Salon Privé has confirmed the first highlights for its landmark 20th anniversary concours, with a celebrated Le Mans veteran setting the tone for what promises to be a superb gathering on the lawns of Blenheim Palace on 27-31 August.
Headlining the early announcements is a remarkable 1964 Alpine M64 – one of only three prototypes crafted to conquer the world’s toughest endurance test. Powered by a jewel-like 1049cc Renault Gordini four-cylinder and clothed in a lightweight spaceframe reminiscent of a Lotus 23, this M64 won its class and the Index of Thermal Efficiency at the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans. In the hands of Roger de Lageneste and Henry Morrogh, it covered 2436 miles at an average of 101mph while achieving an impressive 21mpg. After a fleeting but successful competition career, it vanished for nearly half a century before returning to Le Mans Classic in 2022. It will race once more this July before making its UK concours debut at Blenheim – largely unrestored save for new paint and a replacement seat cover.
Sharing the spotlight will be a 1933 Duesenberg Model SJ, a car synonymous with interwar American luxury. Unveiled in 1932, the supercharged SJ’s 320bhp made it the world’s fastest production car of its day. Just 36 were built, and this example – unseen for nearly fifty years before appearing at Pebble Beach last summer – makes a rare journey from the US to captivate a fresh audience in Oxfordshire.
Adding a touch of cinematic allure is a 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster that was delivered new to celebrated German actress Romy Schneider. Still featuring its original red leather interior, the Roadster collected a class trophy at the 2024 Lugano Elegance before joining the Salon Privé line-up.
Salon Privé Chairman Andrew Bagley commented: ‘The calibre of the Concours entries is higher than ever, giving this year’s guests a glimpse of what’s to come. Our 20th Anniversary Concours will rightly contain some of the finest and rarest motor cars from around the world.’
Full details and additional entries will follow in the coming weeks. For entry information and tickets, visit salonpriveconcours.com.
