Most 16-year-olds walk past a rusty 1957 Karmann Ghia buried under junk in a warehouse and keep walking. But Chloe Stuart isn’t most people.
Where the world sees a lost cause, this young racing driver sees a blank canvas -and that instinct is the driving force behind Classic Cars by Chloe.
Racing, Restoration, and Resilience
Soft-launched in 2024, Classic Cars by Chloe was born from a blend of raw passion and pure practicality. Motor racing is a notoriously expensive sport, and Chloe Stuart and her father needed a way to fund her burgeoning career without sacrificing the flexibility required for training, media events, and race days.
As Chloe puts it: “Money doesn’t grow on trees, but you can absolutely earn an income that works around your racing life.”
Her racing career has given her an insider’s perspective on the automotive world. A chance encounter with a Ferrari 250 mid-restoration at Pablo Clark Racing proved to be a pivotal moment.
This project shaped her business philosophy: start with entry-level classics to learn the ropes, and eventually work your way up to the machines that take your breath away.
A Garage Full of Dreams
Chloe Stuart is currently juggling a fascinating lineup of projects that would challenge even the most veteran restorer:
- The BMW 633CSi: A rare gem and one of only about 34 left-hand-drive models ever imported into South Africa.
- The BMW E30 Coupe: A raw build destined for the BMW M-Performance Parts Racing Series, serving as the ultimate “no-aids” training car.
- The Rover P4 90 Series: A classic currently being coaxed back to life.
- The “LemonGhia”: Perhaps the star of the show, this Karmann Ghia shell is being transformed into a unique, Nissan-engined endurance racer for budget series like iLamuna.
To keep these projects on track, she has assembled a formidable crew, including Zwartkops Raceway Clerk of the Course Jean-Louis Maraz, bodywork expert Christiaan van Schalkwyk, and detailing wizard Wayne Jacobs.
Chloe Stuart is Shaking Up the Industry
What truly sets Classic Cars by Chloe apart is its innovative business model. Chloe allows cars to be sold at any stage of restoration and is even exploring project shares, offering supporters a chance to invest in a build and participate in the eventual returns.
Her momentum is showing no signs of slowing down. Beyond the garage, Chloe is preparing to launch Racer Girl, her debut fragrance, and she has been officially welcomed into the Historic Tour by organizers who are thrilled to have a young woman shaking up the classic racing space.
With plans already in motion to restore an iconic BP Nissan Primera Historic Touring Car, Chloe Stuart is proving that when it comes to both life and restoration, the best things rarely go to those who brake early.
Watch this space for updates in the General News category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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