Thursday 30 August 2018

WEATHER GODS SMILE THIS TIME ON SGMW’S CLASSIC OUTING AT BEAULIEU


WEATHER GODS SMILE THIS TIME ON SGMW’S CLASSIC OUTING AT BEAULIEU

Winners all: everyone who attended, and their Car of the Day

They say fortune favours the brave, so the Southern Group of Motoring Writers’ second annual cavalcade of cars old and new prompted extra loud celebrations.
The inaugural Heritage Day at the National Motor Museum Beaulieu in August 2017 had been staged to mark the Group’s 15th anniversary but was hit hard by rain. Nevertheless, an enthusiastic response by members and their guests from the UK motor industry’s PR departments encouraged the bold decision to make it an annual event.
Such confidence was rewarded on Wednesday 15 August this year by good weather and another tempting array of classic cars and latest models for attendees to drive and discuss, write, post and Tweet about.
Group chairman Ian Robertson said: “We don’t know what our event organiser and Group secretary Chris Rees did to appease the weather gods this year, but he must bottle some and keep it for the future. It enabled us to enhance what we had last year; some people were like kids in a sweet shop once they clapped eyes on the cars available to drive.”
“And it was great to see our PR colleagues, so often the onlookers and keyholders at their own brand events, get the chance to take various steering wheels and share experiences and banter. I must thank all who came and particularly the PSA Group for its contribution to the pre-event dinner the previous evening.
“We are also delighted to prove that we now have a second major event in our calendar to follow the success of the SGMW Karting Grand Prix, launched in 2014. We hope to make it three as our New Year’s Honours Awards – launched at the start of this year – gets more into its stride.”
Fittingly, Car of The Year from those awards – the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – was a Heritage Daystar, but it had plenty of company after PR colleagues 13 motor manufacturers contributed cars from their heritage and modern test fleets.
Car of the Day was a classic Peugeot 205 GTI; for many people, the hot hatch of the 1980s. This example had been stripped down by Peugeot apprentices and rebuilt with a Mi16 engine and other refinements. Many SGMW members and guests lucky enough to get a drive, promptly voted it top car at the event, though it was run close by Mazda’s unusual 1973 RX-3 rotary-engined coupe.
Secretary and organiser Chris Rees said: “As with last year, we can only thank our PR friends for their generosity in making such vehicles available, though it must be said that they all enjoyed jumping in and out of each other’s cars, new and old.
“Other gems were a Ford Transit MkII and XR2i; a Jeep CJ-7; Honda’s immaculate 1989 Prelude and lovely NSX supercar; while Toyota brought an original RAV4 – dubbed the ‘4x4 GTi’ – and the mad rear-engine Aygo Crazy.
“Rather more stately contributions were Vauxhall’s Victor FB estate and a Mk2 Volkswagen Polo.
“Members also brought some of their classics, with Group Treasurer Chris Manning’s 1970s-vintage Toyota Celica Liftback – often described as a miniature of Steve McQueen’s Ford Mustang in ‘Bullitt’ – being one of the most popular drives; Toyota PR chief Scott Brownlee was quick to add that to his day’s tally.
“Group members also contributed no less than three Alfa Romeos from the past, to complement the modern Guilia Quadrifoglio attending.”
Other highlights included the presentation of the newly engraved SGMW Karting GP trophy to the event’s 2018 winner, Ford, marking the brand’s hat-trick of wins over the past three years. The trophy was accepted on the team’s behalf by Ford Product Affairs Manager Oliver Rowe.
There was also a quiz (questions and answers attached) during the lunch break, won by a team led by Richard Seymour, Toyota Press Officer - Product & Technical.
WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT THE 2ND SGMW HERITAGE DAY:
“These are great days because it’s a chance for everybody to get together: the journalists, of course, with the PRs, but also for the PRs to get together with friends and rivals in the industry.” Tom Johnston – Press Relations Manager, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
“I just got passed by Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang and that’s probably the highlight of my day. I fumbled my phone out and took a picture!” Scott Brownlee – General Manager, Press Relations and Social Media, Toyota
“It’s been a real pleasure to be here today and enjoy the cars that the manufacturers have brought along and to meet old friends. Let’s face it, the Southern Group are one of the most friendly and active groups in the country.” John Handcock – Head of Communications, Citroën
“A wonderful day. Great vehicles, great people. It’s not very often as a PR that I get to drive such a breadth of cars, both new and old. Today, I have driven everything from a Ford Transit up to the latest Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio.” Simon Hucknall – PR Manager, Vauxhall & VX Motorsports





