Grace, Pace and just enough Space (For Two) by Matt Nichols
Sir William Lyons had a simple vision for his beloved Jaguar cars during the time he presided; grace, pace and space, and so the question is how do the beautiful 60’s E-Type, rectangular shaped 70’s XJS and retro styled 90’s XKR square up. Well one thing they do share in common is space, or more precisely a distinct lack of it, because all three offer a snug fit for two, with any notion of there being room for plus two more best translated as meaning plus two more bags, perfect then for that weekend getaway.
First impressions
E-Types are stunning cars that draw you in the minute you first clap eyes on them, and so unfortunately for the other two here, win your heart in an instant. Their long slender bonnets that hand over to curving rooflines, for the coupes at least, to then meet with the distinctive and equally curvy rear haunches. It doesn’t get any better and therefore any surprise that the newest Jaguar here, the XKR, takes many of its good looks from its granddaddy, albeit on a physically much larger scale. So what of the XJS a car that spanned the 21 year gap between E-Type and XK8 on which the XKR is based? Well back in the day straighter lines were in, and working on the basis that Ferrari were at it with the Daytona, Aston the same with the V8 Coupe and Jensen likewise with the Interceptor, I don’t think anyone can really criticise Jaguar for doing something similar. Of course looking back now it is all a bit academic with the E-Types being the clear winners of the beauty pageant, XKR second and XJS a distant third.Sat insideWithin the cabin is where everything starts to become a matter of taste and just how snug you want to be. Squeeze yourself into an E-Type and you face two stunningly large dials for engine and road speed with a surprisingly modern looking long row of rocker switches mounted dead centre on the dash between you and your passenger. There is no getting away with one thing though, as comfortable as they are once installed, E-Types are tricky cars to enter and exit from with tiny doors and extremely wide sills. If mobility is at all an issue, the cruel truth is looking at one from the outside may be as close as you get.This is where the later XJS and XKR derivatives come into their own, as both offer far easier accessibility from their more conventional interior design. The XJS is still low slung, but with plenty of room up front for both driver and passenger with pleasantries like powerful heating and ventilation systems and in the convertible, an electric folding roof. The XKR coupe offers similar, this time being more modern again, marred just slightly by the Ford sourced console and switchgear which thankfully falls below your eye-line whilst on the move. Surprisingly all three do share one thing in common; perfectly placed elbow rests either side of the driver, and so time now to hit the road.
Engine and exhaust note
When you do turn the key it’s the E-Types and XKR that truly deliver. Depending on which model you plump for depends on just how aural your experience is, as the Great Escape Classic Car Hire E-Types come with 5.3 V12 and smaller 6 cylinder engines with and without sports exhausts fitted. Volume levels therefore range from 1 to 10. The XKR has its own glorious sound in the form of a Jaguar V8 power-plant that rewards at tick-over with a distinctive throb giving way to the shrill of its supercharger as the loud pedal is fully depressed. Both are truly inspiring and completely different. The XJS on the other hand is much more ‘grace’ and the sleeper of the three as its V12 is almost completely silent until pushed really hard, with the only noise generated being that of wind passing quickly overhead when the roof is down.
Out and about
If you are after a relaxing and classy jolt around the countryside with something extra on tap if required then the XJS might just be for you. This car by its very nature is grace personified, combined with easy entry and exit as well as a heater so powerful you could probably drive to the north-pole roof down. The XKR takes away some of that grace and replaces it with much more pace, courtesy of its 4.0litre blown V8 that at 370bhp and 387 lbs/ft of torque is enough to see off any hot hatch and most other things up to Porsche, Ferrari and TVR standards. This car is extremely quick on fast flowing roads only needing to slow on tighter sections, largely due to its bulky 1700kg mass.E-Types on the other hand are lithe machines, particularly in 4.2 litre guise, and can be hustled along any road at any speed in relative comfort. The absence of body roll combined with comfort over virtually any road surface is a revelation with the only constraints being the car’s systems, such as the heater and fit of the roof around the windscreen, if a convertible. There is also the mild inconvenience of exhaust fumes being sucked into the cabin in the coupes, meaning a stop every 60 minutes or so is essential to preventing brain fade.
Ownership prospects
This is really a question about available funds, or maybe a gap that needs filling if you have a collection. The good news is that space aside, all three cars fulfil the ethos of grace and pace and so allow you to enjoy Jaguar ownership as its owner intended. E-Types provide the ultimate in classic car ownership in everything that means. Whilst XJS’s are now gaining recognition in their role in providing a basic platform for the later XK8, XKR and Aston Martin DB7 models and respected all the more for that with prices holding firm. XKR’s are now looking remarkable value for money for a car that is quite simply bonkers fast with an uncanny ability to cruise all day long at high speed. Each has something to offer, and so all three are cars Sir William should be, and I’m sure would be, extremely proud of.
Overall
An E-Type offers the ultimate in classic car ownership; the squarer XJS is for those on a tighter budget or for anyone who doesn’t quite bend and flex as well as they used to and the XKR serves as a useful halfway house both in terms of its looks and the investment required whilst providing serious pace to boot.
Driving
E Type - Incredible balance of cross country pace and grace, truly amazing for a 50 year old car
XJS - More grace than pace and so the XJS is by far the most refined of the three here
XKR - A supercharged V8 ensures this car wins the pace race, once the auto-box has done its thing
Engine
E Type -4.2 litre 6 Cylinder DOHC or 5.3 litre SOHC V12
XJS - 5.3 litre SOHC V12 with Lucas fuel injection
XKR - Supercharged 4.0 litre Quad Cam V8BrakesDisc brakes front and rear work well
Handling
E Type - Flat with hardly any roll, can be driven anywhere and rewards at any pace
XJS - Soft and cosy, best driven at a gentle pace
XKR - Comes close to E-Type but cannot hide its 1700kg mass in tighter corners
Desirability
All E-Types are sought after cars, Series 1 convertibles commanding the highest values, with later 2+2 coupes being the most affordable
XJS -Has suffered in the past but prices have now settled with interest on the increase
XKR - Just starting to be of interest now especially when compared to its higher valued cousin, the DB7.
Pro’s
E Type - Instantly recognisable fame
XJS - Accessible to more people and can be used all year round
XKR - Rocketship with some nice E-Type styling cues
Con’s
E Type
Buying: Tricky and potentially very costly to maintain
Renting: None
XJS
Buying: Not so tricky maybe, but still potentially costly to run and maintain
Renting: None
XKR
Buying: Same.
Renting: None
Overall
E Type - 5/5
XJS - 3/5
XKR - 4/5

