The 1952 Mercedes W194 300 SL be back on the Goodwood track in June. Click to enlarge.

In just over 100 days the Goodwood Festival of Speed will begin again, and 2012 sees reigning Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel set to grace us with his presence. That’s not all though- 2012 looks like it’ll be a great year for the festival that has entertained the public for over 60 years.

This year will once again see a number of F1 teams, including Mclaren, Lotus, Williams, Caterham and the constructor’s champions Red Bull. The big news is that wonder-kid Sebastian Vettel will be there for the first time, as part of this years theme: ‘Young Guns – Born to Win’. His team mate Mark Webber will also be in attendance, along with expected appearances by Jenson Button, Sir Jakie Stewart, Ron Dennis, Adrian Newey and many, many more.

It’s not all Formula 1 though. Cartier’s “‘Style et Luxe’ vehicle concours d’elegance” will mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee by presenting a collection of vehicles all owned or used by Queen Elizabeth II. If you’re in to the luxury, ultra expensive motors this could be the place for you; cars on show include the 1929 Daimler Double Six 30hp Brougham, as well as limos used whilst abroad like the 1950 Lincoln Cosmopolitan ‘bubble top.’ There’s even a selection of the Royals’ finest toy cars, if that sort of thing takes your fancy. A toy replica of James Bond’s 1966 DB5 could be a particular highlight.

This year will see a one make race between ultra-rare AC Cobras. Click to enlarge.

Mercedes have also announced their presence at the festival with the entry of four racing cars to take on the infamous Goodwood hill. The  1952 W194 300 SL, 1937 W125, 1963 W111 220 SE and 1997 CLK-GTR will all feature. There’ll be a big showing of Mercedes history and future too, along with a load of their current range. All in the name of sales from the Germans, but it’s great to be able to drool over the SLSs and AMG Blacks. They’ve also promised “a couple of very special surprises,” definately something to look forward to.

There’ll be a bunch of other manufacturers there too, making it a great event for car enthusiasts old and young. The racing looks to be great as always too- a special AC Cobra only class will feature, along with many cars from throughout motorsport history.

The event runs for a weekend from the 28th of  June 2012, and you can get your tickets here.