The Mille Miglia was once known as one of the most dangerous races in the world, but now it serves as a display of the stunning vintage cars that once raced through its golden era. Unfortunately, these classic cars are now at risk from the hazards of the modern world, such as drivers being distracted by their cell phones.
Recently, a woman caused a significant accident involving a 1948 Jaguar XK120 just before it was set to participate in this year’s Mille Miglia. The crash occurred during the Mille Miglia Warm-Up in Austria, on the Schwaitl Landesstraße just south of Salzburg. The Jaguar, driven by two Italians, was struck by a silver Opel Insignia that veered across the road into their lane.
Despite the severity of the accident, the driver and passenger of the Jaguar managed to escape with only minor scratches. The driver of the Opel, who confessed to looking at her phone at the time of the crash, was deeply apologetic for her actions. The vintage car involved in the incident was believed to be one of the original 242 cars produced in 1948, featuring a wood frame and aluminum body panels.
Efforts are being made to rebuild the damaged Jaguar in time for the Mille Miglia event in June 2025. The organizers of the race have strict regulations regarding the entry of cars, limiting participation to vehicles that raced in the Mille Miglia between 1927 and 1957. These cars must also be in their original state or restored to their original specifications, presenting a significant challenge for the mechanics working on the Jaguar.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of staying focused while driving, especially when operating classic cars with historic significance. It also highlights the need for drivers to prioritize safety over distractions such as cell phones, to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future. As the vintage car community continues to thrive, it is crucial to uphold the values of preservation and respect for these iconic vehicles that have shaped the history of automotive racing.
