Primedia to Launch Motor Trend Classic Magazine

Primedia will launch Motor Trend Classic this summer, a new magazine aimed at the classic car enthusiast. As the leading publisher of automotive magazines, Primedia is leveraging the expertise and appeal of its venerable Motor Trend brand with a bi-monthly magazine that captures the passion, drive, and zeal of classic car enthusiasts. The new publication will be led by Motor Trend's current Editor-in-Chief Angus MacKenzie and group publisher Steven Rousseau.

With an inaugural issue in August, Motor Trend Classic will have aspirational yet accessible editorial coverage, offering readers revealing personality pieces, untold stories, and unique vehicle comparisons. Focusing on post-war cars from 1949 - 1989, the magazine will also feature a broad cross-section of cars from 1950s Chevrolets to 1970s Lamborghinis and everything of interest in between. "The few magazines that cover this category feel old and unimaginative," said MacKenzie. "Motor Trend Classic will bring a sharp, modern and exciting editorial approach that is unlike any other magazine in this category. We are taking design cues from the current Motor Trend format and combining them with real stories about people and their classic cars. We want to take this segment by storm."

"As the media company with the most comprehensive portfolio for automotive enthusiasts, we are extremely well positioned to extend our expertise to key growth markets," said Steve Parr, president of Primedia's Automotive Group. "The most recent auction for classic cars demonstrated both the size and the growth of this market, with $61 million in sales, up from $38 million last year. "Motor Trend Classic will appeal to this audience, led by baby-boomers seeking to re-connect with the cars they loved in their youth," Parr continued. "Now that they have the discretionary income to match their interests, the market for nostalgic, classic cars is booming. Our publication will provide this growing audience the best source of both information and inspiration."

Motor Trend Classic will publish two issues in 2005 with an initial circulation of 200,000, and it will increase frequency to bi-monthly in 2006. The magazine will be oversized with high production quality and a cover price of $5.99 USD.