The Hungaroring Classic closed its gates a few weeks ago already, and the event proved to be another all-time great, even if the weather did not always play along.
The event achieved cult status in Hungary right from the start. Well before the first event two years ago, journalists went crazy about the once in a lifetime chance to see all those legends finally coming to Hungary. That opportunity returned two years later, and I hope it will become a regular programme in the Peter Auto Calendar.
This year’s event received extensive coverage again on Hungarian media long before it started, but also during the weekend. Baffled journalists were wandering around the pits admiring the greatest race cars ever to hit the asphalt.
This article is catching up on the event, thanks to the photos of Péter Bíró, who provided the visual ammo for the flash report on last years event too.
The Hungaroring Classic is up to fill some big shoes this year
This year quite a few brands participated in the event with stages to showcase timeless classics and racing heritage.
Mercedes is one of the most important brands of the European classic car scene, and of course, there was a lovely tent with classic Mercs.
The 100th anniversary of Citroen is a significant happening of the year, shining through many events and exhibitions.
The Hungaroring classics paid tribute with notable cars from the past 100 years from off-road kégresse to the legendary DS.
Mini’s 60th anniversary was also commemorated with dozens of Minis from all decades, size and stature.
The additional spirit was ensured by the presence of many car clubs, including an astonishing set of American cars.
In addition to the race cars brought by Peter Auto, there were dozens of legendary classic cars showcased by their proud owners.
The racing series works as a magnet for vintage car owners, from 70’s Rolly Royces to BMWs.
Not just classics came along, some contemporary exotics also paid a visit.
The Hungaroring was built in the last years of the ailing communist regime looking for a way out of the mess they got into themselves (and the country).
Back then, the first races were surrounded with enthusiastic fans coming with Ladas and Trabants.
This year there were again dozens of eastern nostalgia cars from all epochs, like the DKW based early IFAs to the “modern” Ladas.
The main attraction is still the vast amount of classic race cars, and most of them never saw this race track before 2017.
The modern-day infrastructure does provide a stark contrast to the legendary Ferraris, Porsches and other noble brands.
I won’t bother to enumerate all the racing classes and brilliant cars, as I did that already in the earlier articles. I recommend to have a peek for the Spa Classic 2018 summary.
Usually a single M1 or a Porsche 904 would make my day, here one can find dozens of them.
The flagship category is certainly the Group C with special appearances hors classement.
Unfortunately, the rain messed up most of the Saturday, but it is undoubtedly a seldom sight to see XJR13s speeding through the stormy rain.
Finally, I dedicate a few photos to the Touring car legends, notable because Peter did brilliant shots in the pits.
The Hungaroring classic is developing a stable item in the calendar of Peter Auto’s roaring circus. I hope we live to see its return in the future. For all those who are interested in seeing racing legends, there is nothing comparable to anywhere east of Monza.
FOR SIMILAR EVENTS, CHECK OUT MY ULTIMATE AUTOMOTIVE EVENTS CALENDAR:
https://egzostive.com/automotive-calendar-2019-pt1
