10 Mar 2026

Seven More Pride of Ownership Finalists Revealed

Seven More Pride of Ownership Finalists Revealed

The final seven finalists for the Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership competition have been revealed, completing one of the most eclectic line-ups yet.

From rare curiosities to everyday heroes and full-blown icons, these cars perfectly capture what the competition is all about: the stories, passion and dedication behind every classic.

They’ll all be on display at the show next week, where visitors will decide which of the 20 finalists takes home the Pride of Ownership crown.

Paul White’s 1990 Mazda Eunos

Blue Mazda MX-5 Mk1 roadster with pop-up headlights driving, owned by Paul White for the Restoration Show.

Originally purchased by Paul’s grandad Eric in 2002, this striking Mariner Blue example has been in the family for three generations. Having done many trips with Eric, Paul took ownership in 2016 when Eric passed away and has lovingly restored the paintwork and ensures grandad’s memory lives on in this priceless family heirloom. 

Darren Collins’ 1981 DeLorean DMC12 

Silver DeLorean DMC-12 with gull-wing doors open, Darren Collins entry for Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership.

Darren first saw a DeLorean at The Birmingham Motor Show right here at the NEC when they were launched and dreamt of owning one. Time travel to 2005 and Darren found one on American eBay that was sun damaged which he restored and has used it to raise £1000s for children’s charities over the past 20 years.

Max Brandon Bravo’s 2004 Smart Roadster Brabus Coupe

Custom pink Smart Roadster owned by Max Brandon at the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show.

This unique Lady Penelope Pink Smart Roadster Brabus Coupe, affectionately called ‘Nelly’, boasts rare status, extensive restoration, and cherished history. Owned by a passionate enthusiast, it brings joy at car shows, strengthens family bonds, and receives meticulous care. Its quirky charm and vibrant character make it a true cult classic and local talking point.

Doug Gray’s Dax Tojeiro De-Dion AC Cobra Replica

Black AC Cobra replica with red racing stripes, Doug Gray's Pride of Ownership entry at the Restoration Show.

This replica AC Cobra is as impressive mechanically as it is aesthetically. Under the bonnet is a Blueprint Chevy V8 383 Stroker engine, 4 bolt mains dyno tested producing a whopping 425 BHP and 475lbs of torque. With a special pack paintjob, this Cobra changes colour under direct sunlight – see the sparkles shine through. 

Clive Moss’ 1981 Opel Manta GTS 3000

Yellow Opel Manta GT/J classic car owned by Clive Moss at the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show.

Clive transformed a rusted Manta B, swapping its engine for an Opel Semator 3.0 six-cylinder, into this stunning example. He custom-fit a Getrag 264 gearbox, reworked the drivetrain, and designed his own carb cooling system, creating a showstopping autobahnstormer admired for its engineering and unique setup.

Lee Armstrong’s 1990 Vauxhall Senator 3.0 24v

White Vauxhall Senator executive saloon car owned by Lee Armstrong on display for the Restoration Show.

Inspired by a family friend, Lee spent a year looking for a Senator before finding one that had been off the road for five years. Despite its sorry state, Lee knew it was special as it was a white civilian car in full CD spec with all the bells and whistles. These cars are getting rarer but to find one in this spec was ‘quite the unicorn’.

Paul Burden’s 1984 Rolls Royce Silver Spirit Mk1

Deep purple Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit luxury classic car, Paul Burden entry for Pride of Ownership.

Finished in Royal Garnet, the same colour as the cars of Queen Elizabeth II, this Silver Spirit is Paul’s pride and joy. Beautifully restored with full beige leather, Spirit 2 alloys, it has been owned by Paul for over 20 years despite its low mileage. It is used for everything from days out to weddings and special occasions.  

These seven join the previously announced finalists to complete this year’s Pride of Ownership line-up, ready to be admired and judged by visitors at the show.

It’s always one of the most popular features of the weekend, and with 1,300+ other classics on display, it’s the perfect reminder that every car has a story. Now all that’s left is for you to decide which one deserves the title.

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