Savile Row, a central London street which runs parallel to the west side of Regent Street has long been renowned as the place for haute-couture tailors, with the long established businesses there responsible for producing often flamboyant and always expensive gentlemen’s clothing. The link between tailoring of quality, and the associated high prices and high end cars is therefore quite an easy one to make, so it should perhaps not be a surprise that someone had the idea of combining the two with a display of prestige, classic and desirable motorcars to be displayed om the street outside those very tailors’ premises. The first Concours on Savile Row took place in 2022, with a carefully curated collection of cars and bikes attracting large crowds over the three days of the event. This success led to a repeat in 2023, but with a completely different collection of machinery on display, sourced from collectors and manufacturers alike. And here we are in 2024 for the third Concours on Savile Row. I’ve not attended the last two, but when my diary plans called for me to be in London (on a day for which I had already purchased a ticket for the Shelsley Walsh “Cars in the Valley”), I decided to take a detour off the tube on my way back to Paddington to take a look. The event is free to attend, and the cars and bikes are indeed simply parked up on the street, with a fairly sizeable contingent of security guards keeping a watchful eye on things, as crowds and valuable cars need this sort of vigilance. Here is what I saw:
2023 Alpine A110 Pikes Peak: Making its UK debut, this is the car Alpine used to devastating effect on the Pikes Peak Hillclimb in 2023. On the team’s very first attempt it bagged a podium position – and it broke a record along the way. Using the A110 GT4 Evo racing car as a base, its downforce has been further increased thanks to the use of pronounced splitters on the front and deflectors on the edge of the bumper, plus an air intake for the engine. The car’s diffuser comes from the A110 R. The 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine packs a mighty 500bhp, marshalled through a six-speed sequential gearbox. The 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine packs a mighty 500bhp, marshalled through a six-speed sequential gearbox. While the dampers are three-way adjustable units from ALP Racing, Brembo brake calipers are used front and rear. In all, the A110 weighs a mere 950kg. The results at the hillclimb were stark, with the Alpine breaking the Pikes Peak Open category record with a time of nine minutes, 17 seconds and 412 milliseconds, finishing second in class with Raphaël Astier behind the wheel. All the more remarkable, considering the project went from concept to reality in less than six months.
1985 Audi Quattro S1: Although Audi had stolen a march on its rallying opposition with the introduction of its Quattro’s four-wheel-drive system, other manufacturers were catching up. While the original Quattro had plenty of grip, it was also somewhat unwieldy to drive. Audi’s response was the 1984 S1, which shortened the wheelbase, helping the brand to win the World Rally Championship for drivers and makes. In 1985, Audi returned with the S1 E2 that, in addition to an outrageous aero package, featured a novel air-recirculation system for the turbo, which kept it spinning at high rpm when the driver was off-throttle, thus reducing turbo lag. Some cars even featured a very early version of the electronically controlled semi-automatic gearbox you may know from modern Audis as DSG. Although Audi wouldn’t win a WRC title with the car, in 1987 Walter Röhrl won the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb in the US.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron: The Q8 e-tron is the flagship model among Audi’s electric SUVs and Coupé SUVs, and it presents a fresh and contemporary take on the design language of the breed. Three drivetrain variants with electric all-wheel drive are available. Driven by two motors, the base models of the Q8 50 e-tron and the Q8 Sportback 50 e-tron generate 250kW (335bhp) in boost mode and 664Nm of torque, with a range of up to 281 miles (SUV) and up to 290 miles (Sportback) in UK versions. Next in the line-up is the Q8 55 e-tron and Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron, also driven by two electric motors. These generate 300kW (403bhp) in boost mode and 664Nm of torque, with ranges of up to 330 miles for the SUV and up to 343 miles for the Sportback in UK variants. The range-topping SQ8 model offers 370kW (498bhp) and 973Nm of torque, and ranges of up to 284 miles for the SUV and up to 295 miles for the Sportback. Top speed is limited to 130mph.
2024 Bizzarrini 5300 GT Corsa Revival 24/65: The Bizzarrini 5300 GT Corsa was originally developed as a high-performance variant of the Giotto Bizzarrini-engineered A3C. Designed by one of the world’s most prolific automotive stylists, Giorgetto Giugiaro, with refinements by Piero Drogo of Carrozzeria Sports Cars, the 5300 GT was noted for its remarkable beauty and raw competitive spirit. Now, the 5300 GT Corsa Revival 24/65 encapsulates the spirit of a bygone age of high-performance race cars, and the thin line that Bizzarrini drove between road and track. The Revival series is a true toolroom Continuation model. Each car is reverse engineered and hand-built, following the original factory drawings and blueprints, by a team of highly talented engineers and craftspeople with decades of experience at the cutting edge of competition sports car construction. The Bizzarrini 5300 GT Corsa Revival 24/65 is a purist two-seater racing car, built today following the very highest contemporary standards of craft and quality. Only 24 will be produced.
2024 Callum Skye: Making its world debut here was this, an intriguing-looking all terrain vehicle created by legendary designer, Iain Callum.
2024 Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera Arese RH95: Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera is a name steeped in the finest traditions of lovingly crafted art on four wheels. Its signature style can be seen on many famous Ferraris, Maseratis and, most notably, Aston Martins. The latest creation to come from the revered Milanese coachbuilder is the stunning Arese RH95, a mid-engined supercar that blends thoroughly modern exoticism with an intoxicating sense of style in keeping with Touring’s long history. Performance comes via a 670bhp Ferrari V8, so it has the oomph to match the wow factor. Each car takes six months to create, with the owner able to specify virtually every part of the machine wherever they are in the world. A stunning preview to Touring’s 100th birthday in 2026.
1968 De Tomaso Mangusta: This stunning shape, crafted from the pen of a youthful Giorgetto Giugiaro during his days at Carrozzeria Ghia, blends American power with Italian supercar theatre like few other automobiles. Formed out of the ashes of a stalled Can-Am deal with Carroll Shelby, this scintillating De Tomaso Mangusta supercar was powered by either a 4.7- or 4.9-litre Ford V8, and was good enough for between 230bhp and 306bhp. The mid-engined machine was built over a steel-backbone chassis and makes few concessions to comfort, but with a kerbweight of a mere 1300kg, it is extremely rapid for the era. Just 401 Mangustas were ever made, with only 150 staying in Europe. The Mangusta played a key role in establishing De Tomaso in the US, eventually leading to the tie-up with Ford to produce the Pantera. This particular car starred in the video for Kylie Minogue’s Can’t Get You Out of My Head, albeit in a different colour. As profiled in a recent Magneto article, the car has been thoroughly restored over several years, to the exquisite condition you see it in now.
1956 Ferrari 500 TR: Testa Rossa – a sequence of letters more often associated with the 1980s supercar, yet its origins lie in this 2.0-litre, four-cylinder sports racing machine. Designed for handling and reliability, the 500 TR was a successful privateers’ contender. The name comes from the red ‘crackle’ finish of the cylinder heads. The 13th of 17 500 TRs built, chassis no. 0640 MDTR was originally a Ferrari-owned car that was used by Franco Cortese through the 1956 season. Cortese notched up overall victories at the Grand Prix Adriatico in Yugoslavia and the Circuito di Caserta in Sicily, with several class podiums proving to be the highlights towards the end of the year. For 1957 and 1958, Cortese shared duties behind the wheel with other drivers across Europe, before the Ferrari was exported to Brazil. By the time it returned to Europe from South America in the late 1970s, it had lost its original engine. A year after being sold to AJ and Derek Lees in 1979, another powerplant was sourced from the warehouse of famed US Ferrari importer Luigi Chinetti. In 2004 the 500 TR changed hands again, with the UK’s Richard Martin taking stewardship. The car has since been restored by a combination of ex-Ferrari artisans in the Modena area, with highly respected specialists Hall & Hall and GTO Engineering taking care of the engine and gearbox.
1958 Ferrari 250 GT Pininfarina: This Ferrari 250 GT Pininfarina coupé is the first-ever Ferrari road car sold in the UK, and as such it is an important part of British and Italian automotive history. After Mike Hawthorn won the 1958 Formula 1 world title, he signed a deal with Enzo Ferrari to sell Ferrari road cars in Britain. The deal was made despite Il Commendatore refusing to sell Mike the machine in which the racing star had won the World Championship. The first Ferraris that Hawthorn’s Tourist Trophy Garage in Farnham, Surrey imported were two 250 GT Pininfarina coupés, with a sale price of £6500 each. One was white with a black interior, which is the car you see before you – chassis no. 1083. Registered 5 HPD, it was later repainted gold, and then finally black in the 1980s. The other car, chassis no. 1081, was metallic blue, and is now believed to be a 250 GTO replica. Hawthorn exhibited both cars at the London Motor Show in 1958; this example was originally sold to Major Desmond Fitzgerald, a wealthy Irish landowner who would become a leading light in the preservation of the country’s historic castles. It is now part of the Haynes Motor Museum collection, and is being presented after some slight mechanical restoration by Haynes Heritage Engineering.
1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder: The California Spyder was a car Enzo Ferrari was loathe to build – he was quite happy with the 250 GT Pinin Farina, which was popular in Europe. However, US appetites for sporty convertibles prompted the brand’s US importers to consider the idea – in Italy at the time, a racy convertible was a bit of an ideological block. Under the skin, the California used a mechanical set-up derived from Ferrari’s sportiest members of the 250 series clan – initially the 250 GT ‘Tour de France’, and then the 250 GT SWB. The short-wheelbase (SWB) version appeared in 1960, with the aim of improving handling and performance; the wheelbase was reduced to 2.4 metres. The car was built at Scaglietti, which was more used to producing Ferrari’s competition machinery at the time. This example, the 26th SWB built, was originally specified with a steel body, covered headlights, side vents, bonnet scoop and no bumpers. It was repainted red early in its life, and until 2000 called France and Italy home. In the care of its current owner, the California was restored to its original colour of Bianco, by DK Engineering.