BEAULIEU FANTASY AND FOLKLORE AT HARVEST THEMED HALF-TERM





BEAULIEU FANTASY AND FOLKLORE AT HARVEST THEMED HALF-TERM


October 20th - 28th
Autumnal fantasy and folklore are part of harvest-themed celebrations with Halloween ghost stories, crafts and activities at Beaulieu this October half-term from 20th - 28th.
Get into the spirit of the season with harvest festival-themed decorations in the ancestral Montagu family home of Palace House. Then head to the Victorian Kitchen to watch the cook bake traditional autumn soul cakes, while younger visitors have their faces painted with a ghoulish design and join in with special arts and crafts activities.
Autumn is the time to watch out for restless spirits and ghosts have often been seen and heard in Palace House over the centuries. Listen to costumed guides as they tell chilling ghost stories from the past. Then search for spiders in a hunt for the eight-legged critters which are hidden around the house.
For more magical goings-on, make sure you explore the secluded Mill Pond Walk to see fairy doors belonging to Beaulieu’s smallest residents, plus tree carvings of the mythical griffin, many-headed serpent and the green man of the woods. Why not hop on the Veteran Bus or take a ride on the high-level Monorail to see the sights of Beaulieu?
All of the activities are included in your general admission ticket to Beaulieu, which includes entry to the National Motor Museum, World of Top GearOn Screen Cars, Palace House, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and the grounds and gardens. Tickets can be bought in advance online. For tickets or more information see www.beaulieu.co.uk or call 01590 612345.
Why not round off your half-term holiday with a bang at Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday, October 27th, where this year’s theme will be Back to the Eighties. One of the biggest in the south, the fireworks display is choreographed to music and will begin at 7.30pm in the grounds of the attraction. Arrive at the show from 3pm to enjoy old time fairground rides and the Wave 105 stage. For Fireworks Spectacular event tickets see www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/.

