12 August, 2014
A classic car display can be great for looking back at much-loved, spectacular models - inducing nostalgia over the once-familiar vehicles of yesteryear.
This year, however, Vauxhall is turning the spotlight on a car from a more poignant period of history.
On the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War, the British car maker's Heritage Centre is due to showcase an exhibit which saw active service during the 1914-1918 conflict - the D-type staff car.
The centre's annual open day will take place on August 24 and see around 50 classic models joining the manufacturer's very own war horse.
War horse power
Modern machinery including the sporty VXR8 GTS will line up alongside the D-type in Park Street, Luton.
The private car collection will take a look at the history of motoring at Vauxhall, from 1903 right up to the present day.
It will also include classics such as the Calibra and Lotus Carlton, which both clock up their 25th anniversaries this year.
Rally heroes
The Lotus Carlton was capable of hitting 176mph, while the Firenza "Droop Snoot" car was a regular competitor in saloon racing with Gerry Marshall in the 1970s.
The D-type staff car was less nippy in its day, but was still capable of up to 60mph when it first rolled off production lines in 1913.
More than 1,500 of the 25hp car were given to the army for use in the conflict as staff vehicles.
Drove my Chevette to the levy
Also on show will be more modest, but familiar faces from the world of motoring, including the shovel-nosed Vauxhall Chevette, a supermini that was popular from the mid-1970s to mid-80s.
A nippier prospect from roughly the same era is the Astra GTE Mk1.
All cars are roadworthy thanks to tender loving care and classic car insurance, and they're available to view for free at the centre.
Food and refreshments are available and pedal cars and face painting will be on hand for you boy (or girl) racers.
If you have a classic Vauxhall, protect your pride and joy with our classic car insurance policies.
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