Date: 14 November, 2014
Location: NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT
Christmas comes 41 days early for classic vehicle buffs next month.
Yes, it doesn’t get any bigger than the NEC Birmingham’s Classic Motor Show. In fact, the real challenge is working out how to fit everything in to three days.
We attempt to make it easier for you with our top 10 picks for this year’s showpiece...
1. FJ Stand
Come and take time out and watch a montage of those famous classic motoring movies. From Bullitt to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
2. The cars
As many as 1,700 of the world’s most jaw-dropping classic cars will feature. All the head-turners - including Aston Martin, Maserati, Ferrari and Porsche - will be there.
The show also gets a touch of Hollywood this year with cinematic and televisual icons including Knight Rider’s KITT, the DeLorean out of Back to the Future and even Ghostbusters’ Ecto-1!
You can of course buy a classic while you’re here -prices range from under-£10,000 to over £100,000.
3. The Footman James Car of the Year Show
The hottest American classic car is to be decided over the course of weekend, thanks to yours truly!
Seven magnificent motors are to battle it out. Heat-winning finalists include a 1964 Chrysler New Yorker and a 1966 Pontiac Bonneville.
4. The auction
The first two days at the NEC see spectrum-spanning models go under the hammer from 2.30pm.
One of the most exciting lots is a stunning 60-year-old Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback. Organisers reckon this could fetch between £800,000 and £900,000.
5. Trade stands and the Autojumble 
For a start, there’s a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of trade stands awaiting visitors. More than 500 of them will stock tools, spares, parts, motoring services and stacks of memorabilia.
Who knows? You may even find the final piece in your restoration project jigsaw.
6. Classic motorbike display
Motorcycles aren’t forgotten of course, far from it - with more than 300 bikes on display, as well as bike jumble, interviews and club exhibits.
7. Car clubs
A cornucopia of 250-odd clubs catering for all tastes present marvellous marques and dazzling displays. Among them is the Morris Minor Owner’s Club Young Members Register.
8. The restoration theatre
Enthusiasts are invited to discover how to restore their beloved historic cars in every aspect. This could be a tough one to get dragged away from...
9. Live Stage
Wheeler Dealers’ Edd China and Mike Brewer bring a taste of their Discovery Channel banter and know-how to the NEC stage with a welter of fun, guests and surprises.
10. Dream rides
Take the spin of your dreams. Will it be a chauffeur-driven Bentley or a trip in a retro Ford? Or maybe a more bullish supercar may take your fancy? The choice is absolutely yours.
When is it?
Friday-Sunday, November 14-16 (starts 9am except 10am on Friday, finishes 6.30pm except 5.30pm on Sunday).
How to book?
Get a three-day pass for £55 or a weekend pass for £34. Friday’s visitors can get a day pass for £25 and it costs £18.50 if you go on Sunday or Saturday.
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