Photo Gallery: The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has been widely known as the world’s foremost celebration of the automobile.  For it’s 67th year, the grand event once again became a gathering point for some of the most legendary cars ever seen, and were accompanied by celebrity guests as well as a multitude of leading names in the automotive and luxury industry.  Each year alone, the concours attracts tens of thousands of automotive enthusiasts from around the globe.

In what first began as a small social gathering that introduced a thrilling road race through Pebble Beach’s pine and cypress forests, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has continued to grow exponentially into what is now one of the best automotive collector competitions in the world.  The concours presents over 60 automotive and luxury goods sponsors every year, some of which include names like Bentley Motors, Rolls Royce Motorcars, McLaren Automotive, Bugatti, and fine Italian Jeweler, Bvlgari.

The 67th annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance showcased marques and special classes such as Isotta Fraschini, Castagna Coachwork, Ferrari Major Race Winners, Ferrari One-off Spéciales, American Dream Cars of the 1960’s, etc…  Just like the name entails, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is not a competition of absolute speed, but a contest of sheer elegance.  The contestants, ranging from old to modern classics and motorcycles, are assessed by judges based on their historical accuracy, their technological value, and lastly their flair of elegance.

The celebration draws in 200 preeminent entrants to be displayed along the renowned 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links—setting the stage for one of the biggest automotive competitions in the world.  In addition to the vintage automobiles often displayed at the event, the Concours also presents some of the most anticipated concept cars, prototypes, and newest car debuts each year on the upper lawn of The Lodge at Pebble Beach.  Further functions at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance include auctions and sales as well as exceptional art and automobilia exhibitions.

The All New Ferrari Portofino

The all new V8 GT dubbed the Portofino by Ferrari has been revealed and is expecting to make considerable waves in its segment.  The Portofino will be replacing the Ferrari California T (Ferrari’s entry level model).  The new design provides a spectacular harmony of luxury, comfort and sportiness, which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Appropriately named Portofino, the all new GT instantly evokes images of cruising the Genoan coastline around the stunningly beautiful city of Portofino.  In addition the vehicle’s launch color “Rosso Portofino” was also dedicated to the charming town.  The Ferrari Portofino features a 552 horsepower turbocharged V8 engine derived from the California T that is capable of a not to sixty time of only 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph, without any compromise to space or comfort.  And the all new Portofino is significantly lighter than the California T and also considerably more rigid.

The V8 exhaust soundtrack has also been improved through the use of modern revolutionary components, this symphony is also of course magnified when retracting the convertible hardtop.  Other improvements have made way for zero turbo lag and improved fuel efficiency.

Similar to it’s predecessor the Portofino will have four seats, improved legroom for rear-seat occupants, a folding hardtop, and a modified wind deflector to allow for a more serene cabin environment when cruising with the top-down.  Additional attention was also payed to new interior features such as the 10.2″ infotainment display, passenger display similar to the GTC4 Lusso, an improved air conditioning system, 18 way adjustable seats with a newly designed backrest that allows for improved rear seat legroom, and a new wind flow deflector that reduces air flow by thirty percent.  No figures have been released regarding pricing, but expect a base price of around $200,000 similar to the outgoing California T.

For more information please visit:  www.Ferrari.com

2017 Cadillac XT5: The Ultimate Crossover

We had the opportunity to experience the all-new XT5 during Monterey’s annual Car Week, it gave us an extensive understanding of just how remarkable the vehicle is.  The car’s lightweight construction allows for dexterous handling, which is bolstered by a 3.6-litre V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission with an electronic shifter.  Although many reviews described the XT5’s electronic shifter as difficult to use, we found it to be quite simple.  The XT5 crossover was made to assist the driver with any task they are in the middle of, as it offers reinvented versatility that helps keep the driver stay in complete control at all times, major convenience features included the great heads up display and CUE infotainment system; one area that we hope Cadillac improves on is the addition of a button free door unlocking option, like in the XT5’s German and English Revivals.