THE 2018 SALON PRIVÉ OPENS ITS GATES TO A WEALTH OF THE WORLD’S FINEST MOTOR VEHICLES


THE 2018 SALON PRIVÉ OPENS ITS GATES TO A WEALTH OF THE WORLD’S FINEST MOTOR VEHICLES

Blenheim Palace 30 August: Salon Privé, firmly established as one of the longest-running and most successful motoring events in the UK, opened its doors today - Thursday 30 August - for the first of three days as Britain’s most exclusive automotive Garden Party. This year’s prestigious event marks a particularly special milestone as Salon Privé relocates to the foot of Blenheim Palace to become the first event ever to be located on the Palace’s famous Cricket Pitch.
Visitors to the first day of the 13th edition of Salon Privé were able to savour an exceptional world-class collection of automotive glamour and royalty adorning the stunning Blenheim Palace lawns, the long-term home to Salon Privé, following the announcement earlier this year that His Grace, The 12th Duke of Marlborough, has become the event’s official Patron. After just one day, the 2018 Salon Privé is already proving once again to be an automotive garden party like no other; a must-attend event where the best of the best reside for three days of high-brow shoulder rubbing and car-talk.
First day Salon Privé guests were able to soak up the event’s unique, relaxed atmosphere and stunning Palace backdrop, whilst admiring many of the finest motor cars and bikes in the world. More than 50 cars, 17 of them international entries, and 20 motorcycles were judged during the day in the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Eléganceby an expert panel of 17 judges, the Concours committee was chaired by the distinguished five-time Le Mans winner Derek Bell MBE.
The exceptional Concours comprised of three motorcycle and ten car classes, including ‘Preservation at its Best’; ‘Pre-war Bugattis’; ‘Pre-war Luxury Tourers’; ‘Grand Tourers of the 1950s & ’60s’; ‘Wind in Your Hair’; ‘Best of British at Blenheim Palace’; ‘Streamlined Closed Sports Cars’; ’50 Years of the Dino’; ‘Supercars of the ’70s’ and ‘Competition Cars’, with the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance winners set to be announced tomorrow; Friday 31st August.
In addition to the prestigious Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance, Salon Privé visitors could admire many of the finest, and fastest, modern supercars and hypercars, some being seen in public on British shores for the very first time, just as they will be able to over the coming days of the event.
These included the new Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, making its European debut at the Blenheim Palace event. With 770 bhp and 720 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm, the Aventador SVJ is Lamborghini’s most powerful, naturally-aspirated V12 ever produced: SV standing for ‘super Veloce’ meaning superfast, and the ‘Jota’ suffice to reference the car’s potency on both track and road. The Santa Agata marque’s new Urus SUV was also on display to admire.
A UK debut on the first day of the 2018 Salon Privé was the extreme Dendrobium D-1electric hypercar, officially presented in public for the first time, with headline specification targets of 1,800 bhp; 2,000 NM and a weight of just 1,750 kgs. Salon Privé was chosen for the D-1’s debut because of the sheer prestige of the event and the ability to engage one-to-one with potential clients, key industry figures, and business people.
Brabham Automotive also joined Salon Privé for the first time this year to proudly present its new high-performance Brabham BT62 supercar. Central to the impressive Aston Martin Works display at Blenheim Palace was the new Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, combining British heritage and engineering with Italian coachbuilding expertise and style.
Rolls-Royce Motors Cars also chose Salon Privé, the UK’s most exclusive automotive event, to showcase in person its first SUV model, the imposing new Rolls-Royce Cullinan. H.R. Owen Bugatti, the UK’s official Bugatti dealership presented the spectacular Bugatti Chiron in fully exposed black carbon fibre with a tangerine interior.
After a gap of a few years, and now under new ownership, the German sports car Wiesmann marked its return to bespoke sports car manufacturing at Salon Privé with a display of two of its V8 powered Heritage Editions, a GTMF5 Coupe, and an MF4 Roadster.
Bentley Motors returned to Blenheim for the third year with a spectacular bespoke display featuring three of its latest models, a special Continental GT with Mulliner Driving Specification, a Mulsanne Speed and a Bentayga W12 in Dragon Red II with Black specification. Across the lawn, The Bentley Drivers’ Club presented five very special models in a pre-emptive celebration of next year’s 100 Year Bentley Centenary milestone, including a 1929 4 ½-litre “The Grey Lady” saloon, a 1930 4 ½-litre Blower Bentley and a 2015 GT3-R, the road-going version of Bentley’s winning GT car and rare, with only 300 ever built.
The first day Salon Privé guests were also able to admire a unique heritage display of Honda NSX models, from the marque’s earliest mid-engined supercar, through to the current model, both in static and active forms, with the Hondas lapping the pristine Blenheim Palace grounds.
The first product of Group Renault’s revived sporting Alpine marque, the new Alpine A110 in its comfort-orientated ‘Légende’ format was not only presented for Salon Privé guests be able to admire but also experience first-hand, with Alpine offering, test-drives throughout all three days of the event. All of the other supercars and hypercars already highlighted will also be present at Blenheim Palace throughout the remaining two days of the 2018 Salon Privé.
EDITORS’ NOTES:
Salon Privé sprang into action today for three glorious days, from 30th August to 1st September. Firmly established as the UK’s most exclusive automotive Garden Party and one of the longest-running and most successful motoring events in the UK, this year marks a particularly special milestone as the event relocates to the foot of the Palace becoming the first event ever to be located on the famous Blenheim Palace Cricket Pitch.
Salon Privé showcases two Concours celebrations within the same event; firstly, the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance on Thursday 30th August which is followed by Concours Masters Celebrates 70 Years of Porsche on Saturday 1st September. Boodles Ladies’ Day sits in the middle on Friday 31st August which has fast become a social highlight of the Summer Season.
For more information, please contact Gema Bernaldo de Quirós – gemab@salonpriveconcours.com
Tickets can be purchased via the website www.salonpriveconcours.com or by calling the Ticket Hotline: 0808 100 2205.
Source: Salon Prive


FROM FIRST ITALIAN GRAND PRIX WINNER TO LAST FOUR-CYLINDER FERRARI: CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE WORLDCLASS LINE-UP


FROM FIRST ITALIAN GRAND PRIX WINNER TO LAST FOUR-CYLINDER FERRARI: CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE WORLDCLASS LINE-UP