Stay cool in the city in the heatwave

Enjoy the extended summer with the coolest thing around London - an Ariel Atom for hire from Great Escape Classic Car Hire. Available to hire from our London fleet based in Islington (we can deliver it free of charge anywhere within the M25), the Atom is the perfect way to get the wind in your hair - and grab some late summer attention.
So fast is melted Jeremy Clarkson's face and with a singular dedication to excitement, the Ariel Atom is the most exciting car on our 50-strong classic and performance car fleet. It can be hired by the day or weekend and prices are the lowest in the UK - just £345 puts you and a friend or partner behind the wheel of this amazing memory-maker. Our price includes 200 free miles, insurance and full AA breakdown cover.
For more details call 01527 893733 or visit our website at http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/.

Classic Cabrio Comparison

MGB V8 v’s Alfa Spider by Matt Nichols

When it comes to choosing an entry level two seat convertible to savour on high days and holidays then included on your short list should be Alfa’s 105 platform based Spider and MG’s model B. Both cars are available from Great Escape Classic Car Hire so you can ‘Try before you buy’ and in performing this comparison I chose their 1991 Series 4 Alfa Spider and 1971 MGB V8. The age gap may seem quite stark but the origins of the run out model Italian go all the way back to the 60’s and despite its plastic body kit and more modern interior design, it has a similar front engine rear wheel drive chassis set up to the MG.

First impressions

The acid test here is when both cars are presented to you with the keys in the ignition, which one do you get in and drive away, tricky isn’t it? The Alfa attracting you with its air of sophistication and Mediterranean flair, whilst the MGB sits there quintessentially British, albeit appearing much older in looks and styling. Which way you go I think will be a mixture of your preferences on country, era and abilities with a spanner? Buy an MG and you would be bonkers to think that you’ll never have to lift the bonnet yourself whilst with the later fuel injected Alfa you could easily step into ownership planning to rely on a single visit to a specialist each year for servicing and an MOT.

Sat inside

If your personal car compass was faltering on initially approaching these two sports cars then I guarantee you’ll either stay sat inside the MG or immediately get back out and run to the Spider. Because although the Alfa has fingers in both old and new world pies the seating position and interior design are all bang up to date. Conversely the MG is locked in a time warp combination of low slung seat, tiny windscreen, sweet smelling leather and mix of traditional dials and switches. If that doesn’t do it for you, or you don’t enjoy the handbrake pressing into your left leg then the Alfa is probably a more suitable place for you to be.

Engine and exhaust note

Now I have to admit straight away this is slightly unfair on my part in choosing an MG with a Rover V8 and raucous exhaust fitted. Press the starter button on this car and it goes up several star ratings instantly courtesy of the guttural throb emitted out the back, echoing off of every building, wall and bridge you pass under. The oversized engine also delivers lots of delicious torque from the off to provide great cruising and overtaking ability. OK so the Alfa is on the back foot in giving away four cylinders and 1500cc, but its 2.0 litre twin cam is no slouch providing equally strong cruising ability and a sporty, albeit far more subtle, exhaust note. The Spider just misses the inevitable punchy acceleration and overtaking ability the extra power gives the MG. If the latter were a more conventional 1800cc model then maybe the tables would get turned, so best keep an open mind in this department.

