Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[VIDEO: Jay Leno inspects the Devon Motorworks GTX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/video-jay-leno-inspects-the-devon-motorworks-gtx/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/video-jay-leno-inspects-the-devon-motorworks-gtx/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/23/video-jay-leno-inspects-the-devon-motorworks-gtx/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Devon GTX walkaround with Jay Leno and Justin Bell - click above to watch the video

Celebrity car-lover Jay Leno was up in Monterey this year, helping to auction off some charity items and checking out every car that caught his fancy. One such car was the newest all-American supercar, Devon's GTX. Jay spotted the car on the concept lawn at Pebble Beach and had development driver Justin Bell give him a walkaround. Fortunately, someone had a camera rolling to chronicle the experience for a Jay Leno Garage segment.

Click through to the jump and you'll hear Justin mention some interesting stats on the car: 3,000 pounds, 650 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque to name a few. That means that this limited production designer sports car will have a much better power-to-weight ratio than the Viper ACR with which which it shares some DNA. In fact, the Devon's numbers mirror those of the Ferrari Enzo, although the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano was reportedly the actual benchmark for the car. No wonder it has been setting production car lap records.

Our favorite part of the video is when Jay fires the GTX up. We can tell you from firsthand experience that the Devon crew has done a terrific job of making their creation sound as good as it looks and performs, and you can get a taste of that in the video. We'll have a lot more Devon news for you in the near future, but for now, follow the jump and watch the clip.


Gallery: Monterey 2009: 2010 Devon GTX

01-devon-gtx-live02-devon-gtx-live03-devon-gtx-live04-devon-gtx-live05-devon-gtx-live

[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Jay Leno inspects the Devon Motorworks GTX

VIDEO: Jay Leno inspects the Devon Motorworks GTX originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>devondevon gtxDevonGtxjay lenojay leno garagejay lenos garageJayLenoJayLenoGarageJayLenosGaragejustin bellJustinBellmonterey 2009Monterey2009pebblepebble beachPebbleBeachVideoWed, 23 Sep 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: 2010 Jaguar XJ has North American debut at Pebble]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/monterey-2009-2010-jaguar-xj-has-north-american-debut-at-pebble/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/monterey-2009-2010-jaguar-xj-has-north-american-debut-at-pebble/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/monterey-2009-2010-jaguar-xj-has-north-american-debut-at-pebble/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Jaguar XJ - Click above for high-res image gallery

The XJ was, for the longest time, the model most commonly associated with the Jaguar brand. Like Porsche's iconic 911, the XJ's basic shape had soldiered on for decades with significant platform changes hidden behind an all-too-familiar face. When Jaguar switched things up by introducing the forward-looking midsize XF a couple of years ago, people started to take notice that it wasn't going to be business-as-usual anymore in Coventry - or Mumbai for that matter. Heritage and tradition were one thing, but Jaguar needed something radical to reclaim its place at the top of the luxury sedan class. Enter the 2010 XJ, an all-new vehicle with an all-new look that should help Jaguar capture some all-new customers.

Borrowing heavily from the XF playbook, the new ultra sedan offers tastefully modern styling with a dash of traditional elegance and a healthy dose of British class. Sure, the tail lamps might look like they were borrowed from a Citroen, but in person this car has genuine presence. It is a large vehicle compared to the previous XJ, but not as big as, say, an S-Class Benz. The proportions remind us of the BMW 7 Series and the new Porsche Panamera.

As we've told you from our first encounter with the car a month ago, the new 2010 Jaguar XJ will be available in regular or extended wheelbase form, with one of three variations of the company's direct-injected 5.0 liter V8 underhood. The base models get a 385-horsepower normally-aspirated version; the XJ Supercharged gets boosted to 470 hp; and the top-of-the-line Supersport gets the XFR's 510-hp mill. Prices will range from a base of $72,500 to $115,000, making this one dear kitty. No matter the price, it's one striking sedan, and we can't wait to get some seat time soon. Until then, check out our high-res gallery from Pebble Beach below.


