PIRELLI ALL SET FOR SALON PRIVÉ

PIRELLI ALL SET FOR SALON PRIVÉ

 Italian tyre manufacturer Pirelli will once again take centre stage at the most exclusive motor show in Britain: Salon Privé.

The half motor show, half-garden party, this prestige event takes place each year in the grounds of Blenheim Palace: the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill in Oxfordshire.

Salon Privé is now in its 14th year, with Pirelli supporting the event as a sponsor for the last five years. From September 5th- 8th, some of the rarest, exquisite and prestigious classic cars from around the world will form the centrepiece of the show. The annual event is a highlight of the year for some of the most luxurious and renowned automotive manufacturers out there, displaying their latest automotive offerings with both static exhibitions and moving demonstrations.

Pirelli will also have a prominent presence in the grounds of Blenheim Palace on the first weekend of September, offering quintessential Italian treats in its own lounge area.

The Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance opens the prestigious event on Thursday 5th September when, by invitation only, the most sought-after classic cars and motorcycles are displayed and scrutinised in detail by a committee of internationally-recognised judges.

An impressive line-up of modern-day supercars, hypercars and classic cars then provide the perfect backdrop for Friday’s Salon Privé Ladies’ Day by Boodles, before the weekend gets underway.

Celebrating 100 years of Bentley

Saturday and Sunday take in a celebration of all things Bentley, as part of the prestigious marque’s centenary. Pirelli has been working with the Crewe-based carmaker for decades, delivering a unique combination of performance and comfort to a variety of car models. The very first Mulsanne was fitted with low profile Pirelli tyres, while the Bentley Continental GT was shod with the asymmetric Pirelli P Zero. The timeless Arnage also received its own specifically developed P Zero Rosso tyres when new.

In 2018, a Pirelli-equipped Bentley Bentayga broke the SUV record at the celebrated Pikes Peak hill climb in Colorado, slashing the previous record by almost two minutes and cementing the Bentayga’s reputation as the fastest SUV in the world. For 2019, Bentley and Pirelli returned to the renowned hill climb with a new challenge: to break the outright production car record. The P Zero-equipped Continental GT covered the 156 corners in 10m18.488s, to set yet another fresh benchmark.

Pirelli also shares Bentley’s motorsport activities with the Continental GT3 that recently took a commanding victory in the 2019 Blancpain GT Series 1000km of Paul Ricard – one of the most prestigious GT3 races in Europe.

Track Adrenaline warms up for the UK

Salon Privé will host the UK launch of Pirelli’s Track Adrenaline product, for those who like to put their supercars through their paces on the track. Track Adrenaline is a new track day tool for track day users, gentleman drivers and driving schools, which manages to time laps while also serving as a real-time tyre pressure and temperature monitoring system. Track Adrenaline consists of an electronic box that can easily be fitted to a car, which is linked to the Track Adrenaline smartphone app and P Zero Trofeo R tyres with sensors inside. The Track Adrenaline box is also equipped with a powerful GPS unit, which guarantees precise geolocation and definition of racing lines, as well as timing. It opens up new frontiers in track day technology.

The P Zero UK Experience

P Zero Experience is an exclusive track-based event that Pirelli reserves for its customers, but it is far from a traditional track day. Having started in Italy in 2009, the P Zero Experience will be launching in the UK for the first time, with details of the exclusive programme made available at Salon Privé.

P Zero Experience is an event designed to give supercar enthusiasts and collectors a true experience of the world of Pirelli. The events take place at exclusive racing venues around the world, in a style that only Pirelli knows how to deliver.

Five-star hospitality, an open pit lane with assistance from Pirelli’s world-class technicians and engineers, as well as spine-tingling circuit action: what more could the ultimate track day involve?

Dominic Sandivasci, Pirelli UK Chairman and CEO, commented: “The jaw-dropping selection of prestigious and rare cars on display in the grounds of Blenheim Palace never ceases to amaze me. Salon Privé is a highlight of the year for Pirelli in the UK, fitting in perfectly with our brand values of technology, performance and style. We’re very excited to enter our fifth year supporting Salon Privé, which is made even more special this time with our launch of a ground-breaking technology product and a very exciting Pirelli track-based programme here in the UK.” 

Salon Privé Chairman, Andrew Bagley added, “We are thrilled to be hosting the launch of such an exciting new technological product from Pirelli. Track Adrenaline is an exciting and innovative new track day tool that will really allow drivers to harness their skills and improve their driving ability by monitoring the data captured whilst out on the track. This is the 5th year that Pirelli have been a sponsor at Salon Privé and we look forward to welcoming them back to the spectacular lawns of Blenheim this year.”

