The third Thatcham Classic was held on Saturday 11th October and as we discovered it's a small but select gathering organised by Classic and Sports Car staff. This was the first time we've ventured down to Thatcham, this year we had an excuse; it was half way between London and Bath where we were due to start in the Norwich Union Classic on the Sunday...so an ideal lunch stop.
It was a beautifully sunny autumn day which added to the relaxed atmosphere. Highlights for me was a twin cam Alfa Romeo A12 transporter from the Black and White Garage with a precious cargo of a Giulia 1600 Spider. Plus there were a few of the Classic and Sports Car staff cars and some interesting American iron.
One of the more unusual cars was a Lancia Dilambda (1929) made to special order for the Maharajah of Mysore in India. It's a long wheelbase with a 4l v8 monoblock engine that develops 31.2hp (100BHP), top speed is around 80mph. It can seat 6 with ease with coachwork is by Violetta Viotti in Italy.
A rather interesting history from being imported into India in 1930 it was used by the Maharajah until the war when it passed to an Indian general Shia Bhatia. It was used in vintage car rallies in the sixties. An English doctor brought it to the UK and it is now owned by his widow. Very imposing and stately ride.
Overall worth the visit and a great warm up for the next days driving on the Norwich Union.
Hi , Just read the article. Correction on the name of the coach builder. It should be Viotti and not Violetta. I happened to be the owner of the car and not sure who took the pics.
Posted by: elaine moore | June 23, 2011 at 08:05 PM
Hi, thank you for the correction. It's a lovely car you have there. It also picked up some comments here
http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/pre-war/2653-how-rich-were-maharajas-before-independence-cars-maharajas-28.html
I took the pictures it seems like a long time ago now!
Posted by: Valve Bounce | June 23, 2011 at 09:14 PM