Embracing the Underdog: "The Unloved Ones" Youngtimer Gathering Ignites Passion in Sainte-Terre

SAINTE-TERRE, FRANCE – The verdant landscapes of Sainte-Terre, nestled along the picturesque banks of the Dordogne near the renowned vineyards of Saint-Émilion, recently played host to an extraordinary automotive gathering. Over the Easter weekend, the second annual "Unloved Ones" Youngtimer event, spearheaded by the indefatigable Xavier Hory – affectionately known as "the Grocer" to viewers of the Youngtimers channel – celebrated the often-overlooked, misunderstood, and forgotten vehicles of yesteryear. Far from the polished chrome and exorbitant price tags of traditional classic car shows, this festival was a vibrant tapestry of automotive singularity, animated by curious spirits and a healthy dose of self-deprecating humor.

(Text and Photos: Laurent Berreterot)

The Visionary Behind the Event: Xavier Hory’s "Museum of Horrors"

The concept of dedicating an entire event to the automotive "anti-stars" might seem unconventional, but for Xavier Hory, it’s a passion project rooted in a deep appreciation for cars that defy conventional beauty standards and mainstream adoration. Hory, whose unique insights and vibrant personality have made him a familiar face on the Youngtimers channel, possesses an intriguing collection of vehicles he playfully dubs his "museum of horrors." These are cars that, despite their often-maligned reputations, possess unsuspected qualities, intelligent design, or an aesthetic that, while not universally acclaimed, is undeniably distinctive.

"We tend to overlook the everyday heroes, the workhorses, and the quirky designs that truly tell the story of automotive history," Hory explains. "My collection, and this event, are about shining a light on those cars that were perhaps ahead of their time, or simply too ordinary to be noticed, but which, with hindsight, offer a unique charm and engineering prowess."

The gathering brought together a fascinating array of vehicles, including the likes of the Citroën Visa, Axel, and BX; Peugeot’s 104, 305, and 309; Renault’s 14 and 18, alongside the sporty Fuego; and the often-maligned Talbot Horizon and Solara. These are not merely old cars; they are cultural artifacts, each telling a story of a particular era in automotive design and societal trends.

Chronology: From a Casual Suggestion to a Growing Movement

The spark for this unique celebration of automotive underdogs was ignited two years ago, following what Hory describes as a particularly convivial meal with a friend. The casual suggestion – "Why don’t you organize a rally exclusively for these anti-divas?" – quickly evolved into a concrete plan. The idea was revolutionary: the first of its kind in France.

The Genesis: The Inaugural Poitiers Gathering

The inaugural "Unloved Ones" event took place in Poitiers (department 86), a testament to Hory’s infectious enthusiasm and organizational prowess. That first gathering, a brave step into uncharted territory for classic car events, successfully brought together 25 cars and 5 trucks, proving there was a genuine appetite for celebrating these automotive curiosities. It demonstrated that a significant community of enthusiasts shared Hory’s vision, eager to showcase vehicles that often languish in obscurity at more traditional shows.

The Second Chapter: Sainte-Terre Takes the Stage

For its second edition, the event ventured southwest, finding a picturesque new home in Sainte-Terre, a charming commune situated conveniently close to the historic town of Saint-Émilion. The location, with its scenic routes and tranquil riverside setting, provided an ideal backdrop for the diverse collection of vehicles.

Xavier Hory himself led the charge, undertaking a significant journey across France to attend the event, proudly behind the wheel of his Lada Samara 1300 5-door (or Type 2109, for those in the know). This journey underscored the dedication and passion that define the "Unloved Ones" community. His Lada, a veritable time capsule, embodies the spirit of the event. An ex-retiree’s car, it had been dormant in a garage for eleven years before Hory acquired it for a mere 1,200 euros, registration included, boasting a remarkably low 43,000 km on the odometer. After a thorough service, it completed the 1,300 km journey to Sainte-Terre without a hitch. "Underneath, it’s brand new," Hory enthused, clearly proud of his robust, if unglamorous, steed. It was also noted, with a twinkle in his eye, that the Lada proved quite the conversation starter, helping him charm Sylviana, an "Eastern beauty" reportedly involved in "social work."

A Sunday Drive Through History

The event wasn’t solely a static display. Following the initial gathering, participants embarked on a scenic Sunday drive through the Saint-Émilion region, culminating at the quays of Libourne. This dynamic element allowed the public to witness these often-maligned vehicles in their natural habitat – on the road, performing admirably and drawing smiles from onlookers. At its peak, the organizers counted approximately forty cars, a respectable turnout given current economic pressures and competition from other regional events.

Supporting Data: A Cavalcade of Characters

The "Unloved Ones" rally was a treasure trove of automotive history, showcasing vehicles that, for various reasons, never quite achieved mainstream classic status, yet possess an undeniable charm and importance.

