The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, known for its prestigious Best of Show award, made history in 2024 when a 1934 Bugatti Type 39 Sports entered in the Preservation category took home the top prize. This marked a shift in the collector’s market towards appreciating originality over impeccable restorations. The Preservation category allows cars with a rich history and wear and tear to participate, emphasizing the idea that a vehicle is only original once. The winning Bugatti, with its chips, scratches, and dings, tells a compelling story that captivated the judges’ attention.
If cars could share their tales, Hollywood producers would vie for the movie rights to the winning Type 59. Notable drivers like René Dreyfus, Robert Benoist, and Jean-Pierre Wimille had the privilege of being behind its wheel. Despite being converted into a street car, the model continued to race and even emerged victorious in the final Algerian Grand Prix. Later, it found its way into King Leopold III of Belgium’s collection. Ettore Bugatti himself repainted the Type 59 from blue to black, the King’s favorite color. Details surrounding the car’s ownership during the King’s reign remain elusive, but it eventually made its way to Belgium with the monarch and his family in 1959. Since then, the Bugatti has changed hands multiple times, with each owner dedicated to preserving its originality.
The current owner, Fritz Burkard from Zug, Switzerland, entered the historic Bugatti at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, making it the first time a European owner has won the coveted Best of Show award. With this victory, Bugatti now shares the record for the most Best of Show wins at Pebble Beach with Mercedes-Benz, each brand securing ten victories.
The competition for Best of Show was fierce, with other notable nominees vying for the prestigious title. A 1948 Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport Saoutchik Fastback Coupé from the Czech Republic, a 1934 Packard 1108 Twelve LeBaron Sport Phaeton from Ohio, and a 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero Bertone from California were among the contenders. These exquisite vehicles showcased the passion and dedication of their owners, each vying for recognition as the pinnacle of automotive excellence.
The 1934 Bugatti Type 39 Sports winning the Best of Show award at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance symbolizes a shift in the collector’s market, where originality is increasingly valued. This historic victory cements the legacy and allure of the Bugatti brand, highlighting the timeless beauty and stories that can be found within classic cars. As the automotive world continues to evolve, events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance remind us of the rich history and craftsmanship that define the industry.