It’s expansive sized interior incorporates advanced technological features to maintain passenger safety, whilst demonstrating sleek, chiseled exterior lines; making it both inside and out progressive yet elegant.  The XT5’s interior quality is a major upgrade from the SRX, and proves to be superior to its rivals in quality.  Our test vehicle was equipped with the range topping Platinum Package which featured an alcantara headliner, front facia and plush leather seats.

While on the road, the XT5 drives effortlessly; it steers and handles swiftly without any complications.  The XT5’s 3.6-liter V6 engine provides nimble acceleration as it produces 310 hp (231 kW) and 271 lb·ft (367 N·m) torque.  At the test track, the XT5 accomplished the zero-to-60-mph run in 6.6 seconds.  The instruments aboard XT5 such as it’s CUE infotainment system that utilizes a responsive 8.0-inch high-resolution touchscreen, as well as 4G connectivity, or tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.  The 8 inch display made parallel parking during the week incredibly convenient with the cars brilliant 360 degree view from the car’s four cameras.

On our test drive our XT5 let us know of fire engines on scene nearby albeit a few moments prior to spotting them.  The Adaptive Cruise Control made our driver a little nervous at first, being someone who enjoys the total (being in control) driving experience, but passing responsibility to the adaptive cruise soon became quite a nice experience.  Given the choice of Touring mode or Sport mode, hands down Sport mode was most responsive and fun, our recommendation is to drive in Sport mode full-time.  The Navigation experience kept us up-to-date with current road conditions and alternate time-saving routes.  Our highway driving gave us better than expected, 31 mpg, but around town during car week with some unusually slow and go, we calculated around 13 mpg.  Overall we were pleased with the gas milage of the XT5.

The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system and electronically operated rear differential flawlessly distributes torque both to stabilize traction and augment handling.  In addition, the system can distribute 100 percent of torque to the front or rear axle as needed, while the differential is capable of dividing the rear axle’s allotment left to right transferring all power to one wheel.  This exceptional piece of added technology ensures safety and security to its passengers as its highest priority.

The 2017 Cadillac XT5’s spacious cabin boasts heated and ventilated seats along with a range of adjustment settings such as lumbar support for the driver.  The rear seats smoothly recline and slide forwards and backwards; a 40/20/40 split-folding seatback offers rear seat passengers extensibility at its most convenient.  The cavernous cargo hold is very extensive, especially so when all three rear seats are down, which creates up to 63 cubic feet of cargo room.  In addition, the front cabin offers extensive storage space beneath the center console, door pockets, and large glove box.  Another highlight is the premium Bose stereo, which was superb in every area including clarity, base, and power.

With an economical starting price of just under $40,000 and pricing for the top of the range Platinum model at $63,000, the XT5 proves to not only be practical and cost-effective but also a vehicle that truly defines the word “luxury”.  Our car’s MSRP was $67,155 and included a couple of additional options on top of the Platinum package such as the Driver Assist Package, which offers a range of safety features including Automatic Park Assist and Pedestrian Detection.  The comforting yet luxurious interior design, in which allows passengers to undergo an immensely enjoyable ride with its elegant inner presence, creates the perfect on-the-road experience.  The XT5 is the true definition of a Cadillac.

For more information on the Cadillac XT5 or to configure your own model please visit:  Cadillac.com

Photography by: Marli Allard

Monterey Car Week Highlights: The Quail

The Quail event during Monterey Car Week is a must for any automotive, helicopter, party, wine, or epicurean enthusiast; there is beyond doubt something for anyone who enjoys the best.  For the price of the $600 all inclusive ticket you can spend your day surrounded by everything from a Ferrari F40 and Bugatti Veyron Vitesse to a decadent selection of 5 Buffet style pop-up restaurants prepared by Chef Ethan Mantle, offering Italian, Chinese, Carmel Valley, Beverly Hills, and French Cuisine inspired by the international Peninsula Hotel Group’s properties, who’s owner Sir Michael Kadoorie hosts the event annually at their Quail Lodge property.