Out and about

On the highway these cars start to feel much closer in era with both delivering their power through live back axles. The MG’s ride crashes more over broken road surfaces whilst this particular Alfa squeaked its way along, possibly due to a warn bush or something requiring a spot of lubrication. Surprisingly it’s the MG that feels more modern, save for its steering which has a slightly odd artificial feel, being the same static or on the move despite the absence of power assisted steering. The Alfa’s newer shape and cockpit hide its original underpinnings very well indeed as on the move this car feels every bit a classic dominated by the heavy live axle that is firmly weighted to the road. The sensations you get inside the car are largely from the rear body being pushed around by the connecting rods and bars that hold the axle in place enhanced further by some slack introduced over time. The MG definitely has it on dynamics when pushing on, the Alfa being much more refined, but both transport you back in time whilst on the move.

Ownership prospects

Alfa Romeo is the first choice of car for many enthusiasts and collectors and it is not difficult to understand why. There is something, DNA if you like, that draws you in allowing your heart to rule your head on any purchase. Alfa’s are cars you fall in love with and get passionate about and the Spider fits this mould perfectly being less risky than some models as many have lived their entire lives safely stowed during winter months. Also when you buy one the chances are it will be an original specimen and not modified in anyway. MGB’s on the other hand, with some exceptions of course, will have had at least one re-build by now and therefore inevitably ‘improved’ in some way. This one received a Rover V8 and 5-Speed gearbox, whilst others will have got power steering or uprated suspension and converted from rubber to chrome bumpers, or given a set of period wire wheels. I think therefore in choosing between the two cars you can either tread the relatively low maintenance path of an up together Spider or the continuous improvement path that virtually every MGB in the land must find itself on at some point in its life.

Overall

As weekend tourers both cars will do a job for you and so your decision should be based on exactly how you would prefer your classic car experience to pan out. Handy with a set of spanners and keen to have a go, get stuck and make changes to the car then the MG is the car for you with excellent access to parts and panels. Simply want a car to drive and enjoy whilst leaving the oily bits to others then an up together Spider should fit into your life very nicely, particularly if you have a warm and dry place to keep it when not in use.

Driving

MGB - Great dynamics, although the ride can crash over bumps at times

Alfa - A lot of fun and feeling every bit a classic despite its relative newness

Engine

MGB - 3528cc Rover V8 combines well with the 5 speed gearbox delivering both punchy acceleration and great cruising ability

Alfa - 1962cc twin cam engine and 5 speed also work well together in the mid-range, although lack a few horses to be on a par with the MG’s V8.

Brakes

MGB - Discs up front and drums at the rear start to struggle when pushed

Alfa - The all-round servo assisted disc brakes on the Alfa are brilliant

Handling

MGB - Very little body roll and firm ride mean you can corner confidently at speed

Alfa - Perhaps the biggest surprise of all, agile and engaging

Desirability

MGB - Prices vary massively with original matching numbers chrome bumper cars changing hands at well over £10,000

Alfa - Good Series 4 Spiders are holding strong at around £8,000 with original Series 1 cars also fetching well over £10,000

Pro’s

MGB - Entry level classic car that offers its own unique British sports car experience with easy access to parts and panels

Alfa - Fun car for any occasion that comes with classic Alfa DNA

Con’s

Buying a MGB: None really, just with so much choice out there make sure you get the right one for you Renting: None

Buying an Alfa: Mechanicals are robust and reliable, but rust can be an issue, so make sure it’s a good one Renting: None

Overall

MGB - 4/5

Alfa - 4.5/ 5

High Rolling in the Capital

Great Escape Classic Car Hire has added a classic chrome bumper 1970s Bentley T1 to its hire fleet in London. The car uses the same body shape as the more common Rolls Royce Silver Shadow and is finished in dark blue with a cream interior.
The new addition means Great Escape's London fleet has grown to three vehicles in a matter of weeks, with further vehicles planned. The company has focussed on high end vehicles that are ideal for touring the capital or for turning a night out at the theatre or a restaurant into a real occasion. Alongside the Bentley Great Escape also has an Aston Martin DB6 and Bristol 411 for hire.
"The Rolls Royce Silver Shadow shape is everyone's idea of a classic Rolls Royce," explains Graham Eason of Great Escape. "We opted for the Bentley version because it is much rarer and we wanted a particular colour combination. This car is discreet but luxurious."
The new car is available to hire with Great Escape's comprehensive hire package, which includes a full 24 hours use for every hire day, 150 miles use per day, comprehensive insurance and full UK breakdown cover.
Great Escape is the UK's largest classic car hire company with a fleet of over 50 vehicles to rent from multiple UK locations.
For more information visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/ or call 01527 893733.
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Classic Car Buyer

When Great Escape Classic Car Hire organised its classic car rally we also invited along a couple of classic car journalists to sample the day and tell us what they thought.