SENSATIONAL QUARTET OF RARE CLASSIC FERRARI AMERICAS SET TO WOW AT SALON PRIVÉ

SENSATIONAL QUARTET OF RARE CLASSIC FERRARI AMERICAS SET TO WOW AT SALON PRIVÉ

1952 Ferrari 342 America Cabriolet

 When Enzo Ferrari began producing exciting and stylish sports cars under his own name and famous ‘prancing horse’ logo in the late 1940s, he immediately identified the United States as a key potential and profitable market, creating some models specifically for his new affluent American clients.

Four exceptional examples of these rare, beautiful, collectable and highly-prized American-inspired Ferraris will grace the grounds of Blenheim Palace with a dedicated ‘Ferrari Americas’ class in this year’s Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance.

To help whet the appetite of all automotive enthusiasts and ‘Tifosi’ ahead of their display at Salon Privé, the quartet of American-influenced Ferraris will consist of a pair of early 1950s 342 Americas, plus a mid-1960s Ferrari 500 Superfast and 365 California Spider.

1967 Ferrari 365 California Spyder

At the time of production, the 342 America was Ferrari’s top-end grand touring model, and the forerunner to the 375 America series, the ultra-luxurious and powerful GTs for Ferrari’s wealthiest and most prestigious customers.

Only six 342 Americas were built, Salon Privé gathering two together; one being the first of only three cabriolets made - and the only one bodied by Carrozzeria Vignale – with the second example being the 1953 Geneva Motor Show car, which was built to be used as a rally car (being entered into the Rallye Soleil-Cannes) with a high-performance engine, an extra-large fuel tank, and even a rally timer!

1953 Ferrari 342 America

Fast forward to the mid-1960s and examples of Ferrari’s rare and luxurious 500 Superfast flagship coupé being presented at Salon Privé were bought by the elite ‘Jet Set’ and celebrities, contemporary owners of the Superfast included Peter Sellers, The Aga Khan, Gunter Sachs and the Shah of Persia. The 500 Superfast at Salon Privé will be the very last of just 36 examples built, and one of only two ‘Series 2’ RHD cars made.

Finishing off the extraordinary quartet of ‘Ferrari Americas’ appearing at Salon Privé will be 1967 365 California Spider delivered new to Luigi Chinetti Motors in the USA; this car being one of an elite group of only 14 examples produced between 1966 and 1967. As a total package, the 365 California was designed to appeal to Ferrari’s premium customers who demanded a more exclusive and striking style of grand touring coachwork.

These four Ferraris will join other classic examples of Maranello’s finest models, as well as the rarest models from 18 other marques, all participating in the 2019 Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance at Blenheim Palace on Thursday 5thSeptember.

Salon Privé Concours Chairman, Andrew Bagley commented, “Built during the 50s and 60s for the US market, the Ferrari Americas are a collection of the most desirable V12 models, and we’re thrilled to be presenting 4 of them at this year’s Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance. All built as top-end Grand Tourers with the largest V12 engines, they represent some of the rarest models ever to come out of Maranello.”

For more information about tickets, please visit the website: https://www.salonpriveconcours.com/classic-and-supercar/

1966 Ferrari 500 Superfast

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS TO PRESENT EUROPEAN DEBUT OF GHOST ZENITH AT SALON PRIVÉ

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS TO PRESENT EUROPEAN DEBUT OF GHOST ZENITH AT SALON PRIVÉ

The Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith

The Directors of Salon Privé are delighted to confirm the European debut of the stunning, limited edition Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith which made its North American debut recently at Pebble Beach.

The Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith will be a true collector’s item with just 50 of these extraordinary motor cars being made available by the marque. It comes to being as Rolls-Royce Motor Cars acknowledges the success and global adoration that has been lavished on one of the world’s most luxurious motor cars during its ten-year life cycle and with Ghost now truly at its apex, now is the time to celebrate the ultimate in craftsmanship and automotive perfection. 

It was the Silver Ghost of 1908 that established Rolls-Royce Motor Cars as manufacturers of ‘The Best Car in the World’ and just over 100 years later, an experimental, contemporary expression of the iconic nameplate, 200EX was shown at the Geneva Motor Show. Since its introduction in 2009, Ghost has gone on to become the most successful Rolls-Royce motor car ever built, attracting a new and much younger group of owners to the marque, resulting in the average age of owners now being just 43.

