An Iconic Victory at Pebble Beach
The 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has crowned its new Best of Show: the remarkable 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports. This prestigious event, renowned for presenting some of the most exquisite classic cars, saw the Bugatti Type 59 Sports from the Pearl Collection in Zug, Switzerland, taking the pinnacle award.
A Car with Rich Racing Heritage
The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports is not only celebrated for its stunning design but also boasts a noteworthy racing history. This vehicle competed in numerous grand prix races, marking its legacy in the auto-racing world. The car’s ownership by King Leopold III of Belgium adds another layer to its illustrious history, with its present black-and-yellow livery embodying the Belgian national colors.
First Preservation-Class Car to Win Best of Show
This year’s award is particularly significant as it marks a departure from Pebble Beach’s traditional selection. Historically, Best of Show has been awarded to meticulously overrestored coachbuilt cars from the interwar era of the 1920s and 1930s. The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports, however, is the first preservation-class car to win. Known for its unrestored state, this vehicle proudly displays its historic narrative through its pitted and faded bodywork and worn interior, symbolizing a tangible connection to the past.
A Monumental Shift in Tradition
The victory of the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports at the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance signifies a monumental shift in the event’s tradition. It sends a powerful message about the value of authenticity and historical preservation in the automotive world. This accolade celebrates not just the car’s aesthetic and performance qualities but also its rich, storied past and its enduring legacy.
