2012 Classic Car of the Year competition launched

2012 Classic Car of the Year competition launched

The 2012 UK Classic Car of the Year has been launched as organisers look to name the country's best classic car this summer.

Shortlisted cars are set to be displayed at the Classic Motor Show at Birmingham's NEC from November 16th to 18th and the overall winner will be announced on the final day of the event.

Organised by Classic Car Weekly, Classic Cars and Practical Classics magazine, the event offers the winner a first prize valued at £3,500.

Any car made before 1990 will be accepted for the competition and the organisers have claimed that the amount of money spent on a model or the number of miles on the clock will not be deciding factors, explaining that the story behind the car is what the judges will be looking for.

"There are no restrictions on the number of cars owners can enter - if they are lucky enough to own more than one classic car, then all the vehicles can be included," the organisers explained.

"An expert judging panel will evaluate the entrants on their individual merits as well as awarding extra points for going to extraordinary lengths to rebuild a car, its fascinating history and incredible journeys undertaken."

This year's winner will receive a unique trophy as well as "a mountain of prizes" including a year's free comprehensive car insurance up to a value of £300 from Lancaster Insurance.

The event is now in its third year and past winners include Amy Clements and her 1954 Jowett Jupiter SC and Howard Rathbone who stunningly restored a 1969 Jaguar E Type Series II over a 35-year period.

To enter a car for this year's competition, classic car owners have been encouraged to enter their details online or write into one of the magazines backing the event.

Posted by Craig Salter