The Oldtimer Grand Prix took place for the 24th time in Safenwil on 5 September 2015, organized as always by Emil Frey AG and using its own industrial site.
Festival atmosphere
As every year, many spectators from near and far flocked to the event despite the comparatively cool but dry weather. Not only could they enter free of charge, even the parking spaces and the compact program were free of charge. This left only the various food stands to spend at least a little money on, and the visitors, who had arrived in somewhat smaller numbers than in previous years, did so. And of course there was also enough time for a chat among colleagues.
Those who felt like a bus ride in a London double-decker could take a short trip to the new Emil Frey Classic classic car competence center and take a look at the museum there.
Cars and motorcycles
Around 150 cars and around 60 motorcycles (including sidecars) were lined up and lined up, most of which could also be admired on the circuit. While the low temperatures made some visitors shiver a little, the old cars enjoyed the cooling air on their three to five laps.
Angular circuit
As every year, the main attraction was the demonstration runs, which were held on an angled circuit that even had a ramp. Here, the vehicles were able to show what they are capable of and give their best performance.
40 years of the XJS and 60 years of the Mk 1
Two Jaguar anniversaries gave rise to special vehicle fields. One was the 40th anniversary of the XJS, which was launched in 1975 and polarized people at the time (as it does today) with its unusual design. Around two handfuls of these sports cars made their rounds in Safenwil as coupés and convertibles.
The earliest Jaguar Mk 1 models are twenty years older still. At the time, this was the first self-supporting Jaguar saloon and the Mk 1 was also the predecessor of the Mk 2, which became even more famous. A separate group was also dedicated to these saloons and was completed with other Jaguar four-door models such as the S Type, Mk V and Mk IX.
Austin-Healey-Festival
Friends of the Austin-Healey brand were also well catered for, as in addition to a field of vehicles reserved exclusively for the four and six-cylinder variants of the Austin-Healey 100 introduced in 1953, there were also other Austin-Healeys to be seen in other groups, such as the small Sprite.
Many rarities and special features
Of course, the many Jaguar and Austin-Healey vehicles were able to inspire, but it was also other cars that are rarely seen today that made the audience smile.
After all, when do you ever see a Tatra 12 saloon from 1927 or a Kleinschnittger F125 from 1953?
While Rolls-Royce, Bentley or Porsche were completely absent, a few Peugeot 203/403/404, a Simca 1000 Rally 2 and a Renault Dauphine Gordini thrilled the spectators.
For motorcycle enthusiasts, there were many rarities on two wheels and some people probably became quite nostalgic at the sight of their own moped/small motorcycle group.
Big anniversary 2016
Next year will be the 25th anniversary of the Oldtimer Grand Prix Safenwil, so we can already look forward to the 25th edition with many attractions.