Gallery: 2010 Jaguar XJ Live


Gallery: 2010 Jaguar XJ


Live photos from Pebble Beach copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: 2010 Jaguar XJ has North American debut at Pebble originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Aug 2009 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 jaguar2010 jaguar xj2010 xj2010Jaguar2010JaguarXj2010Xjjaguar xjjaguar xj 2010JaguarXjJaguarXj2010montereymonterey 2009Monterey2009pebblepebble beachPebbleBeachSun, 23 Aug 2009 10:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Ferrari TR59 gathering - Pebble Beach's wild stepchildren]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/monterey-2009-ferrari-tr59-gathering-pebble-beachs-wild-step/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/monterey-2009-ferrari-tr59-gathering-pebble-beachs-wild-step/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/monterey-2009-ferrari-tr59-gathering-pebble-beachs-wild-step/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


1959 Ferrari TR59 Gathering at Pebble Beach - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's a special place in our hearts for classic Ferraris, especially red ones with long, swooping fenders. That's why we were so excited to hear that the four remaining 1959 Ferrari TR59s would be all at the Pebble Beach Concours this year.

Lighter and more powerful than the 250TR on which it was based, the TR59 featured coachwork by Pininfarina and Fantuzzi as well as upgraded features like disc brakes and coil valve springs that increased horsepower to 306. Coming off a successful 1958 season including a victory at Le Mans, the TR59 continued the winning tradition with a 1-2 debut finish at the 12 Hours of Sebring.

While the TR59 model doesn't have the simple elegance as its predecessor, we would still consider it one of the most beautiful Ferrari racing cars of all time. We made sure to be on the 18th fairway at Pebble bright and early to capture the historic gathering, the result of which can be seen in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Ferrari TR59 Gathering at Pebble Beach


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Ferrari TR59 gathering - Pebble Beach's wild stepchildren originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction - Click above for high-res image gallery

When it comes to auctions during the Monterey car week, the best is saved for last. Held in conjunction with the Pebble Beach Concours, the auction house Gooding & Company offered up an incredible selection of cars on both Saturday and Sunday night. By the time the last lot had crossed the block, two cars had sold for over $4 million including a 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Drop Head Coupe that went for $4,180,000 and a 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider that commanded $5,115,000.

Seven other cars passed the seven figure mark, including a 1935 Duesenberg Model SJ Roadster ($3,000,000), a 1958 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider ($2,750,000), and a very unique 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Special Coupe ($1,375,00) previously owned by Ettore Bugatti himself. More details about the auction can be found in the press release after the jump, and you can view complete auction results on Gooding's web site.


Gallery: 2009 Gooding & Company Pebble Beach Auction


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Gooding & Company]

Continue reading Monterey 2009: Gooding & Company breaks $50 million in sales at Pebble Beach auction

Monterey 2009: Gooding & Company breaks $50 million in sales at Pebble Beach auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 gooding pebble beach auction2009GoodingPebbleBeachAuctionGooding companyGooding Company Pebble Beach AuctionGooding Pebble Beach auctionGoodingCompanyGoodingCompanyPebbleBeachAuctionGoodingPebbleBeachAuctionmonterey 2009Monterey2009pebble beachpebble beach auctionPebbleBeachPebbleBeachAuctionThu, 20 Aug 2009 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Porsche cracks open the vault for Monterey Historics displays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/monterey-2009-porsche-cracks-open-the-vault-for-monterey-histor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/monterey-2009-porsche-cracks-open-the-vault-for-monterey-histor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/20/monterey-2009-porsche-cracks-open-the-vault-for-monterey-histor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Porsche 911 GT1 at the Monterey Historics - Click above for high-res image gallery

As the featured marque at the 36th Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races, Porsche decided to open up their vault and bring out some of their most iconic race cars to entertain the crowd. About 150 Porsches were entered in the various classes of racing action over the weekend, but a special group of unique racers was on display in the paddock as well. All of the cars made it out to the track for some parade laps, but even standing still they had no trouble conveying that Porsche is a company committed to racing.

There were about a dozen great racers on hand, but four extra special cars stood out. On loan from the new Porsche Museum in Germany was a 1960 Type 718 Formula 2 car, a 1962 Type 804 Formula 1 racer, the "Grandma" 1962 Type 718 W-RS eight-cylinder Spyder, and the GT1 98LM that helped Porsche score a 1-2 at the 1998 24 Hours of Le Mans. Outside that group, you could find a 917/30, a 906 Longtail, a very special cadmium-hooded RSK, a 550 Spyder, an RS60, a 917K, plus a 956C and a newer RS Spyder. In separate display areas, you could also find the Bruce Leven Havoline 962, a 908 Longtail, and the Jules 936.