2024 Formula E GEN3: Say hello to the Formula E GEN3 – the world’s fastest, lightest, most powerful and most efficient electric race car, specifically designed and optimised for street racing. It features a disruptive aesthetic inspired by the aerodynamic form of a fighter jet, designed to challenge the conventions of motor sport. It is the world’s most efficient race car, generating up to 50 percent of the energy it uses in a race through regenerative braking. It boasts 350kW of power, delivering breath-taking speeds on streets in some of the world’s most iconic cities, including Tokyo, Mexico City, Berlin and London. The GEN3 sets a new standard: it is the world’s first net zero carbon race car in the world’s first net zero sport, showcasing cutting-edge technology that can be directly transferred into the latest road vehicles. Software engineering is now a key battleground for performance gains, with upgrades delivered directly to the advanced operating system.
1966 Gordon-Keeble GK1 I.T.: Matching the elegant styling of Giorgetto Giugiaro, then working for Bertone, with the 5.4-litre V8 oomph of Chevrolet, and put together in the UK, this truly transatlantic creation is a wonderful example of 1960s grand-touring elegance. The Gordon-Keeble GK1 was one of the fastest cars on the road at the time of its birth, thanks to its lightweight glassfibre body. Of 93 GK1s built, the last six made were I.T. models (for International Touring), such as the one on show at Concours Savile Row. They were believed to have been company co-founder Jim Keeble’s idea to differentiate the models made from scratch at Sholing, Southampton, England. Production of this particular car began in 1965, but it wouldn’t be registered until 1966. The vehicle was supposed to be entered into the 1966 Le Mans 24 Hours, but the company went into liquidation the day before testing began. The liquidators ordered the GK1 to be finished and sold as a road machine; it had already been stripped out for motor sport. However, it is believed that there were no original roof-lining parts left, so one was sourced from a Ford 400E van, which was produced near the Gordon-Keeble factory. And the story behind the unusual badge? During the car’s first photoshoot, a tortoise wandered into shot and was placed on the bonnet to simulate a badge. The company owners, seeing the irony of such a slow animal on a fast machine, turned it into the firm’s logo.
1951 Jaguar XK120: This XK120 is one of the most prolific competition Jaguars ever made, notching up more than 40,000 miles as an international rally and circuit-racing car. It was originally bought for the wife of Walter Charles Grant Norton, a master tailor and the managing director of Norton & Sons. Grant Norton had been a keen rally driver before World War Two, and he soon pressed the XK120 into service on the Alpine Rally – without much support from Jaguar. He and his co-driver Derick Loader bagged a fifth-in-class finish. Grant Norton would continue to compete with the car until 1954, on events such as the RAC Rally of Great Britain, Brighton Speed Trials, London Motor Club and returns to the Alpine Rally. He sold the XK120 to Taffy Rich in 1954. Its next owner after Rich was Mike McKee, who used the Jaguar in circuit racing. Several more owners followed, before the car eventually ended up as an exhibit at the Midland Motor Museum, while still competing. After a few more owners and only light use, it was sold to the current owner in 2021, who commissioned specialist restorer CMC to get this XK120 fighting fit for its next adventure, which will be the Mille Miglia in 2024.
1954 Jaguar XK120: This superb Jaguar XK120 belongs to renowned male model David Gandy, who commissioned its rebuild and bespoke fittings from Jaguar Classic. It underwent a 2700-hour restoration, incorporating unique upgrades inspired by the famous XK120 Lightweight models, and which drew on David’s participation in the Mille Miglia in 2013 and 2014. The 3.4-litre six-cylinder XK engine now delivers an extra 45bhp, and it is matched to a faster-shifting, four-speed gearbox. The suspension set-up has been made adjustable, too, while front disc brakes replace the original drums. Legroom is always an issue in these early Jaguars, so the car has been modified to allow 6ft 2in David to fit more comfortably, by moving the batteries as well as fitting a smaller steering wheel and made-to-measure sports seats. The interior is finished in Aged Saddle tan leather with a bespoke lattice design to complement the car’s solid black paintwork. The standard windscreen has been replaced by twin aero screens for a sportier look and feel. That black exterior finish is made up of 13 litres and four coats of paint.
2024 Jensen Interceptor R Supercharged: The Jensen Interceptor has always been a car for the stylish, a big-hearted grand tourer with grace and elegance. This latest version, the R Supercharged, provides modern-day performance to go with the looks, courtesy of a 6.2-litre Chevrolet LT4 V8 engine. With 650bhp and 650lb ft, the R Supercharged offers supercar performance in a fully rebuilt body, with modern features such as fuel injection, digital engine management and, of course, that supercharger. The engine is mated to a modern eight-speed automatic gearbox for relaxed performance, while safety is taken care of by the AP Racing brakes featuring ABS on revised and updated front suspension. The company behind the car, JIA, has gone further by crafting a bespoke traction-control system and adjustable independent rear suspension to bring ride and handling up to modern levels. The cabin is just as special, with a brand-new interior that pays tribute to the classic style, but with modern functionality. The Bridge of Weir-covered electric seats combine with Wilton carpet for a classic feel, yet you can also have Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, a heated screen and a fully revised air-conditioning system.
