Few car rallies can compete with the stunning backdrop provided by the Great Wall of China.

96 vintage and classic cars are setting off from the historic setting in a race to Paris that spans more than 12,000 kilometres.

But for many, who comes first is not the main priority.

For others, completing the journey will be a victory in itself and a voyage of discovery.

The participants, who hail from all over the world, will travel through eight countries in 33 days with the rally scheduled to finish in the French capital at the end of next month.