The Most Iconic Classic Car Races and Rallies

Can you be a true vintage car enthusiast and not like watching sumptuous classics from various eras come together and compete with each other on a racetrack? Classic car races can be divided into different categories based on the type of car, era, or style of racing. One popular type of classic car race is vintage racing, which typically involves cars that were built between the 1920s and the 1970s. Vintage racing emphasizes authenticity and preservation, and the cars are often restored to their original specifications. Races can be either circuit races or time trials, and the emphasis is on driver skill rather than speed. Another type of classic car race is historic racing, which focuses on cars that were built before the 1960s. 

 Historic racing often features classic Formula One and sports cars, and the races can be either sprint or endurance events. Historic racing emphasizes the preservation of classic cars, and many events require that the cars be presented in their original condition. Classic car races are popular among car enthusiasts and collectors, who enjoy seeing vintage cars in action and appreciating their history and design. They also offer a chance for drivers to compete in a unique and challenging setting, testing their skills and pushing their cars to their limits. Would you like to know what the best races and rallies are, and maybe attend some of those? Then let’s d(r)ive right in!

Goodwood Festival of Speed: England

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is an annual event held in West Sussex, England, that celebrates the history of motorsports and showcases some of the world's most iconic racing cars and drivers. According to Departures, the festival was first held in 2003 and has since become one of the most popular events on the motorsport calendar, attracting visitors from all over the world. The festival takes place on the grounds of Goodwood House, the country estate of the Duke of Richmond, and includes a variety of events such as hill climbs, rally stages, and static displays of classic and modern racing cars. The centerpiece of the festival is the hill climb, where drivers compete to see who can navigate a 1.16-mile course through the estate's twisting roads in the fastest time. 

The festival also includes displays of classic and vintage cars, as well as modern racing cars and supercars from some of the world's leading manufacturers. Visitors can explore the paddocks and see the cars up close, and there are also opportunities to meet drivers and attend autograph sessions. In addition to the racing events and displays, the festival also features live music, food and drink stalls, and a range of other entertainment options. The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a must-visit event for any motorsport fan, offering a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of classic and modern racing cars in action in a beautiful setting.

Spa Six Hours: Belgium

The Spa Six Hours is an annual classic car endurance race held at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. The event takes place over a weekend in September and attracts thousands of classic car enthusiasts from around the world. The race itself is a six-hour endurance event for classic cars built between 1947 and 1965. The cars are divided into various categories based on their engine size and other factors, and the event attracts a wide range of vintage sports cars, GT cars, and saloons. The race takes place on the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit, one of the most iconic tracks in the world of motorsports. The circuit features a combination of high-speed straights and challenging corners, including the famous Eau Rouge/Raidillon section. In addition to the main race, the Spa Six Hours weekend also includes a range of other events and activities, such as parades of classic cars, displays of vintage motorcycles, and concerts featuring live music.

Grand Prix de Monaco Historique: Monaco

The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is a biennial vintage car race held on the Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo, Monaco. The event is organized by the Automobile Club de Monaco and features classic racing cars from a variety of eras, including pre-war grand prix cars, sports cars, and formula cars from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. The race takes place on the same circuit as the famous Monaco Grand Prix, which is considered one of the most challenging and prestigious races in the world of motorsports. The circuit features narrow streets, tight corners, and elevation changes, making it a demanding course for drivers and a thrilling spectacle for spectators. 

The event is known for its high level of competition and the quality of the cars on display. The event attracts drivers and teams from around the world, many of whom have a deep passion for classic racing cars and a desire to compete on one of the most iconic circuits in the world. In addition to the racing events, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique also features a range of other activities, such as displays of classic and vintage cars, parades of historic vehicles, and exhibitions of racing memorabilia. The Grand Prix de Monaco Historique is a must-see event for anyone with an interest in classic racing cars and the history of motorsports. The event provides a unique opportunity to see some of the most iconic cars of the past in action on one of the most challenging and historic circuits in the world.

Tour Auto 2000 Optic: France

The Tour Auto Optic 2000 is an annual event in France that combines a classic car rally with a competitive race event. The tour takes place over five days and covers over 2,000 kilometers of scenic French countryside, with stops in some of the country's most iconic locations. The event is open to classic cars built between 1951 and 1973, and participants must meet strict eligibility requirements to ensure that only the highest-quality cars are allowed to compete. The event attracts a wide range of classic cars, including sports cars, GT cars, and prototypes. The race component of the Tour Auto Optic 2000 takes place on closed circuit tracks and public roads, with each day featuring a new stage of the race. 