  • Concours of Elegance will be bringing a collection of around 60 of the finest cars ever built, from pre-1900 to the modern day, to Hampton Court Palace from 31 Aug - 2 Sep
  • Whether it’s the unique gold-plated Rolls-Royce ‘Golden Riviera’ or the very last four-cylinder Ferrari ever built, each of the cars has an incredible story to tell
  • Guests can also see the 1920 Ballot 3/8 LC, winner of the first Italian Grand Prix, and the unique Jaguar XK120 Pininfarina – the only XK with an Italian-designed body
  • The Main Concours forms just one small part of the event, which will see more than 1,000 cars gather in Hampton Court Palace from 31 August – 2 September
  • Tickets to the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace are on sale now, available from www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets
Concours of Elegance has revealed the list of spectacular cars which will appear at Hampton Court Palace in just over a month’s time. Taking place from 31 August - 2 September, this celebration of automotive elegance, style and passion will feature more than 60 of the rarest and most exclusive cars ever produced.
From iconic pre-1900 automobiles to limited edition sports and supercars of the 21st century, each of the Concours of Elegance cars has a remarkable story to tell. Here are just eight of the highlights:
1913 Renault Type DP Coupé ChauffeurThis striking 95-year-old car is unique in its originality; every single body panel and piece of interior trim is as it was when it was built. Owned by the same family for its entire life, it’s an impeccable piece of history, featuring three types of lighting: gas for the headlights, electric for the interior and oil for the rear red lamp.
1920 Ballot 3/8 LCJust four of these 3-litre 8-cylinder cars Ballot cars were produced for top level Grand Prix racing in the 1920s, and this particular example has an impeccable history. In 1921 it won the first-ever Italian Grand Prix, and it was also owned by Sir Malcolm Campbell, who raced it at Brooklands in 1923.
1929 Mercedes S-Type Barker Tourer ‘Boat Tail’This unique car will be appearing in the UK for the first time since 1958 when it was under the ownership of British Racing Drivers’ Club co-founder Earl Howe. This car was fitted with a revolutionary body which incorporated a lightweight and aerodynamic shell with unique aircraft-inspired aluminium side pods crafted by English coachbuilders Barker.
1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Brewster ‘Golden Riviera’All Rolls-Royces are special, but some are totally unique. This example may be one of ten Riviera Phantom I cars built, but it’s the only example specified by its owner with gold-plated exterior trim as far as the eye could see. Bought by Irene Schoelkopf Carman in 1929, it also comes fitted with a few of her other ‘optional extras’, including a Dunhill lighter, an intercom for communicating with the driver and a mirror pad.
1954 Jaguar XK120 PininfarinaThis Jaguar XK120 is unique, in being the only one ever to be bodied by Pininfarina. In 1954 it went straight from the Jaguar factory in Coventry to Italy to have its beautiful bodywork applied, before being shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 1955. This car was very recently the subject of a 6750-hour nut-and-bolt restoration by Classic Motor Cars to bring it back to exactly how it left Pininfarina in the ‘50s.
1957 Ferrari 500 TRC by ScagliettiNamed after the FIA ‘C’ racing regulations to which it was built to comply, this 500 TRC, or ‘Testa Rossa C’, is one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever built. This particular example is the last TRC produced, and the last ever four-cylinder car Ferrari made. It also comes complete with an impressive race history, including class wins at both the 1957 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Le Mans.