2024 Koenigsegg Jesko: With up to 1600bhp available from its 5.1-litre twin-turbocharged V8, the Jesko lives up to Swedish manufacturer Koenigsegg’s tradition for building cars that reach the oncoming horizon faster than most. On normal petrol the engine produces 1280bhp, but with E85 biofuel that increases to 1600bhp. And while torque is a mighty 1000Nm (738lb ft) at 2700rpm, this swells to 1500Nm (1106lb ft) at 5100rpm on biofuel. To reduce lag, a 20-litre carbonfibre air tank and electric compressor feed pressurised air to the turbochargers. The enormous power is channelled to the road via a Koenigsegg-developed nine-speed multi-clutch transmission that takes only between 20 and 30 milliseconds to shift between ratios. At 1420kg, the car is seriously light for its class, mainly thanks to a carbonfibre tub and bodywork. Two variants are available: the Attack, which can generate 800kg of downforce at 155mph, and the Absolut, a version specifically designed for high speed. Theoretically, the latter could reach 350mph.
1939 Lagonda LG6 Rapide: Not seen in public over the past five decades, this beautifully preserved 1939 LG6 Rapide was the pride of the late Charlie Watts’ private collection. While he never learned to drive, Charlie revelled in the Lagonda’s design and historical importance, and he enjoyed being driven in it during his highly savoured down-time from touring with the Rolling Stones. Engineered with DNA from the 1935 Le Mans 24 Hours-winning Lagonda M45R, the subsequent LG6 Rapide was among very few machines able to exceed 100mph prior to World War Two. One of WO Bentley’s first projects after joining Lagonda was a redesign of the 4.5-litre six, including a new crossflow cylinder head and twin-magneto ignition. A 26-year-old Frank Feeley, who would later go on to become Aston Martin’s in-house designer, was responsible for the car’s distinctive look. Just six examples of the LG6 Rapide were built, before the outbreak of war halted production in 1939. In addition to its world-beating performance, its classically sporting proportions and exquisite Art Deco flourishes have made the LG6 Rapide among the ultimate connoisseur’s cars.
1950 Land-Rover Series I Station Wagon, by Tickford: This Land-Rover was enjoyed by King George VI and the late Queen equally. It was built on an 80in wheelbase, and its 1.6-litre engine was matched with a Rover P3-sourced four-speed gearbox and an unusual four-wheel-drive system. In 1949, Land-Rover launched a station wagon body option, created by Tickford, a coachbuilder that was known for its work with Rolls-Royce and Lagonda. Tickford started life trading under the name Salmons & Sons in 1830, and evolved into building bodies for cars as early as 1898. This Land-Rover’s bodywork has a wooden frame, and there is seating space for seven people inside. The Tickford models were noticeably better equipped than standard Land-Rovers. However, because these versions were taxed as passenger cars, only around 700 were sold, the vast majority of which were exported. This example joined the owner’s collection seven years ago. The original Range Rover-style rear-door opening was changed to a side-door to mimic a modern-day Land Rover set-up, and steps were fitted to aid entry and exit.
2024 Lotus Emira: The mid-engined Lotus Emira sports car perfectly embodies the ongoing transformation of this iconic British brand. Light, nimble and strikingly styled, with serious performance at its heart. In range-topping ‘First Edition’ spec, its 3.5-litre supercharged V6 produces 400bhp and 317lb ft of torque. It’ll hit 62mph in less than 4.5 seconds and keep on accelerating to a top speed of 180mph. The Emira is also available with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, supplied by technical partner Mercedes-AMG, that provides similarly scintillating performance. Designed to appeal to the broadest range of potential customers, the line-up features three transmission types: six-speed manual or automatic for the V6, while the four-cylinder employs an eight-speed dual-clutch unit. Built on the company’s all-new, very light, stiff, bonded aluminium Sports Car Architecture, the Emira promises the thrilling dynamics that true driving enthusiasts expect from Lotus, all wrapped up in a sensational new design.
2023 Lotus Eletre: The Eletre is the start of a new dawn for Lotus. Not only is this the first sport utility vehicle from the famed British marque, but it is also the first mainstream production EV to wear the badge. Although this puts the brand into new territory, it still maintains the founding principles of exotic design, innovative use of lightweight materials and excellent handling. There are three versions of the Eletre – two using the same 603bhp peak-output motive power, but with distinctly different personalities, one more sporting than the other. Meanwhile, the range-topping R has a system total of 905bhp. Both powertrains use a 112kWh battery pack that supports DC charging at 420kW. The car’s range is 373 miles (304 for the R), while you can gain up to 248 miles of range in 20 minutes. Performance is equally impressive, with the R scorching to 62mph in 2.9 seconds. The entry-level versions are not far behind, at 4.4 seconds. The R variant also benefits from a Track mode, which drops the air-adjustable ride height to its lowest position.
2024 Lotus Emeya: The Emeya is the first electric hyper-GT from Lotus, offering true supercar performance in a desirable and practical package. This driver-focused design is exemplified by the use of advanced aerodynamics, such as an air dam under the front bumper and an active rear spoiler, increasing downforce for true sports car-style direction changes. It cleaves the air with a low drag co-efficient of 0.21Cd, yet through different settings, incorporating Range, Tour, Sport, Individual and Track, the driver can alter just how much downforce he or she wants. However, the Emeya is practical, too, with electronically controlled air suspension that provides an optimal balance of ride comfort and cornering precision. The boot space offers 509 litres for those long trips away, while passengers can enjoy ambient lighting, five-seat massage modes and an intelligent panoramic glass roof, which can switch between opaque and clear. Top this off with up to 905bhp from its all-electric drivetrain, and a range of up to 301 miles, and the Emeya truly electrifies.
