RACV Classic Showcase

Formerly known as the 'British & European Motoring Show', this year's event celebrated a number of automotive milestones, from 60 years of the Morris Minor to 50 years of the Mini & Triumph Herald, as well as 110 years of Renault. The Mercedes-Benz Club of Victoria also used Classic Showcase to hold their annual concours, so there was a big number of Mercs in attendance.

Aside from Mercedes, Volvo owners had a big presence this year, while Sunbeam, Jaguar, BMW and Humber were also there in force.

Highlights amongst the 'odd-spot' vehicles included a Humber Super Snipe-based ambulance, DKW 1000, Borgward Isabella coupe, 1908 Auto Carrier, plus a pair of original condition Skodas. We chatted to a few Sunbeam owners, who were looking forward to our upcoming editorial content on that marque.

If there were any Opels or NSUs there, we missed them, but remember, if you have - or had - an example of these rare German machines, we want to hear about it. See the reader callout in the Historical section toward the back of this magazine for more information.

The Mercedes Benz Club of Victoria used Classic Showcase 2009 to host their annual concours, which meant fans of the three-pointed star had lots more amazingly attractive metal to drool over than usual! As well as the 'usual' stars - the 300SL Gullwing and convertible - there were some fine examples of 220s, 170s, 280s, SLs and many more. A top condition 600 'Grosser' six door limousine drew a lot of attention, as did a beautifully restored 230 sedan that is believed to have once been a staff car for Nazi 'brownshirts'.

While there were a number of stars, the one that shone brightest was Murray Allen's flawless 1960 model 190SL convertible. With his car looking like it had just rolled off the factory floor, Murray was a deserving winner of half a dozen different concours awards.

Source: JUST CARS, August 2009, Collectors Issue #162