Free driving on Zandvoort
The cars of today are much faster than the comparable models of the past. Look at a modern Volvo V 70 and compare it with its predecessor, the 145 from 1973. It is indeed a world of difference. Or take a modern BMW 3 series and add a BMW 2002 to it. The same applies to this. Although the BMW 2002 already had a sporty image in its time, while that was only the case with the Swedish brand station cars when Jan Lammers started racing with it in England. But the same applies to all those cars: you can no longer try them out on public roads.
Gone are the days when you could drive full throttle on a deserted road with impunity. Nowadays there can be a camera hidden behind every viaduct or sign above the highway. He takes a photo and you can pay at home after a few weeks. At least if the difference with the permitted maximum speed is not too great. In that case, you will also have to justify yourself to a public prosecutor. Then it is cheaper and also safer to participate in the free driving sessions on a circuit for a few days next year. At Circuit Park Zandvoort you are welcome on 21 January, 11 February and 9 March. Free driving days are also organized on the circuit of Assen and Zolder. For more information, go to www.vrijrijden.nl What do you need for participation: a car that meets the noise standards with working brake lights and a driver's license. 1 passengers of at least 18 years are allowed per car. 20 euros must be ticked per session of 25 minutes. Cash before you leave the job. A helmet is mandatory but they can also be rented.
Text and photo: Jacques van den Bergh