It was a pretty spectacular showing of significant race cars from Porsche, and that doesn''t even include the other 130 or so privateer Porsches that competed over the weekend in several different classes. They remain truly remarkable cars and their owners did them proud. Check out our high-res gallery below and the full press release after the jump.


Gallery: Monterey 2009: Porsche Display at Monterey Historics


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Monterey 2009: Porsche cracks open the vault for Monterey Historics displays

Monterey 2009: Porsche cracks open the vault for Monterey Historics displays originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 monterey historics2009MontereyHistoricsmontereymonterey 2009monterey historicsMonterey2009MontereyHistoricspebble beachPebbleBeachporsche motorsportsPorsche RacingPorscheMotorsportsPorscheRacingThu, 20 Aug 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: RM Auctions sells 1952 Jaguar C-Type for record $2,530,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-rm-auctions-sells-1952-jaguar-c-type-for-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-rm-auctions-sells-1952-jaguar-c-type-for-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-rm-auctions-sells-1952-jaguar-c-type-for-record/#commentsFiled under: ,


RM Sports & Classic of Monterey Auction - Click above for high-res image gallery

After selling off the Nick Alexander Woodie collection on Thursday, RM continued with their Sports & Classics of Monterey auction this past weekend. The sale was highlighted by a 1952 Jaguar C-Type that was originally owned and raced by the late Phil Hill. The legendary driver's son, Derek Hill, drove the car up on stage where bidding immediately passed $1,000,000 on its way to a $2,530,000 final selling price.

Despite the downward trend of the collector car market, RM managed to sell 85% of the 239 cars it offered last weekend. In addition to the C-Type, several other notable cars found new homes, including a 1955 Aston Martin DB3S that sold for $1,980,000 and a Duesenberg Model SJ Disappearing Top Convertible Coupe with a final sale price of $1,430,000. Some of the no-sales included a 2006 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 with a top bid of $900,000, a 1938 Talbot Lago T120 that went unsold at $950,000, and a 1953 Ferrari 166MM Spider Scaglietti that didn't meet its reserve despite being bid to $1,100,000. You can read more about the auction in RM's press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2009 RM Sports & Classics of Monterey Auction


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Monterey 2009: RM Auctions sells 1952 Jaguar C-Type for record $2,530,000

Monterey 2009: RM Auctions sells 1952 Jaguar C-Type for record $2,530,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 rm monterey auction2009RmMontereyAuctionjaguarjaguar c-typeJaguarC-typemonterey 2009Monterey2009pebblepebble beachPebbleBeachRM AuctionsRM Monterey auctionRmAuctionsRmMontereyAuctionWed, 19 Aug 2009 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Vintage racers exude speed even at rest]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-vintage-racers-exude-speed-even-at-rest/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-vintage-racers-exude-speed-even-at-rest/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-vintage-racers-exude-speed-even-at-rest/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Monterey Historic Automobile Races paddock - Click above for high-res image gallery

Even though it's essentially run just for fun, the track action at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca can be downright menacing during the Monterey Historic Automobile Races. Just ask the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa driver who had a severe pucker moment on Saturday. Sure, the cars survived relatively unscathed, but some drivers may probably going to have second thoughts come Monterey 2010.

Given our current economic and environmental attitudes, it is conceivable (if unlikely) that historic racing might not last far into the next decade. What a pity it would be for vintage racing to go away, but quite honestly, this event could easily continue as nothing more then a classic motorsports car show. The cars themselves certainly draw more than flies - and even at rest, they look so amazingly fast and stylish that simply touring the paddock can be enough entertainment for all but the most jaded fan.

Just by strolling around the paddock you can see, feel, taste and hear things that will instantly elicit a smile every time the memory rises in your brain. While working our way around the infield on Saturday we came across dozens of cars, bikes, and people that left us in awe... but even so, we still hope that the racing continues, if only for the noise and added visuals.


