British Car Show
Written by Keith Fudge

Last May, Dennis Gage and the crew from My Classic Car took a trip north of the border to Vancouver , British Columbia , to attend the 18 th annual Vancouver All British Field Meet. Despite some typical British weather, it was a great show with a great turnout to see some awesome examples of British automotive design.

After he arrived, Dennis was joined by Joan Stewart, Event Coordinator, who told him that there were some “smashing” cars on the grounds. Joan also added that there were more than 500 cars on display and that there were probably some 6,000 in attendance for the festivities. Since this event is referred to as “The Greatest Show on British Wheels,” Joan also said that even though all of the major British manufacturers were well-represented such as Rolls Royce, Jaguar, Triumph, MG, and Mini Coopers, there were also some splendid examples of other British makes and models.

All this British automotive history combined with the botanical setting of the VanDusen Garden was a sight to behold, and just as fate would have it, soon the clouds drifted away and the sun appeared to shed light on this fantastic venue. Dennis could hardly wait to see some of these outstanding cars. First, Dennis ran into Dominic Daly and his cool 1949 Morris Minor. Dominic refers to himself as a “Certified Morris Nut” and he has the documentation to prove it including the original bill of sale! Powered by an engine that makes 8.057 horsepower, this unique ride turns heads just as much as any V-12 might. Next, Dennis saw some really cool cars such as a 1963 Elva Currier, and an ultra rare 1959 AC Aceca. This car was one of 169 ever produced and Dennis had a difficult time from jumping behind the wheel! Finally, Dennis found Victoria Frodsham and her super-rare 1963 Sunbeam Herrington LeMans! One of 250 produced between 1962 and 1964, and only one of ten that were shipped to North America , this unrestored classic is in mint condition! By the way, it is also one of two unrestored survivors! The original 1.6 liter engine has logged a mere 40,000 miles and is fed through dual Weber carburetors! What a sweet and unusual English classic!

In addition to the show there were plenty of other activities such as a Brit Car Pub Night and a swap meet! And you'd better believe that a jolly good time was had by everyone! If you would like information on next year's event, take a trip on the web to www.westerndriver.com/abfm2004.html . So, until our next road trip, remember, “Honor the timeless classics—Happy Motoring!”