Classic cars of all ages add to the lush beauty of Madeira, the largest island in the remote Portuguese archipelago
WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD WEBBER
Despite having embraced modernity, Madeira – lying more than 400 miles off the African coast – retains an old-world charm. Symbols of the past can be seen in the classic vehicles, many imported from Britain, that survive on the island. Cars here have to work hard, however, because a rocky coastline fringed by bougainvillea, poinsettia and hibiscus soon gives way to vertiginous cliffs and towering peaks that take no prisoners.
Tunnels make for more rapid travel today, but the near-perpendicular roads remain – Rua da Barreira in Funchal is among the worldʼs steepest, reaching a staggering 45% gradient in places. Itʼs worth the effort, though, because these routes criss-cross the island through lush landscapes with spectacular views.
As a consequence of being located far out in the Atlantic, shipping is expensive so when cars arrive, itʼs often for a lifetime. “We tend to take care of our cars as if they were members of the family,” says Eduardo Jesus, Regional Secretary for Tourism and Culture, who estimates that there are around 2000 classics on the island, many painstakingly restored. “It doesnʼt matter if the end value justifies the investment,” says Eduardo. “The main objective is to bring back old glories, and our annual restoration contest pushes owners to do the best-possible job.”
Some classics are cosseted, only seeing the light for the many events held by the Classic Automobile Club, such as the Around Madeira Rally, Classic Car Revival and Madeira Flower Classic Auto-Parade. Others are still to be seen in daily use, pounding the streets of ʻThe Floating Garden in the Atlanticʼ.
Thanks to Visit Madeira (visitmadeira.com); Vidamar Resort Hotel (vidamarresorts.com); Bristol Airport parking (bristolairport.co.uk/parking)
EDUARDO BONAL SILVA
1973 FORD CAPRI 3000GT
Eduardo runs a travel firm, but in his spare time enjoys driving his eight classics, including a 1974 Mini Clubman 1275GT, 1974 Datsun 1600 SSS, 1972 Mazda RX-2 and this Capri, finished in sharp Pepper Green with a black vinyl roof.
The throaty V6 turns heads and has enough power to easily cope with the island’s steep roads. “The Capri was nicknamed the Mustang of Europe,” smiles Eduardo. “This car was owned by a widow who hadn’t driven it for 15 years. It took me four years to convince her to sell it. Owning classi
