Rumblings, July 2009

The Labour Government is proposing to reduce the speed limit from 60 to 50mph on many roads. I am aware that it believes that anyone doing around 100mph is the equivalent of someone carrying a knife or gun but under the right conditions such speeds can be perfectly safe. This reminds me of the day when an E-type Jaguar came to the Motor Sport offices for a test. Before I left, a colleague said, “Be careful. It’s a 150mph car.” But in pouring rain it proved quite docile and when the traffic lights by the Albert Hall went to red the brakes stopped the car effectively, whereas on my left a small Ford was rotating.

On derestricted roads the Jaguar’s performance was most effective and appreciated. With a 50mph speed limit some of the pleasures of motoring will be decreased, so sales of good sports cars will probably diminish if and when the current global financial situation is resolved. And it should be remembered that free-flowing traffic is helped by a reasonable speed. Reducing the limit will oppose this.

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The 750MC will hold its 47th National Austin Rally at Beaulieu on June 28, when over 200 A7s of all types will fill the fields outside the National Motor Museum. Details from the Club office on 01379 741641.

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Having mentioned Model-T races at Brooklands last month, I would like to clarify that both such races were in 1912.