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The popular Race Retro show saw more than 22,000 visitors pass through the doors of Stoneleigh Park. As part of the three-day show, Silverstone Auctions’ sale saw a new world record price achieved for a For Sierra Cosworth RS500.

The low-mileage Ford was estimated to sell for £150,000-£180,000, but achieved £596,250 when the hammer fell. It was joined by a Ford Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth 4x4 that sold for another new world record price of £109,125.

Further world record prices were achieved by the Lotus Elan Drophead Coupe formerly owned by Diana Rigg that made £164,250. Jochen Rindt’s Lotus Elan made £65,250, while a Land Rover Defender ordered new by the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, sold for £123,750.

The busy show proved there remains strong interest in historic motorsport as traders reported good business to Classic Car Business. Many we spoke to said it was a real uptick for them after the quieter period over winter.

Dan White, Director of Suspension Supplies Ltd, said: ‘It’s been busy all weekend with enquiries and talking to visitors. There’s a real enthusiasm for these cars and the businesses that surround them.’

Another company enjoying plenty of interest was Brand Engineering, supplier of precision components and driveshafts. Darren Adams, Operations Manager, said: ‘We didn’t know if anyone would be interested in what we do, but we’ve been overwhelmed with people wanting to discuss our services. We’ve been flat out all weekend and it’s been a very positive show for our company.’

This view was echoed across the trade stands inside the main halls of Race Retro, while outside the live rally stage was a big draw for the 22,187 visitors.

Show Director Lee Masters said: ‘There was a real buzz in the halls and there is a lot of affection for this event so everyone was thrilled to see it back. Our main priority for this year was to get the show back up and running, not just for the industry but also for the enthusiasts. Now, our focus is on working with the venue to develop the show and build on Reis Race Retro’s solid foundations to encourage a new generation into historic motorsport.’

Mary Singleton, Senior Operations Manager at Reis Motorsport Insurance, added: ‘We had a fantastic weekend at Stoneleigh, it certainly kick-started the season in style! As always, the show celebrated all that is great about the motorsport community, and it was so special to meet so many fellow enthusiasts over the three days.’