CURTAIN FALLS ON THE MOST SUCCESSFUL SALON PRIVÉ EVER

CURTAIN FALLS ON THE MOST SUCCESSFUL SALON PRIVÉ EVER

Records were broken across the board at this year’s ‘Salon Privé Week’. The event, still only in its 14th year, attracted more visitors, more international concours entrants, more exhibitors and more automotive debuts than ever before. In excess of 25,000 guests attended the 4-day event which saw 80 luxury and automotive brands presenting their latest products. A total of 11 new cars were debuted, including 5 UK debuts, 5 European debuts and 1 World debut, the 1939 Bentley Corniche from Bentley Motors.

Salon Privé comprises seven individual events over five days, attracting automotive royalty from across the globe to Oxfordshire and the stunning home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace.

Wednesday 4th September saw Tour Privé depart with 50 stunning and rare classics set off from Blenheim Palace for a 120-mile round-trip through the Cotswolds. The Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance took place on Thursday 5th, with 57 classic car and 18 motorcycle entrants, from 16 countries, competing for the main prize, the Salon Privé Best of Show. Friday 6th saw Salon Privé Ladies’ Day by Boodles with hats of all shapes, colours and sizes arrive in the hope of winning the spectacular BeBoodles pendant offered with the Boodles Best Hat competition. Also that day, the Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance Best in Show was announced with the sensational 1948 Talbot Lago T26 GS Fastback Coupé taking top honours. This stunning and worthy winner will now go on to compete in the elite Peninsula Classics Best of the Best, with Salon Privé being a Partner Concours.

Friday evening saw neighbouring Woodstock play host to the inaugural Salon Privé LIVE which saw 120 classic, super and hypercars parade through the streets to the rapturous applause of local residents with live music and dancing afterwards. Salon Privé LIVE is the all-new automotive street party.

Saturday 7th saw the start of two days of celebration for the most iconic of British luxury automotive brands, Bentley. On the South Lawn and with a panel of judges that included Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, Adrian Hallmark and 5 times Le Mans Winner, Derek Bell MBE, 52 sensational Bentleys came together for the Salon Privé Bentley Masters by Chubb Insurance, Pirelli and Lockton Private Clients. With a line-up that included amongst other, the oldest Bentley in existence, the 1920 EXP No.2, 1934 Barnato Hassan, 1939 Corniche (which made its Global Debut at the event) and 1952 R Type Continental No. 1, it was, by all accounts, the most prolific gathering of significant Bentleys ever. That evening the Salon Privé Bentley Masters Owners’ Choice was announced with the stunning 1930 4.5 Litre Supercharged by Gurney Nutting owned by American collector, Anne Brockinton Lee taking the top prize. Interestingly, both the 4.5 Litre and EXP 100 GT had been together just 2 weeks prior at Pebble Beach.

While Bentley was being celebrated on the lawns of Blenheim Palace, the inaugural Salon Privé GT Tour was launched with 61 super and hypercars departing Brooklands heading to Goodwood for a run up the Hill, before returning to Salon Privé at Blenheim Place on Sunday, taking pride of place in the Great Court.

Sunday 8th September saw the South Lawn open to the public for the first time ever with the newly launched Salon Privé Classic & Supercar and on the North Lawn, a major world record was broken as 1,321 Bentleys gathered in celebration of their beloved marque. 

Of the marque celebrations at Salon Privé this year, Bentley Motors Chairman & CEO, Adrian Hallmark, confirmed the world’s first continuation of a pre-war race car with the 12-strong continuation series of the iconic 1929 Team Blower. The 12 new Blowers, each identical to the original will be built – one for every race the original Team Blowers entered.

Meanwhile, 100 years of Brough Superior was celebrated In the Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance, with six models, book-ended by the 1930 SS80 De Luxe and the 1939 SS80.

Finally, Pagani celebrated 20 years of the sensational Zonda which was launched back in 1999 at the Geneva Motor Show. Models showcased were the Zonda C12, the Zonda F Roadster, the Zonda Cinque Roadster, the Zonda Tricolore and the one-off Zonda 760 ‘Oliver’.

