FYI: Discover the fascinating world of Vink Motorsport, where real-life craftsmanship and a passion for BMW surpass the curated allure of social media.
When scrolling through social media, it’s easy to be dazzled by perfectly edited images of cars that seem too good to be true. But at Vink Motorsport, based in the scenic Dutch town of Zaandam, the reality is even more spectacular than what’s online. Renowned for breathing new life into BMW race cars and crafting timeless classics, Vink Motorsport is not just any automotive workshop—it’s a treasure trove of motor history and engineering prowess.
Behind the Scenes at Vink Motorsport
Stepping inside Vink Motorsport is akin to finding a secret car paradise. The expansive workshop is filled with an impressive array of vehicles that capture both history and speed. The surprise of this discovery is not the only delight; the sheer expertise within these walls is a testament to the Netherlands’ lesser-known mastery in car restoration and innovation.
Meet the Mastermind: Ton Vink
At the helm of this operation is Ton Vink, a man with an insatiable passion for BMWs. His journey began in 1993 as a mechanic in the Dutch Touring Car Championship, notably for the Mercedes-Benz team. Transitioning to karting, he managed Team TKP, clinching multiple championships. Despite his successes, Ton’s heart always remained with touring cars. This led him to build his first E30 M3 in 2005, transforming a personal hobby into the powerhouse that Vink Motorsport is today.
Crafting the Classics
Vink Motorsport’s current focus is on constructing and maintaining BMWs for historic racing events. These cars are meticulously built to adhere to historical FIA standards, allowing them to shine on tracks across Europe. From trackside support to race car restoration, Vink Motorsport offers a comprehensive approach to classic racing, ensuring clients receive unparalleled service during race weekends.
Iconic Cars with Iconic Stories
Several unique BMWs in Ton’s workshop tell their fascinating tales. Among them is the 1996 Schnitzer E36 STC, a backup car that earned its stripes at the 1996 Tourist Trophy, securing a strong finish under the hands of Joachim Winkelhock. Another gem is a Prodrive-managed E36 from 1992, famously driven by rally legend Colin McRae during his stint at Knockhill circuit.
Additionally intriguing is a Group A Mazda 929, known as the "Hiroshima Taxi," sporting a 13B rotary engine. Built for the Spa 24 Hours, this car was pivotal in racing history before being sidelined by an unfortunate crash. Rediscovered years later, it awaits its comeback under the care of Vink Motorsport.
The Future of Vink Motorsport
Ton Vink remains at the frontier of car innovation, spearheading the creation of five bespoke replicas of the legendary BMW M3 E36 GTR. Designed from original blueprints and endorsed by the FIA for historical accuracy, these replicas combine iconic aesthetics with modern reliability. Already, three have been claimed by eager enthusiasts worldwide, each promising to be a masterpiece of engineering and elegance.
In conclusion, Vink Motorsport is more than a workshop; it’s a sanctum for car aficionados, preserving and celebrating the essence of classic BMW racing. By merging historical fidelity with modern techniques, Ton and his team continue to create legends for the track, ensuring these cars and their stories endure.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
