[oldcar]

Hi all
It is some time since I was last on this site. Work on the Dixie Flyer takes first preference right now. I have lots of catching up to do as we have beeb away in Europe and the UK for three and a half months trying unsuccessfully to wear out the Lagonda Rapier. While in France we spent a week in the French Alps in company with two other Australian Lagonda Rapiers similar to our car. Here is a photo that Helen took of one of the others Bruce Rodgers climbing towards the summit of the Col Galibier. I think that it captures the whole atmosphere of driving classic sports cars in the alps.

[keiser31]

WOW!! That's all I can say about that.

[alsfarms]

Ok Bernie, Nice to have you back. If you decide to post a photo summary of your trip, please tell us where it will be so we can all enjoy them. Did you have any significant troubles with your Rapiers? Update us on your progress on the Dixie Flyer. Most of us have been stuck at home going to work and you have certainly had a nice trip.
Regards,
Alan

[oldcar]

Hi Alan
The three Rapiers were used as daily drivers each covered more than 6,000 miles in the 3 months, Apart from one magneto change and one partial fuel blockage (the vent hole in the filler cap) no real problems. All suffered some tyre wear, the Alpine "all-weather" road surface is very abrasive.
I hope that West Peterson has received some material for the Antique Automobile by now so you may have to wait for that to come out.
Meanwhile a photo taken at the Rapier Register AGM on July 18th at Brooklands (England)
The Dixie Flyer has not been totally neglected. The New gears for the transmission (gearbox) are now all cut and ready to go. Once the gearbox is installed It will be a rolling running chassis! West P has forwarded a really nice photo of a Firefly which will be a tremendous help with the body.
You may have to keep an eye on the Antique Automobile.
Cheers

Bernie.

[mercman86]

Originally Posted by oldcar

Hi all
It is some time since I was last on this site. Work on the Dixie Flyer takes first preference right now. I have lots of catching up to do as we have beeb away in Europe and the UK for three and a half months trying unsuccessfully to wear out the Lagonda Rapier. While in France we spent a week in the French Alps in company with two other Australian Lagonda Rapiers similar to our car. Here is a photo that Helen took of one of the others Bruce Rodgers climbing towards the summit of the Col Galibier. I think that it captures the whole atmosphere of driving classic sports cars in the alps.

That is one awesome photo! What is the elevation there?

[oldcar]

Hello Alex
The Col du Galibier is the sixth highest road pass in Europe at 2.645 metres
During our week we climbed quite a string of passes. including the Col de l'Iseran 2.770 metres and the other two cars (we were engaged in domestic chores) the Highest pass the La Bonette 2.862 metres. If you can find a copy American motorcyclist John Hermann has written an excellent book for intending tourists titled "Motorcycle journeys through the Alps. (ISBN 1-884313-32-9). Here are our three cars at the summit of the Col De l'iseran. You will note that even though we were there in mid-summer that there is snow in quite deep drifts and the snow plough is "at the ready". our car is the furthest from the camera.
Thanks for your interest.

Bernie.

[oldcar]

I am the aged gentleman with the white moustache standing next to the Blue car.

[keiser31]

That looks like sooo much fun!!

[oldcar]

Please note, no backup sag wagon. no 4wd with covered trailer, no little men in white overalls. Just three males youngest 50 something, oldest 72 3/4 two ladies 50 something and 70............

[mercman86]

Im sure it was an amazing journey! Thanks for posting the pics.