To close ‘Salon Privé Week’ the Salon Privé Classic & Supercar public day took hold with over 17,000 guests flooding into Blenheim Palace on the Sunday alone. Bentley Drivers Club amassed a world-record 1,321 Bentleys, with five further prestigious car clubs, Aston Martin Owners’ Club, Ferrari Owners’ Club, Lamborghini Club UK, McLaren Owners Club, and Porsche Club of Great Britain, bringing over 500 classic and supercars to compete for the inaugural Lockton Club Trophy. The McLaren Senna scooped the top prize to the delight of its owner who had only just collected it weeks ago.

Brothers and Founders, Andrew and David Bagley were justifiably thrilled with the final outcome, commenting, “This year’s event surpassed even our highest expectations. The sheer diversity of classic cars, modern supercars and luxury brands on the lawn now is simply without equal and just keeps on getting better and better with every edition. This year, we’ve welcomed more international owners and brands than ever before and it’s so gratifying to see the event extend its reach across the world making many new friends along the way.”

SALON PRIVÉ CONCOURS D’ELÉGANCE BY CHUBB INSURANCE PRIZE WINNERS ANNOUNCED

SALON PRIVÉ CONCOURS D’ELÉGANCE BY CHUBB INSURANCE PRIZE WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Best of Show Winner: 1948 Talbot-Lago T26 GS Fastback Coupé (entered by Robert & Petra Kudela)

Reaffirming its place as the UK’s most exclusive Concours d’Elégance, the 2019 Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance saw some of the world’s rarest and most spectacular classic cars and motorcycles battle it out against the breath-taking backdrop of Blenheim Palace.

Now in its 14th year, Salon Privé welcomed over 25,000 guests to the prestigious and stylish four-day event, staged within the immaculate grounds of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire. The event continues to attract some of the most important collector cars in the world, very carefully chosen by the skilled Salon Privé Selection Committee.

For 2019, some 57 cars – 16 of them international entries – plus 18 motorcycles, were judged by an expert team during the Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance. The star-studded Concours comprised of three motorcycle and 13 car classes, ‘Pre-War Touring (open)’; ‘Pre-War Touring (closed); ‘Pre-War Sports Racers’; ‘Competition Cars’; ‘Ferrari GTs’; ‘Post-War British Coachbuilt’: ‘Ferrari Americas’; ‘Post-War Touring (open)’; ‘Post-War Touring (closed); ‘60 Years of Ferrari 250 GT SWB (road)’; ’60 Years of the Ferrari 250 GT SWB (competition); ‘Classics of the Future pre-2000; ‘Classics of the Future post-2000’, all competing for the prestigious Best of Show, Best of Show Runners-up and Honorary Awards.

Ed Gilbertson, Chairman of the International Chief Judge Advisory Group (ICJAG) and President of the Jury, headed up a team of world-leading specialist automotive judges, to decide on the Class Winners and ultimate Best of Show. Derek Bell MBE, Chief Honorary Judge, headed up the Honorary Judges ranging from globally-renowned designers and journalists, to respected motoring historians and motor industry heavyweights.

Taking home top honours, with the prestigious Best of Show Trophy, was the stunning 1948 Talbot Lago T26 GS Fastback Coupé with Figoni coachwork, entered by Robert and Petra Kudela. Commissioned in 1948 by a Mr. Fayolle, commonly known as the ‘Zipper King’ of France (hence the string of horizontal chrome strips above the main central headlamp), the Talbot-Lago made its public debut at the 1949 Paris Salon. This flamboyant motor car was relocated to California in the late-1950s, where it spent almost 50 years in storage. The T26 returned to Europe in 2015 when a full restoration was undertaken to return the car to the precise specification ordered by M. Fayolle back in 1948.

The 2019 Best in Show runner-up was a Barker-bodied 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost owned by Katie Forrest, with the unique Aprile-bodied 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport Spider of Corrado Lopresto placed third.

“This year’s Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance has been the most successful concours event in our relatively short history.  Set against the spectacular backdrop of Blenheim Palace, it further reinforced Salon Privé’s major presence on the global concours scene. I was delighted to present each car and owner with their award, particularly of course the Best of Show Figoni-bodied Talbot Lago,” said Salon Privé Concours Chairman, Andrew Bagley. “The owners of the superb Talbot Lago, Robert and Petra Kudela were absolutely thrilled; so much so that, in true Formula 1 podium style, Robert proceeded to spray his Pommery Champagne over the concours’ judges and guests; a first for Salon Privé! It was an honour and a privilege to display the T26 on the Blenheim Palace lawns, among some of the most important cars and collectors in the world” he added.

