India is known for its rich automotive history, largely due to the passion of Indian royalty for cars. It was wonderful to see India well represented at the event, with the tradition being carried on by modern-day enthusiasts. The award for the Rolls-Royce considered most in the tradition of Lucius Beebe was won by Rajiv Kehr’s Mulliner-bodied 1931 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental. The 1939 Lagonda V12 Drophead Coupe owned by the Dossas finished third in the class for The Late European Classic Touring Class. Madan Mohan Yadav’s 1932 Lancia Astura Pinin Farina Cabriolet was also a worthy entrant in the Early European Classic Touring category.

One particular automobile captivated the attention of many: the 1948 Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport Saoutchik Fastback Coupé, exhibited by Robert Kudela from the Czech Republic. The previous day, Peter Larson, an authority on period French cars and coachbuilders, had vividly described this exquisite vehicle. Its teal exterior paired with chocolate accents, a bold choice by any standard, was further enhanced by the front grill louvres detailed in alternating base colours and the gold-accented interior trim.

The car’s appearance perfectly aligned with Peter Larson’s description of a pristine, meticulously restored work of art. Talbot-Lagos have a history of success at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, and the T26 Grand Sport Saoutchik Fastback Coupé appeared to be a strong contender for the Best of Show award. However, fate had other plans.

The posters commemorating the event often offer hints regarding potential top prize winners. British artist Tim Layzell, was commissioned to create not one but three unique posters for this year’s event. These posters showcased a variety of classic automobiles, including two Maseratis, a 1914 Packard, and the Lancia Stratos Zero, depicting the Concours, the Tour, and the Wedge classes respectively. However, the posters for this year failed to accurately predict the eventual best of show winner.

A dramatic pause

The Award Ceremony commenced shortly after lunch. The champions among champions were summoned to the podium as crowds of people lined up along the barricade to witness the proceedings. Once all the class winners were announced, a dramatic pause ensued. The murmur of speculation and discussion among the audience regarding potential favourites was palpable. After much anticipation, three exceptional automobiles were called up to the podium: a 1934 Packard 1108 Twelve LeBaron Sport Phaeton (highlighting the marque’s 125th Anniversary), a 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero Bertone Coupe (from the Wedge class), and a 1948 Talbot Lago T26 Grand Sport Saoutchik Fastback Coupé. Just then, an unexpected announcement was made: “Could Fritz Burkard and his 1934 Bugatti come up to the winners circle, please?”

Moments later, a visibly astonished Swiss man and his elated mechanic arrived in their nearly century-old, unrestored Bugatti. The vehicle, adorned with battle scars in all the right places, made its way through the crowd of perplexed onlookers and parked alongside the three immaculately restored class winners. Could it be true? Could an unrestored vehicle claim the coveted top prize? As the drumroll intensified and curiosity peaked, the golden envelope was opened, revealing the announcement: “The 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Best of Show winner is: the 1934 Bugatti sports car from the Pearl Collection!”

The unassuming, matte black racing machine returned to the podium, 90 years after its debut victory at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1934! As the car ascended the ramp amidst a shower of fireworks and confetti, the ecstatic owner, Fritz Burkard, expressed his disbelief, kissing, tapping, and slapping the cowl of his racer, and throwing his hat into the air in a gesture of celebration.

Groundbreaking decision

The genesis of this remarkable story dates back to 1999, when the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) conceived an award for vehicles that have been preserved in their original condition as much as possible. This groundbreaking decision by the committee at the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours marked a departure from the traditional norm, where the most pristine and perfectly restored vehicles often took centre stage. This shift towards recognizing unrestored cars underscores a growing appreciation for the authenticity and historical significance of vehicles that have been preserved in their original state.

It was indeed a spectacular day, not only for the broader automotive community but also for the future of automotive history. On the podium, Fritz Burkard was heard repeatedly exclaiming, “I don’t believe it!” His words echoed the sentiments of enthusiasts across the globe.