Gallery: 2009 Monterey Historic Automobile Races paddock walk


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Vintage racers exude speed even at rest originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 monterey historics2009MontereyHistoricshistoric racingHistoricRacingLaguna SecaLagunaSecamontereymonterey 2009monterey historicsMonterey2009MontereyHistoricspebblepebble beachPebbleBeachvintage racingVintageRacingWed, 19 Aug 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Zagato honored at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-zagato-honored-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-zagato-honored-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-zagato-honored-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Zagato Tribute Class at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 59th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance displayed approximately 200 of the most unique and exquisite automobiles in the world on the 18th hole of the Links at Pebble Beach. Amidst the Bentley and Bugatti, Ferraris and Mercedes-Benz models, there was a special class devoted to a particular design house. That design house was celebrating its 90th anniversary - and despite having some of the world's most incredible designs in its long catalog of coachbuilt specials, it remains a relative unknown to most casual car fans. While many people might be able to recognize the name Pininfarina or Bertone, far fewer know the name Zagato. That's really a shame.

Starting with Ugo Zagato way back in the 1910's, son Elio and grandson Andrea have continued the tradition of building some of the most elegant and sporting vehicles on the planet. As part of a special tribute class at Pebble this year, a collection of Zagato-bodied cars was assembled that included customized cars from legendary automakers like AC, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Fiat and Maserati. While all of them have their own charm, we were particularly mesmerized by the 1957 Ferrari 250 GT LWB, 1965 Alfa Romeo TZ2 Zagato Competition Berlinetta (above), and the diminutive 1949 Fiat Topolino 750MM Zagato Coupe.

Check out our high-res gallery below and let us know what your favorite is.


Gallery: Pebble Beach 2009: Zagato


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Zagato honored at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pebblepebble beachpebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursDelegancezagatoWed, 19 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Medium rare or rare? Custom coachwork Bugatti Type 57s]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-medium-rare-or-rare-custom-coachwork-bugatti-typ/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-medium-rare-or-rare-custom-coachwork-bugatti-typ/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-medium-rare-or-rare-custom-coachwork-bugatti-typ/#commentsFiled under: ,


Custom coachwork Bugatti Type 57s at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours - Click above for a high-res image gallery

At the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, Bugatti was allotted two classes: 100 Years of Style and Speed, and a second class devoted solely to the Type 57. Check that, a second class devoted to Type 57 models with special coachwork. As if any Bugatti Type 57 wasn't special enough, back in the day, customers could order an off-the-rack Type 57, or they could opt for a custom coachwork job arranged directly through Bugatti. They offered six different body styles: The Stelvio, Aravis, Galibier, Ventoux, Atalante and Atlantic.

Those bodies rode on standard chassis or lowered ones labeled with an "S." Customers also had the choice of either the standard naturally aspirated 8-cylinder engine or a supercharged version putting out 210 hp. Supercharged, lowered vehicles were dubbed the 57SC and those were and are the most desirable setup no matter what coachwork it wears. The four 57SC Atlantics built demand the most money, though.

Think of it like the current situation with the Veyron. You can order a "regular" Veyron 16.4, or you could get one of approximately one dozen special editions instead. After all, wouldn't you want to have a one-of-ten or one-of-one edition instead of a lousy one-of-fifty model? The difference in the Type 57 days was that the bodies completely changed from model to model, whereas the special editions today tend to revolve around paint schemes. It's a lot more like taking an Enzo to Pininfarina and turning it into a Ferrari P4/5, or taking a ZR1 Corvette to Bertone and driving off in a Mantide.

At Pebble, we were treated to a selection of nine Type 57 Bugattis ranging in year from 1935-1939. There was a bare chassis, a Bertelli of Feltham Cabriolet, Two-Light Ventoux Coupe (l), Graber Cabriolet, Paul Nee Pillarless Coupe, 57SC Atalante Coupe, Albert D'Ieteren Cabriolet, 57C Aravis, and a 57C Letourneur et Marchand Cabriolet (r). That Atalante took a well-deserved trophy for best in class. Be sure to check out our gallery to see these amazing Bugattis for yourself.


