Why was I so interested in cars?

I think some of this can be blamed on genetics. My grandfather was interested in machines that go fast. He ended up being a Spitfire mechanic in the RAF. My father has always had an interest in fast bikes and cars. He still does. Like them, I am interested in cars and bikes, but my main interest is cars.

It probably started in 1991 when I decided to watch the French Grand Prix. For the next year and a half I was a Nigel Mansell fan in Formula 1. My interest in cars spread from there, into road going cars and other forms of motorsport.

Ferrari

In 1994, I found myself supporting Ferrari during the Formula 1 season. This was before Schumacher moved to the team, and their long run of success from 2000 onwards. What got me interested was the sheer beauty of the car, plus the noise it made.

My interest in Ferrari then expanded into the road cars. I really must drive one someday, though I do not think I will ever own one. My interest in Ferrari was the main reason why I decided to go to Italy to watch the San Marino Grand Prix. Very close to Imola is Maranello, home of Ferrari.

Honda and Japanese Motoring

My interest in Honda started around year 2000. This was the first time I saw an Integra Type-R (DC2 model) in the town where I lived. I loved the looks of the car, and did some research on it. Having done this, it was always my aim to own the car. Three years later I did buy one.

My fascination in Honda was their approach to getting more power out of a small engine. Rather than adding a turbo, they kept the car normally aspirated, and used high-revs.

VTEC (especially in the B series engines in the DC2 Integra and the one used by the S2000) is one of the most fun things you can have in car. The noise is very addictive, and always made me smile. I took my brother out in my car….. he obviously liked it. A year later, he brought a S2000.

When I owned my DC2, I was a member of Honda Revolutions Club, which provided some great benefits and a nice social aspect to the ownership.

Other Aspects

I have a general interest in motorsport, especially a lot of historic racing. When I was living in the UK, I got the opportunity to see a lot of this racing at such events as Goodwood Festival of Speed.

I combined this interest with my budding photography interest. You can see a number of photographs I have taken when going to various motorsport events.

My interest in Honda and Japan in general led to an interest in the overall Japanese car scene.

The Future

As explained here, my views towards cars and motorsport have changed somewhat.