The concours celebrations didn’t stop there however, as following a memorable prize-giving, the inaugural Salon Privé LIVE saw more than 120 classic, super and hypercars headed out through the imposing Blenheim Palace Town Gates and out onto the streets of Woodstock to an appreciative and smiling crowd of thousands of Woodstock residents. Even a disguised new Aston Martin DBX joined in the with festivities, making a visit into the event.

Salon Privé remains the UK’s only concours to organise a whole host of week-long activities, fast becoming known as ‘Salon Privé Week’. Tour Privé kicked off the automotive celebrations on Wednesday 4th September, followed by Salon Privé Concours on 5th, Salon Privé LIVE on 6th, Salon Privé Bentley Masters on 7th, finally rounding of the event with Salon Privé GT Tour and Salon Privé Classic & Supercar on Sunday 8th September.

The results for the 2019 Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance by Chubb Insurance were:-

Best of Show

Winner: 1948 Talbot-Lago T26 GS Fastback Coupé (entered by Robert and Petra Kudela)

Runner-up: 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost by Barker (Katie Forrest)

People’s Choice

1930 Bentley 4.5 Litre Supercharged by Gurney Nutting (Anne Brockinton-Lee)

Honorary Awards

Duke of Marlborough Award: 1937 Delahaye 145 ‘Million Franc’ (Peter Mullin)

Chairman’s Award: 1935 Hispano Suiza K6 Cabriolet by Brandone (Richard Magides)

Class A: 100 Years of Brough Superior

Winner: 1936 Brough Superior SS100 (Howard Wilcox)

Runner-up: 1930 Brough Superior SS80 De Luxe (Dominic Jude)

Class B: Exceptional Motorcycles

Winner: 1972 Ducati 750S (Ian Clayton)

Runner-up: 1924 Norton Model 2 (Brian Glover)

Class C: Exceptional Competition Motorbikes

Winner: 1937 Triumph 5T Speed Twin Record Holder (Dick Shepherd)

Runner-up: 1968 BSA Ex Works Motocross (Mick Beech)

CLASS D: Pre-War Touring (open)

Winner: 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost (Katie Forrest)

Runner-up: 1925 Bentley 3 Litre (Lawrence Moore)

CLASS E: Pre-War Touring (closed)

Winner: 1935 Voisin C-25 Aerodyne (Peter Mullin)

Runner-up: 1932 Bentley 8 Litre (Mihai Negrescu)

CLASS F: Pre-War Sports Racers

Winner: 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Gran Sport Spider (Corrado Lopresto)

Runner-up: 1930 Bentley 4.5 Litre Supercharged (Anne Brockinton Lee)

CLASS G: Competition Cars

Winner: 1937 Delahaye 145 ‘Million Franc’ (Peter Mullin)

Runner-up: 1934 Bentley Barnato Hassan Special (Jorg Lemberg)

CLASS H: Ferrari GTs

Winner: 1954 Ferrari 250 GT Europa Vignale Coupé (Jaime Muldoon)

Runner-up: 1965 Ferrari 330 GT 2+2 (Mark Holmes)

CLASS I: Post-War British Coachbuilt

Winner: 1953 Bentley R-Type Continental (Jonathan Lyons)

Runner-up: 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III Coupe by Mulliner Park Ward (Robert Gaines-Cooper)

CLASS J: Ferrari Americas

Winner: 1952 Ferrari 342 America Cabriolet by Vignale (Dennis Garrity)

Runner-up: 1966 Ferrari 500 Supersport by Pininfarina (David Moores)

CLASS K: Post-War Touring (open motor cars)

Winner: 1957 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spyder Prototype (Bob Bishop)

Runner-up: 1950 Jaguar XK120 Drop Head Coupé (David Alston)

CLASS L: Post-War Touring (closed motor cars)

Winner: 1948 Talbot-Lago T26 GS Fastback Coupé (Robert and Petra Kudela)

Runner-up: 1953 Fiat 8V Rapi Corsa (Jan de Reu)

CLASS M: 60 Years of the Ferrari 250GT SWB (road)

Winner: 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta (Nigel Allen)

CLASS N: 60 Years of the Ferrari 250GT SWB (competition)

Winner: 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta Passo Corto Competizione SEFAC (Private Collector)

