Shortly before the unique Bernina Gran Turismo returns on Sept. 18- 21 we had the opportunity for a short interview with Kurt Engelhorn, who revived the spirit of the legendary Bernina Races from 1929/1930 in 2014.The event is full of classic racing passion – for machines that breathe, for riders who feel and spectators who understand – and its a love letter to the Engadin.
1. Where does your enthusiasm for classic cars come from?
I love things, I see the beauty in things. I had a DKV 3-cylinder two-stroke car, which I used to drive around in my youth, through the Camargue, listening to the gypsies singing. It only cost a few hundred Danish Kroner, then there was a new car, and that’s how it all started.
2. What are your fondest memories of this wonderful hobby?
Stopping and looking at things, thinking about it and about myself.
You can either stand on the pass or in an old refinery – you just stand around, make a pii, smoke a cigarette and look at it – that’s the beauty of it.
3. Of course we have to ask: what are your three favorite cars?
Lotus 11, which I am about to get, Lotus Elite and Super Sevens.
These cars are so special because the combination of weight and engine power is ideal; you have a very efficient car, and that’s why they’re so attractive.
4. What is new and special about this year’s Bernina Gran Turismo?
There isn’t much that’s new in the world; we do everything the same every time, and every time it will be different.
5. The motorsport fairy grants you three wishes—what would they be?
I am not wishing anything; whatever happens, happens. Maybe if I am sitting in an open car and it is raining too hard… then I might wish for the rain to stop.
