Introducing Our September Bright Young Sparks Finalist, James Cotton!

What inspired you to become interested in older cars? 

I remember going to car shows with my dad when I was younger. With my dad being in the Motor trade for most of his life, he was able to teach me a lot about the cars on display by pointing out quirky features and explained to me parts under the engine bay including how they worked. This helped me appreciate the effort the owners put in to get their cars to that state, and was eager to once day have the same experience.

When did you get your Volvo and why did you get it?

I got the car on my 16th Birthday so September 14 2021. I grew up in the back of an 850R Saloon in Grey that was running around 300bhp. I was 5 at the time and it was the first performance car I had been in. The sound of the 5 cylinder and the performance of it had me hooked since. My dad has two since including a 2006 V70 T5 which I have bought off my dad three months ago as a second project. The reason I chose Volvo was the fact they are different. My youngsters like myself get small, modern hatchbacks but I wanted something rare. I narrowed it down to a couple cars but the V40 with the 1.8 Mitsubishi GDi engine was the top of the pick since I loved the brand

What's the best thing about owning an older car?

I love driving about in something different, people are often looking at in the car parks which I find really surprising. When I display it car events, the amount of stories I get told from people who have fond memories of their ownership of a V40/S40 amazes me. Many people say that they can’t remember the last time they saw one, which fills me with joy knowing I’m keeping the model ‘alive’. By owning an older car, I’ve also created a large friend group with people of similar vehicles and interests. This is mainly due to Kam (Owner of Nordik Rides) for always inviting me to display at shows and creating opportunities for me to get out there.

What advice would you give to other young people?

Don’t be a sheep, be different. You haven’t got to go all out modifying your car but for me, less is more. A clean example of a basic vehicle would get a fair amount of attention compared to some super cars due to the unique/rare factor. Older cars have so much more personality than all the new stuff and are so much easier to fix and maintain.

Any ambitions to get more involved in the classic car industry?

Not as a job, but being part of the Nordik Rides group, the aim would be to become an admin and help organise meets and keep the group running smoothly. I’m already choosing to photograph/video our meets to create interest for all our events next year and to inspire people.

Nominate!

Do you know someone aged 16-25 who is aspiring to work with classics? Spending weekends with them, or a club hero? We want to hear from you: visit our Bright Young Sparks page and get nominating!