CLASS O: Classics of the Future; Pre-2000

Winner: 1990 Lamborghini Countach Anniversary (Steve Casha)

Runner-up: 1992 Lamborghini Diablo (Mark Bogard)

CLASS P: Classics of the Future; Post-2000

Winner: 2016 McLaren 650S Le Mans (John Day)

Runner-up: 2019 Ferrari SP3JC (John Collins)

GRAND TOURERS TO GATHER FROM FAR AND WIDE FOR BENTLEY’S MOST EXTENSIVE SALON PRIVÉ EVER

GRAND TOURERS TO GATHER FROM FAR AND WIDE FOR BENTLEY’S MOST EXTENSIVE SALON PRIVÉ EVER

Restored 1938 Bentley Corniche to make global debut

Bentley’s centenary celebrations are set to continue next week at the prestigious Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance at Blenheim Palace, with a series of debuts, events and announcements that make Bentley the stand-out marque at this year’s event.

The 1939 Bentley Corniche – once thought lost to time but recently completely restored from ruins by Bentley Mulliner – will make its global debut on the first day of Salon Privé on Thursday 5th September. The Corniche is a truly special Bentley – one of one, and the missing link in Bentley’s design DNA between the famous Bentley Embiricos of 1935 and the R-Type Continental of 1952 – cars which still inspire the modern-day Continental GT. The finished car will make its debut as the highlight of the Thursday morning press conference at Salon Privé, before joining the Concours field.

Making its UK public debut on Thursday will be the EXP 100 GT – Bentley’s vision of the future in concept car form, looking forward 15 years to the Bentley of 2035. Combining extraordinary technology, breath-taking sculptural design and a selection of sustainable materials, the EXP 100 GT is an embodiment of the future of luxury mobility. It will appear on a dedicated stage on the South Lawn from Thursday to Saturday.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Adrian Hallmark, will spend Saturday as part of a team of adjudicators judging more than 50 Bentleys from across history in the Salon Privé Bentley Masters. Bentley’s own EXP2 – the oldest Bentley in the world – will feature alongside an array of pre- and post-war Bentleys. That evening the Bentley Drivers Club will hold a Gala Dinner in Blenheim Palace itself, hosting Bentley’s Member of the Board for Sales & Marketing, Chris Craft.

Sunday is the climax of the event, with the Bentley Drivers Club holding their Annual Rally on-site by special permission of the Salon Privé organisers. More than 1,000 Bentleys will travel to Blenheim Palace from across the country, and in so doing will set a new World Record for the largest gathering of Bentleys in history. From the earliest 3 Litre models to the very latest third-generation Continental GT Convertible, the gathering will be a stunning visual representation of the development of Bentley over the last century. 

EXP 100 GT will then make its across the South Lawn of the event, where it will join the 1929 4½ litre Team Blower, the Corniche and nine other key Bentleys from across the last 100 years to form ‘The Magnificent Dozen’ – the final feature celebrating the brand’s centenary. 

Throughout the event, a Bentley retailer stand will also showcase the very latest Bentley models, including the all-new Flying Spur, Bentayga Hybrid and new Continental GT V8. Other iconic cars travelling from the Crewe factory to appear on the North and South lawns include the #8 2003 Speed 8 that completed the 1-2 at Le Mans that year with its #7 sister car, W.O. Bentley’s own 8-Litre and the Pikes Peak Bentayga.

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

ALPINE PRESENTS UK DEBUT OF NEW ALPINE A110S AT SALON PRIVÉ

ALPINE PRESENTS UK DEBUT OF NEW ALPINE A110S AT SALON PRIVÉ

New Alpine A110S

Alpine will unveil the most intense version of its lightweight 2-seater – the A110S at this year’s Salon Privé. Positioned at the top of the range and more driver-focused than the Pure and Legende models, its bespoke sport chassis features springs that are 50% stiffer along with anti-roll bars that are twice as firm. Road height is reduced by 4mm optimizing the car’s centre of gravity and with grip further improved by wider section tyres front and rear, the new car offers a truly dynamic driving experience. It’s important to note that all of these performance upgrades have had no detrimental effect on the car’s general driveability – it’s as much a high-performance sports car as it is a daily driver meaning the best of both worlds!

