From pedal power to battery power: HRH Prince Michael of Kent’s eight decades of classic car adventures

Classic cars have been one of the top performers in our Luxury Investment Index, but how are they faring now, and what does the future hold as environmental regulations tighten? 

Andrew Shirley speaks to His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent GCVO to find out how the world of classic cars has changed. He reminisces with Andrew about his early memories of driving and most memorable experiences on the road, including a rally in Brazil in the 1970s where a wheel of his Austin Maxi snapped off, and his recent interest in buying an electric car. Prince Michael is a keen ‘hands on’ motoring enthusiast. As well as being President of The Royal Automobile Club and Patron of The Concours of Elegance.

Andrew also talks to James Knight, Managing Director of Bonhams UK, who recalls renting the Royal Albert Hall for 24 hours to sell an iconic Bugatti in the late 1980s at what was then a new world auction record of £5.5 million pounds. He also comments on the impact of the pandemic on the auction market, and why he thinks the market for classic cars has stabilised following a heady few years after the financial crisis up until about 2015. 

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