s dad has auctioned off 27 prestige cars for some record prices in a classic sale at Silverstone.

Anthony Hamilton was moving on a selection of motors from his private collection and made almost £2.9 million.

Amongst the sale was a very low mileage 1993-registered Jaguar XJ220 which made a record £506,250. The car had just 3,287 miles on the clock and was finished in Silverstone Green Metallic with a light tan leather interior.

It was one of only 69 right-hand-drive UK supplied examples.

Five more of Anthony’s collection achieved six-figure prices.

They included a 2007 Jaguar XKSS, a hand-built recreation of the ultra rare 1957 D-Type. It sold for £400,000.

A pristine 1961 right-hand-drive Mercedes-Benz 190SL convertible, finished in white, made over £104,000 and a rare low mileage David Brown Automotive Speedback GT made £202,500.

A fully-restored1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 4.2 litre model, originally sold through Jaguar Cars New York, went for just shy of £120,000.

The sale was run by Iconic Auctioneers and reflected Hamilton’s passion for collecting exceptional, largely British, performance cars.

In keeping with the ongoing discussion about car shows, how about one with all the organisation and pizzazz of a top flight concours but specialising in what Haggerty call unexceptional. That is perhaps an unfair description as these cars are exceptional, at least amongst the unexceptional.

The 12th Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional took place at Grimsthorpe Castle on Saturday, and it was the biggest FOTU yet. Tickets sold out ahead of the event, with 4500 fans of all things unexceptional witnessing a gathering of 2500 of the world’s most basic cars.

Hagerty proved once again that unexceptional cars have a truly exceptional following with guests from all over the world enjoying not only the 50-star cars chosen to be a part of the renowned Concours de l’Ordinaire, but also a sea of thousands of mundane motors, driven to the event by FOTU fans, that stretched all the way down the driveway of Grimsthorpe Castle.

Amongst the Ladas, Yugos and Austins were some truly unexceptional rarities including a Fiat Strada convertible, a Talbot Tagora and more than one Citroen LNA. Nestled amongst the cars were models that would be ignored by all but the most dedicated fan of rare FOTU-era cars including a Toyota Corona Mark II pick-up and a pristine Ford Sierra Sapphire 2.3d GL.

Hagerty created the first Festival of the Unexceptional in 2014 as a celebration of long-forgotten everyday family cars, particularly those in base trim. Now celebrating cars from the 1970s to the early Millennium, the Festival attracts guests and cars from around the world, many of them younger enthusiasts. For most it is a labour of love, with many owners telling stories of the thousands of hours and pounds they have spent on their beloved vehicles, often way more than the cars are worth. 

The very best cars were presented in the Concours de L’Ordinaire on the lawn in front of Grimsthorpe Castle – 50 cars chosen to represent the finest mundane motors still on the road. This year, these special cars were judged by automotive legends Steve Cropley, Steph Hoy, Richard Bremner, Jesse Billington, Antony Ingram, Gary Axon, and Jon Bentley. After much deliberation and polite argument, a decision was reached.

Third place was awarded to a 2001 Ford Focus owned by Jake Seddon. The car originally belonged to his Grandad, before being restored by his father and is now owned and enjoyed by Jake. The car was displayed alongside many family photos, particularly of his Grandad, one of which Jake proudly held while showing his winners trophy. Judges commended the condition of the car, its family connection and for being a perfect example of what FOTU is all about – restoring and maintaining a car many would have simply scrapped and forgotten about.

A very rare 1992 Toyota Previa took second place, owned by Matt Swinn. This car is still well used by Matt, including hauling his band and their equipment all over the country. Despite heavy use, Matt meticulously maintains the car, one that was often seen as a useful family appliance when new and seldom cared for in the way this one has been. So dedicated is Matt to preserving the cars history, he even framed the 1990s sweet wrappers, receipts and other period rubbish found under the seats when he bought it.