Power output from the familiar rear mid-engined 4cyl 16v turbocharged 1.8 Litre unit is increased by 40hp to produce nearly 300hp which in a car weighing just 1114 kg and mated to a 7-speed DCT gearbox with wet clutch, provides scintillating performance. 0-62 mph arrives in just 4.4 seconds and the A110S will go on to more than 160 mph where permitted.

Distinguished externally by its signature paint colour of Gris Tonnerre in matt finish, orange and carbon fibre flag on the C-pillar and unique GT Race alloy wheels fitted with orange Brembo brake callipers, the A110S sits purposely and poised. Inside, orange stitching replaces the signature blue and sophisticated black Dinamica upholstery is used for the roof lining, door panels and Sabelt bucket seats. Neat touches such as the orange 12 o’clock marker on the leather steering wheel, lightweight aluminium pedals and footrest and use of carbon fibre create a luxurious yet sporty environment. Optional upgrades include a gloss carbon fibre roof panel which reduces weight by 1.6 kg, Fuchs forged alloy wheels, special seat belts with carbon fibre finish and also carbon-fibre backed versions of the Sabelt bucket seats.

David Bagley, Co-Founder & Sales Director of Salon Privé said, “Like the original Berlinette of the 60s, the new Alpine A110S is a compact 2-seater sportscar – a true exponent of lightweight but with all the creature comforts you need to make it a pleasurable as well as exhilarating drive. It’s an exceptionally capable as well as focused sports car that offers exhilarating driving experience, made all the more entertaining by the upgrades in this latest model. We’re looking forward to welcoming Alpine back to Salon Privé!”

AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA DEBUT ENHANCED BATTISTA AT SALON PRIVÉ

AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA DEBUT ENHANCED BATTISTA AT SALON PRIVÉ

Pininfarina Battista

Advanced EV and hybrid technology are certainly at the forefront of this year’s Salon Privé with a selection of international hypercar brands all debuting new cars to the UK market.

One such brand and currently returning from a fabulous series of unveilings during Monterey Car Week is Automobili Pininfarina, who are now preparing to launch their stunning and enhanced Battista at this year’s Salon Privé which takes place at Blenheim Palace from 5th – 8th September.

Having been launched to an eagerly-awaiting world at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year and delivering on the Pininfarina family dream to see a range of luxury cars purely badged Pininfarina, Automobili Pininfarina then embarked on the next phase of simulation testing in the wind tunnel and on the track under the guidance of ex-Formula 1 and Formula E racer, Nick Heidfeld, their Development Driver. From a design perspective, the result of the development programme was a car with a redefined front which reinforced its hypercar look and feels and created a greater visual connection between front and back.

With 1,900 hp and 1,696 lb-ft torque available from its four electric motors, Automobili Pininfarina is aiming for a 0-62 mph sprint of fewer than 2 seconds for the Battista along with a single-charge range of 500 kilometres. Essentially, it’s a hypercar on one hand and an eminently driveable and beautiful luxury car on the other. With a maximum of just 150 examples being made, it will be ultra-exclusive. Just 50 Battistas are planned for Europe, 50 targeted at North America and 50 to the Middle East and Asia and the €2m hypercar will only be available to order through a small network of specialist luxury car and hypercar retailers.

Commenting on the forthcoming debut appearance of the new Battista, Salon Privé Co-Founder & Sales Director, David Bagley, said“I wholly concur with Pininfarina S.p.A Chairman, Paolo Pininfarina when he referred to the Battista as a work of art. It is just that - stunningly beautiful and elegant from every angle and yet its poise is true hypercar – low, wide and purposeful. With power and luxury to match, it is as they say a new reality for electric car desirability, and we are thrilled to be welcoming Automobili Pininfarina and Battista to this year’s Salon Privé.”

Michael Perschke, CEO Automobili Pininfarina said "Salon Privé is the perfect event at which to present the Battista in its most recent design form. The event is renowned for attracting true enthusiasts and car collectors who appreciate both automotive engineering and automotive beauty, and the Battista stands alone in presenting the perfect combination of both. With 89 years of Pininfarina heritage informing its design and a clear vision for the performance and drama that pure electrification can offer, Automobili Pininfarina looks forward to revealing the latest Battista for the first time in the UK”.

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.”

