In conversation: Gordon Murray

We managed to get an exclusive interview with Gordon Murray, the legendary F1 and supercar designer, on his visit to India during the Cartier’s Vintage show held in Mumbai. We talk cars, styling, engineering and his passion for vintage cars.

How long have you been into classics and vintages? Were you always into old motors?
Well, I’ve been into cars for as long as I can remember. When I was racing, as a 19 or 20-year old, I wasn’t really aware of old cars. I was more into what was new, what was modern and racing cars. It’s funny, when you’ve been in cars for such a long time, cars that you used to own are now suddenly becoming modern classics. I think if you’re a designer, and strictly on the engineering side, you’re always interested in all cars. So I like looking at these cars here, particularly the details on some of them.

Have you judged events like this before?
I have judged similar events elsewhere. Sometimes modern cars, sometimes prototypes. I think this is one of the best shows I’ve been to because of the authenticity and history. I hate cars that are over-restored. I really think that is pointless. And after that you don’t want to use them. I think 80 percent of these cars have such exciting histories. Histories that you learn about when you talk to the owners. They are what I call authentic restorations. The owners here are extremely passionate about their cars, which is something that I don’t often find in other countries. Sometimes, wealthy owners get someone else to restore their cars and don’t know much about it themselves. These guys here, they live the car and I think that is lovely.

What fascinates you here: the complete cars or little bits on engineering?
I have to say that it’s the details that mainly fascinate me. I do love some cars. I mean, you obviously love the Lagonda, it’s such a classic shape. But with cars like the Daimler DB18, the one with the fly screen, elements like those little triangular doors and the hinges for the little dinky seat are absolutely brilliant. You know somebody’s put a lot of thought into things like that.

Do you prefer the older cars or the younger cars, the classics? Do you own any?
I don’t like cars that are from as early as 1903-1904. I’ve got a few cars. I’m not a collector though; if I don’t drive a car in 12 months I sell it. I always keep my own cars. I’ve got a McLaren F1, an SLR and a Rocket. I’ve got a 1957 Thunderbird and a ’59 Sprite, Lotus Elan, ’68 Fiat 500, a Porsche 550 replica, the James Dean car and some bikes too.