Gallery: Custom Coachwork Bugatti Type 57s At Pebble Beach


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Medium rare or rare? Custom coachwork Bugatti Type 57s originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti type 57bugatti type 57cbugatti type 57sbugatti type 57scBugattiType57BugattiType57cBugattiType57sBugattiType57scmontereymonterey 2009Monterey2009pebblepebble beachpebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursDeleganceWed, 19 Aug 2009 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Morgan Mania at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-morgan-mania-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-morgan-mania-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-morgan-mania-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under:


Morgans at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

When car people think of Morgan, they probably picture trikes or think of wooden frames. Perhaps they envision the cross-eyed late-model cars that attempt to update the classic British roadster with aesthetically mixed results. What gets lost in the discussion is the fact that Morgan started out building cars a full century ago. That's right, it has been 100 years since the first Morgan automobile was produced. To honor that centenary accomplishment, there was a special tribute to the boutique automaker at the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

The entrants ranged from a 1909 Morgan 7 hp Runabout to the 2009 Morgan LIFECar Concept. Filling out the class were cars from the '30s, '40s, '50s and '60s. The three-wheeled 1937 Sports 2 Seater Barrelback and 1947 F-Super Sports 2 Seater (above) represented the old guard three-wheelers, while four +4 models rounded out the group. Highlights included the LeMans-inspired SLR (one of three) and the 1965 +4 Coupe, which wasn't as successful as hoped for and ended its run with just 26 built. Check out our gallery below and pick out your favorite.


Gallery: Pebble Beach 2009: Morgan


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Morgan Mania at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Silver Arrows at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mercedes-Benz has had more than their share of entrants in the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance over its 59 years. The classic Teutonic automaker has even had an overall winner or two in the Best of Show judging. This year the marque was honored in another special class, with a twist. The organizers invited Mercedes to bring a sampling of their Silver Arrows race cars, and the company obliged.

For fans of Grand Prix racing, the legend of the Silver Arrows is a memorable one. When the team showed up at a race way back in 1934, the new W25 GP cars were a bit over the maximum allowable weight. To save a few pounds, the team stripped off the white paint and ran the cars through tech again with just the bare metal skins. The cars met the weight requirements and raced on to a win. The press dubbed the cars "Silver Arrows" for their color and speed, and the name stuck.

One of those original 186-mph W25 race cars was on hand along with two of the 1939 W154 Grand Prix racers, a 1952 W194 Coupe (which led to the development of the 300SL Gullwing road cars) and the amazing 1954 Mercedes-Benz W196R Streamliner that the likes of Stirling Moss and Juan Manuel Fangio drove back in the day. It was a truly spectacular gathering of priceless historic race cars.

Check out our gallery below and the press release from Mercedes-Benz after the jump.


Gallery: Silver Arrows at Pebble Beach

1934 Mercedes-Benz W25 Grand Prix1954 Mercedes-Benz W196R Streamliner1954 Mercedes-Benz W196R Streamliner1954 Mercedes-Benz W196R Streamliner

Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Monterey 2009: Lawn Darts - Silver Arrows hit target at Pebble Beach

Monterey 2009: Lawn Darts - Silver Arrows hit target at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>juan manuel fangioJuanManuelFangiomonterey 2009Monterey2009pebble beachpebble beach 2009pebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeach2009PebbleBeachConcoursDelegancesilver arrowsilver arrowsSilverArrowSilverArrowsstreamlinerW154W194W196RW25Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Pebble Beach adds motorcycle parking]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-pebble-beach-adds-motorcycle-parking/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-pebble-beach-adds-motorcycle-parking/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/monterey-2009-pebble-beach-adds-motorcycle-parking/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Vintage British motorcycles at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the first time in its 59 runnings, the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance hosted a class of motorcycles. With a tip of the hat to the legendary Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races, British bikes were selected for this inaugural class outing.

Entrants ranged from a 1913 Premier 3-1/2 hp 3 speed to a 1957 Manx Norton Featherbed 40M (above). A gorgeous 1956 Ariel Square 4 with Garrard enclosed sidecar, 1938 Triumph Speed Twin, 1954 A.J.S. E-95 Porcupine, 1953 Matchless G45, and a pair of Vincents were among the many highlights.

The two Vincents were the 1947 Vincent-HRD Series B Rapide Special and the 1948 Vincent-HRD Black Shadow Special. "Gunga Din" and "Black Lightning," as they are better known, were truly extraordinary. They even had that famous photo of Rollie Free stripped to his bathing suit, lying flat out on the Black Lightning while he set a Bonneville speed record at 150 mph back in 1948! See for yourself in our gallery below.


