Retro Rides Weekender

The condition is that the car must be manufactured before 2000.

On a warm spring weekend in early May, Goodwood Circuit, a mecca for classic car enthusiasts, was transformed into a slightly different scene than usual. The event, titled “Retro Ride Weekender,” was an “anything goes” gathering for all cars manufactured before 2000.

The only requirement for participation was that the car had to be built before 2000. No restrictions were placed on make or model, and vehicles of all styles, from British hot rods and modified sports cars to lowriders and even so-called “highway” racers, took part in demonstration runs around the circuit.

The paddock, which is usually filled with pre-1966 F1 cars, Ferrari 250 GTOs, and Shelby Cobras, was home to minicars and Minis. Another paddock was neatly lined with French cars ranging from the Citroën 2CV to the Peugeot 106 Rally, creating a truly multinational and diverse space.

Even unusual and rare cars

The real stars of the event were the more than 1,000 unique cars brought by ordinary visitors. The sight of retro machines lined up without a gap, not only in the paddock but also in the parking lot, banking, and every space in the spectator area, was truly impressive.

Retro Ride originated as an online forum set up in the UK in the early 2000s and has grown into a gathering of people who enjoy modifying a wide variety of vehicles, from JDM (Japanese domestic market) cars, rat rods, hot rods, custom cars, and even unusual and unusual vehicles.

Eventually, full-scale car meetings also began to be held, and in recent years Goodwood has established itself as the “home base” for the event, with the number of visitors and participating cars increasing year by year.

Humorous vehicle exhibits

There was no hierarchy at this event. Everyone was welcome, and the atmosphere at the venue was relaxed. The vehicles on display were full of humor, with visitors enjoying the sights and sounds of the Mini Moke, a supercharged car, and a unique vehicle with a Kia Pride body mounted on a Mazda MX-5 (Roadster) chassis.

The historic circuit was filled with playfulness and free-spirited thinking. The classic and elegant Goodwood turned into a casual and enjoyable “car amusement park” over the weekend.

PHOTO／Simon FOX

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