PAGANI AUTOMOBILI TO CONTINUE 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF ICONIC ZONDA WITH 5 MODEL DISPLAY AT SALON PRIVÉ

PAGANI AUTOMOBILI TO CONTINUE 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF ICONIC ZONDA WITH 5 MODEL DISPLAY AT SALON PRIVÉ

Pagani Zonda

First launched 20 years to great acclaim at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show, Pagani Automobili S.p.A. was a new name on the exotica scene with an amazing debut model; the breath-taking Zonda hypercar. The Zonda was originally to be called ‘Fangio F1’ after Formula One Champion, Juan Manuel Fangio, who assisted with the car’s early development, however, following his death in 1995, it was renamed Zonda, the name given to the hot air current that runs above Argentina.

From the very first 1999 Zonda C12 to the final incarnation of the Zonda – the £15million Barchetta – less than 150 examples of the model have been built over the last 20 years, split over a dozen or more different derivatives. All have been powered by a mid-mounted V12 engine, handmade by AMG and ranging in size from 6-litres to 7.3-litres, with power ranging from 444 bhp to a thumping 789 bhp enabling that particular model to achieve a top speed of 221 mph (355 km/h) maximum speed. A number of Zondas have now gone through bespoke upgrades to the bodywork and power trains by the Modena-based Pagani works creating a new generation of Zonda.

On display at this year’s Salon Privé will be the following models:

• Zonda C12 (2000): The car that launched the company and Horacio Pagani’s first production supercar. It was an absolute game-changer with its distinctive styling and hand-built Mercedes-AMG 6 Litre V12 engine which then produced 444 bhp, enough to propel the C12 to 60 mph in 4 seconds – quite an achievement back in 1999. The model on display has been through the full Rinascimento

• Zonda F Roadster (2005): The Zonda F (F for Fangio) on display is one of just 25 Roadster examples built. The Zonda F was a substantially re-engineered Zonda, using the hand-crafted 7.3-litre Mercedes-AMG V12, developing 641 bhp. Announced at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show in coupe form (the F Roadster following in 2006), the Zonda F was equipped with extra headlights and different fog lights at the sides, plus new bodywork (revised front end, new rear spoiler and more aerodynamic vents all around) that improved the car's aerodynamics, as well as different side mirrors. Further enhancements centred on optional carbon/ceramic brakes (measuring 380 mm) and a redesigned "Z preg" weave in the all-carbon fibre crash structure to improve rigidity and reduce weight.

• Zonda Cinque Roadster (2009): As its name suggests, Pagani built just five examples of the Zonda Cinque Roadster which was a 669 bhp road-legal version of the track-only Zonda R. The Zonda Cinque was developed at the request of the Pagani dealer in Hong Kong, with the model intended to be the last iteration of the Zonda. The differences over other Zonda variants were a new three-mode six-speed sequential gearbox, resulting in shifts taking less than 100 milliseconds, dropping the 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time down to just 3.4 seconds. The Cinque also had a revised form of carbon fibre called "carbo-titanium" which incorporated titanium in the weave to increase strength and rigidity, mated to magnesium and titanium suspension components. It also featured revised bodywork, included a longer front splitter, new side skirts, rear diffuser, bumper canards and a flatter underside, as well as a roof-mounted air intake scoop, enabled the Cinque to generate 750 kg (1,653 lb) of down-force at 355 km/h (221 mph) and 1.45 G of cornering force.

• Zonda Tricolore (2010): Just three Tricolore models were built making it one of the rarest of them all. Originally conceived as a one-off, Horacio Pagani decided to make three as a tribute to the Frecce Tricolour, Italy's aerobatic team answer to the British Red Arrows. The Tricolore carried much of the body from the Zonda Cinque, the model being unpainted, except for a clear blue lacquer, and red, white, and green stripes from the nose along the top of the car's surface. Unique to this car was a small wing placed behind the cockpit which reflected the tail wing of Frecce Tricolori's Aermacchi MB-339 stunt aircraft. The three Tricolores were priced at £1.2 million when new, but are now worth considerably more, as are all Pagani Zondas.

• Zonda 760 Oliver Edition (2016): An exclusive one-off edition of the Pagani Zonda, the unique 760 ‘Oliver’ model was built in 2016 for one of Pagani’s biggest collectors and was based on the 760 RS model. Unlike other special edition Zondas, this 760 has a uniquely designed rear spoiler and was engineered by one of the world GT champions to generate the maximum downforce to give the ultimate grip on the circuit. The car was tested by the Toyota factory driver and GT500 champion Akira Iida on Fuji Speedway during the Pagani Raduno in Japan, with Mr Iida commenting that the Zonda Oliver Evolution was the best handling and closest to the Zonda Evolution R road car he had ever driven.