The original 200EX concept was intended to be both driver and passenger-focused, and no other car combines performance and dynamic driver experience with luxury in the way that Ghost does. The Ghost Zenith Collection retains the car’s dynamism but takes luxury to a new level, drawing many references from 200EX, the most significant being the inclusion of a commemorative ingot, made from the original concept’s Spirit of Ecstasy, melted down and set into the centre console. Engraved with the three key design lines of Ghost, the plaque details its significant origins and even the Collection’s own Spirit of Ecstasy and clock are engraved with the name of this highly anticipated motor car. In the centre console, a blueprint inspired artwork enlarged to a point of abstraction has been divided into 50 distinct pieces, allowing each Ghost Zenith customer their own individual work of art.

The interior of the car is a testimony to the incredible skill of the master craftsmen and women in the marque’s legendary Woodshop as well as the members of the Bespoke Collective from the Home of Rolls-Royce’s Leather shop. Three different finishes are offered; wood, Technical Fibre or Piano finished veneer, all of which perfectly compliment the exquisitely embroidered leather interior. Unique to the Ghost Zenith Standard Wheelbase, the famed Starlight Headliner is presented in a Shooting Star configuration, depicting shooting stars randomly firing across the cabin roof.

Externally, the Ghost Zenith Collection is presented in a stunning two-tone application with a high gloss contrast paint finish and Silver Satin bonnet, first seen on 200EX. Three different colour-ways are available; Iguazu Blue with Andalusian White, Premiere Silver with Arctic White or a daring Bohemian Red with Black Diamond, with multiple variants available highlighting the flexibility of the model.

Commenting on the Ghost Zenith Collection, Salon Privé Co-Founder & Sales Director, David Bagley commented,“It is a real honour for us to host the European debut of the Rolls-Royce Ghost Zenith at this year’s event straight after its reveal at Pebble Beach. Henry Royce had an instinctive desire for perfection and his fabled ethic of taking the best that exists and making it better is demonstrated here today as Rolls-Royce have taken the most successful car they have ever produced – and made it better. The workmanship and expertise that has gone into creating this limited-edition luxury collector’s item is simply extraordinary and we are thrilled to be presenting this sensational new luxury car on the lawns of Blenheim Palace during Salon Privé.”

TRIO OF STUNNING ROYAL CARS TO GRACE BLENHEIM LAWNS AT SALON PRIVÉ

TRIO OF STUNNING ROYAL CARS TO GRACE BLENHEIM LAWNS AT SALON PRIVÉ

A distinguished pair of coachbuilt Rolls-Royce and a stunning Ferrari, all with documented Royal provenance, will grace the manicured lawns of Blenheim Palace for this year’s spectacular Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance which takes place on Thursday 5th & Friday 6th September.

The first and earliest of the two Rolls-Royces is an imposing open touring-bodied 1912 Silver Ghost, coachbuilt by Barker & Co. of London and fitted with an elaborate Taj Mahal nameplate for its Indian Raj client; the Maharaja of Nabha. This distinctive Silver Ghost has a unique place in Rolls-Royce history, it being the only surviving pre-1914 Indian trials car, with its authentic engine and chassis still carrying its original body. Remarkably, the car has only had two owners since new, with the current custodians having owned her since her return to England in the early 1990s. 

The second Rolls-Royce model is a Silver Wraith. In the early 1950s, the Silver Wraith was built and prepared by Rolls-Royce as a drivable chassis, and then dispatched to some of the world’s best coachbuilders where bespoke bodies were designed and fitted. Designed to be one of the most luxurious motor cars in the world, the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith carried some of the most prestigious passengers of its time, including royals and imperials, plus other wealthy clients such as leading industrialists and Hollywood celebrities. This particular Silver Wraith, chassis WVH74 was built in 1953 as a 4-door Drophead Coupe by London-based Coachbuilder, Hooper & Co. and went on to have the enviable pleasure of carrying not only official Royalty but also Hollywood Royalty as it was the car used by Prince Rainier of Monaco for his wedding to Grace Kelly on 18thApril 1956.

The 1954 Ferrari 250 GT Europa is a very special custom-built example, bodied in aluminium alloy for Princess Liliana de Rèthy, the second wife of His Royal Highness King Leopold II of Belgium. It was the second of five Ferraris that would pass through the Royal household. The Royal couple were apparently very ‘hands-on’ during the design and construction of the car, making several documented visits to Turin to approve drawings, colours, materials and interior treatment. Finished in dark green with tan leather interior and a rare off-white vinyl-covered roof, chassis 0359 GT was delivered to Princess Liliana on January 5th, 1955.

Remarking on the Royal cars entered into next month’s event, Salon Privé’s Concours Chairman, Andrew Bagley said: “It is very exciting to have some truly Royal motorcars taking part in this year’s concours. Each car is exquisite with amazing provenance and I’m sure they harness many untold stories. The breath-taking Blenheim Palace location makes for the perfect and highly appropriate backdrop for these historic and authentic Royal cars.”