One of those who came along was Phil Wheedon, Editorial Director of Classic Car Buyer. Phil has previously driven our Rover SD1 Vitesse in Suffolk but this time took the wheel of our Jensen Interceptor, Jaguar Mk2, Jaguar e Type, Jaguar XJS, Daimler Sovereign and TVR Tuscan. Apart from a couple of comments about the paintwork on the E Type and the XJS' handling (both cars are already booked in for work), he was full of praise for the excellent condition of the cars, the route and the organisation of the event.

"it's the perfect present for any petrol head," said Phil in summary. "Great Escape has a fine concept on its hands and I hope the company does more of them."

Our next classic car rally is on July 2nd when we are taking a tour of the Welsh Borders. m Our Break for the Border rally is already booking up and places are limited. Prices start at just £295 for one driver (less than hiring the E Type for a similar period) and includes lunch, fuel, insurance, a 180 mile tour and even breakfast.

For more details call 01527 893733 or email graham@greatescapecars.co.uk.

Like driving a warm duvet

Try Before You Buy – Jaguar XJS V12 Convertibleby Matt Nichols I’ve had a real on-off love affair with the XJS over the years, a car that feels as though it has been in my life for as long as I’ve been driving cars. At one time I nearly bought a 3.6 coupe, it was a very close run thing, I nearly did but I didn’t. Not long after I saw JC review a V12 on Top Gear and in the show’s usual style apologising to the camera at regular intervals whilst he seemed to pull into every petrol station just to quench its almighty thirst. Fortunately to a greater or lesser extent those days are confined to the history books because the old girl has reached classic status now and can be enjoyed for what it is, a very relaxing weekend Grand Tourer. The XJS these days no longer lives in fear of awkward comparisons being drawn to contemporaries, that back in the day lined up one after the other to try and knock it off of top spot. With personal emotions also safely buried, getting behind the wheel of the Great Escape Cotswolds based XJS V12 Convertible brings one phrase to mind, this car is the finished article. Compare it to an E-Type roadster in terms of say desirability, on a sunny day, and the XJS will lose every single time. But compare it to the same E-Type when the rain comes in or its freezing cold outside and I can guarantee either you or your passenger will willingly jump ship.As iconic as an E-Type is, the roof and heater are in kit-car territory when compared to those fitted to an XJS. I drove both on the same day on the Great Escape – Cotswold Rally and honestly the roof had to go up on the E-Type it was so cold. Whilst sat in the Great Escape Classic Car Hire Jaguar XJS you stay nice and toasty by simply setting the climate control up high which then wraps you in a blanket of warm air travelling up from the footwell. The roof is also electric when you do need to put it up and achieved with just the press of button and not an Engineering Masters Degree in fastener technology. It simply works.Now granted on the move an E-Type has it over the XJS in terms of driving dynamics but again it depends on what you are after from your time with either car. Get out of an E-Type after an hour and you feel you’ve made a new friend. Do the same with the XJS and you hardly feel a thing, as this car wasn’t designed for a short term relationship? No an XJS is expecting you to drive to Scotland or Paris and arrive looking arguably better than when you set off and certainly not running to the nearest bar desperate for a drink just to get over the journey. For that reason I don’t think my brief encounter was long enough because the time whizzed by without incident or unnecessarily dramatic situations. The roof stayed down, we remained comfortable, there was plenty of space, it was easy to drive, I even found time to talk and at no point did the stress levels rise above zero. Next time I’d like a longer go, just to be sure you understand, because for me this XJS V12 Convertible was a refined and relaxing place to be, especially in and amongst high octane alternatives such as the E-Type, Porsche 911 and TVR Tuscan. Verdict Jaguar XJS V12 Convertible Driving There would have to be a blizzard before you thought to put the roof up. A genuine 365 day per year open grand tourer. Engine Jaguar V12 is hidden away behind a velvet cloth in this car, still there if needed though. Performance Max Power: 285 bhp0–60 mph: 7.8 secondsTop speed: 142 mph Brakes Hidden behind the same velvet cloth as the engine. You never have a problem stopping but equally do not feel inclined to examine the size of the calipers. Handling Erm…velvety…! Desirability Growing appreciation of this car now, particularly in light of the fact the chassis was re-used on later XK8 and Aston DB7 models Pro’s Like lying in front of a warm fire wrapped in a thick duvet on a bitter winters evening. Con’s Renting – Too smooth for some maybe.Buying – History, as they say, is everything. Overall 3/5