Spotlight on the "Unloved": From Soviet Simplicity to French Eccentricity

Xavier’s Lada Samara: A Time Capsule
Xavier Hory’s Lada Samara 1300 stands as a prime example of the event’s ethos. Produced by the Soviet manufacturer AvtoVAZ, the Samara was designed to be a more modern, front-wheel-drive alternative to the long-serving Lada Riva (Fiat 124 derivative). While often criticized for its rudimentary engineering and spartan interiors in Western markets, the Samara was a robust and affordable workhorse. Hory’s specific car, with its remarkably low mileage and impeccable condition, offers a rare glimpse into a vehicle that, despite its humble origins, proved incredibly durable. Its journey from a forgotten garage queen to a cross-country rally star encapsulates the very essence of appreciating these overlooked machines.

The Executive Class: Unexpected Youngtimers
The event also featured examples of executive saloons that, in their time, might have been considered aspirational, but have since slipped into relative obscurity as classics. Rudy, whose choice of a Renault 25 V6 Injection from its "gauche caviar" (champagne socialist) era was ironically juxtaposed with the proletarian theme, seemingly sought reconciliation with these everyday vehicles. The Renault 25, a flagship model for Renault in the 1980s, offered advanced features and a distinctive design, yet its sheer volume of production means only specific, well-preserved examples or high-spec variants like Rudy’s V6 Injection truly stand out today.

Similarly, Maxime, unapologetically embracing his "bourgeois" leanings, presented his Peugeot 605 Svdt. The 605, a large executive sedan, was Peugeot’s answer to German and other French luxury cars. While comfortable and well-equipped, it struggled against established rivals. Maxime’s attire, reminiscent of former Peugeot CEO Jacques Calvet, added a touch of sartorial humor to his presentation, perfectly embodying the event’s light-hearted spirit.

A younger participant, another Maxime, barely twenty years old, proudly introduced his first car and first youngtimer: an Audi 100 C3 1.8S. This base model, with its modest 88 hp 1.8-liter engine under an immense bonnet, surprised many. Despite its size, the car’s weight, just over a tonne, allowed for surprisingly decent performance, a stark contrast to the ever-increasing bulk of modern sedans. The Audi 100 C3 was notable for its aerodynamic design, achieving a remarkable drag coefficient for its time, but its more common variants like the 1.8S often get overshadowed by the Quattro or higher-spec engines.

Clash of Philosophies: Big Cars, Small Engines
This theme of a large saloon with a modest engine was echoed by the Citroën XM 2 litres Seduction (featured in Youngtimers n°145). The XM, with its radical, pure design (close to Marc Deschamps’ original vision), often provoked strong opinions. As the article notes, "the more divisive, the more interesting!" Its hydropneumatic suspension offered unparalleled comfort, but its avant-garde styling and initial quality issues meant it was not universally loved. My own contribution, a Citroën C6 2.7L V6 HDI in Mauritius Blue, further highlighted this "divisive" appeal. The C6, a spiritual successor to the CX and XM, was a bold statement of French luxury and engineering, but its niche market and distinctive design ensured it remained a polarizing figure.

The Enduring Appeal of the Renault 14
Another polarizing model, the Renault 14, was magnificently represented by a 1981 TS version, charmingly accompanied by a 1983 Elaime 3006 folding caravan. Michael, its proud owner, spent a decade searching for this specific model: "Gris Acier 618" (Steel Grey 618) and, crucially, without the optional fifth gear, just like his father’s. His dedication saw him travel over 500 km to present his cherished car and caravan. The Renault 14, famously nicknamed "the pear" due to its shape, initially faced public skepticism despite its advanced features for the time, including a transversely mounted engine and a shared platform with PSA. Its journey from a misunderstood newcomer to a sought-after youngtimer is a testament to the changing perceptions of automotive design.

François, another dedicated enthusiast, journeyed even further, bringing his beautifully repainted 1983 petrol-engined Renault Trafic van. This commercial vehicle, often seen as purely utilitarian, holds significant nostalgic value for many and represents another facet of the "unloved" category – the workhorses that kept the economy moving. "When passion drives us!" the article rightly exclaims.

The "Unicorn Prize": Subaru E12 "Vanille"
The coveted "Prix Licorne" (Unicorn Prize) of the gathering was unequivocally awarded to the Subaru E12, affectionately known as "Vanille" in France following an importer-organized naming contest. This six-seater minivan, just 3.5 meters long and boasting a mere 54 hp, is a far cry from the performance-oriented, rally-bred Subarus typically imagined in France. Its unique appeal lay in its clever design features, practicality, and distinct "manga" aesthetic. Beyond its four-wheel-drive capability – a Subaru hallmark – its quirky charm captivated the audience. Its owner, himself a collector of curiosities, added to the humor by revealing that he had managed to get the sun visor autographed by rally legends Jean Ragnotti and Bernard Darniche, a truly unique touch for an equally unique vehicle.

