Centennial Car Rallye in Spain

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Spain is perhaps not the most friendly country for pre-war mechanics; the rough terrain and hot climate make it difficult to enjoy some types of cars, so many old vehicles have been slumbering in garages for years. Now the FEVA (Federación Española de Vehículos Antiguos) has created a new event just for +100 year old vehicles, to encourage owners to put these pre-war machines back on the road.

The first edition took place last month in the quiet villages and roads of Soria (central Spain), and the favourable response from Spanish pre-war motorists quickly exceeded the organisers' “best expectations’”, with more than 50 teams registered. All the cars and motorcycles came from different places in Spain, with the exception of the real oldest car, a 1902 Darracq from the Portuguese Caramulo Museum. And we say 'real' because there were two replicas whose design was older: the Benz Patent Motorwagen and a locally made ― and perfect ― replica of the first vehicle ever built by Henry Ford in 1896. Many of the cars present had not seen the streets since the 1970s, such as the interesting and unrestored 1916 Overland with bodywork by Reynes from Barcelona, or an obscure 1914 racing Mercedes from one of the largest Spanish collections.

Many rare Spanish-made cars, such as Salvador and Autos España participated. No less than 6 Hispano-Suizas were also present. Among them was the second oldest surviving in driving condition. And not to forget an original factory racing Alfonso XIII. The event ended with a period costume contest... and with the aim of a second edition next year!

Words and photos by Francisco Carrión.

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