The sheer scale of the Goodwood Festival of Speed means that there is something for everyone who has a love of wheeled machinery.
As each year passes the technology and sophistication of motor vehicles has expanded at a rate that sometimes seems hard to keep up with. The Festival provides a perfect place to showcase these advances while also providing a retrospective view that shows how innovation has always been at the heart of the motoring world. From late 19th Century steam power through gasoline and diesels, gas turbines, hybrids and full electric and hydrogen the evolution has been unrelenting.
The earliest vehicle to tackle the hill was the steam powered Salversen of 1893. Steered by a tiller and with no sigh of aerodynamics it ran at a gentle pace that was clearly enjoyed by all those on board.
At the other extreme was the electric powered and vacuum assisted 2024 McMurtry. Producing 1000hp and with a fan system that creates 2000kg of downforce it travels at a speed that is tricky to capture on “film”.
Fastest vehicle up the hill was, believe it or not, the Ford Transit Supervan 4.2. Again electric power was the key to its remarkable performance.
As in previous years there were plenty of “Drifters” entertaining the crowds.
Another perennial crowd favourite was the Beast of Turin – often breathing fire from its 4 cylinder 28.4 litre engine.
Red Bull had a big presence including examples of each of its F1Cars on display in a large area dedicated to its 20 years of competition.
Many other iconic Grand Prix cars headed up the hill.
As did a wide range of Sports Racing Cars
Curiosities included the propeller driven Leyat Helica, the gas turbine powered Howmet and the ultra low profile UOP Shadow CanAm Lowline which, despite its diminutive size carried a 600bhp Chevrolet V8.
As always at Goodwood events the Duke of Richmond is always “on duty” meeting and greeting while making sure one of the greatest shows on earth is running smoothly.
After another hugely enjoyable event am now looking forward to September’s Revival for another session enjoying the Goodwood magic.