This year nearly 5,000 guests attended the event to view over 200 cars and indulge in the 5 star dinning and unlimited champagne.  The Quail has been a Monterey Car Week staple since it entered the playing in 2003.  Auto Manufacturer displays included 20 vehicles on display from Pagani – including the Huayra Roadster and a Zonda Tricolore, over 10 vehicles from Koenigsegg, the all new Phantom VIII from Rolls Royce, Limited Edition vehicles from Ken Okuyama design (formerly of Pininfarina), additional stand out vehicles included Infiniti’s Prototype 9, Jaguar’s magnificent Project 8, and Bentley’s new Mulsanne Speed.

For 2017, The Quail played host to a number of both national & international debuts such as the Acura ARX-05 prototype race car, the Audi V10+ Spyder, and the Karma Revero.  The Lamborghini team celebrated with a display of the all new Aventador S, a stunningly specced dark green Huracán Performante, and the Huracán RWD Spyder.  Guntherwerks revealed a bespoke limited run Porsche 993 dubbed the 400R, which will be available to just 25 discerning buyers.  In addition to the Phantom VIII, Rolls Royce also presented a custom ordered one-off Dawn (which matched a bespoke McLaren 720s commissioned by the same owner).  Mercedes celebrated AMG’s 50th anniversary with a few unique concepts as well as the AMG GT R.  Alfa Romeo displayed the beautiful Giulia Quadrifoglio, 4C Coupe and the all-new Stelvio SUV.

The Quail highlights a much wider array of modern cars compared to the Pebble Beach Concours.  The Quail is reminiscent of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, especially with the new unveilings like the Pagani Huayra Roadster, Rimac EV’s, and the all new Phantom – making for a diverse experience at Car Week.   Being that Ferrari has been celebrating their 70th birthday this year, there was a large collection of vintage and modern models from the manufacturer including the Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, 275 GTB, Ferrari F40, F12 TDF, and even a La Ferrari in the event’s car park.  Surprisingly the event is so well regarded for the cars in the car park, they have created an award ceremony for the best of them; dubbed the Car Park Concours d’Quailegance Award.  Judged by Philip Kadoorie, son of The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie (Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, parent company of The Peninsula Hotels), the trophy was awarded to a 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB. 

The Quail is highly unique in the respect that “The Rolex Circle of Champions winners” are chosen by participants of the event.  Making the owners and collectors judges of the event in their entrants respective classes and for the overall Best of Show.  See the 2017 winners below.

• Best of Show: 1964 ATS 2500 GTS owned by Bruce Milner
• Spirit of The Quail: 1938 Packard Eight Model 1601 Cabriolet owned by Robert M. Lee Automobile Collection / Anne Brockinton Lee
• Octane Editor’s Choice Award: 1964 Alpine M64 owned by Kim & Mitch McCullough
• Federation Internationale des Vehicules Anciens (FIVA) Award: 1958 Porsche 356 Speedster owned by Mark Haddawy
• Originals: 1957 Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk II Fixed Head Coupe owned by Paul Colony
• Mid-Engine Marvels: 1969 McLaren M6GT owned by Mouse Motors
• Pre-War Sports and Racing Cars: 1929 Bentley Speed 6 owned by John & Gwen McCaw
• Post-War Racing Cars: 1955 Fiat 8V Zagato owned by Bruce Vanyo
• Post-War Sports Cars 1945-1960: 1954 Cunningham C-3 owned by James Taylor
• Post-War Sports Cars 1961-1975: 1973 Porsche Carrera RS owned by Edmond & Christine Blais
• Sports and Racing Motorcycles: 1939 Indian Dispatch Tow owned by F. Scott Bosés & Celesta Pappas-Bosés
• The Great Ferraris: 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spyder owned by Charles Wegner
• Supercars: 1988 Porsche 959 Komfort owned by Bill Ceno
• Custom Coachwork: After Shock owned by Rick Dore

With a stunning atmosphere that truly makes way for the best of the best, The Quail is sure to enjoy many more years of fun to come.