The event is a true test of driving skill and endurance, with drivers pushing their classic cars to the limit over some of the most challenging roads in France. In addition to the racing component, the Tour Auto Optic 2000 also features a range of social and cultural activities, including visits to historic landmarks and private collections, wine tastings, and fine dining experiences. The Tour Auto Optic 2000 is a popular event among classic car enthusiasts and is known for its high level of competition and the quality of the cars on display. The event provides a unique opportunity to see classic cars in action on some of the most scenic roads in France, and is a must-visit event for anyone with an interest in classic cars and motorsports.

Mille Miglia: Italy

The Mille Miglia is a historic open-road endurance race that takes place in Italy. The event was first held in 1927 and continued until 1957, when it was suspended due to safety concerns. The race was revived in 1977 as a regularity rally for historic cars and has since become one of the most prestigious and iconic classic car events in the world. The race takes place over a distance of approximately 1,000 miles (1,600 km) and follows a route that takes participants through some of Italy's most scenic and historic locations. The event is open to classic cars that were eligible to compete in the original Mille Miglia race, which includes sports cars, GT cars, and prototypes from the period between 1927 and 1957. 

The Mille Miglia is not a traditional racing event, but rather a regularity rally in which participants must maintain a set average speed over the course of the race. The emphasis is on precision driving and maintaining a consistent pace, rather than on outright speed. The event attracts a wide range of classic car enthusiasts from around the world, including many famous drivers and celebrities. The Mille Miglia is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and participants and spectators alike enjoy the opportunity to see some of the world's most iconic classic cars in action on the open road.

Le Mans Classic: France

The Le Mans Classic is a biennial vintage car race that takes place on the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France. The event is organized by Peter Auto, a company that specializes in classic car racing events, and attracts a wide range of classic racing cars from different eras, including prototypes, sports cars, and touring cars. The Le Mans Classic is a celebration of the history and heritage of the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans race, which is considered one of the most challenging and prestigious endurance races in the world. The event features a range of racing classes, each dedicated to a specific era of motorsport history, and provides an opportunity for drivers to compete in a historic setting on the same circuit as the original race. In addition to the racing events, the Le Mans Classic also features a range of other activities, such as displays of classic and vintage cars, parades of historic vehicles, and exhibitions of racing memorabilia. The event attracts a wide range of classic car enthusiasts from around the world, including many famous drivers and celebrities. 

Monterey Classic Car Week: United States

Monterey Classic Car Week is an annual celebration of classic and vintage cars that takes place in Monterey, California, United States. The event is held over the course of several days and features a range of activities, including car shows, auctions, races, and rallies. The highlight of the event is the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, which is considered one of the most prestigious classic car shows in the world. The event attracts a wide range of vintage and classic cars from around the world, with a focus on cars that have been meticulously restored to their original condition. In addition to the Concours d'Elegance, the Monterey Classic Car Week also features a range of other activities, such as the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, which is a vintage car race featuring cars from different eras, and the Monterey Car Week auctions, which are some of the largest classic car auctions in the world. The event also includes a range of other car shows and exhibitions, as well as rallies and tours that take participants on scenic drives through the California countryside.

Are you ready to attend one?

Classic car rallies and races provide a unique opportunity to experience the history and heritage of motorsports, and to see some of the most iconic and legendary cars of the past in action. Whether you are a dedicated classic car enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of these historic vehicles, there is something for everyone at these events. From the historic circuits of Europe to the scenic roads of California, there are classic car rallies and races taking place around the world that offer a chance to see these cars up close and in action. If you're looking for a classic car to participate in races and rallies or to add to your collection, Vintage Car Collector is an excellent resource to explore. Check out our selection of classic cars for sale or take a look at our blog for expert insights and tips on choosing the best cars. Our team of experts can help you find the perfect car for your racing or rallying needs and provide guidance on restoration and maintenance. With Vintage Car Collector, you can experience the thrill of classic car races and rallies in style!

If you like this article, please share it with your friends.