The Historic Sportscar Racing Classic 24 started three years ago as a sort of preview to the Daytona 24hr race. Think of it as a sepia-tinged appetiser to the Daytona 24’s entrée.

Last weekend saw the third running of this classic race, and frankly, it’s quite brilliant. The event covers six decades of endurance racers, across six groups, with more than 250 drivers and 150 race cars. Not only is it quite a big deal, it’s also a chance to see your heroes from times gone by go flat out on track.

Each group did four sessions, meaning spectators got round-the-clock racing from Saturday afternoon through to Sunday afternoon.

“Sports car history comes to life at this event,” explains Daytona Speedway president Chip Wile. And he’s absolutely right. Cars included such luminaries as the Oldsmobile Aurora, any 911 variant you care to name, and classic Beemers including the gorgeous M1 and CSL.

Take a moment and have a wander through the gallery above. Favourites?

Photography: Deremer Studios