The rumble of vintage engines echoed through Melbourne’s streets this weekend as Targa Classica made its triumphant return, coinciding with the city’s Formula 1 Grand Prix festivities. The beloved classic car rally transformed the already electric atmosphere into a multi-era celebration of automotive excellence, drawing thousands of enthusiasts from across Australia and beyond.
I’ve covered motorsport events for over fifteen years, but there’s something uniquely captivating about watching gleaming vehicles from decades past navigating modern city streets. The juxtaposition of contemporary Formula 1 technology against these meticulously preserved classics created a perfect timeline of automotive innovation—all against the backdrop of Melbourne’s stunning cityscape.
A Symphony of Engines in Melbourne’s Heart
Morning sunlight glinted off polished chrome bumpers as participants gathered at Albert Park for the ceremonial start. Coffee-clutching spectators lined the route three-deep in places, despite the early hour and autumn chill. Many had camped out since dawn to secure prime viewing positions.
“I’ve missed the last two years,” confessed Dennis Wheatley, 72, who drove his immaculate 1962 Jaguar E-Type from Adelaide for the event. “The pandemic put everything on hold, then last year I was recovering from hip surgery. Wild horses couldn’t keep me away this time.”
Wheatley wasn’t alone in his dedication. Rally organizers confirmed a record-breaking 187 entries this year, representing automotive history from the 1920s through to the 1980s, each vehicle meeting the strict eligibility requirements that have made Targa Classica a gold standard among classic rallies.
Melbourne Lord Mayor Patricia Sullivan officially launched proceedings with a brief speech highlighting the economic impact of the weekend’s dual events.
“Between the Grand Prix and Targa Classica, we’re expecting an injection of approximately $92 million into local businesses,” Sullivan noted before waving the ceremonial checkered flag. “But beyond the economic benefits, these events showcase Melbourne’s unique ability to blend sporting heritage with contemporary excitement.”
The Route: Challenging and Picturesque
This year’s course took participants on a 320-kilometer journey through some of Victoria’s most scenic landscapes. Day one featured the challenging Yarra Valley stages, where narrow winding roads tested both driver skill and vintage machinery. The dramatic backdrop of vineyards and morning mist created postcard-worthy scenes at every turn.
“The hairpin at Healesville caught a few people out,” explained course director Malcolm Ferguson. “These aren’t modern cars with power steering and ABS brakes. Handling a heavy classic through technical sections requires genuine skill and mechanical sympathy.”
Ferguson’s observation proved accurate when a pristine 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing briefly left the road at that very corner. Driver and navigator escaped unharmed, but the incident prompted a temporary yellow flag while marshals assisted in returning the precious vehicle to tarmac.
Day two moved to the coastal roads of the Mornington Peninsula, where salt-tinged breezes and sweeping curves allowed the more powerful entrants to stretch their legs. Spectator points along the route were packed with families enjoying impromptu picnics as the parade of automotive history passed by.
Where Heritage Meets Horsepower
What separates Targa Classica from other classic car events is its competitive element. While many participants join for the camaraderie and scenic drives, a significant contingent approach the time trials with serious intent.
“It’s not just about having a beautiful car,” explained three-time champion Roger Mansfield, competing this year in his 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS. “Preparation is everything. We spend months testing, tuning, and practicing. These old girls need constant attention to perform at their best.”
Mansfield’s dedication was evident in his consistent stage times, placing him in contention for another title as the rally progressed. However, the surprise performance came from newcomer Sophie Chen, whose relatively modest 1967 Mini Cooper S outperformed many more powerful competitors on the technical sections.
“People underestimate these little cars,” Chen grinned after posting the fastest time through the demanding Mount Eliza stage. “It’s like driving a go-kart—you can place it exactly where you want on the road. The big American V8s might thunder past on the straights, but I catch them in the corners.”
Chen, a 29-year-old mechanical engineer from Brisbane, represents the new generation of classic car enthusiasts breathing fresh life into the scene. Her grandfather’s restoration projects sparked her interest at an early age, eventually leading to her competitive debut this year.
“There’s something genuine about these older cars,” she reflected while adjusting carburetor settings between stages. “They have personality, quirks, even flaws. They demand your full attention and reward your efforts with an experience no modern vehicle can match.”
Classes and Categories
Competition was divided into several classes based on vehicle age and engine capacity, ensuring fair comparison between the diverse field. The pre-war category featured several magnificent examples of automotive pioneers, including William Barrett’s 1928 Bentley 4½ Litre—a vehicle that raced at Le Mans in period and still wore its battle scars proudly.
“Replacing the patina would be sacrilege,” Barrett insisted, pointing to a dent in the Bentley’s hood acquired during the 1930 Mille Miglia. “Every mark tells part of her story. I’m merely the current custodian.”
At the opposite end of the technological spectrum, the 1970-1985 class showcased the evolution toward modern performance. Several Ford Escorts, Datsun 240Zs, and Alfa Romeo GTVs demonstrated how accessible these increasingly collectible classics remain to enthusiasts of modest means.
