FIVA is represented not only in large countries, but also in many small ones. In terms of surface area, Malta is the smallest member of the European Union and, as an island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, it is considered off the beaten path as a travel destination. Notwithstanding, this fact, such geographic limitations, do not stand in the way of the popularity of historic vehicles.
The 7th Valletta Concours d'Elegance was a good opportunity to get to know the country, and, in particular, its historic vehicle movement. . Since 1998, the Maltese ANF, the FMVA (Federazzjoni Maltija Vetturi Antiki), has been standing up for thousands of lovers of historic vehicles in Malta.
FIVA President Tiddo Bresters therefore not only visited the Concours d'Elegance in the Maltese capital, but also took the opportunity to meet both the FMVA Chairman, Charles Zahra, as well as several FMVA board members. They gave a good overview of what the ANF has achieved over the years to facilitate the ownership and use of historic vehicles in both Malta and Gozo (an island 20 minutes by boat from Malta). For example, there is a historic number plate, not only for cars but also for motorcycles. To obtain one, the vehicle is strictly scrutineered for authenticity. The minimum age of the vehicle to qualify is 30 years. The regulations were established in consultation with the Malta Transport Authority. In addition to the Concours d'Elegance, there are many other events organised by both the ANF and others. The distances are short, as the main island is only 27 km long and 14 km wide. However, apart from a few main roads, there are many small roads, some of which are very narrow and steep. Thanks to Malta's strategic location, there is a wealth of history, from prehistoric times to the present day, including the country's independence in 1964. The 359 churches, more than any other country per capita, are mostly magnificent Baroque buildings and excellent landmarks
Some of the colourful buses that were such a defining feature of Malta's streetscape in the past are still in use for nostalgic tourism. In St. Paul's Bay, there is a surprisingly diverse car museum, thanks to petrolhead Carol Galea. Equally diverse was the fleet of vehicles at the Concours d'Elegance. The event was founded in 2017 and is the brainchild of John Saliba and his brother Joel. It includes not only cars but also motorcycles and even some vintage pedal cars. A well-appointed international jury led by Jeremy Jackson-Sytner had a difficult task in determining the winners in the numerous classes. The event also has an enthusiastic junior jury, and it is striking that a number of these youngsters are very active with historic vehicles from before WW2. The overall winner was a classic car that had come all the way from Mysore, India: a beautiful 1949 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith. Second place went to a participant from the UK, who drove his 1972 Citroen DS Pallas by road and ferry to Malta via Sicily, which is only a two-hour ferry ride away. Even more impressive is that another Brit, Peter Sprot, rode his 1951 Vincent motorcycle from the UK to Malta. Important features of the event are that it is in the historic centre of Valletta, and offers free access to everybody. An art exhibition is part of the program, to emphasise that historic vehicles are part of our cultural heritage.
For the FIVA Best Preserved Award, Tiddo Bresters chose a car that many might not expect to see at a Concours d'Elegance, a 1977 Renault 6. But this Concours is certainly not only about the elegance of the design or exclusive cars that are only accessible to wealthy enthusiasts, but also about models that used to be found on every street but are now much rarer than many classic sports cars from the famous Italian, English or German brands. What makes the Renault special is that it was bought new by its current owner, who has used it extensively, and that it still has its original paintwork and is completely original. A car that perfectly embodies FIVA's objectives.
Text and pictures by Tiddo Bresters.