Jaguar XJ6 coupe road test

Jaguar (Daimler) XJ6 Coupe road test by Matt Nichols Do you find that you or some of the people you know tune into a particular car manufacturer, whilst others simply do not get it at all, often revealing itself at times as an almost blind faith that seems to remain intact throughout troubled times caused by ill-conceived or poorly executed products. Now before reviewing the XJ6C I have to very quietly, just to be polite you understand, admit that I haven’t ever really fully got Jaguar. There you go I’ve said it. Now I loved the two V12 E-Types that I drove on the Great Escape – Cotswold Rally because at the end of day they are iconic cars and universally revered. But the Great Escape Classic Car Hire XJ6C, I wasn’t so sure about, after all this was going to be a taste of something closer to what mainstream Jaguars were all about. Well, if I’d actually said it out loud, right now I would still be chewing my way through an off white Le Mans baseball cap. This car let me get inside and disappear off as one of its biggest cynics to return as someone who had to stop a few times en-route just to give his brain the chance to re-calibrate. How so? Well there was the fact that this was the coupe model with frameless doors allowing you to lower both front and rear side windows leaving large crescent shaped openings either side. How cool is that? Then there was the punchy six cylinder and, iconic in its own right, 4.2 litre powerplant. Not one that is as silky smooth as the V12, but an engine that you can work with, being gentle low down and then getting much more aroused when stirred. This for me served as a very fitting tribute to this British prestige car manufacturer and as I was slowly beginning to appreciate being very ‘Jaguar’. These things definitely helped ‘oil the wheels’ on my personal journey in understanding this brand and then whilst looking around to find fault, as you do, I clocked the dashboard. Suddenly I was there because I like car interiors, particular classic car interiors, and I often find there is either not enough dials, or maybe incoherent switchgear. But the more I stared at the inside of this particular Daimler derivative model I realised I’d found it, the complete walnut covered, analogue dialled and rocker switch combination I craved. Perfect.Combine the superb interior view with the fact you can stick the XJ6C into drive, sit back and relax into your journey, until you need to hustle this surprisingly spritely sports coupe into action, then you will not be disappointed. This car delivers on many levels and has room for four passengers plus luggage. Jaguar I salute you. Verdict 1975 Jaguar (Daimler) XJ6 Coupe Driving As relaxing or racy as you want it to be, although its charms mean you soon find yourself chilling out on your journey Engine Jaguar’s six cylinder unit is refined at a gentle pace with some useful grunt further up the rev range to whistle you past any pesky peasants Performance 0–60 mph: 8.6 secondsTop speed: 125 mph Brakes Good match for the car’s weight and performance Handling You can hustle it, but feel far more inclined to adopt a more leisurely pace. Does move around on the profile of the front tyres when first entering a corner at any sort of speed. Desirability Relative rarity puts it above similar Jaguar saloon models Pro’s Cossetting family sized cruiser that makes you feel a cut above the rest Con’s Renting – None. Buying – Nothing other than the usual tin worm worries that accompany a British built car from the 1970’s, particularly those hidden by the vinyl roof in this case Overall 4/5 For more details on hiring the Jaguar XJ6 coupe from Great Escape Classic Car Hire call 01527 893733 or visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/

It's all in a name

The Great Escape Classic Car Hire East Midlands location is a great starting point for a classic car weekend but we started to realise that the name doesn't quite do its location justice. Situated in the picturesque Vale of Belvoir in the shadow of Belvoir Castle (one of the most magnificent castles in Britain, we think), our East Midlands site is great for visiting the Lincolnshire Wolds or Derbyshire Peak District. It's also very easy to get to from London - and very convenient as few classic car hire companies serve this area. Because the Lincolnshire classic car hire site gives access to such a large and diverse area, it's been difficult to find the right name. Finally we've settled on something simple - Lincolnshire Fleet. Everyone knows where Lincolnshire is, after all. But if you thought Lincolnshire was all about flat landscapes and big skies, prepare to stand corrected. Our site is in an area that's as hilly as the Cotswolds but you can head east for vast flat landscapes or west for Derbyshire's dales. It's all within 45 minutes driving time. For more details on our Lincolnshire Classic Car Hire Fleet, click here or call 01527 893733

Put some Latin romance in your life

It doesn't get much more romantic than Italian food and Italian wheels. Great Escape Classic Car Hire's Bella Italia Valentine's Day package puts you behind the wheel of possibly the most romantic sports car of all time - the Alfa Romeo Spider. We'll drop the car at your door, just grab the keys then drive to one of the Midlands' best Italian restaurants. We'll come and pick the car up the next day.
Our Bella Italia experiences includes use of the Alfa Romeo from 4pm to 11am, delivery and collection (within 25 mile radius of our site - see below) and dinner for two (excluding wine).
The choice of cars includes MGB, Alfa Romeo Spider, Morris Minor, Nissan Figaro. To upgrade the car add £100 for an E Type coupe or Jensen Interceptor.
Delivery and collection is included within the price for all addresses within 25 miles of our Inkberrow storage site. This includes north to Walsall, south to Cheltenham, west to Leamington Spa, East to Worcester. If in doubt call 01527 893733. Delivery/collection service is available outside this area at extra charge - £1/mile.
Gift Experience Includes
Hire of MGB, Alfa Spider, Morris Minor or Nissan Figaro
Dinner for two (excluding alcohol)
Delivery/collection within 25 miles
Fuel is charged extra.