The 2026 Festival of the Unexceptional winner’s trophy was awarded to Gordon McNeill and his 2001 Volkswagen Polo E, and this car really shows what the FOTU Concours is all about. This car has battle scarred paintwork but has been owned and loved for 20 years. It was Gordon’s first car and is still the only car he has ever owned. 176,000 miles later, this car has been used for his wedding, laps around the Nürburgring, and has even taken him to Spain for a holiday. Still daily driven this base-spec, no frills, Polo is loved and cherished more than any supercar and shows true FOTU dedication and spirit.

So impressed were the judges by the 2026 Concours selection they also had a number of cars they wanted to commend. A 1991 Ford P100 TD owned by Jack Duxbury, a 2000 Kia Clarus Wagon owned by Marwin Jansen, a 1986 Citroen Axel owned by Rick Martens, a 1982 Fiat 127 owned by Maia Egan and a 1994 Honda Civic Bali owned by Emma Rowe.

A host of special guest cars appeared at the event too, with a selection of British Leyland prototypes, kindly supplied by the British Motor Museum. Cars on show included the very first Maestro to come off the production line and the Austin LC10 prototype that inspired it. A pre-production Austin Metro was also presented in the Hagerty Drivers Club members enclosure, one of 300 pre-production models created in 1980 and the car chosen to be the star of the Austin Rover stand at the 1980 Motor Show.

Founded in 2008, Thornley Kelham Ltd is a specialist in concours restoration, maintenance, servicing, rally preparation and support of iconic vintage and classic cars. From its Cotswold headquarters, the team of 30 manage, restore and prepare examples of collector cars for global concours and motorsport events from a state-of-the-art 32,000 sq/ft facility.

With in-house bodywork, paint, engine and fabrication shops, Thornley Kelham is widely regarded for the quality of its restorations of historically significant, often unique vehicles across a variety of marques including Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Ferrari, Lancia, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce and Porsche as well as Amilcar, Bizzarrini and others.

1951 was a year that defined the future of one of the most iconic motoring marques in the world, Porsche. Waved off from the factory in Zuffenhausen by Ferry Porsche, the diminutive 356 SL (Super Leicht) arrived at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans for not just its first entry into the famous race, but its first time in any international motorsport event. Affectionately known internally as the “aluminium can” thanks to its all-aluminium bodywork, the 356 SL not only finished the legendary race, but was victorious in its class. It was a moment that created history and showed rivals that Porsche had truly arrived.

In the Porsche 356 European SL, Thornley Kelham pays homage to this remarkable car, one of only four that Porsche ever produced, including one that set a land speed record at the Montlhery circuit in September 1951, covering almost 11,000 kilometres in 72 hours at an average speed of over 150 km/h.

This motoring masterpiece has now been brought into the modern era in terms of design, performance, drivability and usability, while being respectful to the ethos of the original. It is a work of automotive art, celebrating classic style and showcasing Thornley Kelham’s near two decades of experience in restoring iconic cars for the most prestigious concours events around the world.

The new European SL is instantly recognisable as a Porsche 356A, yet possesses a level of refinement and impact on the road that is rarely seen.

That relentless pursuit of perfection means each of the 50 Porsche 356 European SL coupé models that will be delivered, requires thousands of hours of craftsmanship. Its flawless design over an extensively restored and strengthened original chassis, retains all the purity of the 356A. Its teardrop cabin, broad shoulders and meticulously crafted panel work all showcase the exemplary attention to detail that has made Thornley Kelham cars among the most desirable in private collections and on concours lawns around the world.

The beautifully flowing aluminium bodywork is created using a combination of traditional hand-forming techniques and the latest CAD and CNC engineering processes. Together they ensure the 356 European SL provides an artfully sculpted interpretation of how the 356 could have developed over time. This painstaking approach to perfection goes beyond the beautiful appearance of the bodywork, with every external joint perfectly smoothed. Each aluminium panel is assembled on a precision jig to ensure perfect alignment and panel gaps that are far superior to the original.