Gallery: Pebble Beach 2009: Vintage British Motorcycles


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Pebble Beach adds motorcycle parking originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Black LightningBlackLightninggunga dinGungaDinmonterey 2009Monterey2009motorcyclemotorcyclesnortonpebblepebble beachpebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursDeleganceVincentWed, 19 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Bentley racecars gather at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-bentley-racecars-gather-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-bentley-racecars-gather-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-bentley-racecars-gather-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Bentley racecars at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

When they pick a featured marque at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, they really go big. For instance, all of the Ferrari TR59 race cars ever made were gathered together this year.

For Bentley's racing class, the organizers managed to corral the largest gathering of historic Bentleys ever in one place at one time. Reaching all the way back to the 1922 Bentley 3-Litre Park Ward Tourer that finished fourth at the inaugural Le Mans 24 Hour Race, the display included memorable sports cars all the way up to the 2003 Bentley Speed 8 that led a Bentley 1-2 in the fabled French endurance race. There were 3-liter cars, 4-1/4-liter cars, and 4-1/2- liter cars, Blowers and Speed Sixes. Altogether, there were 13 cars in class, plus another 26 in the various other classes, and of course the debut of the new Bentley Mulsanne as well. For lovers of all things Coventry, it was pure nirvana. Check out our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Bentley Racecars at Pebble Beach


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Bentley racecars gather at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleymonterey 2009Monterey2009mulsannepebble beachPebbleBeachvintage racevintage racecarsvintage racingVintageRaceVintageRacecarsVintageRacingTue, 18 Aug 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: The Monterey Historic Automobile Races]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-the-monterey-historic-automobile-races/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-the-monterey-historic-automobile-races/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-the-monterey-historic-automobile-races/#commentsFiled under: ,


2009 Monterey Historic Automobile Races - Click above for high-res image gallery

Another year, another weekend of vintage car racing at the Monterey Historics. Our only complaint is that we could spend just one day at Laguna Seca with all of the other automotive happenings around the Monterey Peninsula occurring at the same time. This year featured Porsche, which made it all the more special. The company's entire racing history through the early-1990s was represented on track, from a 1949 Porsche 356 SL to a 1990 Porsche 962. While the main focus was on the racers from Stuttgart, there were also 200+ other cars to enjoy. We spent our afternoon drooling over Ferrari 250TRs, Jag D-Types, Maserati Birdcages, Lotus 23s, vintage Alfa Romeos and Bugattis, and more. Check out our favorite photos from Saturday's races in the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2009 Monterey Historic Automobile Races

1964-1971 FIA Mfg. Championship Cars1955-1961 Sports Racing Cars over 2000cc1982 Porsche 9561925-1949 Racing & Sports Cars

Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: The Monterey Historic Automobile Races originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchettas - Click above for high-res image gallery

One of the featured groups of cars for Pebble Beach were a number of influential Ferrari models, and perhaps none were more so than the 166 MM Barchetta. Nicknamed the "Little Boat," the 166 MM was one of Enzo's very first race cars, and it put Ferrari on the map both as a race team and as a manufacturer.

The 166 MM featured a 2.00liter V12 underneath its long bonnet that produced 140 horsepower and 117 lb-ft torque. However, at just over 1400 pounds, it was quite formidable on the track. The 166 MM scored historic victories at the 1949 24 Hours of Le Mans and at the 1949 Mille Miglia (which gave it its name). Just 25 were produced in the late 1940s, and as only Pebble Beach can do, ten examples were on display on the 18th fairway. Our collection of photos from the historic gathering can be viewed in the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Ferrari 166 MM Touring Barchettas at Pebble Beach


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Pebble Beach provides docking for Barchettas originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 pebble beach concours delegance2009PebbleBeachConcoursDeleganceferrariferrari 166 mm touring barchettaferrari 166 mm touring barchetta gatheringFerrari166MmTouringBarchettaFerrari166MmTouringBarchettaGatheringMonterey 2009Monterey2009Pebble Beachpebble beach concourspebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursPebbleBeachConcoursDeleganceTue, 18 Aug 2009 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Face to face with the Veritas RS III]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-face-to-face-with-the-veritas-rs-iii/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-face-to-face-with-the-veritas-rs-iii/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-face-to-face-with-the-veritas-rs-iii/#commentsFiled under: ,


Veritas RS III - Click above for high-res image gallery

We heard that Veritas was bringing its RS III supercar to Monterey this past weekend, but we weren't sure where it was going to be. Fortunately, we happened upon the car in the lobby of the Portola Plaza Hotel where the RM auction was being held and spent several minutes inspecting the silver single-seater despite the fact that the Ferrari 288 GTO we wanted to see auctioned was going up on the block.

