Early Motoring Shines at Third Annual Audrain Veteran Car Tour

Participants in the third annual Audrain Veteran Car Tour, presented by Bonhams|Cars, showcased unwavering enthusiasm for early brass-era cars as they gathered in Newport on Sunday, April 28. 

A diverse range of pre-1910 motor cars lined up along historic Bellevue Ave. The cars parked along the granite curb of the brick-paved sidewalk included an incredibly well-preserved 1898 Mors, a superb example of the 1903 De Dion Bouton and a powerful 1905 Fiat 60 hp ex-race car. Making its triumphant return to Newport was the 12 horsepower 4-cylinder Panhard et Levassor Type B1. This famous car ran in the first ever motorcar road race held in Newport in 1901 and went on to win the New York to Buffalo endurance race in September of the same year.

The Audrain Veteran Car Newport-Bristol-Newport Tour is an event that celebrates the city and region’s rich history of veteran automobiles. This year’s edition witnessed an impressive turnout of passionate collectors and car enthusiasts.  It was a testament to their dedication and love for these vehicles from the dawn of motoring.

Bellevue Ave., one of Newport’s iconic streets, was transformed into a living exhibition of automotive history as a vast array of pre-1910 motor cars took center stage. The participants proudly showcased their lovingly cared for vehicles, each telling a unique story. The event provided a rare opportunity for spectators to witness these cars up close and imagine the bygone era.

“The spirits of the participants and their love for these automobiles, each astonishing examples of rolling history, is a true testament to our hobby,” said Donald Osborne, who drove a rare 1907 Ford Model S from the Audrain Collections in the Tour.  “They navigated the streets of Aquidneck Island up to Bristol and back with grace, grit and determination. Their passion and enthusiasm resonated with everyone who lined the streets to greet us along the route.”

The Audrain Veteran Car Tour, presented by Bonhams|Cars, has become a highly anticipated event on the automotive calendar, attracting participants and enthusiasts from far and wide. It serves as a platform for like-minded individuals to come together and celebrate their shared passion for early cars. This year’s edition once again proved that the love for these classic automobiles transcends generations, with entries fielded by young and veteran enthusiasts alike.

The event highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating veteran automobiles, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at these machines.