1992 Jaguar XJ220Jaguar’s first 200mph car, the XJ220, still looks like nothing else on the road. Initially designed with a V12 and all-wheel-drive, it was eventually delivered with a twin-turbo V6 and rear-wheel-drive – but performance was still exhilarating. In fact, the XJ220 was the fastest car in the world, setting a speed of 212.3mph at the Nardo test track. Only 281 were ever built.
Concours of Elegance Director, Andrew Evans, said: “The Concours of Elegance is well-known for the calibre of cars on display, and I’m pleased to say that 2018’s line-up is yet another world-class collection. A number of cars in the Concours are complete one-offs, many have never been seen in the UK in a generation, and all of them tell an incredible story. They’re the perfect focus of a weekend that will include around a thousand cars in total, a collection of luxury brands – including watchmakers A. Lange & Sohne – and a range of fine hospitality options within the stunning grounds of Hampton Court Palace.”
Concours of Elegance is working in conjunction with a number of organisations to offer bespoke experiences for visitors, including the Octane Tour, held on Sunday. To join the Octane Tour contact iain@thoroughevents.co.uk.
The Concours has also partnered with Tom’s Kitchen – founded by Tom Aikens – to offer new deli picnics for visitors. Presented in individual jute bags, the picnics will include a substantial chicken or vegetarian main course plus salads with a generous cheese and fruit box and a delicious strawberry and white chocolate dessert.
Tickets to the Concours of Elegance are on sale now, available from www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets
The full list of cars
  1. 1903 Panhard et Levassor
  2. 1909 Isotta Fraschini FENC Tipo A
  3. 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost ‘Nellie’
  4. 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost A. Mulliner Tourer
  5. 1913 Renault Type DP Coupe Chauffeur 22/24HP Par Renaudin et Besson
  6. 1920 Ballot 3/8 LC
  7. 1924 Alfa Romeo RL TF
  8. 1925 Bugatti Type 35 Grand Prix Two-Seater
  9. 1929 Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer
  10. 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Brewster Riviera Town Car
  11. 1931 Bugatti Type 54 Delage D8
  12. 1932 Alfa 8C 2300 Spider Zagato
  13. 1935 Tatra 77
  14. 1935 Auburn Eight Supercharged Boattail Speedster
  15. 1936 Lancia Astura Pinin Farina Cabriolet ‘Tipo Bocca’
  16. 1937 Aston Martin 15/98 Tourer
  17. 1937 Alvis 3-Litre Vanden Plas Concealed Hood DHC
  18. 1938 Erdman & Rossi Bentley 4 ¼ Litre
  19. 1939 Lagonda V12 Rapide Drophead Coupé
  20. 1949 Bentley Mk V1 Special Lightweight J. Mulliner Fixed-head Coupé Prototype
  21. 1950 Ferrari 166MM/212 Export ‘Uovo’
  22. 1950 Aston Martin DB2
  23. 1952 Alfa Romeo ‘Pre-series’ 1900 Sprint Touring Coupé
  24. 1952 Bentley R-Type DHC
  25. 1953 Austin-Healey 100 Special Test Car
  26. 1954 Fiat 8V Vignale Berlinetta
  27. 1954 Jaguar XK120 Pinin Farina Coupé
  28. 1954 Aston Martin DB3S Team Car ‘62 EMU’
  29. 1955 Bentley S1 Continental Coupe by Park Ward
  30. 1956 Bentley S1 Continental Coupe by Park Ward
  31. 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC
  32. 1957 Fiat 1200 Vignale 'Wonderful'
  33. 1958 Maserati 300S
  34. 1961 Intermeccanica IMP 700GT
  35. 1962 Ferrari 250 SWB Berlinetta Scaglietti# 3367GT
  36. 1964 Ferrari 365 California Spyder
  37. 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Convertible
  38. 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB Alloy Long Nose
  39. 1966 Lamborghini 400 GT Touring 2+2
  40. 1968 Bizzarrini GT 5300 Strada
  41. 1965 Ford GT40 Mk I Gulf #GT40P/1004/1084
  42. 1968 Jaguar XJ6 Series I ex-Sir William Lyons
  43. 1970 Ferrari Dino 246 GTB
  44. 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400S
  45. 1983 Prototype Ferrari 288 GTO
  46. 1997 Jaguar XJ220
  47. 2018 Ferrari GTC4 Lusso ‘Tailor Made’ Arancia

