It was pedal to the metal as the Mdina Grand Prix got under way yesterday with the Mtaħleb Hill Climb.

A convoy of classic cars left the Hilton in St Julian’s at 8.30am, turning heads across the island as they sped towards Mtaħleb for the start of this year’s event.

There were more than enough classic vehicles taking part to rev the engines of vintage car lovers, including eight Bugattis, a 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C and a convertible Porsche 356.

Many of the participants have come from overseas especially for this popular street race, now in its fourth year.

The action continues today with the Mdina Glass Concours d’Elegance, which will once again be held in the Silent City’s Cathedral Square.

Live classical music and car owners in period outfits will add to the festive atmosphere.

Tomorrow morning’s practice will take place on the 2.2-kilometre track below the Mdina bastions: an exciting circuit featuring fast straights and demanding corners. Drivers will be timed in the afternoon to determine the winner.

The race climaxes on Sunday with 80 cars vying to take the chequered flag first. Participants will have two runs in the morning and two in the afternoon to determine who will be spraying the champagne on the final podium.

Demonstration runs by classic motorbikes and supercars are also expected on Sunday.