The Cape Classic hill‑climb event has returned to Cape Town, marking the city’s first hosting of such a competition since the 1960s. This unique motorsport challenge features timed runs up a hill in sports cars spanning multiple decades. The Speed Classic took place on Philip Kgosana Drive, a public road that was temporarily closed for the occasion, and was spread over two days. The first day was dedicated to classic cars—defined as vehicles built before 2001.
Among the notable participants was a 1970 B19 Chevron, one of only 35 ever built and formerly owned by racing legend Stirling Moss. Its current owner, Franco Scribante, highlighted the thrill of hill‑climb events, describing them as a different kind of racing that demands precision and focus. The oldest car on the roster was a 1930 Le Mans Bentley driven by Harry Tayler, which, despite its age, can still reach 127 mph. Tayler believes the car was made to be driven and raced, not consigned to a museum.
Hill climbing has deep roots in Cape Town, dating back to the inter‑war economic downturn when it offered an affordable, popular form of motorsport. Motoring journalist Michele Lupini notes that the discipline thrived during tough economic times because it required minimal infrastructure and investment. The revival of the hill‑climb event underscores the enduring appeal of this niche sport.
Event director Garth Mackintosh called the competition “exciting, visceral, and extremely thrilling.” Over 150 vehicles took part, ranging from modern supercars like the Ferrari 488 GTB to modified hybrids such as the Lotari—a Lotus fitted with a Ferrari engine. Franco Scribante claimed the King of the Hill title, completing the course in 35.26 seconds in a modified Nissan GTR R35.
Organisers hope to make the Cape Classic hill‑climb an annual fixture, showcasing the unique thrill of this motorsport discipline. With its rich history and exhilarating competition, the event is poised to become a major attraction for motorsport enthusiasts in South Africa and beyond.
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