ROB WALKER ON CLASSIC CARS

I DON’T OFTEN remember forewords to books I’ve read. Some are dedications. Some are introductions to the author. But I recall one whenever I pick up the Classic Cars in Profile series, particularly Volume 2, Profile Nos. 25–48.

The foreword for this one is written by R.R.C. Walker, whom I had the pleasure of knowing because of his contributions to R&T. Rob has appeared several times here at SimanaitisSays, in particular in “Rob’s New Moon.”

The following are excerpts from his thoughtful views on classic cars in the Foreword of Classic Cars in Profile, Volume 2.

Rob’s Initial Comment. “I do not pretend to be an expert on classic cars, in fact I am only vaguely interested in them, although I do own one or two, and should like to be able to own a few more. So, when the Editor handed me a copy of the first volume of Classic Cars in Profile, I put it on one side and did not intend to give it more than a cursory glance for politeness sake.”

“When I did look at it, I found to my surprise that I was getting very engrossed, and indeed, the whole family have been immersed in it.” 

Nostalgic Views. “For me Profiles brought back nostalgic memories of hot sunny days with clear roads, and a beautiful open car raring to go, with the added thrill that it might turn temperamental and present some unexpected problem or adventure—and in my case usually did.”

“As I turned the pages I recalled more and more classic cars of my young days, many of which I had owned myself, and it was a very pleasant recollection.”

“I feel that Profiles will be of invaluable use to model makers, and to those restoring cars, both of whom are fast growing breeds.”

“Any classic is worth looking at whether it be Grecian or Roman architecture or Vanden Plas and Farina bodywork, and this is where Profiles must always give great enjoyment.—R.R.C. Walker, Dorking, March 1967.” 

Rob’s Racing Team. By 1967, Rob Walker Racing had carried its livery, dark blue with white stripe, in motorsports for 24 years. Drivers included Stirling Moss, the deal with whom Rob sealed with a handshake.

Rob’s final participation as a Formula One entrant came in the 1970 Mexican Grand Prix. By then, the team had garnered nine race victories, nine fastest laps, and 10 pole positions. Rob’s race car marques included Connaught, Cooper, Lotus, Ferguson, and Brabham. 

R&T Involvement. Rob began writing for R&T in 1967, giving him ample opportunity to stay with the F1 circus even after his team disbanded. Wife Dottie, who was R&T managing editor during Rob’s contributions, recalls race reports delivered in precisely printed hand writing. (Rob claimed that he never learned to write in script.)

Rob’s love of classic cars is recounted in the R&T series “Rob’s Cars,” August 1979, July 1980, and June 1981. ds 

© Dennis Simanaitis, SimanaitisSays.com, 2021