Giants of Motoring gather at Knebworth

20/07/2006

20.7.06. The 41st annual Rally of the Giants took place last weekend, July 15/16 at Knebworth Park, Hertfordshire, and what a bumper event it turned out to be.

Line-up of '50s cars awaiting their turn in the arena

Organised as always by the Pre50 American Auto Club, the event has become one of the highlights for American car enthusiasts throughout Europe, and this year’s event was no exception. No doubt aided by the continued glorious summer weather, the showground attracted a massive display of over 300 cars ranging from the 1920s through to the present day.

The Pre50AAC says its benchmark is quality, not quantity and its true to say that hundreds of fine examples of famous American marques were to be seen on the showground, ranging from pristine Model As to fabulous Cadillacs from the fins and Chrome era. Classic American cars built before 1959 are prime Pre50AAC fodder, but American cars of any age are welcome.

Very nicely turned out '34 Ford five window coupe

When you see so many fine automobiles in one place, it’s hard to imagine the amount of time and money invested by their owners to get them back to such a highly fettled state. It’s also hard to believe that the designers of many of the cars from the 50s and 60s were given such free rein, until you remember that the jet age played such a significant part in automotive design at that time.

Cadillac and Buick show off their jet age styling

Event organiser Sandra Toogood said “we believe the number of participating vehicles was up on last year and everyone seemed very satisfied with the event. “

One of the attractions of the Rally of the Giants is the parade of vehicles through the central arena which are organised in chronological order and starting with the vehicles from the 20s. Once again Pete Tucker provided the commentary, and was joined by fellow enthusiasts Alan Murphy and Mike Johns.

ultra rare '32 Model B Victoria

As usual, there were an assortment of related tradestands, including the Pre50AAC bookstall where you could choose from over 450 titles, and others selling vintage automotivecomponents.

All in all, this was another resounding success for all concerned and 2006 will be a difficult act to follow.

Story & photos: Andy Kirk

'38 Ford sedan