Event inspired by iconic Italian classic car rally to roll into city

Bugattis, Porsches, Alfa Romeos, and Ferraris will feature alongside Australian classics including the Holden Sandman, Torana, and a range of Fords.

Mayor Ben Blain said Warrnambool was thrilled to have been included on the itinerary.

"Flagstaff Hill provides a great stop for motorists and an opportunity for motoring enthusiasts to check out some rare cars that have been beautifully maintained or restored," Cr Blain said.

"At the community breakfast people can chat with the drivers, check out what's under the hood and witness the spectacle as the cars depart."

Targa Classica organiser Andrew Lawson said the rally would cover more than 1100 kilometres and showcase the Goldfields, Grampians, Great Ocean Road and the Macedon Ranges.

"We wanted to create an event that celebrated cars, the event's Italian roots, and also Victoria's regional centres," Mr Lawson said.

"With direct links to Italian heritage through the event, we feel it's important to show off the highlights of our amazing state, in keeping with the tradition and foundations of the event's Italian connection."

Mr Lawson, who founded Targa Classica, was inspired by his own experience of competing in Australia as well as in Italy at the Targa Florio in Sicily and the Mille Miglia.

The Targa Classica - the only event like it in the Southern Hemisphere - takes its inspiration from the iconic classic car events of Italy - a much-loved tradition since 1906.

Today, the Coppa Delle Alpi, Coppa Milano Sanremo, Mille Miglia, Nuvolari, and Targa Florio are considered the pinnacle for classic car enthusiasts.

Mr Lawson said the event was expected to inject more than $1 million into regional economies, with more than 1500 hotel beds filled and 4500 meals served.

Visitors will travel to the event from interstate, and it is anticipated that this year's event will generate more than $1.5 million of activity spread across six Victorian regions.

Car lovers heading to Flagstaff Hill between 7am and 9am to check out the cars can also buy a bacon and egg roll and a coffee.