The eagerly-awaited second London Classic Car Show opened its doors yesterday (Thursday) with a host of famous motor sport world champions to the fore.
Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula One World Champion, made an impressive entrance driving a McLaren F1 – the supercar is being celebrated at the show is a special display curated by its designer Gordon Murray.
Earlier in the day, Murray was joined by Ari Vatanen, the 1981 World Rally Champion, to officially open the four-day event at the capital’s ExCeL.
Vatanen himself later teamed up with David Richards, his victorious co-driver from 1981, to launch an impressive ‘Pinnacle of Rallying’ display featuring all six of the fearsome, flame-spitting, four-wheel-drive machines from the iconic Group B era in the eighties.
Another of the day’s many highlights was the official Opening Ceremony for the Classic Six Nations Cup which sees 10 standout classic cars representing each of the American, French, Italian, Japanese, German and British motor industries parading on The Grand Avenue. A public vote throughout the show will decide which of these nations really has produced the world’s finest cars.
To open this debate, Suzi Perry hosted a panel of experts including former F1 driver Bruno Senna and renowned petrolhead – model Jodie Kidd.
Bought in advance online ticket prices start at £23, including a booking fee, for single adult entry on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Single entry price on the door is £25, with special late entry tickets available on Saturday and Sunday for £18. Premium tickets also are available and include fast track entry, the best views of The Grand Avenue at the Turning Circle Viewing Platform, access to the exclusive Premium Lounge, a Show Handbook and even a glass of Joseph Perrier Champagne.
Full details can be found via the show’s official website – www.thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk