Although the Knysna Motor Show organisers are expecting a turnout of more than 500 exceptional vehicles, the Sanlam Private Wealth backed event has three standout appearances headlining the act.
“While we welcome everyone to come along to see and enjoy the vintage and veteran cars and motorcycles, and the super cars, classic sports cars, and new-era electric vehicles on show, we’re very selective about the exhibits we allow – which appear by invitation only. This keeps the show fresh and interesting every year,” said the chairperson of the Garden Route Motor Club, Peter Pretorius. “As one of South Africa’s most prestigious motor shows, the Knysna Motor Show naturally attracts the attention of the owners of the most prestigious and unsusual vehicles on the road, and we’re proud to announce that this year’s event will feature one of the most desireable cars of all – a Bentley MK VI Special – as well as displays by the MMM MG Club of South Africa, and the Micro Car Club of South Africa.”
MMM MG GATHERING
The bi-annual gathering of South Africa’s MMM MG Club will take place in the Garden Route this year and the club has entered 17 cars for the show. According to MMM MG Club chairperson, Rodney Green, “MMM stands for Midget, Magna, and Magnette – which were some of the names given to the bewildering array of performance model MGs in the 1930s, when the marque dominated the 750 and 1100cc classes on the international racing circuit.” He said that the club’s display at the Motor Show will include an early M-type, as well as various 4 and 6-cylinder models – some of which are supercharged. “Of special interest will be a supercharged C-type Monthlery Midget with a 4 cylinder, 746cc power unit; and a 1935, 6 cylinder, 1271cc MG ND.”
MICRO CAR CLUB
We’re pretty sure that the Micro Car Club’s display will be a real hit at this year’s Motor Show. According to Micro Car Club chairperson, Lothar Frohlich, the club register is open to cars of 700cc or less that were built any time until 1967. Like the MMM MG Club, the Micro Car Club will hold its gathering in the Garden Route this year, and will exhibit a number of vehicles at the Motor Show. “Although they’re remembered in history as curiosities, the Micro Car was a first step towards owning a full-size car for many people in the 1950s and 60s,” said Mr. Frohlich. “As with all classic cars, it’s often difficult to obtain spare parts – but gatherings like these allow Micro Car enthusiasts to network with each other to keep these unique vehicles alive.”
BENTLEY SPECIAL
The Bentley MK VI Special that will appear started out as a project 1951 Bentley MKVI Sedan – but when a previous owner abandoned the build it was obtained by a Cape Town collector who commissioned Charles Goodman Restorers in Johannesburg to complete the build.It took two and a half years to complete this magnificent vehicle with its 4.9-litre Bentley straight-six, F-type, fuel injected engine, and its wood frame and metal skin.
Last year’s show attracted over 5 000 people and organisers are confident that the number will grow again this year, as it has every year. The event is known for its country atmosphere, excellent food stalls, and festive beer garden – so there’s always something for old and young to enjoy. But it’s also an event with a heart, and proceeds will benefit Hospice, Knysna Animal Welfare, E-pap and FAMSA. The Sanlam Private Wealth Knysna Motor Show takes place on the Knysna High School sports fields (on Waterfront Drive) from 09:30 to 16:00 on Sunday, 30 April, 2017.
For more information contact: Peter Pretorius on peterp@afrihost.co.za / 082 321 4724 or visit www.grmc.co.za.