In Conversation with Fergus McIver of R.S. Williams Ltd
Welcome to our series of HCVA member interviews where we find out more about them and their businesses.
R.S. Williams Limited - HCVA Founding Partner
HCVA-T0011
Cobham, Surrey
World-renowned classic Aston Martin specialists since 1968 with an unrivalled experience in Aston Martin servicing, fabrication, engineering and race preparation. Factory-appointed genuine Heritage Parts Dealer. Stock of RSW prepared cars backed by our own 12-month guarantee and fastidious attention to detail.
astons@rswilliams.co.uk
www.rswilliams.co.uk
01932 868377
Fergus McIver is a senior vehicle technician with R.S. Williams Limited
How did you either start, or join the business?
As an enthusiastic youth in 1991 at college with a passion for Minis, I enjoyed reading the wisdom of Leyland A-series guru David Vizard. With his tuning book close at hand, the list of specialist businesses was consulted for a firm local to me. RS Williams had purchased Swaymar engineering and upon contacting them, I was accepted for work experience when we were building the Sanction II Aston Martin DB4 GTs and offered a job before the week was through.
What has been your proudest moment in work?
To be the first to start and drive one of the two original Goldfinger DB5s for the first time in over a decade. One car is missing but the one I was assigned was the chase sequence car (DB5/1486/R) and I had to repair the brakes and clutch before it could be driven. It was a real honour to drive such a significant piece of film history and arguably the most desirable car in the world.
In your opinion, why should HCVA members use your services?
We are proud to be keeping the dream of classic Aston Martin ownership a modern day reality in a world where vehicle technology advances ever onward. We love to ensure the cars are an absolute pleasure to own and drive.
What is the most valuable lesson your work has taught you?
Patience and excellence go hand-in-hand. Richard Williams instilled a pride in workmanship which has stuck with me for life.
What piece of advice about your work would you give your younger self?
You’ll be in the same job working on the same cars in 30 years and still enjoy it.
What is your favourite car that you have owned - and why?
My 1968 Toyota Corona which I’ve owned for 15 years. It appears completely standard but lifting the bonnet reveals a 1985 Toyota Celica engine but the installation looks factory original. The engine upgrade has given the car a new lease of life and the performance of an ‘80s sports car. It’s all my own work.
What is your least favourite car that you have owned - and why?
My 1982 Ford Granada. It was by far the least reliable car I’ve owned, plagued with gearbox troubles. I was glad to be rid of it.
What is a great example of a future classic in your opinion?
Volvo C30 will, I think, be a desirable classic one day. They are a little more interesting than a great deal of cars in that segment and I think their appeal will endure for years to come. The Citroën C6 and Ford Focus ST170 are also worth considering.
What has been your favourite ever classic car experience?
Following repairing it, driving a customer’s DB4 Convertible in the sun in Nice, France, with the roof down. They are one of my favourite Aston Martins and with the wind in my hair on a hot sunny day and the straight-six burble behind me, I really was in a good place.
Why did you join the HCVA?
To promote the future security and raise awareness of the role and acceptance of the classic car in the future of motoring. We are keen for classic car ownership to remain charming to all and not become taboo or antisocial.
What do you wish we had asked you but didn't? And what's the answer to that question?
What role will the electrification of classic cars have in society in years to come? – I believe EV conversions will be ideal and desirable for some owners – those who live in cities, who don’t wish to contribute to local pollution, or who are legislated against, but I hope only a modest percentage of cars get converted.
Well maintained classics in typical use have only a tiny carbon footprint and with the right approach and support from the HCVA, internal combustion engine classics should continue to be viable occasional transport with responsible use in the modern world. We hope the industry can continue to instil nostalgia and charm in the public’s opinion and in current numbers, shouldn’t become taboo.
We are proud to maintain an enviable reputation for the quality, reliability and strength of our engine rebuilds since we became established in 1968.