Imagine a gathering where automotive history comes alive, where the finest examples of prewar engineering and artistry stand proudly. This dream becomes a reality at Pebble Beach, an event synonymous with unparalleled automotive elegance. Gooding Christie’s, the official auction house of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, consistently curates a selection that leaves enthusiasts and collectors in awe.
For its 21st year, Gooding Christie’s will present a remarkable lineup of antique and classic vehicles. These stunning Pebble Beach prewar automobiles represent the pinnacle of their respective eras. They are a testament to human ingenuity and passion.
A Hall of Fame of Historic Models
Rupert Banner, Gooding Christie’s Senior Specialist, perfectly encapsulates the significance of these cars. He highlights how the most important prewar vehicles are known simply by their model numbers. He mentions “8C2300,” “Speed Six,” “35B,” “43,” “135,” “LG45,” and “DV32.” This year, many of these legendary models will be featured.
Each of these cars is a stellar example in its own right. Many come from prestigious, long-term ownerships, adding to their impeccable provenance. You will certainly appreciate their rich histories.
The Supercharged Italian Legend: 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Torpédo
Consider the 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Torpédo, a truly desirable offering. As the premier prewar Italian sports car, it boasts a supercharged straight-eight engine. This highly developed third-series 2.3 example retains its matching-numbers engine. Its original open coachwork by Joseph Figoni of Paris is equally impressive.
Distinctive features include a desirable Monza-style cowl with a rare Alfa Romeo Paris badge. It also has a folding soft top with exposed bows. Long, flowing fenders and dual, rear-mounted spares complete its iconic look. This 8C has belonged to notable collectors like Bill Serri and David Cohen. It has been profiled in Simon Moore’s definitive books. It was twice displayed on the Pebble Beach lawn, in 2013 and 2022. Its estimated value ranges from $4,000,000 to $5,500,000.
British Excellence: 1929 Bentley Speed Six Drophead Coupe
Representing the best of 1920s British motoring is the highly sought-after 1929 Bentley Speed Six Drophead Coupe. This short-chassis model retains its original engine and coachwork. It is one of just 182 Speed Sixes ever built. It is also the sole example bodied by Jacques Saoutchik.
Its exquisite coachwork features an unusual, polished, solid German-silver dashboard. Matching door cappings and fitted luggage complete the luxurious interior. This car underwent a no-expense-spared restoration by Vintage Bentley specialist R.C. Moss. It is a two-time Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance First in Class winner, in 2001 and 2014. Its estimated value is between $2,000,000 and $3,500,000.
Bugatti Engineering Marvels
Bugatti’s road-going Grand Prix car, the Type 43, was an engineering feat upon its debut. It was the first production automobile capable of exceeding 100 mph. The 1927 Bugatti Type 43 Grand Sport, chassis 43172, is one of approximately 160 examples built. It was sold new to Parisian oil heir Maurice Lesieur.
This car has an impeccable provenance, including collectors Tom Perkins and Michel Seydoux. It is presented in an attractive, period-correct grey. Its gently patinated interior shows its remarkable originality. Chassis 43172 retains its matching-numbers frame, lower crankcase, and rear axle. The majority of its original coachwork is also intact. It comes with an extensive report by authority Pierre-Yves Laugier. