Retro is the new luxury

Modern classics…

All the stuff you want and all the stuff you’ll need. Motor Sport rounds up the latest motoring-related must-haves

As post-modernism irrevocably heads towards post-post-modernism, retro has become the design language of a generation. As a magazine that looks to the future as well as the past, Motor Sport is this month celebrating the latest modern motoring-related items that offer nostalgic twists on established design principles.

1 Bentley Continental GTC
Price (estimated): £135,000 Announced at April’s New York Motor Show, Bentley’s new GTC is a convertible variation of the successful VW Phaeton-based Continental coupé. Powered by the same 552bhp 6-litre W12 engine as its fixed-lid brother, the new car is capable of 193mph. Bentley’s back-room boffins are especially proud of the electro-hydraulic soft top with its heated glass rear screen. It apparently folds down in just 15sec and can be lowered on the move at speeds up to 20mph. UK deliveries are due to start at the end of 2006.

2 Dunhill Nappa Gloves
Price: from £95 If they’re good enough for triple F1 World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart (see cover), they’re good enough for us. These gorgeous Motorities driving gloves are made of Ethiopian sheepskin and are available in varying sizes and a range of colours.

3 TAG Heuer Monaco Vintage
Price: £2400 To celebrate what would be Steve McQueen’s 75th year, TAG Heuer has launched the Monaco Vintage Limited Edition timepiece, as worn by the late actor in his ode to racing, Le Mans. Just 4000 of these automatic chronographs will be made.