Wednesday 29 August 2018

CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2018 KICKS OFF THIS WEEK! HERE ARE TEN OF THE MOST AMAZING THINGS TO SEE AND DO




CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2018 KICKS OFF THIS WEEK! HERE ARE TEN OF THE MOST AMAZING THINGS TO SEE AND DO

  • The Concours of Elegance 2018 kicks off from Friday 31 August – 2 September at Hampton Court Palace
  • The biggest and best Concours of Elegance yet brings a number of brand new features, including a Future Classics class, a super-saloon celebration and a world-first line up of Aston Martin DB4s
  • At its heart are around 60 of the most exquisite cars ever created from a Maserati 300S driven to victory by Stirling Moss to the one-off Ferrari 166M/212 ‘Uovo’
  • Visitors will also be able to browse displays from over 35 luxury retailers and classic car specialists
  • Tickets will be available to buy at the entrance to the event and from www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets
The Concours of Elegance will return to Hampton Court Palace this Friday 31 August - 2 September for its seventh running, and this year’s event is set to be the biggest and most diverse yet. At its heart, as ever, is the exquisite royal venue and the line-up of around 60 extraordinary cars in the Main Concours, but for 2018 there’s more to see and do than ever before. Here are just a few of the reasons you should make your way to Hampton Court Palace this weekend:
  1. The finest cars in the world
    Around 60 cars will gather in the event’s Main Concours, telling the story of the motor car from start to finish through only the rarest and most exquisite vehicles ever produced. Starting with pioneers like the Panhard et Levassor 15hp, the Concours travels through to rarities like the race-winning Aston Martin DB3S and gorgeous Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300 and finishes with recent performance icons like the McLaren F1 GTR ‘Long Tail’ and Mercedes CLK LM.
  2. The new Future Classics feature
    This all-new line-up is a showcase of the Concours stars of the future, crowned by the completely bespoke and unique Rolls-Royce Sweptail. It’s the first fully in-house designed and fully coachbuilt Rolls-Royce in half a century, complete with a bespoke body and interior. The Sweptail is joined by the one-of-26 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Speedster, McLaren Senna chassis number one and the one-of-seven Aston Martin V12 Vantage V600.
  3. The world’s fastest four-doors in Harry’s Garage
    Curated by the founder of the Harry’s Garage YouTube channel and Evo Magazine, Harry Metcalfe, this super-saloon celebration includes only the fastest and most iconic four-door cars ever made. Among them, you’ll find the 200mph Jaguar XE SV Project 8, the 205mph Aston Martin Rapide AMR, as well as past masters like the Lotus Carlton and the Mercedes AMG Hammer – the first saloon car to ever hit 186mph.
  4. A collection of the finest Ferraris ever built
    Visitors to the Concours of Elegance can see six of the most incredible Ferraris ever created, including the unique 166MM/ 212 Export ‘Uovo’. This absolute one-off was designed as the ultimate sports racing car of its day, with a lightweight and aerodynamic design inspired by its designer’s aeronautical training. Joining the ‘Uovo’ is the last ever four-cylinder Ferrari built – the 500 TRC by Scaglietti – and a one-of-fourteen Ferrari 365 California Spyder.
  5. The classics you could drive away in
    Eight of the UK’s most prestigious classic and performance car specialists will be showcasing some of their latest and greatest stock at the Concours of Elegance. So once you’ve had enough of browsing the cars in the Concours, you can pick one up of your very own. Exhibiting this year are Nicholas Mee, Fiskens, Duncan Hamilton ROFGO, Frank Dale & Stepsons, Thornley Kelham, Classic Motor Cars, Bell Classics and Tom Hartley.
  6. The Aston Martin DB4 Celebration
    The Concours of Elegance will this year host a celebration of 60 years since the iconic Aston Martin DB4 was introduced. Assembled by the Aston Martin Owners Club, the line-up will include a DB4 prototype, an example of DB4 Series 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 plus an original DB4 GT, DB4 GT Zagato and DB4 Bertone Jet. The newly launched DB4 GT Continuation will also form part of the display.
  7. The Club Trophy
    The winners of some of the UK’s most prestigious Concours events, including that of the Lamborghini Owners’ Club, the Aston Martin Owners’ Club and the Bentley Drivers’ Club, will gather in Hampton Court Palace for the ‘best-of-the-best’ Club Trophy. Run by the Royal Automobile Club and judged by a panel of experts led by HRH Prince Michael of Kent, the Club Trophy will go on to appear in the Main Concours event at Concours of Elegance in 2019.
  8. Some of the finest timepieces in the world
    The Concours of Elegance this year will be hosting a display of some of the finest timepieces of A. Lange & Söhne. Only a few thousand watches are crafted each year, endowed exclusively with proprietary movements which are lavishly decorated and assembled by hand. Shown to the public for the very first time at the Concours of Elegance is the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 TOURBILLON, finished in platinum and limited to just 100 units.
  9. Luxury Experiences
    From the luxury three-course picnics offered by Tom’s Kitchen to the Champagne Taittinger bar and complimentary wet shaves from London’s oldest barber, Truefitt & Hill, the Concours of Elegance offers a huge array of luxury experiences. Guests can browse the incredible pieces on display from Augustine Jewels, art from Collier Dobson or fine scotch whisky from John Dewar & Sons.
  10. Nearly a thousand incredible cars
    Adding in the event’s Jaguar Trophy, Bentley Trophy, Octane Tour and Car Club displays, the Concours of Elegance is expecting nearly 1,000 of the most incredible classic and performance cars to gather in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace over the three days of the event.
Tickets to the Concours of Elegance can be bought on the door, with full day adult admission at £40. Alternatively, tickets are available online at www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