Grand Prix Connection: Drivers Past and Present
The concurrent Formula 1 Grand Prix created natural crossover moments throughout the weekend. Several current F1 drivers made appearances at Targa Classica, with notable enthusiasm coming from Finnish driver Kimi Raikkonen, whose personal collection includes several vintage rally cars.
“These machines have soul,” Raikkonen observed in his characteristically laconic style. “Modern F1 cars are faster, but they’re also more computer than car sometimes. Here you see the direct connection between driver and machine.”
More emotional was the reunion between 1980s F1 veteran Thomas Becker and the 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB he was forced to sell to fund his early racing career. Current owner Frederick Liu invited Becker to take the wheel for a demonstration run, bringing the normally stoic German to tears.
“I never thought I’d sit behind this steering wheel again,” Becker admitted afterward. “I sold it for 22,000 pounds in 1978 to pay for my Formula 3 season. Today it’s worth millions, but the memories are priceless.”
Such moments of automotive romance abounded throughout the weekend, cementing Targa Classica’s reputation as more than merely a competitive event.
The Exhibition Village
Between on-road sections, the temporary Targa Village at Melbourne Showgrounds became the social heart of the event. Here, participants and spectators mingled among trade stalls offering everything from period-correct tools to artisanal driving gloves.
Food vendors did brisk business serving local specialties, while a champagne bar provided refreshment for those not driving. Live music from several bands playing classics from the 1950s through 1970s enhanced the nostalgic atmosphere.
For many attendees, the technical inspection areas proved most fascinating. Here, skilled mechanics performed running repairs on temperamental machinery, often attracting crowds of onlookers eager to observe traditional techniques rarely seen in modern service centers.
“You won’t fix these with a diagnostic computer,” laughed veteran mechanic Vinnie Rossi as he adjusted the triple Weber carburetors on a temperamental Maserati Mistral. “It’s all about experience, patience, and having the right touch. These engines communicate with you if you know how to listen.”
Economic Impact and Tourism Boost
Beyond the spectacle and competition, Targa Classica generated significant benefits for the region. Hotel occupancy rates hit 97% across metropolitan Melbourne, while restaurants reported their busiest weekend since the pre-pandemic era.
Tourism Victoria estimated that approximately 45% of attendees traveled from interstate, while international visitors constituted another 12% of the audience. Many extended their stays to explore Victoria’s broader attractions, amplifying the economic impact.
Local businesses embraced the influx, with many adopting automotive themes for the weekend. The “Pistons and Pastry” promotion by Melbourne’s artisanal bakeries proved particularly popular, offering engine-inspired desserts that became Instagram sensations.
“We’ve sold over 800 ‘Carburetor Cronuts’ since Thursday,” reported Blackbird Bakery owner Maria Costello. “It’s been exhausting but wonderful for business after the difficult years we’ve had recently.”
Environmental Considerations
Not everyone welcomed the event unreservedly, however. A small but vocal group of environmental protesters gathered at several points along the route, raising concerns about the carbon footprint of the classic vehicles, most of which predate modern emissions controls.
Organizers had anticipated such criticism, implementing several mitigation strategies including comprehensive carbon offsetting programs and mandating the use of modern low-impact fuels where technically feasible.
“We’ve planted over a thousand trees this year alone,” explained event sustainability coordinator Jackie Wu. “Additionally, we’ve partnered with Melbourne University’s engineering department to develop retrofit catalytic systems compatible with historic vehicles.”
Many participants expressed support for these initiatives, recognizing the importance of preserving both automotive heritage and environmental responsibility.
“We want our grandchildren to enjoy these cars and this planet,” remarked veteran entrant Harrison Wells. “Finding the balance is essential for the future of the hobby.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Targa Classica
As the final vehicle crossed the finish line Sunday evening, attention already turned to next year’s event. Organizers announced plans to extend the route further into regional Victoria, potentially incorporating overnight stops to spread the economic benefits beyond Melbourne.
“We’re considering a full three-day format for 2026,” revealed event director Caroline Matthews during the awards ceremony. “The enthusiasm we’ve seen this year confirms the appetite for expanded classic motorsport experiences.”
Matthews also hinted at discussions with similar events in New Zealand and Singapore about creating a Southern Hemisphere classic rallying championship—a move that would elevate Targa Classica to international prominence.
Whatever the future holds, this year’s event conclusively demonstrated the enduring appeal of vintage motorsport. In an era of increasing automotive electrification and autonomy, the sight, sound, and smell of historical vehicles continuing to perform as their creators intended provides a visceral connection to our mechanical heritage.
As the Melbourne sun set over the final awards ceremony, the words of first-time participant Wei Liu perhaps best captured the spirit of the weekend: “These cars were built in simpler times, but they make us feel more, not less. That’s why we’ll always preserve them, always drive them, always gather to celebrate them.”
The engines have fallen silent for now, but the memories of Targa Classica 2025 will reverberate until next year’s event roars into life once more.
James Hartwell is Motorsport Correspondent for The Melbourne Chronicle. All photographs by Eleanor Chen Photography.
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