About · Steve Gilbey Classics
Built on passion. Driven by experience.
The story behind Steve Gilbey Classics.
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Steve · Founder, Steve Gilbey Classics · Goodwood Revival
The story
A career in the automotive world that began long before the business that carries his name.
What started as an early fascination with mechanics developed into a lifelong dedication to automotive engineering, historic motorsport and the preservation of some of the world’s most iconic cars.
Today, Steve Gilbey Classics brings together more than three decades of hands-on experience, spanning everything from championship-winning GT machinery to the restoration of some of motoring’s most admired classics.
Despite the evolution of the business, Steve remains closely involved in the work itself, bringing the same considered, hands-on approach that has guided him from his earliest days in the workshop.
History
The road so far
Where it started
The family business with his uncle, an apprenticeship with Vauxhall Motors, then gearbox and automatic transmission rebuilds in Kingston upon Thames.
A move into motorsport
Mechanic, fabricator and chassis engineer on the Lister Storm programme. British GT Champions in 1999, then FIA GT Drivers’ and Teams’ Champions in 2000.
Historic racing
Uniclip Racing, and a lasting affinity for historic motorsport. Bill Shepherd finished second at the 2004 Goodwood Revival from the seventh row of the grid.
Spirit Automotive
Founded with a former Uniclip colleague. Four consecutive wins in the two-hour Gentlemen Drivers race at Spa with the GPG/Bryant Cobra.
A change in direction
The financial crisis, and a business partner stepping away. Steve closed Spirit Automotive and carried on as a sole trader.
Steve Gilbey Classics
The business takes Steve’s own name: restoration, maintenance and race preparation for road and competition cars.
RAC TT, Goodwood Revival
Victory in the RAC Tourist Trophy Celebration with the GPG/Bryant Cobra, after almost two decades with the car and its owners.
Continuing the story
Understanding each car, respecting its history, and delivering work that stands the test of time.
For Steve, the satisfaction has always come from the work itself.
Steve Gilbey Classics
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