Goodwood needn’t always be about tweed and tradition, as the latest Retro Rides Weekend on May 18-19 ably demonstrated. The event predominantly caters for pre-’98 cars, but that’s where the guidelines end, resulting in a brilliantly eclectic mix of old motors accompanied by a superb atmosphere.
Under sunshine and clear skies for the majority of the weekend, the circuit’s infield was quickly packed with incredible variety, with everything from standard survivors through to historic track cars and drift machines. Where else would you see a Hyundai Pony pick-up at the same event as a Mk2 Cortina with Toyota twin-cam power?
All nations were ably represented, with a host of British classics alongside retro Japanese motors and even old school American hot rods and muscle cars. A special display was put on by the Rally History group too, while prolific modified car specialist Retropower celebrated its 10th anniversary with a display that featured, amongst other builds, Gordon Murray’s Mk1 Escort on its first public outing.
But it was far from just static attractions. On track, demonstrations, sprints and an autosolo kept the crowds entertained, especially the slaloming 2CV Fourgonnette displaying trademark amounts of body roll.
Fortunately, show-goers won’t have to wait long for another retro fix. Expect an equally diverse mix of old motors when the established annual Retro Rides Gathering takes place at Shelsley Walsh on Sunday August 18.
