The next generation: Russell ‘Rusty’ Thomas

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He was raised among old MGs and Bugattis, graduated in automotive engineering, worked for an F1 team and now builds his own 'Baby Racers'. In a nutshell, the life of Russell Thomas, or Rusty as most people know him.

Rusty is part of the 'Next Generation' group of classic car enthusiasts. Those who have met him know what a kind and enthusiastic person he is, with petrol running through his veins. He told us: “I studied automotive engineering at university and graduated with an MEng degree. Then I was lucky enough to get a job at Team Lotus F1, where I worked in the design department. I have now worked in mechanical engineering roles for a few different teams on various F1, WRC and high-end hypercar projects (such as the Mercedes-AMG Project One). As opposed to designing modern racing cars, I have always been interested in driving and working on historic cars. This passion comes from my father, Roger Thomas, who founded and ran a classic car restoration business specialising in MMM MGs and later Bugattis. I have been around classic cars all my life. Since the age of ten I have competed in VSCC and MGCC navigation rallies. The first car I ever drove was our MG P-Type at Montlhéry when I was about 14."

Today Rusty is still in touch with many other 'youngsters' as he organised and participated in the Bugatti Owners Club's 'Next Generation Rally' (not necessary to own a Bugatti, by the way) and drove over to the Continent for the Beforty Rally. If possible, he hopes to take part again, but he has other things to keep him busy.

A new venture: Baby Racers

“I recently designed and made a half-scale electric vintage car for my children. I tried to keep the design authentic for a vintage car; they are built on a hand-formed C-section ladder chassis, with leaf springs and an aluminium body. I incorporated fun elements such as an engine turned dashboard, a miniature steering box along with a wood-rimmed steering wheel and leather seats. They are powered by a very efficient high torque electric motor, which I limited to 12 km/h, can run up a 1:5 hill and runs for two hours from a single charge, all from a battery about the size of a wine bottle. I have now built three prototype cars, with the option of a French- or Italian- styled body. The feedback I've received has been great and I'm now investigating the feasibility of producing a small run of cars to order."

Thanks, Rusty, for sharing your passion. We look forward to a Baby GP versus a Baby Italia children's race! If you would like to know more about the miniature racing cars you can visit the Baby Racers website or follow the Instagram page.

Would you like to tell us how you got into the classic car world? How do you inspire the next generation? Or what do you think we can do to help? Maybe there are youngsters out there with ideas to inspire their peers. We would love to hear from you via comments below or an e-mail to office@prewarcar.com.

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