Although the classic car event calendar has grown larger and longer over the last four decades, one event remains a stalwart of the UK calendar: The NEC Classic Motor Show. Just like the industry, this end-of-season, three-day show has grown hugely in size and variety since the first in 1984, offering enthusiasts a mammoth trudge through seven exhibition halls – jam-packed with classic cars of all shapes and sizes.
In total, 338 motoring clubs putched up at the show – a record number for the NEC – with more than 3000 cars on show across all seven halls. As usual, the best candidates from each of the clubs were invited to battle it out for the top award on the Meguiar’s Club Showcase. From the 14 immaculate cars, from a bright green Austin Metro to a Ferrari Testarossa, were scrutinised by expert judges. Andy Nash’s 1958 Fiat Nuova 500N that took home the crystal trophy.
One new feature for 2024 was the show’s Hall of Fame, which will see worthy people and cars inducted each year going forward. This year’s categories were: Classic Car, Industry Ambassador, Motoring Club, and Community Ambassador. Wheeler Dealers’ Mike Brewer revealed, with the help of Show Director Lee Masters, that the Jaguar E-Type was the Classic Car inductee with Paul Crowther’s stunning Series 1 OTS on display.
FBHVC Chairman David Whale was then revealed as the Industry Ambassador for his campaigning for the historic vehicle movement, whilst the Jowett Car Club was inducted as the inaugural Motoring Club, a highly contested title. Lee Masters then surprised Mike Brewer and invited him to join the Hall of Fame as Community Ambassador in recognition for all he has done for the motoring community.
Show Director Lee Masters commented: ‘It’s always great to see the classic car community come together but this year was extra special. A personal highlight for me was honouring our Hall of Fame inductees, a very proud moment. Huge thanks to all our sponsors, traders, clubs, and visitors for celebrating our 40th anniversary with us.’
The competition for the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership trophy was as intense as ever. With 20 exceptional cars showcased on the prestigious carpet, the public cast their votes for their favorite. Topping the list was Richard Stacey’s 1967 Ford Mustang, capturing the admiration of visitors. In second place came Paul Clappison’s 2002 Porsche Boxster S, while Tahmid Haque’s 1986 Koenig BMW 635 secured third.
Talking of trophies, the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership competition was fiercer than ever. With the public voting for their favourite out of the 20 cars on the hallowed carpet, it was Richard Stacey’s 1967 Ford Mustang that won the visitors’ hearts and minds. Second place went to Paul Clappison’s 2002 Porsche Boxster S and Tahmid Haque’s 1986 Koenig Specials BMW 635 came third.
The annual Iconic Auctioneers sale once again delivered a number of outstanding results, specifically for those cars wearing a blue oval on the bonnet. The auction house celebrated as an Escort RS Cosworth Lux sold for a world record price of £202,500.
This year’s show introduced some interesting new features, including the Podcast Lounge, where motoring podcasts were recorded live in front of an audience. Returning favorites included the Meet the Experts Theatre, hosted by Mike Brewer and YouTuber Alex Kersten, featuring lively discussions and interviews with industry icons like car design legend Frank Stephenson.
The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show will return to Birmingham’s NEC from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 November 2025. For updates, visit www.necclassicmotorshow.com.