Our first impression of the car is that it's absolutely stunning and much better than in any photos we've seen. In fact, we thought it looked quite a bit different, and after checking the original photos of the car, our hunch was confirmed. This particular car has a completely redesigned front end with revised headlights (we think it looks like an angry reptile), and the hood scoop is gone. The side of the RS III is now much more sculpted and features large winglets behind the front wheel, and the rear has revised taillights and a diffuser-style rear fascia.

We don't know yet if these visual changes are a late change to the design or some type of sport model, but we like the direction Veritas has taken with the car. The new look is much more aggressive than before, and despite its near half million dollar price tag, it just jumped way up on the list of cars we would buy after we cash in a winning lottery ticket. Check out the new photos in the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Monterey 2009: Veritas RS III


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Face to face with the Veritas RS III originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>monterey 2009Monterey2009pebble beachPebbleBeachRS IIIRsIiiVeritasVeritas RS IIIVeritasRsIiiTue, 18 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Bentley Mulsanne #1 auctioned at Pebble Beach for $500,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/video-bentley-mulsanne-1-auctioned-at-pebble-beach-for-500-00/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/video-bentley-mulsanne-1-auctioned-at-pebble-beach-for-500-00/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/video-bentley-mulsanne-1-auctioned-at-pebble-beach-for-500-00/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Bentley Mulsanne - Click above to watch the video after the jump

After marking its highly anticipated debut at Pebble Beach, it was straight off to the auction block for the all-new Bentley Mulsanne, where Bentley CEO Franz-Josef Paefgen and Richard Charlesworth, head of the Bentley Heritage Collection, joined auctioneers Gooding & Company in selling off chassis #1 to the highest bidder.

The Mulsanne is touted as the first Bentley designed and produced entirely at the company's Crewe headquarters in England since the legendary 1920's-era 8-liter Bentley, and to mark the occasion, Gooding wheeled W.O. Bentley's own personal ride, the second 8-liter chassis ever made, onto the stage before bidding began. Gooding opened the bids for Mulsanne #1 at $500,000, but after receiving no bids at that price, bidding quickly stepped down to $300k, only to climb back up to the half-million mark where it sold to an undisclosed collector over the phone.

Proceeds from the auction are earmarked towards the Phil Hill Foundation, the official charitable organization of the Concours, and you can watch the bidding (and hear oh-so-British auctioneering) unfold in the video after the jump.


Gallery: Monterey 2009: 2010 Bentley Mulsanne

01-mulsanne-live02-mulsanne-live03-mulsanne-live04-mulsanne-live05-mulsanne-live

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Bentley Mulsanne #1 auctioned at Pebble Beach for $500,000

VIDEO: Bentley Mulsanne #1 auctioned at Pebble Beach for $500,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 monterey2009 pebble beach2009 pebble beach concours delegance2009Monterey2009PebbleBeach2009PebbleBeachConcoursDelegance2010 bentley2010 bentley mulsanne2010 mulsanne2010Bentley2010BentleyMulsanne2010Mulsanneauctionbentleybentley heritage collectionbentley mulsannebentley mulsanne 1bentley mulsanne chassis 1BentleyHeritageCollectionBentleyMulsanneBentleyMulsanne1BentleyMulsanneChassis1first bentley mulsanneFirstBentleyMulsannefranz-josef paefgenFranz-josefPaefgengoodinggooding and companygooding companyGoodingAndCompanyGoodingCompanymontereypaefgenpebble beachpebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursDelegancephil hill foundationPhilHillFoundationrichard charlesworthRichardCharlesworthTue, 18 Aug 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: 145 vintage Porsches take to the track]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-145-vintage-porsches-take-to-the-track/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-145-vintage-porsches-take-to-the-track/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/monterey-2009-145-vintage-porsches-take-to-the-track/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Porsches at the 2009 Monterey Historics - Click above for high-res image gallery

From the second we arrived in Monterey last week, we noticed one thing: there were Porsches everywhere. From the fleet of 30 Panameras that Porsche brought out, to the hundreds of owners that made the trip to Northern California, we couldn't seem to drive for more than a few seconds without passing one. The epicenter of the Porsche party, though, was at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for the vintage races.