Great Escape gets moving

Great Escape Classic Car Hire is starting 2011 by moving its Worcestershire HQ to larger premises to cope with its expansion. The company has taken on more administration staff and added a new on-site servicing workshop.
The new site in Astwood Bank near Stratford Upon Avon is just 3 miles from the old Worcestershire site so just as convenient for the Cotswolds and easy to reach from the M5, M40 and M42. It has space for the Worcestershire fleet's 20 vehicles as well as increased office space. Great Escape is also installing its own vehicle servicing workshop operated by a specialist classic car mechanic. This facility will support all of the Worcestershire cars and coordinate servicing and maintenance of the rest of Great Escapes 50-car fleet.
The move means that Great Escape can consolidate its growth during 2010 with better administration and further improvements to fleet reliability.
"We grew very quickly during 2010, which inevitably put a strain on the business," explains Graham Eason of Great Escape Classic Car Hire. "The new unit, servicing facilities and additional administration staff enable us to maintain the high standards of customer service that are vital to our business."
Great Escape Classic Car Hire is the UK's largest classic car hire company with a fleet of over 50 classic and sports cars for rental from 6 UK locations. For more information call 01527 893733 or visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/.
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Morris Minor on Antiques Road Trip

The Great Escape Classic Car Hire Morris Minor convertible based in the East Midlands is the star of BBC2 this week. It features in the second series of BBC2's popular Antiques Road Trip programme aired 31st January to 4th February 5.15pm to 6pm.
The Antiques Road Trip production team used the Morris for filming between May and August 2010. The car was chosen because of its quirky looks, high standard of quality and bright paintwork. The car performed (almost) fautlessly over several thousand miles in the BBC's service - the only hiccups were a faulty starter motor (fixed overnight) and damage inflicted by a bus.
Great Escape Classic Car Hire worked with the production team throughout the filming to help deliver and collect the car. We also had to a work to an inevitably constantly changing schedule, coordinating our regional sites in Yorkshire, Suffolk, Dorset and Worcestershire to provide the car for the production team.
For more information on the Morris Minor Convertible for hire call 01527 893733 or visit htp://www.greatescapecars.co.uk.
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A Great V8

The Great Escape Classic Car Hire Rover SD1 Vitesse has been a bit of a star this year. It's featured in three classic car magazines so far, including a weekend tour of Suffolk organised by our sister company The Getaway Driver.

So we thought it was about time we put some miles on the car ourselves. At Great Escape we generally use a selection of the cars as our daily drivers, partly to keep them active (particularly during the winter) and also to help us keep track of how well they are running.

The Rover was therefore pressed into service when we needed to collect some bulky parts for our project Alfa Romeo Spider. The parts - a new set of wheels and a leather interior - were down in deepest darkest Kent, 160 miles from our Worcestershire base. To complicate matters a little we also need to pick up some office furniture in Kingswinford near Dudley.

On a -6 degree Monday morning we fired up the lusty V8, warmed it through and hit the road. The Rover is fitted with the rare homologation special Twin Plenum version of the venerable Rover 3500 V8 and is fitted with fuel injection, so it pushes out a very healthy 190 bhp. This is mated to a five speed manual gearbox, that stirs the torquey motor along nicely.

We left rural Worcestershire, jostled with the traffic up the M5 then nudged along through endless traffic lights to Kingswinford. With the back seat folded the capacious Rover swallowed the big cabinet. Then it was back down to our Worcestershire base to drop the cabinet and hit the road south.

The Rover SD1 was designed to munch miles under the tutelage of senior executives who wanted comfort as well as pace. And 25 years after this example was made it still does the job admirably. The sports suspension is a little too bouncy but the big seats - which really are like an armchair - and light steering make long distances effortless. But it really is all about that sonrous V8 - it rumbles silently at 75, barely above tickover, with plenty of power available instantly. Only the slightly odd driving position - knees up, arms stretched - and the non-standard big bore exhaust fitted by a previous owner (which rumbles a little too much for our aging ears) detract from the overall experience. Oh, and the shockingly bad build quality - this is a car that feels like it could easily just collapse if the wind gets up too much. But you forget all that when you exercise the V8. It's a peach of an engine, smooth and very torquey, pulling from low revs right round to the red line in a seamless flow of power. Every gearchange is a joy as it brings the motor back to the start of the slope. The Rover V8 was so ubiquitous for so long that it is easy to forget just how good it was - good enough to power everything from Land Rovers to TVRs.

The rumbling Rover drew plenty of admiring glances from fellow road users and during our service station breaks. It really is a great looking car, possibly the best looking saloon car of the last 30 years. Sure, it's a pastiche of the Ferrari Daytona but what better inspiration can there be?

