The Silverstone Festival, running from 23-25 August, promises a thrilling celebration of automotive history and racing excellence. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Silverstone Circuit, this event showcases an impressive array of both historic and modern motorsport marvels. Here’s a guide to the ten standout cars you absolutely cannot miss at this year’s festival.

1. 1981 Williams FW07 – Masters Racing Legends

The Williams FW07 stands as a celebration to the glory days of Formula One, renowned for its role during the DFV era. The FW07, powered by the legendary Ford DFV engine, was a key player in the late 1970s and early 1980s. At the Silverstone Festival, this car will compete in historic F1 races, reflecting the thrilling era of British racing giants like Brabham and McLaren.

Key Highlights:

Historic Significance: First Grand Prix win at Silverstone in 1979.

Race Days: Featured in the Masters Racing Legends races on Saturday and Sunday.

2. 1965 Ford Mustang – Pure Michigan Mustang Celebration

Introduced in 1964, the Ford Mustang revolutionised the muscle car market and made a significant impact on UK tracks. This 1965 model, part of the Pure Michigan Mustang Celebration, will star in a saloon car race showcasing classic American muscle. Watch out for appearances by notable drivers such as Andy Priaulx MBE and Jann Mardenborough.

Key Highlights:

Cultural Icon: A symbol of American muscle and racing prowess.

Special Event: Sunday afternoon’s high-octane saloon car race.

3. 1924 Bentley 3/4½ – BRDC 500 for Pre-War Sports Cars

Marking a century since Bentley’s first Le Mans victory, the 1924 Bentley 3/4½ will take centre stage in Sunday morning’s pre-war sports car race. This iconic vehicle will compete against early Aston Martins and Rileys, highlighting the elegance and endurance of pre-war racing machines.

Key Highlights:

Anniversary: Celebrates Bentley’s 100th Le Mans win.

Race Details: Featured in the 40-minute BRDC 500 race.

4. 1975 Lotus-Renault 97T – Ayrton Senna Tribute

This year’s festival honours the legendary Ayrton Senna with a display of cars he raced throughout his career. The Lotus-Renault 97T, famous for its black and gold livery and Senna’s first Grand Prix victory, will be a focal point. The festival also features Senna’s trophies and race suit from his Estoril win.

Key Highlights:

Tribute: Largest collection of Senna’s cars on display.

Showcase: Includes the iconic Lotus-Renault 97T.

5. 2011 Peugeot 90X – Masters Endurance Legends

Peugeot’s 90X sports prototype, which disrupted Audi’s Le Mans dominance, will be a highlight in the Masters Endurance Legends races. Known for its diesel power and sleek design, the 90X represents some of the most advanced technology in endurance racing.

Key Highlights:

Modern Marvel: Diesel-fuelled and high-performance.

Race Participation: Among the LMP1 front-runners.

6. MG Metro 6R4 – Shift & Drift Zone

Celebrating 40 years since its debut, the MG Metro 6R4 will bring a touch of rallying history to the Shift & Drift Zone at the Silverstone Festival. Known for its distinctive V6 engine and powerful performance, this car is a favourite among rally enthusiasts. Look out for multiple versions, including a rare factory model at auction.

Key Highlights:

Anniversary: 40 years of the Metro 6R4.

Auction: Rare models expected to fetch over £300,000.

7. 2024 RML SWB – Official Safety Cars

The new RML SWB supercars will serve as the official safety cars for the festival. With only 30 units being built, these high-performance machines offer a rare opportunity to witness cutting-edge automotive engineering in action.

Key Highlights:

Exclusive: Limited production of just 30 units.

Track Presence: Featured as official safety cars.

8. 2017/2019 Mercedes-AMG F1 W08/W10 EQ Power+ Models

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team celebrates a decade of dominance with a display of the W08 and W10 EQ Power+ models. These cars, part of a spectacular exhibition, highlight the team’s unparalleled success, including multiple Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.

Key Highlights:

Decade of Success: Celebrating ten years of Mercedes dominance.

Exhibition: Features Lewis Hamilton’s championship-winning cars.

9. 1971 Ferrari 512M – Masters Sports Car Legends

The Ferrari 512M, designed to rival the Porsche 917, is one of the most revered sportscars in racing history. With a powerful V12 engine and a notable appearance in Steve McQueen’s “Le Mans,” this car will compete in the Masters Sports Car Legends race.

Key Highlights:

Historic Rivalry: Competes against the Porsche 917.

Film Fame: Featured in the iconic “Le Mans” movie.

10. 1988/1990 Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 – Adrian Flux Trophy for Historic Touring Car Challenge

The Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 is celebrated for its racing success, boasting an impressive record. At the festival, it will be showcased in the Historic Touring Car Challenge, competing alongside other legendary racers and attracting attention from both enthusiasts and collectors.

Key Highlights:

Racing Legend: Noted for its impressive win ratio.

Challenge: Featured in the Adrian Flux Trophy race.

Conclusion

The Silverstone Festival is a must-visit event for any car enthusiast, offering a rare chance to see some of the most iconic vehicles in automotive history. From the roar of classic F1 engines to the sleek lines of modern supercars, there’s something to captivate every visitor.

Which car are you most excited to see? Do you have a favourite from the list or a personal classic that you think deserves a spot? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post How to Enjoy the Silverstone Festival: 10 Essential Cars to See This Year appeared first on My Car Heaven.