130th anniversary special: a new home for the Autocar archive
About this episode
Celebrating Autocar's 130th anniversary, this episode features a visit to the British Motor Museum with Stephen Lang, the head of collections. The discussion revolves around the significance of Autocar's paper archive finding a new home at the museum, alongside its extensive collection of British automotive history. Listeners will enjoy insights into various unique exhibits, including the first Land Rover and gas turbine cars, as well as the personal stories behind iconic vehicles. The episode highlights the importance of preserving automotive heritage and the role of archives in storytelling.
On Autocar's 130th anniversary, the physical archive of our magazines has a new home: the British Motor Museum in Gaydon.
To mark the occasions, this week Steve Cropley and Matt Prior visit the British Motor Museum in Gaydon and take a tour with Head of Collections Stephen Laing, stopping by cars and exhibits old and new as they make their way from the museum entrance to the archive rooms.
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Rover Group
"...the museum was fairly much a collection to do with Rover Group and British Leyland. That's where our collection started out in the 1970s."
Rover Group was a company in the UK that made cars. They were known for brands like Rover and MG, which were popular in Britain.
Rover Group was a British automotive manufacturer known for producing a range of vehicles, including the Rover and MG brands. It played a significant role in the UK's automotive history, especially during the 20th century.
British Leyland
"...the museum was fairly much a collection to do with Rover Group and British Leyland. That's where our collection started out in the 1970s."
British Leyland was a big car company in the UK that made many different types of cars, including popular brands like Austin and Jaguar. They had some tough times in the 1970s.
British Leyland was a major British automotive manufacturer formed in the 1960s, known for producing a variety of vehicles under several brands, including Austin, Morris, and Jaguar. It faced significant challenges in the 1970s and eventually collapsed.
Lotus
"...You will see some lotuses in a little while. We've got some Roots Group cars that we didn't use to have..."
Lotus is a car company from the UK that makes sports cars known for being very light and fast. They have a history in racing and are famous for models like the Elise.
Lotus is a British automotive company known for its lightweight sports cars and innovative engineering. Founded in 1952, Lotus has a rich motorsport heritage and is recognized for models like the Elise and Exige.
Caterham
"...some of the smaller manufacturers, the Caterons,..."
Caterham is a British car company that makes small, lightweight sports cars. Their most famous model is the Caterham Seven, which is known for being fun to drive.
Caterham is a British manufacturer known for its lightweight sports cars, particularly the Caterham Seven, which is a modern interpretation of the classic Lotus Seven. The brand is celebrated for its focus on driving enjoyment and performance.
Morris Minor
"...the lilac ones for those who are aficionados of Morris miners, Morris ran a competition to find the oldest Morris miner and a chap wrote in and said, oh, I've got this really old Morris miner..."
The Morris Minor is a small car from Britain that was popular in the mid-20th century. It's known for its unique shape and was one of the first cars that many families could afford.
The Morris Minor is a classic British car produced from 1948 to 1971. It is known for its distinctive styling and was one of the first cars to be mass-produced in the UK, making it an iconic symbol of post-war motoring.
safety cycle
"...the safety cycle. So the cycle we know today with two wheels the same size rather than the kind of penny farthing design..."
A safety cycle is a type of bicycle that has two wheels of the same size. This design is safer and easier to ride than older bicycle designs that had one big wheel and one small wheel.
The safety cycle refers to a type of bicycle that features two wheels of equal size, making it more stable and easier to ride compared to earlier designs like the penny farthing, which had a large front wheel and a small rear wheel. This design became the standard for modern bicycles.
London to Brighton run
"...we're just around the period of the London to Brighton run, the veteran car run, which is really an international motoring institution..."
The London to Brighton run is a famous event where old cars drive from London to Brighton. It's a way to celebrate the history of cars and see vintage vehicles on the road.
The London to Brighton run is a historic motoring event that celebrates early automobiles, where participants drive from London to Brighton, showcasing vintage vehicles. It is an important tradition in the automotive community.
Walsley tricycle
"...this car in front of us is a, is a three wheeler is a Wallsley tricycle built in 1896 designed by Herbert Austin..."
The Walsley tricycle is one of the first motorized vehicles, built with three wheels and a small engine. It shows how cars started to develop from bicycles in the late 1800s.
The Walsley tricycle is an early motor vehicle built in 1896, notable for its three-wheeled design and single-cylinder engine. It represents the transition from bicycles to motorized vehicles in automotive history.
tiller steering
"...it's got a kind of tiller steering. So there's no steering wheel or it's got a single wheel at the front. And the gearbox, like another of his early Wallsley cars is by tightening and loosening a belt..."
Tiller steering means using a lever to steer the car instead of a round steering wheel. It's common in older or smaller vehicles and gives a different feel when driving.
Tiller steering is a type of steering mechanism where a lever is used to control the direction of the vehicle instead of a traditional steering wheel. This design is often found in smaller or vintage vehicles, providing a unique driving experience.
gearbox
"...the gearbox, like another of his early Wallsley cars is by tightening and loosening a belt. So that's the effectively the clutch."