We circuited the M25, collected the parts (4 wheels and tyres, 2 seats and 2 door cards) with space to spare and headed back, fortunately avoiding the late afternoon snarl. The only hold up along the journey was an accident near the M23 - despite stop start driving the 25 year old car behaved itself and the temperature guage remained resolutely at 90.

In all we spent over 8 hours driving the big Rover and covered 370 miles at 30 mpg. Not bad for a brutish, big-horsepower supersaloon.

To find out more about the Rover Vitesse for hire from Great Escape Classic Car Hire visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/ or cal 01527 893733.

Book online and save

Great Escape Classic Car Hire is rewarding customers who make our life easier. Online bookings save us time and cost less to process, so we're giving you the saving. When you book your hire dates online we'll give you 5% off the total.
By simply entering discount code 'web' at the online prompt, Great Escape customers can save money 24 hours a day when they book any of our 50 cars from any of our 6 locations. The discount only applies to cars booked for specific dates - it does not apply to gift vouchers.
We are the only classic car hire company in the UK with a full online booking and reservations system. The secure system can be accessd anywhere in the world 24 hours a day. The system books cars and dates up to 12 months in advance - and shows availability throughout the year.
"Our online system is a simple and easy way to book classic car hire," explains Graham Eason of Great Escape. "It is easy for our customers, particularly those overseas. It is also quicker and easier for us to process bookings. So we're handing back the saving.
"We realise times are tough for everyone so hopefully this 5% discount will benefit everyone."
For more information visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/ or call 01527 893733.
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Breakdown not break down

The trouble with old cars is that they like to play up. No matter how much money you spend on them and how many new parts you fit, you can only ever reduce the risk of breakdown, you just can't eliminate it.

We can only go so far to guarantee the reliability of old cars, some of which are over 50 years old. We also believe that when you hire one of our cars you should be able to enjoy it to the full, so we offer full 24 hour hire and unlimited mileage. That's why at Great Escape Classic Car Hire we provide full AA nationwide breakdown cover with all of our 50 classic rental cars. So wherever you go and wherever you are, you're in safe hands.

We commit to never leaving you stranded. So we back up our AA breakdown service with local mobile phone support seven days a week. If we can get to you we'll bring another car. If we can't we'll keep in touch with you and the AA to ensure the problem is resolved swiftly and easily.

Our support services were put to the test this weekend when our trusty Aston Martin DB6 decided to play up. This car travels thousands of miles a year and has had over £10,000 spent on it in the last 6 months. So we were surprised to receive a customer's call late on Saturday night when the alternator on the car failed on Saturday night. The customer was in a very remote location in the Welsh Borders and obviously concerned. A combination of AA cover, a very helpful AA patrol man (who followed the car back to our unit) and our phone support meant the customer was sorted out quickly and with the minimum of inconvenience. We even went out to the car that night to check the customer was ok and to assist with any transport requirements.

We hate breakdowns but the real issue is how you deal with them. Some classic car hire companies do not provide full nationwide breakdown service and make extra charges for recovery outside a given area. Had the Aston customer broken down with such a classic car hire company they could have faced considerable costs to recover the car. A breakdown like that is our problem - and our responsibility.

MGB V8 in the Cotswolds

We've gone and added another MGB to our fleet, this time a full fat V8 roadster to hire in Worcestershire for the Cotswolds. MG only ever got as far as dropping the burbly Rover V8 into the MGB GT, creating what for many was the car the MGB always aspired to be. Our MGB V8 is a roadster that has been professionally restored and retro-fitted with the Rover V8.

The latest addition to Great Escape Classic Car Hire's fleet means we now have seven MGs to hire across the UK, including 5 MGBs. The MG classic hire fleet includes MGB, MGB GT, MGB V8, MGA and MG TD, the widest range of classic MGs to hire anywhere in Britain. The new V8 is finished in beautiful Nightfire Red with a black leather interior and minilite wheels. The car is in excellent condition and perfect for touring the enjoyable driving roads and lanes of the Cotswolds.

The MGB V8 is launched onto our hire fleet at the same price to hire as our conventional 1800cc cars. To find out more call 01527 893733 or visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/.

Classic car hire prices held until February 2011

At Great Escape Classic Car Hire we've decided to extend the season of goodwill by delaying the VAT increase on our prices until February 2011. So you can still buy gift vouchers and book classic car hire for any of our fleet of 50 cars from any of our 6 locations at 2010 prices.
"We decided to extend our 2010 prices and absorb the VAT increase as a gesture of goodwill," explains Graham Eason of Great Escape Classic Car Hire. "Times are tough for everyone and the VAT rise doesn't help. Our decision to offer a Christmas discount proved very popular with customer so we decided to extend the season of goodwill."
Great Escape Classic Car Hire operates the largest fleet of classic cars for hire in the UK from locations in Suffolk, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Yorkshire, East Midlands and Dorset. The fleet covers classic and performance cars from the 1950s to 2000s.
For more details call 01527 893733 or visit www.greatescapecars.co.uk
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Rover SD1 is cover star

