10 Classic Car Stories That Warm the Heart

The Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership returns for Autumn 2025 at the Classic Motor Show, and the first ten finalists have been revealed. Each car tells a deeply personal story – of dedication, restoration, and love for classic motoring.

From rare survivors and family heirlooms to passion projects that healed hearts, these cars embody what this competition is all about – the people behind the polish.

Let’s meet the first ten contenders vying for your vote at one of the most beloved features of the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show.

1. Adam Crowton – 1966 Ford Mustang

Straight out of California sunshine, this Mustang found its second home in Britain – and its original colour once again. Featured in Edd China’s Workshop Diaries and My Cool Classics, Adam’s muscle car radiates pure Americana. Its V8 growl might just intimidate the opposition.

2. Darren Adamson – 1991 Daihatsu Charade GTi

With only around ten examples still on UK roads, Darren’s Charade is a proper pocket rocket. He first bought it as a guide for another restoration – then decided to give this one the full treatment instead. Sourcing rare parts from across the globe, Darren turned his GTi into one of the finest examples left standing.

3. Harry Chodka – 1990 Volkswagen Golf MkII G60 Syncro

This isn’t your average MkII Golf. One of just 20 pre-production test cars, it bridges the gap between the G60 2WD and Rallye 4WD models. After an expert restoration, Harry’s Golf has graced the pages of VW magazines and even caught the attention of Volkswagen itself, which is now considering it for a promotional campaign.

4. Christopher Boffey – 1973 Saab 96 V4

This classic Swedish saloon has been in the Boffey family for 35 years. Christopher promised his late father he would own a Saab one day – and he kept that vow when the family received this car as a gift.Restored with care and sentiment, it’s now a pristine show car and a rolling tribute to family and legacy.

5. Ian Dunning – 1998 Rover Mini Cooper

Ian’s modern take on the classic Austin 7 is a one-of-a-kind creation – the only one like it on the planet. Having spent years building car replicas, he finally decided to engineer his dream Mini. The result? A head-turning, hand-crafted marvel that perfectly blends nostalgia with innovation.

6. Luke Hopson – 1974 Rootes Commer PB ‘Deluxe’ Pick-Up

Luke has known this quirky van all his life. When a neighbour offered it to him in 2014 – on the condition he’d never give up on it – he accepted the challenge. Restoring it became a lifeline during his struggles with mental health. Today, both Luke and the Commer are thriving, proving how cars can do more than move us – they can heal us.

7. Steven Prevett – 1972 Citroën SM

A touch of 1970s French glamour with Italian flair, Steven’s 1972 Citroën SM is one of only 24 models built for the Swedish market. Beneath that sleek gold body lies a Maserati Quad Cam V6. In the past eight years, it’s completed two epic European tours – including a recent trip to Corsica. Rare, refined, and effortlessly cool, it’s the definition of ‘grand touring’.

8. Will Wilson – 1964 Ford Cortina MkI

This Ford Cortina is practically family. Will bought it on the day his daughter was born, restored it to serve as his wedding car, and hopes she’ll one day do the same. Since its completion in 2024, it’s won several awards – and hearts – wherever it goes. Proof that sentimental cars make the best restorations.

9. Nigel Walford – 1997 Volkswagen T4 800 Special

From builder’s van to award-winning camper, Nigel’s T4 has been completely transformed. He spent a year turning it into a unique home-on-wheels, complete with handcrafted wooden features. Yet, the project remains a work in progress – a pop-top roof is next on his to-do list once the show season ends.

10. Jordon Fenton – 1983 Ford Fiesta 1.1L MkI

Nicknamed ‘Lil Avvy’, this charming Fiesta has a powerful emotional story. Jordon began restoring it with his mum, Julie, his co-driver at countless shows. After she sadly passed away in 2022, he completed the project in her memory. Now fully restored, the car’s debut marks both a tribute and a triumph of love and perseverance.

More Stories Yet to Come

These ten remarkable entries are just the beginning. More finalists will be revealed soon – each with its own tale of devotion, discovery, and craftsmanship.

The Pride of Ownership competition has become one of the most anticipated attractions at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show – where visitors, not judges, decide who takes home the title.

Get Involved & Cast Your Vote

Want to have your say? Visitors can vote for their favourite car during the show and help crown the 2025 Pride of Ownership Champion.

Now, if this sounds like a show you’d love to experience, we have pairs of tickets up for grabs!

So how do you win a pair of tickets to this great event? To find out make sure you are sign up to our newsletter and follow us on our social media channels (we are on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, TikTok and YouTube.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to rely on winning a pair of tickets tot the Classic Motor Show then book your tickets today and save £2 per ticket using the discount code EM30.

Conclusion

From Mustangs to Minis, these finalists remind us that classic cars aren’t just machines – they’re memories, milestones, and masterpieces.

Which story moved you the most? Which car deserves your vote this year?
Share your thoughts below – and let’s celebrate the passion that keeps Britain’s classic car culture alive.

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