The gearbox helps the car change speeds and power from the engine to the wheels. In this case, it works by tightening or loosening a belt, which is different from most modern cars.
A gearbox is a mechanical device that transmits power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to change speeds and torque. In this context, the gearbox is operated by adjusting a belt, which is a unique feature.
brake shoes
"...it's got two brake shoes on each wheel, one of them operated by the foot brake. And then it's also..."
Brake shoes are parts that help stop the car by pressing against a drum. This car has two brake shoes on each wheel, which helps it stop better.
Brake shoes are components of a drum brake system that press against the inner surface of a brake drum to create friction and slow down the vehicle. In this case, the vehicle has two brake shoes on each wheel, enhancing its braking capability.
motor cars
"...that cars were going to be called auto cars. And they've come to be called motor cars or automobiles. So he was..."
Motor cars are what we commonly call cars today. They are vehicles that run on engines or electric motors instead of being pulled by horses.
The term 'motor cars' refers to vehicles powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor, distinguishing them from horse-drawn carriages. The term evolved as automobiles became more common in the early 20th century.
automobiles
"...called motor cars or automobiles. So he was wrong, wasn't he? But that was his view..."
Automobiles are another word for cars. They are vehicles that can move on their own without needing to be pulled by something else, like a horse.
The term 'automobiles' is a broader category that includes all self-propelled vehicles, typically referring to cars. It encompasses various types of vehicles designed for passenger transport.
test drive
"...himself was quite adventurous and he took this car 250 miles from the factory in Birmingham to Rill. It was a kind of test drive..."
A test drive is when someone drives a car to see how it feels before deciding to buy it. It's a way to check if they like the car.
A test drive is an opportunity for potential buyers to drive a vehicle before making a purchase decision. It allows them to assess the car's performance, comfort, and features in real-world conditions.
pre-production cars
"So there were 48 pre-production cars and this is the very first of those pre-production Land Rovers."
Pre-production cars are the first versions made before a car goes into full production. They help manufacturers test and improve the vehicle.
Pre-production cars are prototypes built before mass production begins. They are used for testing and validation of design and functionality.
Land Defenders
"And we've got the Defenders today, which was a very much more complicated thing, but deliberately designed for the farmer or the tradesman."
The Land Rover Defender is a tough vehicle made for off-road driving, often used by farmers and workers. It has a strong design that connects to the original Land Rover models.
The Land Rover Defender is a modern iteration of the classic Land Rover, known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. It was designed to cater to farmers and tradespeople, reflecting its utilitarian roots.
Land Rover Series One
"I mean, you see cars like this driving around all the time. It's just a series one Land Rover."
The Land Rover Series One is the first model made by Land Rover, created for tough outdoor use. It started the brand's legacy of making durable vehicles.
The Land Rover Series One is the original model of the Land Rover brand, introduced in 1948. It was designed for utility and off-road capability, laying the foundation for the brand's reputation.
Land Rover
"It made use of aluminium, of which there was a supply just after the Second World War. And I think it surprised them how popular it was, because it soon outpaced their car production and became a model that they would continue with."
The Land Rover is a tough car made for driving on rough terrain, like farms or off-road trails. It's known for being very reliable and capable in tough conditions.
The Land Rover is a series of four-wheel drive vehicles produced by Rover, originally designed for agricultural and off-road use. It became popular for its ruggedness and versatility.
Ford Model T
"...ou were talking about to HUE, we've walked past a Model T Ford, a Fox old 3098, the first MG. Is it the fi..."
Ford T Ford
"...because just from the Wallsley that you were talking about to HUE, we've walked past a Model T Ford..."
The Model T Ford is one of the first cars that was made for regular people to buy. It was very popular and helped many families own a car for the first time.
The Model T Ford, produced from 1908 to 1927, was the first affordable automobile and is credited with putting America on wheels. Its mass production revolutionized the automotive industry.
MG
"...a Fox old 3098, the first MG. Is it the first MG or not quite? So not the first one, but..."
MG is a brand that makes sports cars, which are fun to drive and often have a stylish design. They have been around for a long time and are known for being sporty and affordable.
MG is a British automotive marque known for its sports cars and was founded in the 1920s. The brand has a rich history and is associated with affordable sports cars.
Range Rover
"...Road Rover, for example, which was the kind of first thought about it would eventually become a Range Rover, but very different thing..."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV made by Land Rover. It's known for being good off-road and having a lot of luxury features inside.
The Range Rover is a luxury SUV produced by Land Rover, known for its off-road capability and upscale features. It has evolved over the years from a utilitarian vehicle to a high-end luxury model.
Vauxhall SRV
"...the part of the Vauxhall collection, which we look after, Vauxhall's heritage collection, is the Wayne Cherry Era SRV..."
