Malta is a small but beautiful island with a population of fewer than 600,000, yet it has a number of exceptional and thriving vehicle restoration businesses to cater for the estimated 30,000 classic cars to be found on the isle. The Malta Motorsports Federation was only founded in 2007, but it oversees kart series, drifting, drag racing, a classic hillclimb and the Mdina Grand Prix, as well as many other minor meetings.
There are two flagship classic events, the characters of which differ widely. In the late spring there is the Valletta Concours, held in the capital's magnificent St George's Square; this is very much a traditional concours, where the judging is strict but fair - well, I am a long-time judge! and both entrants and arbiters respect each other's attendance.
Then, in early October, there is the Malta Classic, this year held from 10-13 October at various locations around the island.
This is a more light-hearted affair, kicking off on Thursday with the Malta Classic Hill Climb at Mtahleb. A few minutes' drive from the ancient city of Mdina, the route offers scenic views and produced a varied podium this year, with the winning 1952 Jaguar XK120 of Lucas Pace (65.3 secs) and third-placed 1958 ListerJaguar 'Knobbly' of Michael Pace (69.6 secs) split by Isaac Burlo's rapid 1972 Austin Mini (68.2 secs) On day two, things slow down a bit with the Style and Elegance competition (which organisers are at pains to say is not a concours), gathering a selection of pre- and post-war classic cars and 'bikes in the attractive surroundings of the harbourside district of Pietà, right on the waterfront.
Up to 10 points can be awarded to the owner (or their partner) for appropriate dress, with another 10 points for the car. There were some very fine vehicles to admire, with the Maltese autumn sun bouncing off the warm, golden local sandstone and reflecting off the vehicles in a way that makes any colour come alive.
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