An impressive 47 classic drop-tops have taken part in the 5th Prom des Neiges Classic, a stunning week-long tour of the French Riviera that sets off from the Promenade des Anglais in Nice and winds its way to famed Col de Turini. Of course, all the cars had their tops down!
Claude Alquier and his 1930 Hotchkiss AM80 once again took the event’s ‘Dean of the Run’ award, and was joined by a number of classics from across Europe. Several Morgans, Austin-Healeys, MGs, Jaguars, TVRs and Triumphs made the journey from the UK, while warmer climes were well represented by Ferrari, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, plus a smattering of US metal in the shape of Cobras, Mustangs and Corvettes.
A handful of youngtimers also took part in the rally. They included Citroën 2CVs, a Mazda MX-5 and a 205CTi.
“This is a pretty unique event, which has begun to be copied in other regions,” said organiser Christian Proud-Diaz, president of the Automobile Club de Nice Cote d’Azur, and who drove a 1993 TVR Chimaera 400HC. “At the club, we organise our events very seriously, but always with a small grain of madness! The first year, many people thought we were probably daft for daring to set this up, but basically it is a good way to prove that our cars can cope with mountain roads even in the heart of winter. Last year, at points the mercury dipped to below -15C, so our participants are very brave and passionate!”