For more information about tickets, please visit the website: https://www.salonpriveconcours.com

PURITALIA BERLINETTA OFFICIAL UK LAUNCH AT SALON PRIVÉ

PURITALIA BERLINETTA OFFICIAL UK LAUNCH AT SALON PRIVÉ Puritalia Automobili will showcase its latest creation, the 965 hp super-hybrid Berlinetta on the lawns of Blenheim Palace at this year’s Salon Privé. Following the great success of the launch during the 89th Geneva International Motor Show in March 2019, Puritalia Automobili are now taking the Berlinetta to countries where they have registered most interest and appreciation and where they will establish a strategic presence to support the development of the company brand. During Salon Privé, the company will announce two new official dealerships for United Kingdom and Australia which Puritalia Automobili has appointed for the exclusive distribution of a dedicated right-hand version of our Fuoriserie, the Berlinetta, in their related regions. Together with their new UK Dealer in London, Puritalia Automobili have arranged a very exclusive and private event for selected customers after Salon Privé to give them the opportunity to see and test drive the Berlinetta on the beautiful English country roads. CEO & Founder, Paolo Parente commented: “We are thrilled to present our Berlinetta for the first time in the UK at this year’s Salon Privé. The ambience and atmosphere are what makes Salon Privé such a unique boutique event and I believe it is just perfect to present our Fuoriserie to the most demanding car enthusiasts and collectors in the UK. The Berlinetta is not for everyone, but only for true connoisseurs that appreciate artisanal cars in every detail. The huge interest we have received from the UK proves how much the British motor culture still appreciates traditional skills and craftsmanship where Italians cars, just like the British ones, are second to none.” Puritalia Berlinetta at a glance: The Italian “SuperHybrid”: the most powerful Italian hybrid supercar The proprietary hybrid powertrain that offers the best of both worlds: front-mounted V8 combustion engine + rear parallel mounted advanced axial flux electric motor Combined power: 965 hp / 1,248 Nm torque Hybrid carbon-fibre /aluminium chassis: carbon-fibre central tub with aluminium sub-frames and suspension plates fully CNC machined from a single aeronautical aluminium billet Pre-preg carbon-fibre body panels and interiors with a carbon-fibre exposed finish Proprietary patented technology Puritalia Purhydrive© for smart management of the electric power through auto-learning of driving style and cloud-based AI (Artificial Intelligence) technology. Puritalia eMozione© to increase the torque provided by the electric motor to an additional 370 Nm on-demand. Puritalia Digital-DNA© - fully connected vehicle control system to manage the entire car through the interior touch-screen, vocal controls, and remotely by smartphone. Puritalia Orchestra© - quad titanium exhaust system with smart electronic modulation and active side pipes Exclusive buying experience reserved for a select elite of car enthusiasts and collectors (Puritalia Ambassadors) Puritalia Sartoria© program providing a personal design team to assist each customer during the specification and building process of their car with the highest degree of customization and direct contact with the Design Team. Puritalia Automobili S.r.l. Viale Antonio Gramsci 17/B, 80122, Napoli (ITALY) Email: info@puritalia.com Website: www.puritalia.com Press Office: press@puritalia.info David Bagley, Co-Founder & Sales Director Salon Privé, commented, “The concept of classic styling with modern technology is not new in itself, but the Puritalia Berlinetta really is something different. Hand-crafted and beautifully designed, it engages the owner at every stage of its build to create not only a truly unique experience but also a stunning, high-performance GT car at the end of it and with only 150 scheduled to be built, it will be a very rare sight indeed.

FIRST PRODUCTION JAGUAR D-TYPE AND 15TH E-TYPE JOIN CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

FIRST PRODUCTION JAGUAR D-TYPE AND 15TH E-TYPE JOIN CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

1955 Jaguar D-Type Coupe

The first production Jaguar D-Type, one of history’s most prominent race cars, is set to star at the 2019 Concours of Elegance. Chassis XKD 509 is widely known as one of the most original D-Types in the world, with significant road and racing history, and will join the 15th E-Type FHC ever built in a line-up of the world’s rarest and most significant cars.

The 3.4-litre straight-six powered 1950s racer is possibly the most original D-Type in existence. It has kept its matching-numbers engine, gearbox and chassis, including the front subframe and monocoque centre-section. Its 1970s black body respray is still very much in its original condition but was applied to the car to replace one of the most iconic in-period American racing liveries. While under the ownership of Lu Brero Sr, Chassis XKD 509 sported a wonderful matte dark blue on white colour-scheme with five unique vertical stripes down the length of the car. It was privately raced at tracks all over the globe, achieving podium spots and victories at a number of world-class motoring events.

