COLLECTORS AND RACERS STAR IN SPAIN

AutoClassic Alcañiz marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Aragonese town's former street track, Circuito Guadalope, during the 28th edition of the indoor show, which returned to Feria Alcañiz exhibition centre from 12-14 December.

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The special display, organised in partnership with Real Automóvil Club Circuito Guadalope, included a lineup of cars that competed on the closed-road circuit, among them a Renault 8, a Mini Cooper and a Chrysler 180. Spanish tin-top racer Luis Villamil was on hand to share his memories of the venue, at which he raced nine times, including a 1990 victory in an Alfa Romeo 75. He described the urban track as one of the most important in his career, and one of the most demanding and risky of its time.

Local collector and classic car restorer Ángel Martínez was also honoured, with a special award recognising his commitment to preserving automotive heritage. His collection comprises nearly 50 cars, 'bikes and tractors, including the Alpine A110 and Gulf-livered Porsche 911 on display.

In total, around 6500 enthusiasts visited the three-day show, which also included local classic car club stands: the Bajo Aragón Club de Vehículos Antiguos brought along a selection of prewar machines, while the Federacion Interclubes de Vehiculos Clasicos de Aragon presented an eclectic lineup and there was a fine array of vintage farming equipment and tractors.

Other machinery at the busy show included a Fiat 850 Coupé, Jeepster Commando, Triumph TR3 and Mercedes-Benz Ponton, while the motorcycle restoration competition was won by Ramón Ferrer's 1979 Montesa 348 Trail.

Maserati upstages the Essen moderns

More than 200,000 visitors attended the Essen Motor Show from 28 November to 7 December, with a Maserati Mistral 4000 securing the top award. Restoration specialist Laurenz Feierabend was given a trophy for the most beautiful classic car for his elegant Maserati (far left), offered for sale in the Classic & Prestige Salon Concours d'Élégance.