For more information on The Quail, a motorsports gathering please visit:  SignatureEvents.Peninsula.com

Photography by: Marli Allard

The Aston Martin DBR1 sets record as Most Expensive British Car

A 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 has been auctioned for a record $22.55 million by RM Sotheby’s auction at Monterey Car Week, making it the most expensive British car ever sold at auction; as well as the most expensive car to change hands during the 2017 Monterey Car Week.  The news of this Aston’s sale came just after the record breaking news that a one owner 1995 McLaren F1 was sold for $15.62 million by Bonhams Auction at Quail Lodge.

“Coming from the finest of all Aston Martin collections, owned by a fastidious perfectionist, DBR1/1 is not only the best presented of the five DBR1s produced, it is also without question the most correct down to the smallest of details, inside and out.”  said RM Sotheby’s “With its impeccable provenance and enviable racing record, during which this Aston Martin was driven by some of the greatest names in motor racing, DBR1/1, the first of the line and an integral team player to the end, crucial to that 1959 World Sportscar Championship victory, remains an ultimate icon of Aston Martin racing history.”

The Aston Martin DBR1’s sale broke the record of a Jaguar D type, which sold for $21.78 million last year, and was formerly the record holder of the most expensive British car sold at auction.  The DBR1 sold by RM had several rare qualities including being the first and most original conditioned DBR1 of just five produced, the car was driven by Sir Stirling Moss and Carroll Shelby, and used as a test car for it’s sister the DBR1/2 which was victorious in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.  This DBR1, even included it’s original engine in addition to a 300hp engine which was installed so that the car could be raced at the Goodwood Revival.

Images by: Marli Allard

Video by: RM Sotheby’s 

Monterey Car Week: The 2017 Concorso Italiano

For 2017, Concorso Italiano which takes place on Saturday between The Quail and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance offered enthusiasts a wide ranging display of both Ferrari and Lamborghini, as well as Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Lancia spread across the Black Horse Golf Course in Seaside.  Though, the vast majority consisted of Ferraris, which came as no surprise as the automaker is celebrating it’s 70th anniversary this year.

Unique standouts included a two million dollar Lamborghini Centenario, in addition, a concept car designed by former Pininfarina executive, Ken Okuyama.  Dubbed the Kode-O, the stunning aggressively angled Ken Okuyama designed supercar is based of off a Lamborghini Aventador.  A large row of Abarth Fiats, a speed boat, and a large collection of motorcycles offered a unique diversification to the show.

Other highlights of Concorso Italiano, were a Fashion Show, casual picnic lunches across the golf course, and an interview with Automotive Designer Pete Brock, who is particularly well regarded for his work on the Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe and Corvette Sting Ray.

For more information on Concorso Italiano please visit:  www.concorso.com

Photography by: Marli Allard

2017 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

Although the vast majority of Monterey Car Week showcases rare and vintage automobiles lined along golf courses during The Quail and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance; the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca Raceway offers something very different for the thousands of motorsport enthusiasts who gather at the track each year.

Over five hundred race cars from multiple eras including everything from a 1915 Ford to a 1990 BMW M3 graced the historic 60 year old Mazda Laguna Seca Raceway and its storied Corkscrew. During Monterey Car Week from Thursday through Sunday, the race offered spectators a rare glimpse into motorsport of decades long past.  Whether a vintage Ferrari, Aston Martin, or Jaguar; there was something to steal the heart of any automotive enthusiast.

“The yearlong celebration of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca’s 60th anniversary is brought to life in the Racing Through the Decades feature display that we are thrilled to share at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion,” said Gill Campbell, Senior Vice President of Event Operations of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. “The visual element illustrates the history and importance of the race track and the privilege we have had in hosting some of the greatest cars and drivers in all of motorsports.”