Innovation can also be found in the powertrain, engineered to provide the motorsport character of the original 356A but with additional power and everyday usability built in. Thanks to the aluminium bodywork, the dry weight is only 930 kg, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of over 200 bhp per tonne.

That power comes from a bespoke 2,332 cc air-cooled flat-four engine based on an original 356 case, with two options – a ‘Touring’ version delivering 180 bhp, and an optional ‘Sport’ variant delivering 200 bhp and 180 ft-lbs of torque. A five-speed manual dogleg gearbox provides an engaging driving experience, while the impressive ride quality and dynamic handling is enhanced by bespoke suspension that is available with either passive or optional active damping.

SPECIFICATIONS

Body                           Hand-formed and CNC engineered aluminium alloy
Chassis                      Reinforced and seam-welded for rigidity and safety
Engine                        2,332 cc air-cooled flat-four, based on original Porsche 356 cases
Power                         Touring – 180 bhp @ 6,100 rpm / Sport – 200 bhp
Transmission             Five-speed dogleg manual gearbox
Drivetrain                   Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential
Suspension                Bespoke geometry with early 911-inspired rear suspension, passive or active damper system
Brakes                        Vented disc brakes front and rear, carbon ceramic brakes optional
Weight                        930 kg (dry weight)
Performance              220 bhp power-to-weight ratio
Steering                      Precision rack-and-pinion with optional power assistance
Interior                        Hand-trimmed in finest leather, bespoke seats, modern electronics
Production                 Strictly limited to 50 coupé models.

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

If ever a car of yesteryear felt ideal for today’s hot summer days it’s the British-made Mini Moke.

Launched in 1964, this little Mini was the vision of auto designer Alec Issigonis – the man behind the original Mini launched five years earlier.

The Moke was originally pitched for use by the British military before they dropped the idea and makers, BMC, turned to alternative markets.

Sold under the Austin and Morris badges, the Moke was built around the mechanics of the original Mini sharing the same 848cc transverse A-Series engine, transmission and suspension.

It certainly had a basic look about it with no doors, no fixed roof and came launched in one colour – dark green.

The Moke was great on rough terrain and, on the face of it, was a practical low cost option for tradespeople.

But, the quirky Moke almost by accident became an appealing beach ‘buggy’ and fun runaround for celebrities from Brigit Bardot and Frank Sinatra to Paul McCartney.

I fondly remember the Moke appearing in the 1960s TV series, The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan. It also popped up in four James Bond films.

Over 14,000 Mini Moke’s were made at BMC’s Cowley plant but less than a tenth stayed in the UK. You were more likely to see this four-wheeler on the beaches of Barbados than Blackpool!

The Moke was later assembled in Australia and Portugal. It would also ‘inspire’ the Chinese to produce modern versions 40 years on through companies like Chery Automobile. 

Today, the Mini Moke is a collectible classic with good condition originals selling for over £20,000. Not a bad ‘mark-up’ on the showroom price of £405 in the mid-sixties.

One of the more unusual events I attend is the Holme Moss 100. Originally held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first hillclimb up Holme Moss. It has now become an annual event and it has grown steadily every year.

What is great about the event is the variety of the cars. From an early Alvis to a Toyota GR Yaris with everything in between. There were plenty of British Classic including a bevvy of Lotus Elans (including my own), a choice of Triumphs and an Aston Martin. Throw in a some japanese classics and the event becomes one of the most eclectic events you will visit.

The display changes constantly throughout the day as cars leave to climb the hill, some choosing not to return to the field while other cars arrive in a constant stream to replace them

And if that’s not enough it raises money for charity with £1000 on the day and more to come.

We should also mention the Fleece Inn who provided some excellent food throughout the day.

DRIVING TOUR…
In all 23 cars took part in the two-day driving tour, taking in the North Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines. It proved to be a lot of fun with a bunch of great people, spectacular roads and stunning scenery. 

