Edition 24/2009 49.988 subscribers
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EDITORIAL
It was another great Le Mans 24 Hours. I led my usual monk–like existence; Les Leston lap chart and triple–Heuer time–keeping board on my knees, I assiduously plotted the course of the race.
Well done Peugeot and bad luck Audi — although it does make a change to see someone new at the top. Aston Martin Racing's first works LMP1 (sports–racing prototype, rather than GT) foray yielded a fine 4th overall, with a podium finish a distinct possibility. We all look forward to 2010.
My transport for the weekend was an Aston Martin DB9 in my preferred specification: manual plus Sports Pack. In fact, it was the very same, Titanium Silver/Chancellor Red car I drove to the Goodwood Revival last year.
Trawling through the ads in "I wouldn't mind one of those..." mode, I was surprised at how few manuals are available. The debate rages on as to whether auto, robotised–manual, DSG/PDK or good old six–on–the–floor is best. My viewpoint is that it very much depends on the car and even 45 minutes in a jam at the last péage before Rouen was no great hardship on the left leg.
The Classic Driver presses have been straining 'on hold', waiting for one of the very first tests of the Panamera. A driving feature on this exciting new four–seater from Porsche, as well as all the Le Mans action, is in this week's ClassicInside.
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Steve Wakefield |
THIS WEEK IN CLASSIC DRIVER
Driven: Porsche PanameraThis is what we've been waiting for... at last, a chance to drive the new Porsche Panamera, due to arrive on the market in September. This four–door sportscar will be the focus of worldwide attention for many reasons... read more... |
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RM Auctions at Monterey 2009: 1952 Jaguar C–type an Early Headlining EntryA 1952 Jaguar C–type, once driven by Phil Hill to the model's first North American racing victory, will be one of the highlights of RM's 2009 Monterey sale. read more... |
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The 2009 Le Mans 24 HoursAllez les bleus! — Peugeot's 1-2It had to happen at some point. Audi's long reign at the Le Mans 24 Hours was ended by an almost unstoppable three-car entry from Team Peugeot Total. read more... |
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Audi A5 SportbackNew model joins the rangeHaving just been to Le Mans and back in an A5 Coupé, enjoying surprising performance from the 2.0 TDI engine, I can see why a five–door alternative could be popular... read more... |
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Aston Martin at Le Mans 2009Superb 4th overall in first full LMP1 yearForget any idea of a fairy–tale 50th anniversary win; this was always going to be a tough race for Aston. So, when the 007 car crossed the line in 4th place after 24 hours of the most gruelling racing, the Gulf–sponsored team was delighted with a result that "exceeded all expectations". read more... |
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CLASSIC LIFE
Leica M8 White EditionFollowing on from the limited–edition Leica M8.2 Safari model comes the M8 White Edition. The white leather finish of this new Leica special is a clean, bright alternative to the classic black and silver models typical of the M8 series. read more... |
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THE CLASSIC DRIVER PREMIUM CAR MARKET
MODERN
Bentley Continental GT
colour Cypress |
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GT Coupé in Cypress with Savanah and Laurel top roll. Burr Walnut inserts, Sat Nav, Alloy Wheel choice etc. Only 21k miles.
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Marlow CarsTown/City: Bucks/Berks, UK |
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CLASSIC
Porsche 911 2.7 RS (Original M472)
colour Yellow |
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The car is in its original unmolested specification with the following options; non–sunroof, black leatherette/corduroy, heated rear window (102), LSD (220), Passenger mirror (261), Recaro sports seats (409) and electric windows (651).
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DK Engineering Town/City: |
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SPORTING
Maserati A6 GCS Barchetta
colour Red |
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The Maserati A6GCS was the Modenese company's front line weapon in sports car racing, 1953–1955, combining sweet handling with a lusty six cylinder, two litre engine in typically voluptuous Italian coachwork. No more than fifty were built and this example, acquired new and raced by the debonair Prince Gaetano Starabbia of Palermo, has led a largely sheltered life in Germany for almost 50 years including two decades in the famous Rosso Bianco collection.
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Kidston SATown/City: Geneva, Switzerland |
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EVENTGUIDE 2009
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24.06. — 24.06. Brightwells Classic Car Auction, UK |
SERVICE
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