1995 McLaren F1: A legend in its own wheel tracks, the McLaren F1 broke new ground in terms of exactly what the automobile was capable of. For many years, its 240.1mph top speed, courtesy of a 6.1-litre BMW V12, made it the world’s fastest production car, and – decades after its introduction – it’s still the fastest naturally aspirated vehicle ever. The F1 was an unlikely motor sports hero, too; despite not being designed for racing, it won the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1995. This particular McLaren F1, chassis no. 028, was supplied new to American racing driver Michael Andretti. Andretti had signed a two-year deal to drive for McLaren in the Formula 1 World Championship for the 1993-94 seasons. However, this arrangement ultimately didn’t work out, and he was eventually replaced. The F1 formed part of his compensation package, and it still sports Andretti’s signature on the back of the central visor. Built in 1995, chassis 028 was painted Grand Prix Red – one of just two cars to leave the factory in such a hue. It’s the only original red machine remaining, after the other was destroyed in an accident in the Middle East, early in its life.
1907 Mercedes 75 PS Spider: Unveiled in late 1906, the Mercedes 75 PS was Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft’s first production car with a six-cylinder engine. Made up of three pairs of cast cylinders, its in-line powerplant had a displacement of 10.2 litres. The top Mercedes model from 1907 until 1911, it was available with various bodies. The two-seater Spider underlined the sporty looks of this high-performance automobile. In 1909, the name of the top-of-the-range model was changed to Mercedes 39/80 PS. This corresponded to the actual output of 59kW (80hp), and followed an agreement between German automotive manufacturers: the luxury tax on automobiles was introduced on July 1, 1906 with the intention of enabling prospective buyers to identify the tax category, which was based on engine size, by the model designation. For four-stroke engines, one ‘tax PS (hp)’ corresponded to a displacement of 261.8cc, meaning the 10.2-litre engine had 39 tax hp. In 1911, DMG reverted to the four-cylinder engine, including in the top segment, with the Mercedes 37/90 PS. It was not until 1914 that another Mercedes six-cylinder model, the 28/95 PS, made its debut.
1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc: The successor to the Mercedes-Benz 300 S, the 300 Sc was produced over a two-year, ten-month period from 1955 to 1958. During this production period, 200 vehicles left the Stuttgart factory in three body options: 98 Coupés, 49 Cabriolets and 53 Roadsters. These were all on the W188 chassis base. The 300 Sc was the most expensive Mercedes-Benz in 1955, costing £5528; the iconic 300 SL Gullwing was £4392. The 300 Sc, with its 2996cc, produced 175bhp at 5400rpm. This and the Gullwing were the first Mercedes-Benz production models to use mechanical direct fuel-injection. With the 300 Sc weighing 3924lb, it needed the modified Gullwing engine type M199.980 to propel it to 115mph and from 0-60mph in 14 seconds. The vehicle on display is unique. It was purchased in 1956, and is still in the same ownership some 68 years and 48,000 miles later. It is one of the rarest post-war Mercedes-Benz vehicles, being one of only 49, and is believed to be the only one-owner, unrestored 300 Sc Cabriolet in existence. The owner has the original receipt, for just over £4000 plus in excess of £2000 in taxes. This example was also used to create Corgi’s diecast model, produced in the early 1980s.
1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster: One of 26 final-model-year 300 SL Roadsters, and the 13th from the very last car built, this is among only 210 late-production examples of the iconic Mercedes-Benz that is equipped with Dunlop disc brakes and an aluminium engine block. Originally dispatched to a marque distribution agency in the Netherlands, the car was initially finished in Light Blue (DB 334) over Burgundy leather (DB 202). Prior to joining the current owner’s stable, chassis no. 003246 was the subject of a concours-quality restoration by Jürgen Kassen in Oerlinghausen, Germany to its current, period-correct Pearl Green (DB 213) exterior and green leather finishes. The monumental undertaking also saw the Roadster receive numerous mechanical upgrades and modern convenience features, including an improved cooling system and a diaphragm spring clutch, electric windows, Becker Mexico radio with GPS, air-conditioning and a highly coveted removable body-colour hard-top. Complementing the 300 SL Roadster’s unique specification are Pearl Green wheel covers and a matching two-piece set of green leather-trimmed fitted luggage. Love it? It’ll be up for sale with Broad Arrow very soon via Collectors Garage.
2024 Mercedes-Benz S680 GUARD: Mercedes-Benz has been building special-protection vehicles since 1928, and the manufacturer’s new S680 GUARD 4MATIC benefits from these many years of experience. The integrated protection system (iSS) is a new innovation – whereas previously, protective materials were integrated into the standard bodyshell structure, in this instance a GUARD-specific bodyshell of protective elements has been developed. This self-supporting cell represents the core of the iSS. The aluminium outer skin serves as a design shell and ensures an inconspicuous appearance. In addition to the armouring, the iSS includes special adaptations to the suspension, engine and transmission, to ensure handling virtually on a par with that of a normal S-Class. The V12 has an output of 612bhp and a displacement of 5980cc, while the maximum torque is 830Nm from 2000rpm. This engine is combined with a four-wheel-drive system for the first time; torque distribution is 31 percent to the front axle and 69 percent to the rear.
