CP says 'Don't be silly' to historic
racing competitors
Historic racing knows a growing success. Several world-class
events, like Monaco, Le Mans and many others, organize spectacular
retrospectives. In England, The Earl of March went to the extent
of 'restoring' his Goodwood track in the condition in which
it was when it was closed in 1964. To the opposite of many who
marvel, I am worried by the shape things are taking.
I
am worried for two reasons.
First, the cars were dangerous and have remained as treacherous
as they were. Driven today by the same drivers who used to race
them, older and, probably, less sharp, or by others, not always
talented, the risk only has increased.
Which brings me to the second point. I observe that Bugattis
now have limited slip differentials, that Ferrari 250 engines
rev above 10,000 rpm's whilst, in their days, 7,800 was in the
red, and hear that Maserati 450S's run with completely re-designed
crankshafts. I am even told that some entrants who own a real
car commissioned a new and high performance replica for historic
racing purposes. Historic, you said?
I
do not wish to be the bird of ill omen and hope we can avoid
a catastrophe. The knot of the matter, I believe, lies in the
agonistic spirit presiding over these meetings. Too many pilots
want to score. Some flatter themselves with being faster than
our heroes of yesteryear and claim, seriously, they are continuing
writing the pages started by Nuvolari or Fangio. Am I dreaming?
Aren't there enough modern formulas open to those who wish to
demonstrate their capacities behind the wheel? Historic cars
are part of our heritage . Not only should we not misrepresent
history, but we also have to make sure we transmit our heritage
to the future generations.
Don't
misunderstand me : I am not suggesting that historic cars should
not be driven anymore, nor that Monaco, Le Mans or Goodwood
should not stage classic revivals. A motor car is beautiful
when it goes and when it sings, and the real automobile museum
is indeed the road and the track. It is the competition I fear,
because it induces danger and the temptation to include modern
technology. My friends, the world does not care about your results.
Stop being silly!
April
2003
P.S. Interestingly, it appears that, in
the 2004 Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, the part that was
most appreciated by the public was the parade of 22 Formula
One Ferraris of all ages. The music, the scents, the colours
... but no stake.
Cartoon
by Russell Brockbank
The caption reads "Yes, he's misfiring ... definitely losing
power now"
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