An eclectic mix of hundreds of classics, modern classics and supercars braved fog and freezing temperatures to converge on Bicester Heritage in Oxfordshire for the year’s first Sunday Scramble on 5 January, 2025. The impressive turnout despite the inclement weather underscores the passion and enthusiasm of the UK’s car community.
Star attractions included a celebrated Porsche Carrera GT, which handled the snow and ice with surprising ease. Equally bold were the drivers of a bright yellow De Tomaso Pantera and a Peugeot 205 T16, while the charming Fiat Panda 4×4 Sisley, complete with a roof-mounted monkey bike, proved a perfect match for the treacherous conditions.
The businesses that call the former RAF base home put on a fantastic display. The central MT Yard stood out, featuring everything from a Porsche 904 to a Lola T70 and a Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM. Other fearsome racing machines included a trio of Group C legends – Jaguar, Porsche and Nissan – exhibited by Moto Historics.
Special displays of tractors made by car manufacturers, and a collection of Land Rovers, stole the spotlight in the challenging weather, standing in stark contrast to the high-tech vehicles displayed by the likes of McLaren.
Bridging the divide between cutting-edge technology and rugged practicality was Callum Designs’ SKYE, an all-electric off-roader that debuted at the 2024 Concours on Savile Row. Another Ian Callum creation, a roadworthy Jaguar C-X75 concept car, also turned heads. Beyond the vehicles, organisations such as the HCVA, Starter Motor Charity and Heritage Skills Academy added to the community atmosphere, highlighting issues such as skills shortages and the challenges posed by environmental legislation and electrification.
Hagerty opened its Clubhouse to the public to launch its 2025 Bull Market report, hosted by TV’s Paul Cowland. The insurer shared its top buying tips, backed by extensive data, although its headline of ‘Ten cars worth considering in the coming year’ reflects a market that is no longer as bullish as it once was.
Hagerty’s top picks for 2024:
- 2000-01 Subaru Impreza P1
- 1977-80 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II
- 1994-99 Ferrari F355
- 1965-69 Porsche 912
- 2002-05 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA
- 1994-2000 Toyota RAV4
- 1959-68 Austin-Healey 3000
- 1992-98 Maserati Ghibli
- 1991-96 Peugeot 106 S1 Rallye
- 1994-2002 Range Rover P38A
The next Sunday Scramble is scheduled for April 27, 2025. For more information about Bicester Heritage, click here.