Diverse Delights: From Hyundai to Fiat
The event’s diversity continued with a Hyundai Genesis Coupé V6, a performance car almost unknown in France, highlighting the continental divide in automotive appreciation. Other "forgotten" gems included a Fiat Punto Cabrio 16v, an affordable and cheerful convertible that brought open-top motoring to the masses, and a Peugeot 306 Sillage tricorps (three-box sedan), a less common variant of the popular 306 hatchback. A magnificent 1980 Citroën CX 2400 GTI in Opale Beige also graced the show, a car previously featured in Youngtimers n°166, underscoring its enduring appeal among connoisseurs of sophisticated French engineering.

The BX Phenomenon: From Mockery to Mode
Perhaps the most telling representation of the "unloved to loved" journey was the presence of no fewer than five Citroën BX models. This was hardly surprising, as the BX has long been considered the quintessential "boudée" (snubbed) Citroën. Robust, affordable, and relatively easy to maintain, it was a mass-produced vehicle that often faced derision. However, through persistent advocacy from the automotive press and a growing appreciation for its distinctive design and hydropneumatic comfort, the BX has enjoyed a remarkable rehabilitation, becoming almost fashionable today. A special mention was given to a truly unique 1985 BX 19 TRS Break, transformed into a commercial vehicle by Gruau, raising the question of whether it might be a one-off example. This exemplifies the fascination with practical, often customized, variants of these everyday cars.

Organizer’s Perspective and Future Outlook

Despite the challenges posed by rising fuel prices and the inevitable competition from other car gatherings in the Gironde region, the "Unloved Ones" event successfully launched a promising movement. The organizers expressed satisfaction with the turnout of around forty cars, acknowledging that without these external factors, the numbers could have been even higher.

Xavier Hory remains optimistic about the future. Drawing parallels with the "Festival of the Unexceptional" across the Channel in the UK, which has grown significantly over the years, he believes this French initiative is "perhaps at the beginning of something special." The UK event, which celebrates ordinary, everyday cars from the 1960s to the 1990s, has garnered a cult following and significant media attention, demonstrating the broad appeal of this niche.

Hory has already announced the location for the next edition: Aveyron. This choice is particularly apt, as Aveyron is affectionately known as "the land of the C15s," referring to the iconic Citroën C15 utility van, another archetypal "unloved" workhorse that has gained a dedicated following. This strategic move promises to further embed the event in the cultural landscape of French automotive history, tapping into regional specificities and local enthusiasm for these often-unsung heroes.

Implications: A Movement in the Making

The "Unloved Ones" event in Sainte-Terre is more than just a car show; it’s a significant cultural phenomenon reflecting a broader shift in automotive enthusiasm.

The Growing Trend of "Unexceptional" Classic Cars

For decades, classic car collecting focused primarily on rarity, luxury, and performance. However, the rise of the "youngtimer" movement, and particularly events like "The Unloved Ones," signifies a profound change. Enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to vehicles that represent their youth, family memories, or simply the everyday automotive landscape of a bygone era. These cars, once dismissed as mundane, are now cherished for their accessibility, their historical context, and the sheer joy of owning something different. They offer a more democratic entry point into classic car ownership, fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

Economic and Logistical Hurdles

The mention of fuel price surges and competition from other events highlights the practical challenges faced by niche gatherings. Organizing such events requires significant dedication, often relying on volunteer efforts and the deep passion of individuals like Xavier Hory. These hurdles underscore the commitment of the community to keep the movement alive, even when economic factors might tempt participants to stay home. The ability to still draw a respectable crowd in the face of these challenges speaks volumes about the event’s appeal and the strong bonds within the youngtimer community.

Emulating International Success: The Festival of the Unexceptional

The direct comparison to the UK’s "Festival of the Unexceptional" is crucial. This British event, organized by Hagerty, has exploded in popularity, demonstrating a global appetite for celebrating automotive ordinariness. Its success proves that there is a legitimate and growing market for events that defy traditional classic car stereotypes. By acknowledging this international precedent, Hory’s initiative positions itself within a recognized and expanding global trend, suggesting a promising future for similar gatherings in France. The "Unloved Ones" is not merely a local curiosity but part of a larger, evolving narrative in automotive heritage.

Conclusion: More Than Just Cars

The "Unloved Ones" Youngtimer gathering in Sainte-Terre represents a vibrant and growing subculture within the broader automotive enthusiast world. It’s a celebration of resilience, a testament to overlooked design, and a powerful reminder that beauty and value can be found in the most unexpected places. Beyond the vehicles themselves, the event fosters a unique camaraderie, characterized by shared humor, mutual appreciation, and a collective desire to preserve the diverse tapestry of automotive history. As the movement gains momentum and prepares for its next chapter in Aveyron, it continues to champion the unsung heroes of the road, ensuring that even the most maligned vehicles find their rightful place in the annals of cherished classics.