The first production Jaguar D-Type will take pride-of-place in the palace gardens alongside the 15th E-Type FHC ever built. One of six E-Types displayed at the 1961 Scottish Motor Show, this particular example of the iconic British sportscar has played an incredibly significant role in the history of one of the country’s most renowned automotive manufacturers.

Having moved into private ownership in 1976, it was dismantled some twenty years ago with the intention of having it fully-restored, but E-Type #15 was left in pieces until it was purchased in 2013. After a 3,000-hour restoration by Classic Motor Cars, retaining the majority of its original parts, it’s now perfectly finished in its original colour of Pearl Grey - the only 1961 E-Type to be painted in this shade.

Both of these cars, the genesis of Jaguar’s sports car legend, will be joined by a collection of around 50 other historic Jaguar models at Concours of Elegance for the fifth annual Jaguar Trophy. Members of the Jaguar Drivers, E-Type and XK Clubs are set to bring along their pride and joy to the palace to be assessed by our esteemed panel of judges, before the winner is crowned on the live stage.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said:“This year’s Concours of Elegance is a real occasion for fans not just of Jaguar but of historic British cars in general. Alongside this gathering of some of the most significant Jaguar cars ever built, we’ve got a display of one of each of the 19 Aston Martin Zagato models built, a collection of the most important Bentleys ever – including the first car to win at Le Mans back-to-back – and a whole host of other icons from the likes of Rolls-Royce, Lotus and McLaren.”

Adult tickets for this year’s Concours of Elegance start from £40, with children under five and carers entering free of charge. Visitors are also able to purchase bespoke hospitality packages, including VIP parking, three-course lunch, drinks reception and cream tea. To buy tickets head to http://www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

ASTON MARTIN LEGENDS JOIN CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

ASTON MARTIN LEGENDS JOIN CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

 Five of the rarest and most astonishing Aston Martins ever built have now been confirmed for Concours of Elegance 2019. From the track-focused 1932 Le Mans Lightweight ‘LM9’ to the 1985 V8 Vantage that formed the template for the fabled X-Pack Vantages, these six cars are the very pinnacle of Aston Martin innovation, design and performance.

Now almost 90 years old, the 1932 Aston Martin Le Mans Lightweight ‘LM9’ was created specifically to race at the Le Mans 24 Hours race that year, in conjunction with its sister car ‘LM10’. ‘LM9’ was fitted with a number of ‘Electron’ parts, a magnesium and aluminium alloy, to help reduce weight over previous Aston Martin racers, and had a pointed tail and low radiator design to help with aerodynamics.

The 1.5-litre car’s first outing was at Le Mans, during 1932 but it didn’t prove successful. The driver pairing of Peacock and Buzzant were forced to retire from the race when a rocker arm broke, was replaced by mechanics, but then the whole rocker bracket failed on the next lap. But its story doesn’t end there; ‘LM9’ returned to Le Mans the following year with the driver pairing of Driscoll and Penn Hughes, with more success. In fact, ‘LM9’ finished the Le Mans 24 Hours fifth overall, first in class and 2nd in the Rudge Cup; an early weighting system that compared a car’s finishing position with its engine size.

At the more modern end of the Aston Martin lineup, Concours of Elegance will be displaying a V8 Vantage model with a significant history. The very car on display at Hampton Court Palace is the genesis of the fabled X-Pack V8 Vantage models, of which only 131 were built.

Finished in Kensington Silver, this V8 Vantage started life as a ‘standard’ car but was later returned to Aston Martin Works so they could begin developing a new, more powerful and better handling version to best the Ferrari 288 GTO and Lamborghini Countach QV 5000. As a result, it got new high compression Cosworth pistons, a larger intake manifold, new Weber carburettors, redesigned cylinder heads and more.

No line up of Aston Martins would be complete without key ‘DB’ models; and Concours of Elegance will start with one of the earliest, the DB2/4 Mark II Saloon. Produced as a more practical four-seater version of the DB2, this particular example was purchased new in June 1956 from Brooklands of Bond Street by The Count Charles de Salis who, together with Cpt Gregor MacGregor entered the followings month’s International Alpine Rally – renowned as being one of the most gruelling motor events of its period. The pair came second in class and won a much-coveted ‘Coupe des Alpes’.

Two examples of arguably the most famous Aston Martin in history will also be on display in the main Concours d’elegance line-up; the DB5 and DB5 Convertible. Made famous by a certain secret agent, the DB5 catapulted Aston Martin into popular culture. The DB5 Saloon being displayed at Hampton Court Palace holds the honour of being the first car to wear the Aston Martin Works Coachbuilders badge, having been the first project fully restored by the factory.

