The gleaming bodywork of classic cars shines again in the shadow of the Austrian Alps. The 2018 edition of the Ennstal-Classic is attracting top names in the world of motoring to the small town of Gröbming.
From the inaugural 1993 event, when only 35 cars entered, to the phenomenal success of the last editions, the Ennstal-Classic is one of the most prestigious international motoring events.
Exceptional drivers and international VIPs have flaunted their driving skills along some of the most stunning alpine roads in Styria, including Walter Röhrl, Sir Stirling Moss, Sir Jackie Stewart, Niki Lauda, Sebastian Vettel, Rowan Atkinson, Patrick Dempsey and Brian Johnson.
To date, the singular feature of the event has been the ban on using electronic equipment in the rally.
FCA Heritage has accepted the organisers’ invitation to return for the 2018 edition and is bringing three specimens from its collection to Gröbming.
Two will enter the race, namely a 1970 Fiat 124 Sport Spider and a 1966 Alfa Romeo 1600 Spider "Duetto", whose cameo in Austria coincides with the 50th anniversary of the film "The Graduate", in which the car makes an unforgettably iconic appearance.
Austria is also the birthplace of motor racing legend Karl Abarth. One hundred and ten years after his birth, the 1964 Abarth 2400 Coupé Allemano will participate in the "Grand Prix Gröbming" town parade, where it will be driven by Anneliese Abarth, wife of the scorpion brand’s founder.
Alfa Romeo and Abarth will be the event sponsors. Fans attending the Ennstal-Classic will also be able to witness the latest new releases from the two Italian brands: the Alfa Romeo Giulio Quadrifoglio and the Stelvio Quadrifoglio will represent the Milanese marque, while the Abarth 124 Spider and Abarth 695 Rivale will bring the contemporary spirit of the scorpion brand to Gröbming.
Read the stories of the FCA Heritage cars taking part in the 2018 Ennstal Classic:
Fiat 124 Sport Spider: twenty years in the front line
Abarth 2400 Coupé Allemano: Karl's own GT
Alfa Romeo 1600 Spider: known to all as "Duetto"
More info on
ennstal-classic.at