A wonderful mix of cars from a 1923 Bentley 3.0 litre, a 1934 Lagonda to a Ferrari 275GTS and Porsche 911 GT3 Touring. The spectacular weather helped too. Special thanks to the team at the Ilkley Motorsport Club for the bit of fun at Raby Castle and the Time Trial section.

OVERALL BEST IN SHOW & Modern Classic

The winner of the “Modern Classic” Class for Motor Cars built between 1971 – 2005 went to a beautifully presented 1985 Lancia Delta S4 Stradale. Meticulously restored and used, this Lancia Delta S4 Stradale is an ultra-rare Group B homologation special. Built in 1985–1986 to satisfy FIA racing requirements, only 200 street-legal versions were produced. It features a mid-mounted, twin-charged (supercharged and turbocharged) 1.8-liter engine making 247 horsepower, mated to an advanced all-wheel-drive system.
The judges were so impressed with is condition and presentation, the car also took the Overall Best in Show Trophy.

Congratulations to owner Jason Shipstone.

MASERATI 4CM: VINTAGE CLASS WINNER

This Maserati 4CM built in 1932 took the Vintage Class win. It has a wonderful history, breaking two land speed records back in the 1930’s.

1965 ASTON MARTIN DB5: CLASSIC CLASS WINNER

Beautifully restored by Richard’s of England, this beautifully presented DB5 took the class against very tough opposition.  The Classic Class is for cars built between 1945-1970. It was the most popular class with sixteen cars entered, they all looked magnificent encircling the Aerolite Spitfire at the heart of the Concours lawn.

Congratulations to owner Marco Ciuffitelli.

ASTON MARTIN VALIANT: FUTURE CLASSIC CLASS WINNER

The Aston Martin Valiant is an ultra-exclusive, road-legal track car powered by a 745 HP, 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Limited to just 38 units globally, it features a full carbon-fibre body, motorsport-grade aerodynamics, magnesium wheels, and was developed with assistance from Fernando Alonso.


PORSCHE 356C: RESTO MOD CLASS WINNER

Built in 1964, this 356C was a beautiful restoration and very tastefully “uprated” beyond its original specification by Prill.

1928 MERCEDES-BENZ S-TYPE: MERCEDES-BENZ CLASS WINNER

To celebrate 100 Years since the formation of Mercedes-Benz when Daimler & Benz merged in 1926, there was a dedicated category for Mercedes-Benz cars. Some beautiful 190SL’s, 280SL Pagoda’s, a 300 SL Gull Wing and even a 1987 300SL.  But the win went to the incredible 1928 S-Type Supercharged.

SPIRIT of the 1000 MIGLIA

New to the UK, the official “SPIRIT OF 1000 MIGLIA” award was presented by guests Francesca Parolin and Ludovico Goffi who came all the way from Italy.   

The award was given to a 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 that took part in the race back in June. Still sporting its stickers and dust from the race, plus a few spots of Prosecco.

EXHIBITORS TROPHY: LOTUS Mk VIII, 1954

The Lotus Mk VIII was Colin Chapman’s first racing car with streamlined bodywork,. Designed in conjunction with Frank Costin, an aerodynamic specialist of the British aircraft manufacturer de Havilland and later founder of Marcos Cars. This outer skin, made of aluminum, was a revolution. The favorable aerodynamics together with a super lightweight 35lb space frame chassis designed by Peter Ross and Gilbert McIntosh (also aeronautic engineer’s) helped the car to a much better performance with a weight of only 521kg and a top speed of over 120mph.

Congratulations to the Daniel & Stephen Gannon from Car Iconics.

THE BEST ENGINE VOCAL AWARD

In aid and recognition of the Yorkshire Children’s Charity guests made a donation to the charity in return for bringing their car in front of the stage and revving the engine in front of the kids representing the charity.

There was a V12 Lamborghini’s & Ferrari’s, V8 Ford GT40 and McLaren Mercedes SLR, but it was a 1959 Jaguar Mk1 (BUY 1) brought by Grant Williams that caught the ear of the boys.  Congratulations to Grant though those straight through pipes may have had something to do with it!