The Aston Martins in the main Concours display will be joined by a special world-first Aston Martin Zagato feature as part of Zagato’s Centenary celebrations. Concours of Elegance will gather one of every Aston Martin Zagato variant ever manufactured in celebration of Zagato’s Centenary. From the 1960 DB4 GT Zagato, right through to the Vanquish Zagato Coupé, Volante, Speedster and Shooting Brake, visitors will be able to browse 19 examples from one of the most famous creative partnerships in automotive history.

Regarded as the UK’s finest Concours d’elegance, the Hampton Court Palace Concours of Elegance will, for its 8th event, return to the finely manicured gardens of the former home of Henry VIII. From 6-8 September, this once-in-a-lifetime gathering of spectacular vehicles will not only include a celebration of the Ferrari 166MM celebration but also a gathering of ‘Future Classics’ – the rarest and most bespoke luxury and performance cars of the last decade.

Of course, the Concours of Elegance’s central display of more than 60 of the rarest vehicles ever built will be the focal point, telling the story of the motor car from the pioneers of the 1890s right through to the latest bespoke hypercars. Picking out icons and rarities from the world’s most famous car brands, including Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bugatti and Rolls-Royce, the Concours of Elegance is a celebration of craftsmanship, luxury and innovation.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said:“For fans of the Aston Martin brand, Concours of Elegance 2019 is an absolutely unmissable event. Not only do we have a number of the most significant Astons ever produced in our main line-up, but we’ve also got a world-first Aston Martin Zagato display gathering one-offs and rarities that will come together only once in a lifetime. Add to that an official presence from Aston Martin itself, alongside car club displays from the Aston Martin Owners Club, and visitors will have nearly a hundred Aston Martins to admire over the course of the 6th-8th September.”

Adult tickets for this year’s Concours of Elegance start from £40, with children under five and carers entering free of charge. Visitors are also able to purchase bespoke hospitality packages, including VIP parking, three-course lunch, drinks reception and cream tea. To buy tickets head to: http://www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

SALON PRIVÉ TO SHOWCASE SIGNIFICANT COMPETITION CARS

SALON PRIVÉ TO SHOWCASE SIGNIFICANT COMPETITION CARS

 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC

. Among the 50 exceptional and rare motor cars, battling for the prestigious ‘Best of Show’ prize at the annual Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance will be a pair of significant competition cars; a celebrated 1937 Delahaye 145, plus a 1957 Ferrari 500 TRC.

The Delahaye to feature at Salon Privé is the remarkable ‘Million-Franc’ 145, the first of four 4.5-litre V12 race cars built for the Écurie Bleue Racing Team owned by Americans, Laury and Lucy Schell. After months of tuning, one of the Schell Delahaye Type 145’s competed in the French government’s automotive engineering challenge; the Million Franc Prize. On August 27th 1937, legendary driver René Dreyfus drove one of Schell’s Type 145 for 200 kilometres in a record one hour, twenty-one minutes, 49 1/2 seconds, travelling at an average speed of 91.3 miles per hour (146.7 km/h) on the banked Montlhery motor circuit, south of Paris. The Prix du Million had been won, this being a one million franc prize offered in 1937 by the French Government to encourage French motor car manufacturers to beat the Germans, which were then dominating motor racing.

The Delahaye then competed in the Grand Prix de Pau in 1938 with a first-place finish, beating the Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrows. This victory was repeated at the Grand Prix de Cork, followed by the Mille Miglia with a fourth-place finish. World War II then engulfed Europe and racing stopped. Post-war, this significant Delahaye traded hands, lost part of its original body and its identity was for a time difficult to establish, but careful research revealed its true history as the ex-Rene Dreyfus Montlhery record-breaker.

Another important competition racer at Salon Privé 2019 is the stunning Ferrari 500 TRC, acknowledged as one of the most beautiful racing cars ever built by Ferrari and successor to the two-litre racing 500 TR of 1956, in its turn successor to the Mondial. Only 19 Lampredi-engined 500 TRC models were built, all

for privateers, and the car presented at Salon Privé is the very last one. Chassis 0708MDTR was originally finished in red from the factory and sent to John Von Neumann in September 1957. Von Neumann was the first Ferrari dealer in California, who painted all his cars silver (Argento with a red stripe), the racing colour of Germany, with the red stripe being a homage to Ferrari. 0708MTDR did not actually find its first owner until August 1958, when it was sold for $11,232 plus tax to Jack Nethercutt of Sylmar, California.