Commenting on the incredible display, Salon Privé Co-Founder & Sales Director David Bagley said “Salon Privé and Pagani Automobili go back a long way. We have welcomed Horacio and his team as well as many owners from the UK and abroad to countless editions of the event – I don’t think I can recall an edition where there wasn’t at least one Pagani on display. In just 20 years, Horacio has created not only an icon but also a benchmark in design, engineering and strategic partnerships and it’s a testimony to Pagani Automobili that many Zonda owners choose not to sell their beloved cars, but instead send them back to the factory to either restore their cars to their original glory through the Rinascimento program or have a unique bespoke upgrade through their dedicated team. Years ago, I recall a conversation with Horacio’s then-assistant, who referred to the Zonda as a piece of art and she wasn’t wrong. To this day, the design and detail found in a Pagani is beyond exceptional.”

Commenting on behalf of Pagani UK, Christine Clarkin said, “2019 is a momentous year for Pagani as it marks the 20th anniversary of when Horacio Pagani’s dream came alive with the unveiling of the iconic Zonda in Geneva.  As the Dealer Principal for Pagani UK I am delighted to bring five spectacular examples of Zonda to the lawns of Salon Privé and to continue our year-long celebrations of this achievement at Blenheim Palace.  Pagani UK are proud to be the only official dealer for Pagani Automobili since 2014 and have the loyalty of our Pagani owners to support this fabulous event year after year.”

CLASSIC CARS, SUPERCARS, HYPER CARS & FLYING CARS -SALON PRIVÉ 2019 HAS THEM ALL!

CLASSIC CARS, SUPERCARS, HYPER CARS & FLYING CARS -SALON PRIVÉ 2019 HAS THEM ALL!

McLaren GT

 With final preparations now in full swing, brothers Andrew & David Bagley have a clear message – “Get set for the greatest Salon Privé ever!” A Garden Party it may be, but to the prestige & luxury automotive sectors, it has become an absolute must-attend event; a place where they can go and entertain existing customers, meet new buyers and rub shoulders with some of the world’s most prolific car collectors and buyers. For 4 days in early September, Blenheim Palace along with neighbouring Woodstock reverberates to the sound of V8s & V12s as they parade through the Palace grounds and local countryside. Salon Privé has become THE event for collectors, buyers, members’ clubs and enthusiasts and thanks to the newly launched Salon Privé Classic & Supercar on Sunday 8th September which incorporates the Lockton Club Trophy, it now has a more affordable public day option for the whole family to enjoy.

Austria, Australia, Croatia, Dubai, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Slovenia and the UK will all be flying their flags at this year’s event proudly displaying their latest creations and with the event now sold out, confirmed automotive brands are as follows: Alpine, Aston Martin, Ateliers Diva, Austro Daimler, Bentley, Brabham Automotive, Dallara, Ferrari, Jannarelly, Lamborghini, Maserati, McLaren, Pagani, PAL-V, Automobili Pininfarina, Puritalia Automobili, Rimac Automobili, Tushek and W Motors. This list equates to tens of thousands of normally aspirated, hybrid and fully electric BHP! 0-60mph in the low to mid 2 seconds is not an uncommon statistic on the lawn this year with one car, the Rimac C_Two, officially the fastest accelerating car in the world, managing it in just 1.85 seconds! Top speeds of 200mph plus are commonplace amongst the majority of these brands with even the SUVs not far off that figure.

Not to be outdone by the debuts, other manufacturers will be showcasing their latest models, with the Alpine A110S, Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante, Bentley GTC V8 and Flying Spur, Ferrari 812 Superfast and Portofino, Lamborghini EVO Spyder and Coupe, Maserati V8 Levante Trofeo, McLaren GT and Porsche 992 Carrera 4S all on the lawn.

Commenting on the extraordinary line-up of brands, Salon Privé Co-Founder & Sales Director David Bagley commented: “The diversity and origins of manufacturers attending this year is testimony to how important Salon Privé has become to the premium automotive sector, not just in the UK, but around the world. It really is a great privilege for us to host so many important debuts in one year. No other event brings manufacturers and buyers together in such a relaxing and convivial environment, and this is what sets us apart.”