Anyone with even the slightest interest in automotive history must surely be aware of the Mille Miglia, the legendary 1000-mile race from Brescia to Rome and back again. It was banned following a tragic accident when a competitor went off the road and into a group of spectators. The Mille lives on in the form of a rally for classic sports cars with some of the excitement but few of the risks. Now the "Mille" can be seen in a 1-hour documentary that cleverly mixes film of the historic races with footage taken from the current event. Originally released in Europe, it can be purchased on DVD , direct from the producer's Web site. I've yet to see it, however I'm aware that the cars currently competing are pretty spectacular (some driven by former racing greats) and view of the Italian scenic backgrounds must be worth the price. Interviews with drivers such as Sir Stirling Moss, Phil Hill, Jochen Mass, Jacky Ickx, Roger Penske, Count Giannino Marzotto and Prince Leopold of Bavaria are included. Produced by the Selkirk & Heimann Media Group , it is titled "Mille Miglia - The Spirit of a Legend." Just the thing for a quiet evening with feet up and a glass of vintage red in your hand.

PS: This is our 500th blog on Classical Drives, cause for a little celebration!