While it missed most of the 1958 season, Nethercult made up for lost time by running 0708MDTR up and down the West Coast in at least thirteen races in 1959, with success. This Ferrari racer is today, without question, one of the best 500 TRCs in the world.

Commenting on this pair of outstanding competition cars, Salon Privé’s Concours Chairman, Andrew Bagley said: “We are delighted and very excited to include these notable competition cars of their day, and the inclusion of these important Delahaye and Ferrari models highlight the global reputation and status of our spectacular and exclusive Salon Privé Concours celebrations at Blenheim Palace.”

1937 Delahaye 145

THE MOST SIGNIFICANT FERRARI IN THE WORLD JOINS THE 166MM CELEBRATION AT CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

THE MOST SIGNIFICANT FERRARI IN THE WORLD JOINS THE 166MM CELEBRATION AT CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE

 The Concours of Elegance will welcome perhaps the most significant Ferrari in the world to its 2019 event as part of a special 70th-anniversary celebration of the 166MM Barchetta’s race victories at Le Mans, Spa and the Mille Miglia.

Four of the most historically significant 166MM chassis will gather in Hampton Court Palace’s beautiful Fountain Gardens from 6th-8th September, spearheaded by the ex-works #0008M – which is widely regarded as the most significant Ferrari in the world. It was uniquely piloted to a debut victory at both the Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1949, making it the only car of any marque to ever have achieved that feat. It also secured the first of the marque’s nine victories at the legendary endurance race, after which it went on to be displayed at the Paris Auto Salon that year.

The 1949 24 Hours of Spa was then won that same year by the second works-entry 166MM, #0010M, which is also set to feature in the Hampton Court Palace display. It has resided in the US for the last half-a-century and will be making the trip across the Atlantic especially for the Concours of Elegance, represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for UK car enthusiasts.

Former Fiat and Ferrari owner, Gianni Agnelli’s personally commissioned 166 Barchetta #0064M is also set to appear as part of the Concours line-up. The two-tone blue and green masterpiece won both class and outright victories at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in-period and has since been awarded the ‘Coppa d’Oro’ at the Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza. It will feature alongside the third Ferrari Barchetta ever made another Villa D’Este winner from some 66 years prior – chassis #0006M, a Barchetta that competed in the 1949 Mille Miglia, finishing 6th in class. Exactly 70 years after its first victory at Concorso d’Eleganza, #0006M was once again crowned a winner at the event during its 2019 run.

Two fine examples of the 166’s replacement, the Ferrari 212 Export will also join the display. A 212 Export Barchetta #0078E, winner of the 1951 Tour de France and driven by Phil Hill to victory at Torrey Pines in 1952, will be in attendance alongside 212 Export Berlinetta #0108E; an entrant into the 1952 Mille Miglia.

Regarded as the UK’s finest concours d’elegance, the Hampton Court Palace Concours of Elegance will, for its 8th event, return to the finely manicured gardens of the former home of Henry VIII. From 6-8 September, this once-in-a-lifetime gathering of spectacular vehicles will not only include the 166 celebrations, and a world-first display of Aston Martin Zagato models but a number of other as-yet-unannounced features.

Of course, the Concours of Elegance’s central display of more than 60 of the rarest vehicles ever built will be the focal point, telling the story of the motor car from the pioneers of the 1890s right through to the latest bespoke hypercars. Picking out icons and rarities from the world’s most famous car brands, including Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bugatti and Rolls-Royce, the Concours of Elegance is a celebration of craftsmanship, luxury and innovation.

Andrew Evans, Concours of Elegance Director, said: “It is with great pleasure and excitement that we announce the latest feature at this year’s Concours of Elegance. Gathering this astonishing collection of heritage-laden 166MM racers – including the most significant vehicle in Ferrari’s incredible history, no less – is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Having already revealed the world-first Aston Martin Zagato feature, which will display one of every model produced by one of motoring’s most legendary partnership, we’ve got the content of a world-class show already. Of course, that’s without mentioning what has always sat at the heart of our event – over 60 of the rarest cars ever built – and the near-1,000 rare and exotic cars that will make up our other features and car club displays.”

Adult tickets for this year’s Concours of Elegance start from £40, with children under five and carers entering free of charge. Visitors are also able to purchase bespoke hospitality packages, including VIP parking, three-course lunch, drinks reception and cream tea. To buy tickets head to http://www.concoursofelegance.co.uk/tickets

BLENHEIM PALACE HOSTS SUMMER JAGUAR FESTIVAL THIS SUNDAY INCLUDING THE WORLD’S LARGEST DISPLAY OF JAGUARS FROM FILM & TV

BLENHEIM PALACE HOSTS SUMMER JAGUAR FESTIVAL THIS SUNDAY INCLUDING THE WORLD’S LARGEST DISPLAY OF JAGUARS FROM FILM & TV

Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire will be graced by the spectacle of hundreds of classic and modern Jaguars on Sunday 12th May, for the 2019 Summer Jaguar Festival, hosted by the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club. The event promises to offer something for everyone for fans of the iconic British car brand to families looking for a great day out.