Well done to everyone who gave a donation to the YORKSHIRE CHILDREN’S CHARITY – together you raised of £46,000 across the two show days.

THE MOST ELEGANTLY DRESSED AWARD

Chosen by representatives from Yorkshire Life Magazine and presented by BOODLES.  

The ladies from Yorkshire Life scoured the grounds of Grantley Hall and settled on a winner – Helen Cox-Rawnsley. Who also entered her 1953 Bentley Type-R in the Concours.

Thank you to all the exhibitors, staff sponsors and volunteers for being at Yorkshire Elegance, your support in hugely appreciated.  Thank you also to the staff at Grantley Hall.

This event goes from strength to strength and we look forward to next years edition.

By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

Gear stick design is one of those often overlooked accessories in cars today (manual ones anyway!) but there’s been some amazing examples over the years.

Going back 120 years, the first gear levers were fitted on the driver’s right along with the handbrake stick. Often positioned outside, by the driver’s door.

By the 1920s, as car interiors were getting bigger gear sticks moved inside.

Fast forward to the 60s and 70s and clever car makers would maximise the look of these interior components.

In terms of inspired design ‘cool’ here is my top five. Have I missed one you remember? Let us know.

VW Golf GTI

Hats off to Volkswagen who added a dimpled ‘golf ball’ gear knob to the Mk1 Golf GTI in the mid 70s. The round shape seemed to make the change of gear smoother. Four years later, the Golf gear stick face gained an extra digit when the GTI introduced five-speed transmission in 1979.

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 

Okay, this Mercedes – launched in 2003 – is automatic and substituting the gear knob is a shift lever that flips up to reveal the engine start button, connected to a five-speed AMG transmission. Very James Bond!

Honda S2000

The spherical metallic gear knob in the popular S2000 nicely fitted into its driver’s grip and featured a six-speed shift pattern engraved into its tactile surface. 

Ferrari – selected models

Ferraris classic open-gated manual gear change in front of the centre console was inspired. A polished metal ball on top of the gear stick adds to the stylish look.

Found in models including the Ferrari 308, 328, F355 and 360 Modena, every gear change gave a ‘click-clack’ sound as the gear lever moved into place.

Jaguar

If you are looking for British classic design, Jaguar’s polished rounded wooden gear knob oozed luxury motoring.

The gear knob found in models like the E-Type, XJ6 and XJS models complemented the sweeping interior wood veneer and upholstery finish.

These interior components might seem less obtrusive than other dashboard features but when it comes to classic cars the smallest things can leave the biggest impression!

The other day I was browsing the adverts in Autotrader and came across a convertible Aston Vanquish. I am due to change my everyday classic this year and an Aston Martin is on the fantasy end of that list. I went through all the details and just for fun I asked for an insurance quote. I was shocked to be quoted £25 less than my current MX5. Perhaps the Aston has just become a more realistic option, its just the repair bills, tyres, clutches and servicing costs that are holding me back.

A quarter of a century on from its debut, Aston Martin has unveiled the limited edition Vanquish 25: a celebration of, and tribute to, three generations of this iconic British automotive nameplate crafted through the marque’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin.

The in-house design and craftspeople at Q by Aston Martin bring unparalleled expertise to the creation of bespoke and special commissions. Taking inspiration from the original Vanquish detailing and launch specification of 2001 and adding new handcrafting techniques and treatments to inject modern flare and style.

50 examples of the new Vanquish 25 will be produced worldwide in either Coupe (25 examples) or Volante (25 examples) body styles and in 2+0 or 2+2 seating configurations.

From the outside, the new Q by Aston Martin creation is identified by its exclusive Q Skye Silver paintwork, Q Commission metal foil detailing on the side sills and the shield vanes, bespoke Aston Martin script foil detailing, and the addition of Q Commission exhaust finisher, along with stainless steel side strakes; unique ‘Vanquish 25’ badging; and a new subtle ‘V’ highlighting of the 21-inch forged alloy wheels.

