An exquisite line-up of rare and beautiful cars old and new, champagne flowing, oozing with glamour – all set on the Chelsea lawns. It can only be the annual Salon Privé Concours.
The third year of the season-opening spectacular saw crowds gather to see the reveal of multiple automobiles presented in the UK capital for the first time followed by themed celebrations. Hosted at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the open-air show brings together modern and classic vehicles, culminating with a ‘Concours de Vente’ display – where all the cars are for sale.
Often dubbed the ‘Royal Ascot for cars’, the exclusive automotive garden once again has managed to create a very refreshing event where everyone can enjoy the exciting lifestyle that goes with this exclusive set.
Automotive marvels
This year brings another incredible line-up of cars, including the new Aston Martin V12 Vantage, yin and yang Lamborghini Countach, the bonkers Koenigsegg Jesko, a new electric sports car from MG called the Cyberster and a weird city car from Krazy Horse styled on a BMW Isetta. A stand-out for us is the evolution of the Ferrari 458 to the legendary LaFerrari, which includes two prototypes.
One of the first day’s key attractions was the Concours de Vente Parade featuring the world premiere of Vintage Bentley’s unique collection of five significant pre-war classic models and a very special 1937 Alfa Romeo Supersport 6C with coachwork by Umberto De Mola. The car has a famous roll call of owners including John Paul Getty and Nicolas Hayek (aka ‘Mr. Swatch’) and it was used by the Netherlands’ Prince Bernhard, a true auto enthusiast, in the liberation ceremonies to mark the end of World War II.
The ‘McLaren Masters’ collection showcased the supercars, featuring a McLaren Elva, the lightweight specialist firm’s lightest road car ever. Also part of the line-up was the now-legendary McLaren 675LT, the bombastic McLaren 720S, and its latest hybrid supercar, the 675LT and new plug-in hybrid Artura.
Porsche 911 Turbo 50th anniversary
Thursday was the only day to see the exciting display of Porsche 911 Turbos on the lawns. This honoured 50 years of the car, with 50 examples of the German icon wowing the crowd at the Royal Hospital.
Among the rarest Porsches on display there was one of only 11 964 Turbo S Leichtbau (Lightweight) models. Finished in Grand Prix White with a Flamenco Red interior, the right-hand-drive car has just 260 miles recorded on its odometer.
The coolest 911 in the cavalcade had to be the ultra wide-body Rauh-Welt Begriff 964 in Viola Metallica purple, absolute showstopper.
Aston Martin Valkyrie world record
A world record largest-ever gathering of Aston Martin Valkyries made for an unforgettable display on Friday. The collection of 14 ultra rare cars with a combined price of around £34m paraded before coming together for an historic photo shoot.
What’s more, the collection was overseen and inspected by none other than Adrian Newey himself, the legendary Red Bull Racing designer who inspired the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Recently named World Car Person of the Year, Newey’s appearance thrilled both the owners and the Salon Privé London crowds.
Another highlight of that day was the parade of the celebrated Concours de Vente, showcasing rare cars from some of the world’s finest dealers. This year’s celebrity judges included Edd China, Yasmin Le Bon, Amanda Stretton, Steve Cropley and James Elliott, who decided the class winners and the Prix d’Honneur. On Saturday, the People’s Choice and Pensioner’s Choice was also be decided, and there was a special public celebration for the Prix d’Honneur winner.
More than just cars
Salon Privé London is not just about cars, it also plays host to upmarket and bespoke motorcycles, boats, helicopters, Boodles jewellery and luxury lifestyle, covering all your luxury transport needs.
One of the unique features of Salon Privé is the relaxed atmosphere, combined with an exclusive and intimate ambience. The organisers pride themselves on creating the quintessentially English event that is as much about the people as it is about the cars.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic automobiles, a petrolhead obsessed with the latest hypercars, or simply appreciate the artistry and engineering that goes into creating these magnificent machines, this event has something for everyone.
If you missed Salon Privé this year, don’t worry they host another concours event in August at the majestic Blenheim Palace over four days (August 28-31). More information about Salon Privé can be found here.
Image credits: © Salon Privé