Set in the stunning surroundings of the Blenheim Palace courtyard, visitors will be presented with the largest gathering of Jaguars from Film and TV, ever seen. The display will include a full range of vehicles from James Bond films, cult classics such as the E-Type from the Italian Job and cars from TV dramas including the Mark 1 saloon from the hit series Endeavour. Fans of the 1970s show Minder will be excited by Arthur Daley’s very own Jaguar XJ6 as used in the TV classic, a car that has rarely been seen since filming ceased.

The Jaguar Mark 2, synonymous with the exploits of TV detective Inspector Morse, celebrates 60 years since it went on sale this year. This momentous occasion will be marked by a procession of over one hundred classic Jaguars from all eras around the usually closed roads of the Blenheim Palace parkland.

The courtyard will also feature appearances from the inspirational team behind the Jaguar F Type currently racing in the British GT championship. Visitors will not fail to be captivated by the fascinating story behind the Invictus Games Racing team, who consist of two ex-military servicemen who have overcome horrific injuries sustained on operations in the middle-east, to turn their lives around and compete at the top levels of motorsport alongside pro-driver Matthew George. The story is even more inspiring when you learn that the team won their class in the first race of the season at Oulton Park last month, despite the fact that neither Paul Vice nor Steve McCulley even had racing licenses two years ago! There will be a chance to meet the drivers and see the cars in the Blenheim Palace courtyard throughout the day.

Elsewhere visitors will be treated to displays of performance Jaguars and racing cars, celebrating the achievements of the Tom Walkinshaw racing team. The team, once based in Kidlington, Oxfordshire were famous (amongst other motor racing achievements) for taking Jaguar to their Le Mans victories of 1988 and 1990 as well as creating some of the finest supercars wearing the Jaguar badge. TWR racing were also one of the major employers in their area of Oxfordshire in the 1980s and 1990s. The TWR display will include an XJ220 Le Mans car kindly displayed by Don Law. Don Law explains the car’s significance,

“The car on display is one of the four XJ220 chassis transferred from Jaguar Sport Bloxham to TWR Racing in early 1993 for the preparation and assault on the GT Class for Le Mans that year.   Of the four chassis prepared, three cars entered the Le Mans 24-hour race in 1993, and this one is chassis number 004, in full 1993 Le Mans race livery.”

The event also offers a trade show, where businesses from the classic Jaguar industry will showcase their products and services alongside cars for sale, arts, crafts and food stalls.

Interviews and commentary with visiting celebrities from the Jaguar world, car owners, racing drivers and other personalities will be broadcast on a big screen sponsored by CMC Classic Motor Cars, Bridgnorth for all to enjoy throughout the day.

Furthermore, those wanting to attend but worrying that it may cause them to miss the Spanish Grand Prix will be pleased to know that the full round of the F1 race will also be shown live on the big screen from 14.00hrs, thanks to event sponsors Pirelli.

Summer Jaguar Festival Timetable. Blenheim Palace. Sunday 12th May.

10:00 Show Opens

10.10 Live interview features with club partners & sponsors on our Big Screen, hear from the likes of Classic Motor Cars (CMC), Meguiars, SNG Barratt, Duckhams Oil, Swallows and Hamilton Classic.

10.40 Live commentary tour of the Concours entrants and Film and TV Jaguars. Find out about the people and cars behind these stunning exhibits.

11.20 A tour of the gathered TWR celebration cars and a chat to some past TWR team members.

11.46 Spitfire fly-past (TBC)

11.50 Meet the Invictus Games Racing team drivers in the courtyard. We’ll be talking to Matt George live and hearing about how the season is going so far, for the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club Sponsored F-Type entry into the British GT Championship.

12.35 Build up to the CMC Commemorative Parade. We meet the drivers, owners and cars involved in this special moment where Jaguars take to the palace parkland.

13.00 The Classic Motor Cars Ltd Commemorative Parade departs.

14.00 David Marks Seminar on the history of the Jaguar compact saloon cars in the Palace Courtyard.

14.05 Live screening of the Spanish Grand Prix courtesy of Pirelli.

15:00 Awards presentation by Mike Horlor, JEC Chairman for Concours D’ Elegance and Pride and Joy in the Blenheim Palace courtyard.

16:00 Show close