  

On the inside, the Vanquish 25 gains unique trim perforation patterns and trim splits, seatbacks embroidered with the exclusive ‘Vanquish 25’ logo, laser-etched Aston Martin trim inlays, an eye-catching bright red start/stop button in the centre console surrounded by bespoke rotary geometry, and a black Alcantara headlining. Three interior trim colours are available: Onyx Black, Oxford Tan, or Phantom Grey.

The Vanquish highlights include a world-class 5.2-litre Twin-Turbo V12 producing an 835PS and 1000Nm of torque, a bespoke chassis with state-of-the-art dynamics technology, carbon fibre bodywork and an interior which sets the standards for modern automotive sports car luxury. Capable of a top speed of 214mph and a 0-62 mph time of 3.3 seconds.

Vanquish 25 will make its first deliveries from Q4 2026.

Over the years I have attended many different types of car shows, from your local club show in a park to Goodwood and other prestigious events. It has surprised me that attending these elite shows has generated some negative on line comments.

My view is that there is room for all these events and you should attend only those events you are comfortable with. If a show is too expensive or exclusive for you then don’t go. If people are prepared to pay the entry, then that’s ok by me. Its like restaurants, very few of us can afford to eat at the really top restaurants but I wouldn’t heckle those that do.

I should also like to add that I have never felt uncomfortable at any of these elite events and the owners have (like at most events) been only too happy to tell me all about their cars.

I did however attend Yorkshire Elegance this year and was stopped dead in my tracks by a………… Reliant Robin. Yes that 3 wheeled car that you could drive on a motorcycle licence. I appreciate that these cars are now classics, but to see one nestled between a Lancia Integrale and a Ford RS200 stopped me in my tracks.

I must confess that my father owned one of these cars and it was a constant source of embarrassment for me.

This particular Robin is a special model known as a Reliant Robin SLX and was built to special order for the owner at the end of the final production run. It has less than 1 000 miles on the clock and comes with a walnut dashboard.

I think it proves one thing. The organisers are interested in the rare and interesting and even a Reliant three wheeler can hold its own among Lancias and Aston Martins.

Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse

I love hearing about interesting barn finds and when it’s a classic French motor it’s extra special.

Earlier this year, Citroen restoration specialists CQS Classics were called in to recover a 1971 DS21 Pallas that had been gathering dust for over 20 years.

It seems that following the death of the car’s owner, the family placed the DS in storage, hoping one day to bring the DS back to life again.

These were special cars. The DS Pallas was launched in 1965 – 10 years on from the launch of the DS model – as a luxury trim version of the DS range. The Pallas would share the same inline-four cylinder engines as the other DS variants.

Entering the barn, the Belgium-based restorers were amazing to discover this seventies DS in fabulous condition, but for a coating of dust. One of their first tasks was to give it a good wash.

Under the bonnet, the car’s mechanics were given a professional overhaul using parts supplied by local specialists, Citroparts.

The black paintwork may have lost a bit of shine but the car’s body was rust-free and there was no evidence of damage. Both the 2.2 litre engine and interior fittings were untouched.

It is unclear where this DS will go next, but if you would like to see more about how this French classic was brought back to life click the link here made by the great team at CQS Classics: https://youtu.be/gVQX9QWj8yE?si=7puqOGoz0-X4ruu5

You would have to be blind not to have noticed the number of Chinese cars flooding the roads of Britain. I think many car enthusiasts will instantly dismiss them as cheap versions of the Range Rover or targeting the bottom end of the market. That is a view that those of us with a few miles on the clock will remember from the Japanese invasion of the British car market and again later with eastern European cars.

But we ignore history at our peril. Those Japanese cars are now very much a part of the British car industry with highly efficient manufacturing plants based here. And those eastern European brands are now significant players with German levels of quality.

The Chinese have rapidly produced cars for the lower and mid market and now they are targeting the supercar market. A successful supercar builds reputation and is a test bed for electric and hybrid technology. But the question is will anyone buy a Chinese supercar?

