The Donington Historic Festival featured a dazzling array of unique cars, including the V10 Williams FW22 driven by James Davison, a rare Nissan Primera, and a Ford Zephyr with James Dorlin behind the wheel. Key highlights included notable wins by racing legends and the excitement of historical racing amid technical challenges. Overall, it was a weekend filled with nostalgia and thrilling performances.
The Donington Historic Festival last weekend showcased an eclectic mix of cars, delighting fans with auditory thrills and nostalgic rides. Amid discussions of potentially reviving V10 engines in Formula 1, enthusiasts flocked to witness the power of these historical machines. Notable figures like Dario Franchitti and Guy Smith celebrated victories, but it was the stories behind several unique vehicles that captured attention.
Among the stars was the V10 Williams FW22, a model from 2000 that echoed the era’s glory. Driven by James Davison, the car was pushed hard along the circuit, eliciting awe from the spectators. Davison expressed his exhilaration, stating, “It’s the most alive I’ve ever felt – the power, the braking, the g-forces.”
And it wasn’t just F1 that took centre stage; the festival also featured Super Touring cars like Jonny Westbrook’s rare 1995 Nissan Primera. This unique vehicle stands alone as the only four-wheel-drive example remaining. Other classic cars included Yvan Muller’s vintage Vauxhall Vectra, celebrating its UK return after 25 years.
One of the more unexpected entries was a Ford Zephyr, which James Dorlin drove during the Jack Sears Trophy. Having raced the Zephyr previously, he noted its distinctiveness among the usual contenders. “It’s good fun, it just lacks a little bit of power,” Dorlin remarked, while acknowledging the rarity of such cars on the track today.
Adrian Holey brought out the Series 2 Terrier Mk4, a unique vehicle that hadn’t been seen on UK tracks in two decades. After a promising start, the car faced overheating issues, forcing it out of the race early. Holey remained optimistic, suggesting the vehicle has much “potential” despite its troubles.
Finally, former BTCC stars Sam Tordoff and Andrew Jordan ventured to race in a newly built Ford Mustang during the Pall Mall Cup. Incorporating a powerful 4.7-litre engine from a previous Falcon, they secured sixth place in an engaging endurance contest, although gearbox issues loomed later in the event. Despite the hiccups, Tordoff embraced the challenge, aiming for future podiums.
Overall, the festival blended a wonderful mix of past and present. Enthusiasts got to enjoy not just races but also heard the stories behind the cars that graced the track. From powerful F1 machines to nostalgic touring cars, the weekend was a hit with many wonderful moments and memorable performances.
The Donington Historic Festival highlighted a rich tapestry of automotive history, bringing together iconic vehicles from various eras. The event was marked by the thrilling sounds of V10 engines and showcased unique models like the Nissan Primera and Ford Zephyr. While some cars faced challenges, the spirit of competition prevailed, celebrating the rich legacy of motorsport amidst a backdrop of nostalgia. Overall, it was a memorable weekend for car enthusiasts and racers alike.
Original Source: www.autosport.com