As an individual, I feel it is sad that Gaydon is selling ANY of its cars.
However, having now seen the list of cars for disposal (some of which I know
well and am *very* surprised are up for grabs) there is perhaps some method in
the move?
The Gaydon museum display area has already reached display capacity and many
of the cars mentioned in the disposal list were never on display during the
four/five years I worked there. The easy answer is to build more display space
for public enjoyment but by their nature, buildings are expensive and Gaydon
has long claimed it doesn't have the money for such luxuries.
Probably it hasn't?
Certain more modern cars in the list are *important* for things they achieved
in competition or endurance or as automotive landmarks but in the true sense,
are arguably not significant as tangible contributors to British automotive
history. The prototype MGF's and MGD are excellent examples of what never was.
But what about 25-30 years out from now? A long time in the commercial world
certainly, but in historical terms, a mere blink.
The *problem* Gaydon has faced for many years and the criticism levelled at it
by many in the past, is that it has never been truly representative of the
British motor industry - but largely a collection of British Leyland and
member companies past histories. Most/all listers will concur that BL is not
the British motor industry. If the Centre really does seek to be more
representative, one can only hope the proceeds of the sale are used to acquire
other cars outside the collection's current scope. To do this will mean buying
examples from the Rootes Group, Ford and Vauxhall (General Motors) together
with smaller specialist firms like Morgan, TVR and others of a bygone age. If
it is later seen to be following that resolve, well and good and hopefully the
tastes of real enthusiasts will be met? Quite how the needs of Joe and Josie
Public (who IMHO as a former on-looker) aren't all that interested in auto
history will be served as a 'day out,' will be interesting. Collection
expansion into other makes to increase visitor appeal is the only reason I can
think of for the Trustees grantring approval for these disposals.
"A cruel necessity(?)"
Jonmac
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