Speedsters and roadsters – sports cars of the 20th century.
Warm summer nights, moonlight over your shoulder, long winding roads with the sea air beckoning you and that special person to the beach – these are the joys of an open topped roadster.
Welcome to the Gippsland Vehicle Collection's tribute to ‘Sports Cars of the 20th Century ‘!
Our road trip starts with veteran sports cars known as speedsters. These exquisite vehicles show that only the bravest of motorists would enjoy the speed and motoring excitement these early cars could offer.
Next stop is prior to World War II. Be amazed at one man’s incredible collection of vintage MG sports cars, some known only to have been built and exist in Australia.
Add to this a gorgeous 1930s Wolseley roadster looking as though it left the showroom floor yesterday, finished in gleaming turquoise paint.
We zoom into the 1960s surrounded by more British icons, starting with a Sunbeam Tiger of ‘Get Smart’ fame. These cars were catapulted to fame by Agent 86, Maxwell Smart in this very popular American TV show.
Time to slow down and reminisce on life in the 1970s… Not all sports cars were open roadsters. In 1974 local Australian sports car manufacturer, Bolwell wowed the local motoring writers and public with their beautiful Bolwell Nagari. Our impressive dark blue example has been in the same family all its life, looking as though it’s still a new car. To complement our;70’s stop, there’s a 1973 Opel GT. Sold primarily in the USA, this model of sports car is rarely seen in Australia.
Back to the road and into the 1990s. Australian ingenuity brought us an Australian sports car, designed and built here and exported to America. Enter the Ford Capri convertible. Our shining example shows that open car fun could be had at an affordable cost. Its main rival was the Mazda MX5. Got one of those too!
Finishing off our journey is a brilliant example of the most popular kit car. Our Shelby Cobra has been lovingly hand built to a standard mostly seen on highdollar European exotics.
Our display starts in the middle of winter. But roadsters are fine weather friends, so join us for a taste of summer, warm nights, long roads, love in the air and the unmistakable look of open air motoring.
The Gippsland Vehicle Collection is located at 1A, Maffra-Sale Rd, Maffra. Opening hours are 10 am to 4 pm Friday to Monday. Open every day during the school holidays, or by appointment for car clubs or group bookings.
For more information visit www.gippslandvehiclecollection.org.au or call 03 5147 3223.