1925 MG 14/28 Bullnose Supersports Salonette: Built in 1925, this MG 14/28 Bullnose is not only one of just eight extant examples of the model, but it is also the sole car known to survive with special salonette coachwork created by Carbodies of Coventry. It’s also one of the earliest MGs still in existence, and is the oldest MG still wearing its original bodywork. Powered by a 1.8-litre sidevalve inline-four engine, it still had enough oomph to whisk its occupants to 65mph when new. First registered in Berkshire, the Bullnose later spent time in Wiltshire and Essex, and it was displayed at the Ramsgate Motor Museum from the 1970s until 2005. After being acquired by marque expert Fred Body, it was comprehensively restored, but with an eye on retaining such special and unusual features as marine scuttle vents and under-scuttle tool storage. The body was largely intact, with only the driver’s door pillar requiring attention – the original body stampings remain visible and present. The dashboard is all original, with the instruments and switch panels exactly as they were when this milestone MG was first delivered, 99 years ago. It joined the Labora Collection in 2021, and is the perfect representation of this treasured British marque that celebrates its centenary in 2024.
1971 Monteverdi 375L: It took a strong personality to call Enzo Ferrari’s bluff – and a titanium-reinforced one to try to take him on in the automotive business. Peter Monteverdi was that man, and this very rare car was the result. When Enzo demanded that Monteverdi buy up to 100 Ferraris up front or risk losing the right to sell the marque in Switzerland, Peter decided to build his own car. The model would be reliable and easy to use – something Peter’s Ferrari clients found lacking about Maranello machines – and built for high-speed GT cruising across Switzerland. It would also steer sharply, for the tight and twisty mountain passes. The resultant 375L used Detroit muscle to provide meaty performance – its 7.2-litre Chrysler V8 had plenty of in-gear performance. Inside, the interior was designed to be sporty yet luxurious; Peter Monteverdi once said his cars were rivals to Rolls-Royce, rather than to Ferrari. This particular model was found in Switzerland, and driven back across Europe by the current owner, and it was recently featured in Classic Cars magazine.
2024 Morgan Super 3: The Super 3 continues the 115-year legacy of three-wheeled Morgan vehicles. The Super 3 is Morgan’s first clean-sheet design since the launch of the Aero 8 in 2000, and it is the company’s biggest visual departure since the 1962 Plus 4 Plus. Powered by a 1.5-litre Ford three-cylinder engine, it significantly exceeds the power and performance figures of previous three-wheeled Morgan models. The engine is coupled to a five-speed Mazda gearbox, as found in the MX-5. For the first time in Morgan history the platform is a true monocoque, with stressed exterior ‘A-surfaces’ (as opposed to a unibody design found on most modern production cars, with bolt-on non-structural panels). Not only does this make for a lighter and more rigid chassis, but it also provides packaging benefits and gives more interior-occupant space with no intrusion. The most configurable Morgan ever, the Super 3 has been designed with a limitless combination of options and accessories for owners to tailor their vehicle.
2024 Morgan Plus Four: The Plus Four nameplate has been a cornerstone of the Morgan story for more than 70 years – and this is the latest evolution, fresh for 2024. Design changes including new lighting, wings, front splitter, rear diffuser and mirrors combine to evolve the Plus Four’s timeless appeal, while staying true to the spirit of the original. A new Dynamic Handling Pack has been extensively developed and tested, further enhancing the Plus Four’s engaging drive, while in the cockpit you can enjoy a Sennheiser sound system. Increased audio functionality and interior lighting changes help to improve usability without detracting from the car’s unique appeal. The Plus Four is available in a virtually endless combination of colourways and trim material options, ensuring that every example is as individual as its owner. However, it’s all about the drive – and lying at the heart of the Plus Four is a BMW 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo. The inline four-cylinder engine is teamed with either a manual or an automatic gearbox, and together they offer cracking performance along with fuel economy of 39mpg – all of which ensures more smiles per gallon.