DENZA is the premium design- and technology brand from BYD Group. It mixes European-influenced design with state-of-the-art platforms and technologies, delivering many unique features to the premium car market. The brand was founded in 2010 as a partnership between BYD and Daimler, and launched its first vehicle in 2014. It is being introduced to the European market during 2026.

Equipped with DENZA’s signature e³ Sports Car Platform, a triple-motor configuration producing 1604PS and DiSus-M magnetorheological suspension. And its ability to use FLASH Charging, with 10%-97% refills in just nine minutes, makes it the first electric supercar whose performance can be exploited and enjoyed completely, without concerns over range or how long it will take to recharge. Three versions of the Z have now been confirmed: Coupe, Spider and Racing.

The front design mixes sharp angles in the lower bumper and the distinctive LED daytime-running light signature with smooth shapes pulled over the wheelarches. And at the rear, intricate diamond-shaped tail-lights give the Z a sophisticated look. The paint finishes include a pearlescent effect that can shift shades when viewed from different distances and angles.

The exterior design is defined by numerous functional elements. At its core is a meticulously optimized body shape, which lays the foundation for exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. The air intake in the centre of the front bumper directs airflow to unique outlets on the bonnet, forming an S-shaped airflow path that perfectly balances the relationship between drag, downforce, and heat management.

Inside, the layout is unashamedly focused on the steering wheel – the centre of control and driving pleasure with any sports car. The Z’s wheel draws inspiration from motorsport and includes six physical buttons set into its lower panel for easy access to key functions, such as the Track and Boost modes.

The seats are designed to offer a mixture of comfort and support, with driver’s and front passenger’s featuring eight-way power adjustment, four-way electric lumbar support, heating, ventilation and massage function. Their headrests include built-in speakers for the Devialet sound system (12 speakers in Coupe and Racing, 10 in Spider). In the Coupe and Spider models, the driver’s seat also has active lateral support adjustment for high-speed cornering.

The more extensive personalisation options for the Racing will include the possibility to remove the rear seats altogether and replace them with a roll cage and carbon-fibre trim.

Despite its compact dimensions, the Z has a wheelbase measuring 2780mm – close to those of many executive saloons. This allows all versions to have a four-seat layout, offering a unique level of flexibility for vehicles with their performance. The boot capacity in the Coupe and Racing is 250 litres – enough for light luggage – and the rear seats can be folded down to increase this to 550 litres.

All three versions of the Z feature a triple-motor configuration, with a single front motor joined by one apiece driving each of the rear wheels. The combined maximum system output for all versions of the car is 1604PS and 1240Nm of torque. That’s enough for a 0-62mph acceleration time of just 2.25 seconds in the Coupe, faster than all but the most hardcore combustion-engined supercars, and a top speed of 186mph.

When fitted with optional semi-slick tyres, the Racing version will accelerate even more quickly, beating the two-second mark for 0-62mph, at just 1.96sec, and achieving a higher top speed of 217mph.

All DENZA Z versions feature carbon-ceramic drilled brake discs for reduced unsprung mass (around 30kg saved in total), improved cooling performance and increased durability (up to 186,000 miles of service life). They’re fitted with six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) fixed calipers that deliver even pressure distribution between pads and discs – and these can be ordered in custom colours, including orange, yellow, red and blue.

The Z is being offered in a choice of 10 exterior colours, ranging from Le Mans Blue and Silverstone Silver through optional Nocturne (purple) and Riviera Blue to premium optional Phantom Black Matte, Monaco Red and Monte Carlo Orange.

PRICING

For a supercar it is well priced but for the same price you could have a Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS, Aston Martin Vantage or a Mercedes AMG SL 63 4matic. So the question is, would you buy a Chinese supercar.

	DENZA Z Coupe	DENZA Z Spider	DENZA Z Racing
TOTAL MRRP	£142,900	£159,900	£172,900