For 2017, the race paid special tribute to Ferrari’s 70th anniversary, as well as the race track’s own 60th birthday.  Spectators at Laguna Seca also had the chance to meet some incredible racing titans such as former F1 world champion Mika Häkkinen better known as”the Flying Finn” who drove for McLaren racing.  Other stars, include Danish race car driver Tom Kristensen, who won the 24 Hours of Le Mans nine times.

Photography by: Marli Allard

McCall’s Motorworks Revival is the Epitome of a Luxury Playground

One of the most extravagant parties to take place during Monterey Car Week, McCall’s Motorworks Revival, was the event to be at, as automotive enthusiasts came from all over to join in the celebration kick off to Car Week on the Monterey Peninsula.  The week which leads to various other exceptional events by official automakers and preeminent classic car competitions such as the McLaren 720s MSO debut and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

McCall’s Motorworks Revival was held at the Monterey Jet Center, where it had put on display a diverse group of classic cars & motorcycles, vintage planes, superlative racecars, and luxury items.  The revival exhibited many auto-aero-moto machines, of which included Paganis, Ford GTs, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, iconic planes like the B25 and P51, as well as the all new Gulfstream 600.  Integrated together with vintage planes and classic cars, the expansive lineup featured coveted rare vehicles such as the Pagani Huayra, Porsche 918, McLaren 570s Spider, McLaren 720s, and the 1960s Ford GT40 racecar.

The event catered guests with refreshing drinks as well as delectable hors d’oeuvres and desserts, as they leisurely strolled around and observed the opulent display of private jets, helicopters, timepieces, in addition to the stunning vintage motorworks.  Going through its 26th year revival, the event, which was hosted by Gordon & Molly McCall, raises funds for the California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation.

Photography by: Marli Allard

The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award Winner

On August 15th, 2017 at a momentous private gathering during acclaimed Monterey Car Week, the winner of the second-annual The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award was declared.  The winner, a 1954 Maserati A6GCS/53 Berlinetta by Pinin Farina from the Monaco-based Destriero Collection, became the champion from a select lineup of 8 distinguished “Best of Show” finalists.  Pinin Farina have only manufactured a limited four Berlinetta-bodied sports cars through the years, with this one being the best preserved model, evident by it retaining its original chassis and body.

The car, which made its first debut at the 1954 Paris Motor show, was originally owned by Count Alberto Magi Diligenti of Italy, who entered the vehicle in numerous races such as the the 1955 Mille Miglia.  The 1954 Maserati A6GCS/53 Berlinetta was based on the prosperous 2-litre racing car developed by the Maserati brothers.  It is depictive of the coachbuilding artistry of the 1950s as demonstrated by its resolute sporting design, which played a decisive factor in it winning Best in Show at last year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

“The 1954 Maserati A6GCS/53 Berlinetta is a superb example of the beauty of Pinin Farina’s designs, which are synonymous with the coachwork that epitomizes classic Italian sports cars. The sensitive retention of its originality allows this stunning motorcar to emerge as the most elegant preservation among its 1954 counterparts,” said business executive and philanthropist Sir Michael Kadoorie. “We are thrilled to award this exceptional vehicle with the second annual The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award.”

The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award, presently in its second year, has assembled eight of the world’s finest race cars from the leading international concours events to contend for the grand title of the world’s most superlative, classic automobile.  This year, the celebrated event had sponsorships with many renowned names of which include The Peninsula Hotels, Graff Diamonds, and Rolex.

“I couldn’t be happier that the 1954 Maserati A6GCS/53 Berlinetta won The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award this year,” said Jay Leno. “We were all in agreement that the Maserati deserved the award not only for its astounding display of modern innovation, but also because it has been restored in a way that preserves the design as it was intended to be appreciated, with a precise level of care for its historic and timeless automotive implications.”

