Elysium
The 19th edition of Salon Privé 2024, held from 26 August to 30 August 2024 at the stunning Blenheim Palace, has once again cemented its status as the UK’s premier luxury automotive event. Over five spectacular days, Salon Privé 2024 showcased the finest classic and contemporary automobiles, culminating in a prestigious Concours d’Elégance Blenheim. This year’s event was a monumental success, featuring UK and world debuts, exclusive pre-parties, and an array of classic car awards.
Salon Privé MotorAvia: The Ultimate Fusion of Sky and Speed
The week they commenced with the highly anticipated MotorAvia pre-party, part of Salon Privé 2024 at London Oxford Airport. Private jets and helicopters shared the stage with supercars. Guests indulged in gourmet dining and lively entertainment, experiencing the essence of a luxury lifestyle experience. As a significant part of the luxury automotive event, MotorAvia perfectly captured the fusion of luxury, speed, and elegance that defines Salon Privé 2024.
Concours Highlights: Historic Icons and Modern Masterpieces
The heart of Salon Privé 2024 was the Concours d’Elégance Blenheim, presented by Aviva Private Clients. The spotlight was on 72 cars competing across 14 meticulously curated classes. Judged by international ICJAG experts, this luxury automotive event featured vehicles ranging from pre-war classics to modern hypercars. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Blenheim Palace, this Concours is one of the most prestigious classic car awards events worldwide.
Among the highlights was the Best of Show award, which went to a stunning 1957 Ferrari 335 S by Scaglietti, entered by American collector Brian Ross. This historic vehicle, which once ruled the world of sports car racing, stood out during the Concours d’Elégance Blenheim and dazzled attendees during the Tour Privé. Chairman Andrew Bagley remarked, “This Ferrari competed in a golden period of sports-car racing, and it holds a cherished place in automotive history.” The Ferrari 335 S will now compete for the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award 2025, further solidifying its place in history.
World-Class Winners: Celebrating Rarity, Elegance, and Performance
Beyond the Best of Show, Salon Privé 2024 featured several other notable awards:
- Best Club Car – Classic: 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Coupe, presented by Lockton
- Best Club Car – Modern Classic: 2013 Noble M600 Carbon Fibre, presented by Lockton
- People’s Choice Award: 1996 Ferrari F50 by Pininfarina
The Concours d’Elégance Blenheim also honored iconic automotive brands such as Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, and Ferrari with dedicated classes showcasing their legendary vehicles. A particular class celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Ferrari 275, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Ferrari’s exceptional legacy in the luxury automotive event.
New Debuts: Future Icons in the Making
While Salon Privé 2024 celebrated automotive history, it also looked forward to the future with a dazzling array of new debuts. The South Lawn of Blenheim Palace became the stage for remarkable UK and world premieres, further enhancing the prestige of this luxury automotive event. Among the standouts was the Tuthill GT ONE, a carbon-fiber-bodied homage to 1990s FIA GT1 racing cars. It features a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing over 500bhp or a turbocharged version generating over 600bhp.
Also debuting at Salon Privé 2024 was the latest evolution of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II, a bold reimagining of the luxury SUV that blends craftsmanship with cutting-edge design. Other highlights included the Naran Hyper Coupe, a British-made hypercar producing up to 1,000bhp, and the stunning Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo, which enchanted guests with its powerful 550bhp twin-turbo V6 engine.
The Style of Salon Privé: Fashion and Elegance Take Centre Stage
As part of the luxury lifestyle experience, Salon Privé 2024 hosted the glamorous Salon Privé Style Day, presented by Boodles. Guests were treated to fine dining, champagne, and the ever-popular Best Hat Competition, which has become an annual highlight of the event. This year, Leonora Smee won the prestigious award with her dazzling Vivien Sheriff Helter Skelter Hat, receiving luxury prizes including a Boodles pendant and Pommery Champagne.
Supercar Saturday 2024: The UK’s Largest Supercar Gathering
The final day of Salon Privé 2024 brought the excitement of Supercar Saturday 2024, the UK’s largest gathering of privately owned sports, super, and hypercars. On 30 August 2024, over 1,540 cars descended on the North Lawn of Blenheim Palace, representing 26 car clubs. The day they were concluded with the presentation of the Salon Privé Club Trophies, with the 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Coupe and the 2013 Noble M600 Carbon Fibre Edition emerging as the most exceptional vehicles.
Simon Ambler, Senior VP of Lockton Performance, reflected on the day’s success: “All the major high-end car clubs are presented in one location, with judging held in the famous grounds of a most magnificent venue. Supercar Saturday 2024 exceeded expectations and continues to be a highlight of Salon Privé 2024.”
A Grand Finale and a Glimpse into the Future
As the curtain fell on Salon Privé 2024, Chairman Andrew Bagley reflected on the event’s overwhelming success: “Our new five-day format has proven to be an overwhelming success, with guests and partners able to showcase their wonderful collections in country club style on the lawns of Blenheim Palace.” This luxury automotive event has become a must-attend gathering for car collectors and lifestyle enthusiasts.
Looking ahead to Salon Privé 2025, the event will celebrate its 20th anniversary from 26-30 August 2025 at Blenheim Palace. With new car debuts, world-class competitions, and elegant social occasions, Salon Privé 2025 promises to be even more spectacular.
Conclusion
Salon Privé 2024 was an overwhelming success, blending classic automotive history with cutting-edge innovations and unparalleled luxury. As the premier luxury automotive event in the UK, it continues to draw the world’s elite, from car enthusiasts to lifestyle connoisseurs. Combining classic car awards, debuts of future icons, and a unique experience ensures that Salon Privé will remain a highlight on the global luxury calendar for years to come.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings