Le mans 24 hr or classic

[Iansparky]

Does anybody have any experience of either of these 2 events, I did the 24 hr 30 years ago in an MG Midget, my memory of it was a great atmosphere between lots of classic car owners.
keen to replicate that experience we are planning on going in the E in 2025, I am wondering if due to the passage of time the 24 hr event is full of younger bmw/ audi Rs3 type owners and we might be better off going to the classic event.

[politeperson]

I have been to the Classic a few times, twice on the Pistonheads glamping site. It is run by 1st-tickets. They also put a BBQ on for participants in France en route.
They allow you to take your cars into the full catering enclosure if you have paid for the option (essential).
You then walk or drive to the event which is close by.
If you dont take the full catering option, you will be up against acres and acres of other campers competing for scarce resources, such as water and showers so be warned.
The full catering option is full of people having a good time. We had Corvettes, Jaguars, MGs, vintage Rolls and Bentleys everything really. There is also 24 hr security at the gate.
It is stuffed full of classics both inside and outside the event.
Taking your car around the circuit in the morning is worth it.
The event is also huge, taking a few days to get around and the racing is very competitive.
I can be a bit hot, so take a hat! Lots of famous people and celebs too.
I think Air b'n'b would be another good option, probably not a great deal more expensive but you would have to drive in and out of the event.

[Simonpfhc]

Hi Ian,

I’ve done both many times, and will be at both next year too.

Without a doubt, the Classic is a nicer, more friendly event - nicer cars and nicer people. The 24 is still excellent however, but there is just a bit more flashy money and cars around. There are also many people who don’t go primarily to see the racing - more of a drinking bash.

The Classic used to be a lot less hectic and busy then the 24, but it is getting to almost the same levels as the main 24 event.

For me however, although I love seeing historic cars being raced, I still prefer the 24-hour single race with different classes all mixed up. You spend the whole day seeing and hearing them, and with nightfall, it’s another spectacle. If you spend the night trackside, you even begin to know the cars from the different sounds they make and are always in awe that these machines are still being thrashed around come morning.

The Classic is still fantastic racing, but about 10 races of different classes, run one at a time thorough the day, and then all again overnight.

I also love Radio LeMans, and that doesn’t air over the Classic.

If you need to choose one, my advice, if you’re not a huge fan of modern car racing and you plan on driving your classic down there, attend the Classic. If you don’t need to choose one, do them both!

[Iansparky]

Thanks for your input, I will do classic this year and maybe the 24 hr next year
Thanks
Ian

[265bhp]

The Classic is unique…there is nothing like it….I have been since 2008 without fail….you will not be disappointed….
All the best
Jonathan

[Iansparky]

Thanks for your feedback,
we have booked for the classic, travelling there on the Portsmouth to Cherbourg ferry. we plan to make our way to Le Mans avoiding the major roads, (any route suggestions)
We are camping at the secure bronze camp site at Porsch curves.
I just need to work out how to fit spares, tools,and camping gear in the back of an OTS. The beer takes up most of the space lol
Many thanks for your input
Ian