The Peninsula Hotels were proud to sponsor The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award, a natural extension of the group’s passion, dedication, and appreciation for luxury, travel and the motoring lifestyle.  The Peninsula Hotel group was recognized for their elegant architectural designed hotels, tactful assimilation of technological capabilities and services, and comprehensive fleet of luxury transport.  The group contributed their heritage and expertise in making the celebration of the very best in the motoring world a huge success.

The other seven finalists for the award were as follows:

• 1936 Lancia Astura Cabriolet Tipo Bocca by Pinin Farina: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
• 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta by Touring: Chantilly Arts & Elégance Richard Mille
• 1938 Dubonnet Xenia Coupé by Saoutchik: Concours of Elegance UK
• 1952 Pegaso Z-102 Berlineta Cúpula: Amelia Island Concours de Sport
• 1953 Ferrari 375 MM Spider by Pinin Farina: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering
• 1960 Ferrari 400 Superamerica Coupé Superfast II by Pinin Farina: The Gran Turismo Ferrari Cup, Cavallino Classic
• 1971 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV Coupé by Bertone: Goodwood Cartier Style et Luxe Concours d’Elegance

For more information visit: Peninsula.com/BestofTheBest

Photo Credit: Adam Swords

Ferrari’s 70th Anniversary Celebration to be held at The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Ferrari is set for a spectacular 70th anniversary celebration, which will take place at the world renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in central California.  In many ways Ferrari gained much of their quintessential panache from California.  In 1947 when Ferrari’s first model, a 125 Sport featuring a 1.5 liter V12 hit the road, it set the course for something truly remarkable.  Shortly after that, the Italian Marque gained a steadfast global following, especially so, in California.  The first Ferrari to be imported stateside was a 166 MM Touring Barchetta, which quickly arrived in California in September of 1948.  The Marque continued to grow even closer with the Golden State, demonstrated by their release of the 1957 250 GT California Spyder, which was Scaglietti’s stunning vision of an open-top 250 GT, designed specifically in mind for the North American marketplace.  In line with this heritage, Ferrari has decided to celebrate their 70th anniversary at Monterey Car Week.

“This will be an historic celebration of Ferrari, bringing its seventy years of engineering, style and passion to life for our clients, collectors and fans during the incomparable Pebble Beach Automotive Week,” said Edwin Fenech, President & CEO, Ferrari North America.

This year, four separate categories of Ferraris will compete during Concours on the 18th fairway of famed Pebble Beach Golf Links.  These categories are set to showcase significant race champions as well as one-off bespoke models.  In addition, Ferrari North America will be dominating the first fairway, to host the Ferrari 70th Anniversary Concours; which will be taking place directly alongside the newly opened hotel “Fairway One at The Lodge”.  Opening this month, the newest addition to the Pebble Beach Company’s hotel portfolio, offers meeting spaces, 38 luxurious guest rooms, and two 4-bedroom golf cottages.  Ferrari will begin placing their cars along the first fairway on Saturday, August 19th, beginning at 4pm, where the public is welcome to join in to wish the Marque a happy 70th.

“Pebble Beach has a long and very strong relationship with Ferrari, particularly when you note the Ferraris and Ferrari drivers that made their mark here at the Pebble Beach Road Races in the early 1950s,” said Concours Chairman Sandra Button. “Our history together is almost as old as Ferrari itself, and we are proud that we continue to make history together.”

Ferrari also enjoys a strong motorsport relationship with central California.  In 1952, driver Arnold Stubbs made second place in the premier Pebble Beach Cup race, while driving a Ferrari 212 Export Touring Barchetta; from then on, Ferraris were a shining star at every Pebble Beach road race.  Starting in 1973, the Pebble Beach Concours began hosting a full range of Ferraris every year, featuring everything from 250 GTOs to Testarossas.

For more information on the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, or to purchase tickets for the 2017 Concours, please visit:  www.pebblebeachconcours.net

Photo Credits: Photo Copyright © Kimball Studios / Courtesy of Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance