Cars at the Movies

This rare documentary scores highly on most “10 best racing movies” lists and was directed by Michael Keyser who raced 911’s and a 908 back in the day.  He drove numerous times at WGI.  Narrated by Vic Elford and Mario Andretti.  While the video quality is vintage, it offers an up close and personal look at the cars, tracks, and drivers.

THE SPEED MERCHANTS is the story of the 1972 manufacturer’s Championship Series as told by drivers Mario Andretti (Ferrari 312P) and Vic Elford (Alfa Romeo T33TT/3). The film takes you behind the scenes at Daytona, Sebring, the Targa Florio, the Nurburgring, Le Mans and Watkins Glen, focusing on Mario and Vic, as well as Jacky Ickx, Helmut Marko, and Brian Redman. You visit with the drivers at their homes in France, Belgium, Austria and England where they relax with their families between races. Woven into the film is rare footage of both the Ferrari and Alfa Romeo factories where the cars are prepared before each race. Backed by an original musical score, THE SPEED MERCHANTS gives an unforgettable look at a year in the life of the international racing circuit. 95 minutes.