The Great Escape Classic Car Hire Rover SD1 Vitesse is the star of a great feature on buying one of these rare British saloons in the February 2011 issue of Classic Car Mart. The article extolls the virtues of the big Rover, which was the last 'true Brit' Rover before the company partnered up with Honda to develop its saloon car range.
The Great Escape Rover SD1 Vitesse was chosen to illustrate the piece because it is in excellent condition. When we acquired the car in March 2010 it was in very good condition but we have continuously improved it over the intervening months. The car is one of the last Rover SD1s ever built and features the limited production high performance Twin Plenum version of the venerable Rover 3500 V8 engine.
The Rover SD1 Vitesse is one of a small group of 1980s cars that are both rare and increasingly sought after. Prices have risen dramatically in the last couple of years as good examples are snapped up. The car is part of Great Escape Classic Car Hire's new 1980s classic car rental fleet, which also includes a Ford Capri, VW Golf GTI and Jaguar XJS.
"1980s classic cars are becoming increasingly sought after," explains Graham Eason of Great Escape. "In the current straightened economic times it makes sense to hire the classic car of your youth rather than buy one."
For more details on the Rover SD1 Vitesse visit www.greatescapecars.co.uk or call 01527 893733.
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Don't let your special date get away

Great Escape Classic Car Hire, the UK's largest specialist classic car rental fleet operator, says it is experiencing unprecedented demand for car hire in 2011. The news suggests the tourism industry in 2011 may be recovering and the trend towards 'staycations' is continuing.
"Our advance bookings are significantly up on 2010," explains Graham Eason of Great Escape. "Some of our cars are fully booked for popular weekends right up to November 2011, which is unprecedented. We have also sold a record number of gift vouchers, which will redeem during 2011.
"We are recommending that customers who need particular cars for specific dates, such as for a wedding, book early to avoid disappointment."
Despite the popularity of its fleet, Great Escape Classic Car Hire has not changed its commitment to fair and transparent pricing. Customers still get a full 24 hours use for every day booked, unlimited mileage, comprehensive insurance and full AA breakdown cover. You can also book a single day at weekends and the price for weekends is the same as weekdays - there is no premium charged.
Great Escape Classic Car Hire operates a fleet of 50 classic cars from 6 locations across the UK including Shropshire, Suffolk, Yorkshire, East Midlands and Worcestershire. The company's entire fleet of cars can be booked online up to 12 months in advance - or specific dates can be reserved.
For more details visit www.greatescapecars.co.uk or call 01527 893733.

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Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Great Escape Classic Car Hire has gone and joined the social media revolution. We've been dabbling with Facebook and Twitter for a while alongside our blog but now we've gone for it big time. Our Twitter -ati are a select band but we've got close on 1000 followers on Facebook now.
We've taken a while to embrace social media because we wanted to be sure we could do it justice. We love classic cars first and foremost so our Twitter and Facebook posts tend to be about what we're up to - not just shameless plugs for stuff we sell.
Now you can follow Great Escape Classic Car Hire on Facebook and Twitter direct from the Great Escape website. We've added links to Facebook, Twitter and our own blog on every page of our site.
We've been blogging, twitter and facebooking for ages now on whatever crosses our mind but always involving classic cars. We live and breath classic cars here at Great Escape towers and we don't think about an awful lot else. Our social media contributions vary from the irreverent to the serious, including advice and assistance on running and maintaining classic cars. Our classics are amongst the highest mileage examples of their kind and while we don't claim to be experts we're very happy to pass on our experience of owning and running classic cars on a daily basis. This is the kind of stuff we post. Oh, and you'll also find the occasional special offer and news on additions to our classic car hire fleet - we're only human after all.
Click on the links to view our Facebook, Twitter and Great Classic Cars blog pages.

6 more days to buy a great gift

There are just 6 more days left before the last date for 1st class post to arrive in time for Christmas. That means just 144 hours left to decide on a Christmas gift. And if you're still trying to decide, chances are you're trying to buy for someone that either has everything or wants nothing. For exactly such a person we've created the Great Escape Classic Car Hire gift voucher package.

Prices for Great Escape gift packages start at just £110 with our special Christmas discount. For that princely sum someone you know and love could spend 24 hours behind the wheel of a great classic sports car. We have a fleet of over 50 cars available at 6 UK locations - so whatever car they like and where you are or want to go, chances are we can help. Every classic car hire gift voucher is valid for 12 months and insurance, breakdown cover and unlimited mileage are all included in the price.

Great Escape guarantees to deliver all gift vouchers bought by 21st December in time for Christmas. Or we'll give you an extra day's hire free of charge. For more details visit http://www.greatescapecars.co.uk/ or call 01527 893733. To claim your Christmas discount of 10% off everything use discount code 'Christmas'.