1956 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud S1 by Lunaz: Elegance and silence lay at the heart of Rolls-Royce’s long-standing philosophy. Lunaz takes inspiration from Sir Henry Royce’s unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries, to achieve the pinnacle of automotive luxury and refinement through the use of modern technologies. This Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud I, which is exclusively revealed at Concours on Savile Row, combines Lunaz’s unique electric powertrain with a meticulous full restoration carried out at the EV-conversion specialist’s Silverstone facility. The result is an elevated expression of the original vehicle, blending its timeless spirit with an enhanced sense of reliability and effortless use. This car is a unique embodiment of each client’s character, courtesy of consultation with Lunaz’s design studio. Custom two-tone paint and high-grade leather are combined with bespoke cigar humidors and magnetised ashtrays that secure to the hand-made veneer rear tables. Enhanced brakes, suspension and electro-hydraulic power steering, complemented by modern infotainment, audio system, air-conditioning, heated seats and reversing camera, uplift the integrity of the driver and passenger experience. The final car will be revealed on the first day of Concours on Savile Row – pictured is the mood board that inspired it…
1965 Rolls-Royce Phantom V: This car is a replica of John Lennon’s 1965 psychedelic Rolls-Royce Phantom V, which was regularly seen parked up outside the Apple building at 3 Savile Row in the 1960s. In 1967, Lennon paid Steve Weaver £290 via JP Fallon to paint his Phantom, and to have it delivered the day before the release of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. That car is now in the care of the Royal British Columbia Museum in Canada. In 2014, JP Fallon commissioned the late, great artist Paul Karslake to recreate this fabulous moving work of art. Using a mixture of wrap (with specialist Rob Collard), air-brush and hand-painting techniques, Paul produced an identical design. The car has since been featured at events and venues such as Summer of Love Albert Hall, Tate Modern, Abbey Road Studios, NEC, Sergeant Pepper: 50 years with The Bootleg Beatles, Abbey Road 50 years and much, much more. Peter Morris, who was an apprentice at JP Fallon in 1967, and worked on the original car, painted the wheels and around the headlights on this version. As the Rolls-Royce’s owner says: “The thing about this car is it makes everyone smile on seeing it. Not many cars do that!”
1913 Sunbeam 16/20: Sunbeam made a name for itself with its stunning record in competition, spurred on by the efforts of its chief engineer Louis Coatalen. Born in Brittany, he made his life in the UK, and noted “racing improves the breed”. After he joined the company in 1909, on-track success followed – most notably when 3.0-litre Sunbeams locked out the podium in the Coupe de l’Auto in Dieppe, swiftly followed by third, fourth and fifth places at the French Grand Prix. This was a precursor to Sunbeam’s glory years of the 1920s, achieving both Grand Prix wins and Land Speed Records. The company also pioneered concepts such as four-wheel brakes, overhead-valve engines, power-assisted brakes and twin-overhead-camshaft engines. An evolution of the 14/20, which had proven its worth in several races, including at Brooklands, the 16/20 was part of Coatalen’s plan to reduce Sunbeam’s reliance on proprietary components. It featured a pioneering sump-mounted oil pump and, in this case, a 6.0-litre six-cylinder engine, plus leaf-sprung suspension and rear-wheel brakes. Its robust nature meant the 16/20 was regularly used as a staff car during World War One, which is why so few survive today.
AND ON THE STREETS
Proof that London is still awash with interesting cars of all types and prices comes from these which I came across in the short walk from the event back to the nearest tube station:
Citroen Ami: The Citroën Ami was announced in 2019 as the concept car Ami One. It is named after the original Citroën Ami, which was marketed from 1961 to 1978.. A two-passenger electric quadricycle, the production Citroën Ami was unveiled on 27 February 2020 at Paris La Défense Arena] and marketed from June 2020 in a unique “Ami Blue” body colour (blue-gray) customizable with stickers. To reduce its price, it is produced in Morocco in the PSA factory in Kenitra. It is a light motor quadricycle which can be driven in France without a license by people born before 1988 or by those older than 14 who have an AM license (EEA name)–formerly Road Safety Certificate (BSR) (national name). As a quadricycle it is limited to 45 km/h (28 mph). The Ami can be used for carsharing in the Free2Move network of Groupe PSA, rented or purchased, on the internet or in stores Fnac and Darty with which Citroën has concluded a partnership for the exhibition, sale or rental of the vehicle from 30 March 2020. The vehicle can be picked up at a store, a Citroën dealership or delivered at home. In June 2022, Citroën launched the My Ami Buggy, a limited edition inspired by the My Ami Buggy concept. To save costs, the body is completely symmetrical; not only left-right symmetrical, but also front-rear symmetrical, except for the doors and the roof. The doors open in opposite directions, with the driver having a suicide door while the passenger door opens conventionally, allowing the same panels to be used. There are no other doors, making the storage spaces accessible only from the two side doors. All versions are left-hand drive, even those intended for use in the otherwise right-hand drive UK. The vehicle measures 2.41 m (7 ft 11 in) in length, 1.39 m (4 ft 7 in) (excluding mirrors) in width and 1.52 m (5 ft 0 in) in height. Its total weight including battery is 485 kg (1,069 lb). The quadricycle is equipped with a 6 kW electric motor operating at 48 V. It accepts a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 5.5 kWh, rechargeable to 80% in three hours on a 230 V household outlet, giving it a maximum range of 75 km (47 mi) WMTC.
Ferrari 812 GTS: Unveiled in September 2019, the Ferrari 812 GTS is the open top version of the 812 Superfast. This marks the first front-engine V12 series production convertible model offered by Ferrari in 50 years, as the convertible variants of the 550, the 575 and the 599 were limited edition models meant for special customers only. The large rear buttresses present at the rear hold the folding hard top roof under a tonneau cover present between them when not in use. The electronically operated hard top takes 14 seconds for operation and is operable at speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph). The GTS weighs 75 kg (165 lb) more than the Superfast due to chassis reinforcing components but maintains equal performance. The mechanical components including the engine remain the same as the Superfast except for the transmission which has shorter gear ratios to improve the car’s response to throttle inputs. The engine’s high-pressure injection system reduces the number of particles that are emitted before the catalytic converter warms up. There is also a new gasoline particulate filter and a stop-start system to improve fuel economy. Other features shared with the Superfast include the Manettino dial, side-slip angle control and variable steering weight. The car has been aerodynamically refined in order to eliminate any turbulence arising from the loss of a fixed roof.
