To clean or not to clean — that's the question faced by car manufacturers basking in the rosy glow of a class, or even better, overall victory at Le Mans. 'Rosy glow' isn't quite correct, though: a grimy pallor is more usual after three or four days, working non–stop at the famous French circuit.

But, as the car crosses the line, the victor's laurels taken and the champagne corks popped, should 24 hours' road grime, rubber and brake dust be washed off the car? Or, with the prospect of the Goodwood Festival just three weeks later, is it more tempting to get down and dirty, leaving it 'as run'?

With BMW's latest Art Car, the decision is even more difficult. As you can see from the photographs, as a brilliant explosion of colour it looks stunning. Jeff Koons' designs are ultra–glossy, so, if it were my hand hovering over the bucket and sponge, I'd give it a quick once–over, responding to shocked stares from the marketing department with an open–armed "What?... WHAT?!..."

Furthermore, should there be any minor scrapes or scratches, a quick visit to the local car accessory store to buy up the entire stock of touch–up sticks would soon have it looking as good as new.

This time next week, like many of you, I will be en route to Le Mans. Charis Whitcombe will be in the Editorial chair, and I look forward to telling you all about the ultimate test of endurance on my return. Post–shower, of course.

Steve Wakefield Managing Editor sw@classicdriver.com

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