RumbleSeat’s Wrap-Up of the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance & Auctions

Every year, the automotive world turns its gaze to the picturesque Pebble Beach Golf Links in California, where the Concours d’Elegance showcases the epitome of vehicular beauty and heritage. The RumbleSeat team was fortunate enough to attend this year’s event, which not only lived up to its prestigious reputation but also made history in a spectacular fashion.

The 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance marked a momentous occasion as a preservation car, a 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports, clinched the coveted Best of Show award for the first time. Owned by Fritz Burkard of The Pearl Collection in Zug, Switzerland, this Bugatti is not just any car; it is the very first Type 59 built, boasting an illustrious racing history and royal connections. Its preservation status serves as a testament to the car’s authenticity and the rich history it carries, making its victory all the more significant.

Concours Chairman Sandra Button and the thrilled owner Fritz Burkard highlighted the Bugatti’s storied past and significance. Burkard’s joy was palpable as he emphasized the importance of preservation in the automotive world, celebrating the car’s originality and impeccable driving performance.

This year’s event saw 214 entries from 16 countries and 29 states vying for the top honors across various categories. Among the notable contenders were the 1948 Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport Saoutchik Fastback Coupé, the 1934 Packard 1108 Twelve LeBaron Sport Phaeton, and the 1970 Lancia Stratos HF Zero Bertone Coupe, each with its own unique story and contribution to automotive history.

The competition began in earnest with the 26th Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance, a scenic coastal drive that not only serves as a warm-up for the main event but also as a tie-breaker for the Concours class competition. This tradition is a favorite among participants and spectators alike, offering a rare opportunity to see these magnificent machines in motion against the backdrop of California’s stunning landscapes.

Beyond the competition, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is a significant charitable event, having raised over $3 million this year alone, contributing to more than $41 million over the years. These funds support local nonprofits focusing on youth education, making a profound impact on the lives of thousands of children in Monterey County.

The auction component of the event, hosted by Gooding & Company, saw record-breaking sales, including the sale of a 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Lungo Spider for $14,030,000. This year’s auction underscored the enduring appeal and value of classic automobiles, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from around the globe.

As we look forward to the 74th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2025, with its celebration of Chrysler and Invicta centennials, the creations of Virgil Exner, and the 75th Anniversary of Formula 1, it’s clear that the event will continue to captivate and inspire the automotive world. The RumbleSeat team left Pebble Beach with a renewed appreciation for the artistry, history, and technological innovation that define the Concours d’Elegance, eagerly anticipating what next year’s event has in store.

Learn more: https://www.pebblebeachconcours.net

If you missed attending the event in person, don’t worry. You can experience the grandeur and beauty of the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Watch this video to immerse yourself in the automotive splendor.

Look at some of the stunning cars we captured at the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and auctions throughout the week. From timeless classics to rare collectibles, each vehicle tells a unique story.