Closing date July issue -> May 19
Short Messages in AMK 1-2026
As you've come to expect from us for quite some time now, we also feature short articles. You'll usually find this section at the front of the magazine, and regular readers know the variety of content. The new issue is also packed with great articles.
The nice thing is that cars owned by readers and prospective readers (read: subscribers) are also featured. This month, for example, we feature the unique Renault 5 GTL of Nienke Huisman from Burgum. This young Frisian woman has a soft spot for the brand with the Losange and is already on her second 5 GTL. The first was a Supercinq five-door, and during the summer, she managed to snag the 5 GTL from the first series (yes, pre-facelift). We highlight a unique Peugeot collection owned by Johan Deinum, and also devote extensive attention to the Ford V8 saga. There are short reports on competitions and an exhibition at the Louwman Museum. Enthusiasts of the E21-generation BMW 3 Series will find plenty to enjoy. The short report on the Fiat 127 owned by owners Paul and Simone is both enjoyable and relatable. The car dates from the period after Italian production ceased and is based on the 147.
It's very interesting to read about the continuation of the developments surrounding the Van der Velde Special, which we recently featured. A lot has happened with the car, which was never officially approved and can be considered a unique project. It's about the custom-built coupé, currently owned by Funky in Burgum, Friesland. To stay with that for a moment: the story of the Sandman Buggy is also special. This buggy was created at Sportscar Special in Haarlem and is among the first examples built. We describe the history of the Haarlem-based company and, of course, the car itself. You can read all these items and more in the related section.
The short messages are one of the items in Auto Motor Klassiek, which make the magazine worth reading and simultaneously serve as an entertaining and informative prelude to the magazine's main features: reports on various cars and motorcycles. You're probably curious to know what else you can expect in the new issue. You can read it in the preview of AMK 1-2026.Have a wonderful rest of Christmas and a happy New Year!
Very nicely written Erik!😊
Definitely a Renault fan
They once filled the streets. Sadly, they no longer do. The unmistakable sound of the powerplant and superb roadholding. Moisture in the ignition (distributor) sometimes caused them to fail. Drilling a hole in the distributor cap in the right place and applying a plastic shield worked wonders. Cylinder head gaskets also occasionally went to pieces. I've often spent the weekend tinkering with them to get them going again. If I couldn't get a head gasket working on the weekend, I've also used a specific type of Loctite, without a head gasket. And that lasted a hell of a long time, too. The goal was to make it through the weekend. That turned into several years.
I still think they're really nice cars. Longing!!
I've driven two Renault 5s. Had few problems with them. I was sensitive to moisture in the direction of the distributor cap. I solved it by sliding a plastic milk bottle over the cap. Problem solved.
Nienke Huisman has owned many classic Renault cars but never kept them for long
Usually after a while those nice cars disappear again
As far as I know, I only had 1 other classic car before my current 5.😁 (I wouldn't know which others, my daily driver, a Clio from 2015 I've had for a good 4 years now) And this GTL is definitely a keeper.
I had an apple-green 77s TL. It was a fantastic little car. The only rust I had was on the front fenders.
Very nice to know that the Polos, “Audi Derbys” from that time, rusted at least as fast as the R5, but were not as economical.
Made more revs/noise
Had an uncomfortable seat
More expensive to maintain
More expensive in insurance
More expensive in oil consumption, (ours, bought NEW!, one on ⁸.00!!), warranty??? NOPE, not at home!
Etc.etc.
And now you see that the French are a little less arrogant than the Germans, and Renault is the only brand with good future expectations!
History...interesting, isn't it, if you have a good memory at least.