Tuesday 28 August 2018

HONDA UK TO PRESENT HERITAGE DISPLAY OF OLD & NEW NSX AT SALON PRIVÉ


HONDA UK TO PRESENT HERITAGE DISPLAY OF OLD & NEW NSX AT SALON PRIVÉ


 Back in 1984, Honda developed the HP-X concept in conjunction with Pininfarina with the intention of meeting or better still, exceeding the performance of Ferrari’s V8 model range whilst at the same time, offering reliability and a lower price point. The plan was approved and the prototype became the formidable, NSX.
The NSX became an instant technological milestone as it was the world’s first mass-produced car to feature an all-aluminium body which ensured rigidity as well as significant weight saving resulting in the optimum power to weight ratio. With its 3.0 Litre V6 engine featuring Honda’s VTEC system (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) and input from the late Formula One World Champion, Ayrton Senna during the final development stages, here then was a new breed of supercar that combined awesome power and advanced chassis dynamics with every-day usability. The early 3.0 Litre version produced 256 bhp giving it a top speed of 162mph and a 0-60 sprint time of 7.5 seconds. The upgraded version, launched in 1997 featured a 3.2 Litre engine producing 280 bhp and top speed and 0-60 figures of 170mph and 5.7 seconds respectively. The first generation NSX ceased production in 2005.
Fast forward to 2016 and the new NSX hybrid sports car went on sale following its launch at the North American International Auto Show. Powered by a 3.5 Litre twin-turbo with 3 electric motors, two of which form part of the “SH-AWD” all-wheel-drive drivetrain, it produces 573bhp. With its 9-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic, performance in the new car is sensational with 60 dispatched in less than 3.0 seconds and a top speed of just over 190mph.
As one would expect from a company with more than 55 years’ experience in World Championship Racing, in developing the new NSX, Honda has drawn upon its proud racing heritage to ensure a technological masterpiece without compromise. With four different modes to adjust the driving experience and the integrated dynamic system (IDS) featuring Quiet, Sport, Sport + and Track, all of which alter the engine, motor, transmission, chassis response and engine sound level to differing levels, it is a thrilling yet versatile and driver-friendly supercar.
“I’m very pleased to welcome Honda UK to Salon Privé for the first time”, commented David Bagley, Co-Founder & Sales Director. “The original NSX was a true pioneer blending high performance and good looks with Japanese reliability and that’s exactly what Honda has achieved with the latest model. It’s brimming with technology and is a spectacularly fast and capable supercar when you want it to be, but equally versatile and usable when running around town.”
Phil Webb, Head of car at Honda UK commented: “This is the first time that our hybrid supercar will be exhibited both on the stand and on the display lap at the prestigious Salon Privé. Along with the current crop of NSX, we will have our red 1990 first generation version, which was actually driven by the late great Ayrton Senna and is the oldest surviving NSX in the country; as well as one of the last of the first generation in to the country, our orange 2005 3.2 manual.

Source: Salon Prive

CHUBB INSURANCE CONCOURS D’ELÉGANCE AT SALON PRIVÉ CONFIRMS FULL LIST OF ENTRANTS


CHUBB INSURANCE CONCOURS D’ELÉGANCE AT SALON PRIVÉ CONFIRMS FULL LIST OF ENTRANTS


salon Privé, firmly established as the UK’s most exclusive automotive garden party, will open its doors from Thursday 30 August to Saturday 1 September and welcome thousands of guests for the three-day event.
Some 53 cars, 17 of them international entries, and 20 motorcycles will be judged during the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance on Thursday 30 August. The star-studded Concours comprises three motorcycle and ten car classes, including ‘Preservation at its Best’; ‘Pre-war Bugattis’; ‘Pre-war Luxury Tourers’; ‘Grand Tourers of the 1950s & ’60s’; ‘Wind in Your Hair’; ‘Best of British at Blenheim Palace’; ‘Streamlined Closed Sports Cars’; ’50 Years of the Dino’; ‘Supercars of the ’70s’ and ‘Competition Cars’.
An expert team of judges will award the Best of Show, Best of Show runner-up and Class prizes.
Five-time Le Mans winner Derek Bell MBE will chair the judging committee during the Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance. The two-time World Sports Car Champion and former works Ferrari and Porsche ace is one of many star names lending their experience and opinions to proceedings. They range from globally-renowned designers and journalists to respected historians and motor industry heavyweights. The judging panel comprises:
Derek Bell MBE - Five-times Le Mans Winner

Ben Barkaway - Ferrari Specialist Technician

Matthias Bartz - Ferrari Dino Historian, Book Author and International Judge
Keith Bluemel - Ferrari Historian, Writer and International Judge
Henry Cole - CEO of Gladstone Motorbikes and Television Presenter
Yasmin Le Bon - Classic Car Enthusiast, International Supermodel and Designer
Louis de Fabribeckers - Head of Design at Touring Superleggera
Marco Makaus - Classic and Luxury Car Industry Veteran
John Mayston-Taylor - Former CEO of Lynx Motors International and International Judge
Hugo Modderman - Vintage Car Enthusiast, Collector & International Judge
Cecilia Muldoon - Rally Driver, Collector and Junior Classic Car Judge
Steve Parrish - Former Grand Prix motorcycle rider and double British Champion, current Motorsport Commentator and Author
Jeff Smith MBE - Former World Champion Motocross Racer
Harvey Stanley - Acquisition Consultant for DK Engineering and Historic Racing Driver
Giles Taylor - Former Director of Design for Rolls-Royce Motorcars
Marcus Willis - Co-Founder of Girardo & Co., formerly Research Specialist at RM Sotheby’s
Tony Willis - Owner of the Maranello Concessionaires Archive and Valuations Consultant to Ferrari Financial Services.

