Fantastic Four
Well all the talk this year is about the big cat that is fifty years old, but there’s another classic car celebrating its 50th anniversary too, one that is probably more identifiable to our readers, and that is the Renault 4.
A common sight on Irish roads due to its use by An Post (and formerly P&T) in its commercial form, the 4 was one of many models that were assembled right here in Ireland. Where better to go to get a Renault 4 story other than well-known Renault collector, Maurice Roddy, who has two really nice examples with great histories behind them. Andrew gets to take a spin in one, and really likes what he finds.
Red Army
About a year ago we heard about this collection being put together, and have been looking forward to featuring it as soon as it was ready.
Galway-man Liam Donlon, a friend of the owner, George McCarron from Collon, Co. Louth, was keeping us updated on the progress of this unique MF collection, and we are pleased to day that Irish Vintage Scene got the exclusive on this story; many others wanted it, but then again, where else should one showcase the No.1 MF collection in Ireland other than in the No.1 magazine! We hope you enjoy this great feature, and if you’d like to see them in the flesh then head to the Mountbellew Vintage Rally on the 24th of July to see them make their first public appearance.
Written In Stone
This month’s commercial story comes from Kilrea, Co. Derry, where Stephen McEvoy visits the Bradley Quarry and finds three really nice commercials. Joe Bradley is no stranger to these pages, as he’s had his 1923 Fowler steam engine featured here in the past.
This time Stephen get the lowdown on one of three vintage vehicles Joe has; this Leyland Comet 90 was bought new by Joe’s father, Patrick Bradley, and laid covered in stones and rocks in the yard for a number of years until Joe dug it out to give it the restoration it deserved.
A Stitch In Time
This is a unique article, as Andrew does a feature on a vehicle belonging to another contributor to the magazine; Austin Ryan.
The Ryans have a very nice collection of all kinds of machines, but this month Austin shows Andrew a very rare motorcycle. Like last month’s feature bike this one was originally bought in Co. Cork, this time in 1913, and was bought by Austin in the year 2000 when it was 87 years old. The bike is in its original condition, and as Austin is not into “museum pieces” he uses the bike on a regular basis. These old-timers are not easily-ridden, and take some skill, as Austin points out to Andrew.
Regulars
News & Events: Every month this 14-page section updates vintage and classic vehicle enthusiasts on all that’s happening in Ireland and further afield.
Diary Dates: This monthly section is the most comprehensive list of upcoming events in Ireland, with contact details for all events.
Club Scene: A relatively new section in the magazine, this gives clubs from all over Ireland a chance to update readers on what their members are up to.
Laid to Rust: One of our reader’s favourites, this is where we print pictures of vehicles that have been abandoned or have rusted away over time.
Pastimes: This monthly column from Ireland’s leading motor historian, Bob Montgomery, gives an insight into the early days of motoring and motorsport in this country.
Model Scene: Our monthly look at the fast-growing area of models and dioramas.
Garage Scene: Catch up here with our exploits in the garage, working on our own projects.
Tales From Over the Water: This section is brought to you each month by Roger Hamlin, who traverses the globe between England and New Zealand, finding all kinds of unusual vehicles and sights on his travels.
Classifieds: Irish Vintage Scene is the only publication in Ireland that carries a specific section of vintage and classic vehicles for sale. If you’re in the market for a vehicle, or looking to sell one off, then this is the best place to start.
Behind the Wheel: The last article in the magazine each month is by long-time enthusiast Dick Byrne, who reminisces about the early days of motoring.