by Franz J. Sauer
Eight stages cover 900 kilometres through four federal states, divided into 50 exciting special stages. These include two airfield competitions and five laps of the Red Bull Ring GP circuit in Spielberg. The 32nd edition of the Ennstal-Classic, from 17 to 20 July, is definitely not just a coffee run for these automotive gems.
With new highlights and tried-and-tested stops, the 2024 Ennstal-Classic route once again shines with sophistication, beauty and entertainment. As usual, the Ennstal-Classic pushes the limits of what vintage cars can do on today’s roads, with challenging special stages testing both driver and navigator. This year, the route was also adapted for pre-war vehicles, with speed sections of 30, 40, and 50 km/h tailored to each stage. But first things first:
Thursday, 18 July: Prologue
The four stages of the first day lead from the start ramp in Gröbming over the Radstädter Tauern to Mauterndorf. The route continues over the historic Turrach into Carinthia, passing Hochrindl and Gurk before lunch in Taggenbrunn. In the afternoon, special stages take place at Mölbling/St. Veit and the Red Bull Ring, where participants complete five laps to set their target time. The day ends with a ride over the Sölk Pass back to Schladming, covering around 430 kilometers.
Friday, 19 July: Marathon
On the second day, the 2024 EC heads from Gröbming to Gmunden for the first time. In Gmunden, the historic vehicles visit Toscanapark and explore the peninsula in Lake Traunsee. The route then continues along side roads to Steyr, one of the stage highlights with record crowds. From there, it passes through Waidhofen and Ybbsitz before reaching Lunz am See in Lower Austria. Returning via the Wildalpen and the Gesäuse, participants tackle two airfield special stages in Trieben and Niederöblarn. After around 450 kilometers, the day concludes back in Gröbming.
Saturday: 20 July: Final
The first program item on Saturday morning has been a tradition for several years: the hill climb on the Stoderzinken. Afterward, the masterpieces of metal and petrol, along with some special exhibits, gather for the Porsche Design Grand Prix in Gröbming. Finally, the last stage determines the winner of the 2024 Ennstal-Classic. In recent years, the excitement has always been high, with the outcome often decided in the final meters.
The new measuring procedure, first used last year, has proven successful and greatly increased the number of special stages—a long-time wish of many participants. This year, the target speeds are being carefully adjusted to ensure as much fairness as possible for all age groups.
Anticipation is high and preparations are underway as we look forward to driving in the last paradise from 17 to 20 July at the 2024 Ennstal-Classic.