Now in its 13th consecutive year, and with a long-term agreement in place, Salon Privé is set for a long and bright future at Blenheim Palace, with the recent announcement that His Grace, The 12th Duke of Marlborough accepted to become the event’s official Patron.
“I was honoured to be asked by Andrew and David Bagley to become the Honourary Patron of Salon Privé and had no hesitation in accepting the position,” His Grace commentated. “I have long been a car enthusiast and through my honorary patronage, I hope to support the event through known car collectors and also my relationship with a number of manufacturers. I am delighted that Blenheim is confirmed as the new long-term venue for Salon Privé. During the last three years, the event has been held here, I have seen it grow and expand, and this year it will encompass the whole of the hallowed turf of the South Lawn. While Salon Privé is a private event, the general public will also have the opportunity to see these incredible cars on the Sunday during Blenheim Palace Classic & Supercar, the sister event to Salon Privé. I greatly value the trust that has developed between myself and the Bagley brothers, who do an incredible job in putting together this annual supercar show.”
CHUBB INSURANCE CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE ENTRANTS
  1. 1910 Pierce Four 700cc
  2. 1925 Brough Superior SS100 996cc
  3. 1926 Indian Scout 600cc
  4. 1938 Moto Guzzi GTC Leggera 500cc
  5. 1939 BSA 'Silver Star' B21 250cc
  6. 1941 Indian 741 500cc
  7. 1957 Velocette Le MKII 197cc
  8. 1962 BSA Rocket Gold Star 650cc
  9. 1962 Triumph TR6R 650cc
  10. 1974 MV Agusta 750 Sport 742cc
  11. 1979 Ducati Mike Hailwood Replica 968cc
  12. 1979 Honda CBX1000 1000cc
  13. 1926 Brough Superior SS100 1000cc
  14. 1958 Norton Manx 350cc
  15. 1958 Triumph T110 650cc
  16. 1966 Triumph TT 650cc
  17. 1967 Millyard RC374 374cc
  18. 1968 BSA ex works Motocross 500cc
  19. 1975 Honda Hondastyle Racer 998cc
  20. 1978 Honda F2 GP 598cc
  21. 1920 Bugatti Type 13 Brescia
  22. 1926 Hispano Suiza H6B
  23. 1928 Aston Martin T-type Sport Tourer
  24. 1928 Bugatti Type 44 Aerodynamique
  25. 1933 Bugatti Type 55 Roadster
  26. 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Tipo Le Mans
  27. 1937 Delage D8-120
  28. 1938 Lancia Astura Cabriolet Series IV
  29. 1939 Steyr 220 Cabriolet
  30. 1952 Jaguar XK120
  31. 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4
  32. 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 MKI
  33. 1955 Porsche 550 RS Spyder
  34. 1956 Lotus XI Le Mans
  35. 1958 Aston Martin DB MKIII
  36. 1959 Lotus Elite S1
  37. 1960 MG A
  38. 1960 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Zagato
  39. 1961 Ferrari 250 GTE
  40. 1961 Jaguar E Type
  41. 1962 Shelby Cobra 260 MKI
  42. 1963 Aston Martin DB4 Series V Convertible
  43. 1963 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet (W111)
  44. 1963 Ford Galaxie 500 R Lightweight
  45. 1964 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso
  46. 1964 Ferrari 250 Le Mans
  47. 1965 Ferrari 275 GTS
  48. 1965 Aston Martin DB5
  49. 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB
  50. 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 MKIII
  51. 1967 Rolls-Royce Phantom V
  52. 1967 Bizzarrini 5300 GT America BA4
  53. 1968 Ferrari 275 GTB4
  54. 1968 Dino 206 GT
  55. 1969 Ferrari 365 GTC
  56. 1969 Lamborghini Espada
  57. 1970 Dino 246 GT Smith
  58. 1971 Lamborghini Miura S
  59. 1971 Iso Grifo MKII
  60. 1972 Ferrari 365 GTS4
  61. 1972 Dino 246 GT
  62. 1972 Dino 246 GT
  63. 1972 Dino 246 GT
  64. 1972 Dino 246 GT
  65. 1973 Dino 246 GTS
  66. 1973 Dino 246 GT
  67. 1973 Dino 246 GTS
  68. 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Sport
  69. 1976 Lamborghini Urraco P300
  70. 1978 Ferrari 512 BB Koenig
  71. 1979 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
  72. 1989 Ferrari F40 GT/LM
  73. 1994 Jaguar XJ220
Source: Salon Prive