It's a unique pick this year.
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, one of the world’s most prestigious automotive events, has crowned its 2024 Best of Show winner, and this year’s honor goes to a beautifully preserved 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports. Owned by Fritz Burkard of The Pearl Collection, this exquisite vehicle represents not just a triumph in automotive restoration but a significant moment in the history of the Concours itself.
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is renowned for its unparalleled display of some of the most rare and iconic cars from around the globe. Each year, collectors and enthusiasts gather on the scenic 18th fairway of the Pebble Beach Golf Links, where the world’s finest cars compete for the title of Best of Show. The competition is fierce, with each vehicle judged on its historical significance, authenticity, and overall elegance.
The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports, this year’s winner, is a true masterpiece of automotive design and engineering. Bugatti, a marque synonymous with luxury and high-performance, has long been celebrated for its contributions to the automotive world, both in the early 20th century and today. The Type 59 Sports, with its rich racing heritage and timeless design, is one of the most celebrated models in Bugatti’s illustrious history.
What makes this victory particularly notable is that the Bugatti Type 59 Sports is the first Preservation Vehicle to win the Best of Show title at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Preservation Vehicles are judged based on their originality and how well they have been maintained in their original state, rather than being fully restored. The Type 59 Sports, which has retained much of its original components and patina, stood out among the competition, showcasing the beauty of a car that has been carefully preserved for nearly 90 years.
The Type 59 Sports was originally built as a Grand Prix racing car, and it quickly became one of Bugatti’s most successful race cars of the 1930s. With its elegant design, lightweight construction, and powerful engine, the Type 59 Sports was a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack. It won numerous races during its competitive career, and its legacy has only grown over the decades.
Fritz Burkard, the owner of this year’s Best of Show winner, expressed his delight and pride in receiving such a prestigious award. “This is a monumental moment for me and for everyone involved in preserving this piece of automotive history. The Bugatti Type 59 Sports is not just a car; it’s a symbol of an era, a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of the 1930s. I’m honored to have it recognized at such a prestigious event.”
The win at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance further solidifies Bugatti’s reputation as one of the most revered brands in the automotive world. The company, which continues to produce some of the world’s most powerful and luxurious hypercars, has a legacy that stretches back over a century. The Type 59 Sports is a reminder of Bugatti’s longstanding commitment to excellence and the art of automobile manufacturing.
This victory also highlights the growing appreciation for Preservation Vehicles within the collector community. As more collectors and enthusiasts recognize the importance of originality and historical integrity, events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance are increasingly honoring vehicles that have been preserved in their original condition.
The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports’ win at the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars and the importance of preserving automotive history for future generations. As the automotive world continues to evolve, these timeless vehicles serve as a reminder of the artistry and innovation that have shaped the industry for over a century.