The Vauxhall SRV is a unique car from the 1970s that was designed but never made for regular sale. It has a very unusual look, which makes it stand out in car history.
The Vauxhall SRV is a concept car from the 1970s designed by Wayne Cherry, known for its unique and unconventional styling. It was never mass-produced but remains a notable part of Vauxhall's design history.
aerodynamics
"...there's a lot of thought given to the aerodynamics. And if you open up the door, there's all kinds of gauges to do with airflow..."
Aerodynamics is about how air flows around cars. Good design can help cars go faster and use less fuel.
Aerodynamics refers to the way air moves around objects, particularly vehicles. In automotive design, good aerodynamics can enhance performance, fuel efficiency, and stability.
gas turbine engine
"which is a kind of convertible version of a P4, was powered by a Rover gas turbine engine in 1950. So essentially it was the world's first gas turbine powered car, so it won a lot of awards."
A gas turbine engine is a type of engine that works by burning fuel to create hot gases, which then spin a turbine to produce power. It's different from regular car engines that use pistons to create power.
A gas turbine engine is a type of internal combustion engine that converts natural gas or other liquid fuels into mechanical energy. It is commonly used in aircraft and some specialized vehicles, providing high power output and efficiency.
Rover BRM
"Yeah. The famous Rover BRM racing car. This race twice, am I right? That's right. This is the gas turbine that probably everybody knows. This is the Rover BRM, which raced at Le Mans in 1963 and 1965."
The Rover BRM is a special racing car that used a different type of engine called a gas turbine. It raced in a famous car race called Le Mans in the 1960s.
The Rover BRM was a unique racing car that utilized a gas turbine engine, competing in the prestigious Le Mans race in the early 1960s. Its innovative design and technology made it a notable entry in motorsport history.
Aston Martin Lagonda
"...am Towns, who built things like the Aston Martin Lagonda and lots of well-known car designs. But originall..."
The Lagonda is a fancy car that looks very different from most cars because of its unique design. It's known for being luxurious and has some cool technology features.
The Aston Martin Lagonda is a luxury saloon car known for its futuristic design and advanced technology for its time. It represents a unique blend of British craftsmanship and innovation, making it a rare and collectible vehicle.
turbo lag
"Is it got like a lot of turbo lag? If you imagine the worst turbo lag and then expand that quite a lot, that's what it's like."
Turbo lag is the wait time you feel when you press the gas pedal before the car speeds up. It happens because the turbocharger needs a moment to start working and give extra power.
Turbo lag refers to the delay between pressing the accelerator and the turbocharger delivering increased power. This occurs because the turbo needs time to spool up and generate boost, which can affect throttle response.
Jaguar Ctype
"about, but there are lots of everyday cars here. And what we find with visitors is they'll spend some time looking at, I don't know, C-type Jaguar or RS 2004, whatever their real fancy desire car, Aston Martin DB5, they spend more time with things that mean things to them personally."
The C-Type is a classic racing car from Jaguar that was built to be fast and stylish. It's famous for winning races and is loved by car collectors.
The Jaguar C-Type is a classic sports car that was designed for racing in the 1950s. It is celebrated for its aerodynamic design and success in competitions, making it an important part of automotive history.
Aston Martin DB5
"...atever their real fancy desire car, Aston Martin DB5, they spend more time with things that mean thing..."
The DB5 is a stylish and fast car that became famous because it was used by James Bond in movies. It's a classic car that many people dream of owning because of its beauty and history.
The Aston Martin DB5 is a classic British sports car, famously associated with the James Bond film franchise. Known for its elegant design and powerful performance, it represents a blend of luxury and speed, making it a highly coveted collector's item.
Ford Anglia
"...drive. And so we're just standing next to a Ford Anglia. It's actually a 1-2-3E, not a 105E, so it's the ..."
The Ford Anglia is a small, old-fashioned car that many people in the UK used to drive. It's known for its unique look and became famous in the Harry Potter movies.
The Ford Anglia is a classic compact car produced in the 1950s and 1960s, known for its distinctive design and popularity in the UK. It gained additional fame as the car used by Harry Potter's family in the films, making it a nostalgic symbol for many.
MG Mgb
"...thing really if you look at what goes on in that MGB for instance it's not a million miles away from a..."
The MGB is a small, fun sports car that people loved to drive in the 1960s. It's not too expensive, and many car lovers enjoy restoring and taking care of these classic cars.
The MG MGB is a classic British sports car that gained popularity in the 1960s for its affordable price and sporty design. It is known for its fun driving experience and has a strong following among classic car enthusiasts.
Audi A3
"...ys you said to some manufacturer you know the the Audi A3 is all very well mate but could you possibly jus..."
The Audi A3 is a small, fancy car that is comfortable to drive and has a nice interior. It's a good choice if you want something that looks good and works well for everyday use.
The Audi A3 is a compact luxury car that combines performance with practicality. It is known for its high-quality interior, advanced technology, and efficient engines, making it a popular choice among those seeking a premium small car.
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