Fiat 500L: Known as project 110, the brief for the Nuova 500 was to create a micro-car that would not only carry on the tradition of the earlier Topolino, but which would also take sales away from the ever popular Lambretta and Vespa scooters of the day. It clearly needed to be smaller than the 600 which had been released with a conventional 4 cylinder engine. Not an easy task, but development started in 1953 and by August 1954, two designs were ready to be shown to Fiat management. They selected one, and serious development began. At first the car was referred to as the 400, as it was going to have a 400cc engine, but it was soon realised that this was just too small, so a larger 500cc air-cooled engine was developed. It was signed off in January 1956, with production starting in March 1957 in advance of a June launch. Fiat’s marketing department got busy, with hundreds of the new car taking to the streets of Turin, each with a pretty girl standing through the open sunroof that was a feature of all the early cars. The press loved it. 50 units were shipped to Britain, where the car made its debut at Brands Hatch, and again the reception was enthusiastic. But the orders just did not come in. Fiat went for a hasty rethink, relaunching the car at the Turin Show later that year. power was increased from 13 to 15 bhp, and the poverty spec was lessened a little, with headlight bezels, brightwork on the side and chrome hubcaps, a Nuova500 badge on the engine cover, winding side windows (the launch cars just had opening quarterlights) and the option of a heater fan. It was enough to get sales moving. The original car was still offered, at a lower price, called the Economy. In the first year of production, 28,452 Fiat 500s were made. Over the next 19 years, the car changed little in overall appearance, but there were a number of updates with more power and equipment added. A 500 Sport was launched in August 1958, with a more powerful version of the 499cc engine. It lost the soft top, having a ridged steel roof, to increase strength of the body. It was only available in grey with a red side flash. The first major changes came in 1960 with the 500D. This looks very similar to the Nuova, but with two key differences. One is the engine size: the D features an uprated 499 cc engine producing 17 bhp as standard, an engine which would be used right through until the end of the L in 1973; and the other is the roof: the standard D roof does not fold back as far as the roof on the Nuova, though it was also available as the “Transformable” with the same roof as the Nuova. The D still featured “suicide doors”. There were larger rear light clusters, more space in the front boot thanks to a redesign of the fuel tank and new indicators under the headlights. A year later, Fiat added a light on the rear-view mirrors and a windscreen washer, but the car still lacked a fuel gauge. Sales increased from 20,900 in 1960 to 87.000 in 1961, 132,000 in 1962 and by 1964, the last year of production, they hit 194,000 units. The D was replaced in 1965 by the 500F, which finally moved the door hinges from back to the front, owing to changes in Italian safety laws. There was a deeper windscreen and thinner door pillars, which increased the height of the car by 10mm, improving visibility for the driver. The 500F ran through to 1975, from 1968 alongside the more luxurious 500L which was added to the range in 1968. The L is easy to tell apart, with its bumper overriders. The final updates created the 500R, which incorporated many changes from the 126 under the skin of the classic shape, and in this form production continued alongside the newer 126 until 1976.
Fiat 850 Spider: Following the success of the 500 and 600 models, Fiat introduced a slightly larger and more expensive variant, the 850 in 1964. The regular 2 door saloon was soon joined in the range by other models and they are the ones you see more often these days, not that they are exactly common now. The 850 Coupe, early and later versions of which were to be seen here was seen for the first time at the 1965 Geneva Show. As was generally the case at the time, the body looked completely different from the saloon on which it was based, but underneath it shared the same mechanicals including the the original 843 cc engine producing 47 hp, which gave it a maximum speed of 84 mph. A Spider model was launched at the same time. In order to separate the sportier variants, equipment levels were raised, with both models getting sport seats, a sport steering wheel and round speedometer; The Spider even received a completely rearranged instrument panel. The front drum brakes were replaced with disc brakes, although drum brakes remained on the rear wheels. In 1968, Fiat revised both the Spider and Coupé and gave them a stronger engine with 903 cc and 52 hp. They were called Sport Spider and Sport Coupé. The Sport Spider body stayed essentially the same, but with a restyled front, whereas the Coupe gained twin headlights at the front and a revised tail with a slight lip on the trailing edge of the engine cover. Despite its popularity, the Coupe was the first model to cease production, being deleted in 1971.
Jaguar XK120 by Lumaz: another electric restomod, produced by Lumaz, this one looks absolutely standard, but the clue came when the driver moved it and there was o sound at all.
This was something a bit different, and I rather enjoyed it. I clearly was far from alone in wanting to see these cars, as at the after-work time when I stopped by, it was surprisingly busy, making the photographer’s job quite difficult, even without the challenge of the evening shadows, so it is no surprise to learn that there are plans for another concours here in 2025. I shall make sure I get the opportunity to visit.