Named as the featured marque for 2009, Porsches made up nearly one third of the competitors and made up most of the field for groups like the 1964-1971 FIA Mfg. Championship Cars and the 1981-1990 IMSA GTP & FIA Mfg. Championship Cars that were packed with Porsche 906s, 908s, 917s, 956s, and 962s. We also enjoyed seeing the earlier models like the trio of 1960 RS-60s, a couple 550 Spyders, all the 356s, and the oldest Porsche on the track, a 1949 Porsche 356 SL. Even some of the display cars like a 1998 GT1 that raced at Le Mans were able to get on track during some parade laps that honored the late Bob Carlson, the former PR director for Porsche NA, and Bob Snodgrass, a principal for the Brumos racing team.

We've compiled all of our Porsche photos from our day at the track in the high-res gallery below, complete with descriptions for each one in case you aren't familiar with the car. Enjoy!


Gallery: Porsches at the 2009 Monterey Historics

Porsche Parade Laps at Laguna Seca1969 Porsche 917K1982 Porsche 9561955-1961 GT Cars under 2200cc1960 Porsche RS-60

Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: 145 vintage Porsches take to the track originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Rolex Moments in Time Display at the Monterey Historics - Click above for high-res image gallery

Along with the hundreds of cars on track, this weekend's Monterey Historics honored six significant racing cars and their achievements in a display called the Rolex Moments in Time.

This year, there were some truly legendary cars featured, including the 1969 Ford GT40 Le Mans winner and the runner-up Porsche 908LH. The two combined for the closest ever finish at the 24 hour race, with the Ford taking the win by just four seconds. Two other racecars that battled it out on the track, a Porsche 917K and a Ferrari 512S were also on display, and examples of each car could also be seen on track on Saturday. Finally, a 1972 McLaren M20 and a 1976 Porsche 936/81 that raced at Le Mans from 1976-1978 (winning it in '77) finished off the featured cars. You can read more about the storied racecars in the press release after the jump, and be sure to check out the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Monterey 2009: Rolex Moments in Time Display


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Monterey 2009: Rolex Moments in Time displays best of motorsports history

Monterey 2009: Rolex Moments in Time displays best of motorsports history originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

Since it was first held way back in 1950, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance has developed into the world's greatest celebration of classic automobiles. Like they say at the Emmies, it's an honor just to be nominated. That definitely holds true at Pebble as well, as only the most beautiful and rare cars are invited to participate. That's probably why they had competitors coming in from 30 states and 19 different countries, including Hong Kong, Argentina and Australia. Altogether there were about 200 vehicles in 28 classes in this year's field.

While the 1937 Horch 853 Voll & Ruhrbeck Sport Cabriolet that won "Best of Show" at the 59th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance seemed far and away the most beautiful car at the event, that didn't keep us from noticing about 200 other incredible vehicles parked around it on the 18th fairway at Pebble on Sunday.

And Pebble is about way more than just the car show. There are dozens of supporting causes and attractions around the Lodge and Links, with proceeds from the various raffles, auctions, sponsorships and gate receipts generating more than $1 million for charity again this year. One of the most entertaining charity events every year is Jay Leno's stage appearance, where he helps raise money through various live auctions. This year he helped California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger sell his signed bomber jacket for a whopping $30,000.

The cars at Pebble are grouped in classes, with several featured marques and themes every year. This year there were special displays honoring Bentley (which also had the biggest representation in the field), Zagato, and the centennials of Bugatti, Audi and Morgan. Motorcycles were also displayed for the first time this year. The class consisted of British bikes built through 1959. Other highlights were a special gathering of Ferrari TR59s and 166 Barchettas, Silver Arrow race cars, Stirling Moss race cars to celebrate that legendary driver's 80th birthday, and even a Porsche class that included a 917 and a 908/03 Spyder owned by comedian Jerry Seinfeld. It was another great year, and we can hardly wait for that third Sunday in August 2010, when Alfa Romeo and Pierce-Arrow will be among the makes honored. Until then, please enjoy our gallery of images from the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

Gallery: 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

BentleysFerrari TR59sAuto Union Type DJerry Seinfeld driving his award-winning Porsche 908/03 SpyderBentleys

Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips, Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: 59th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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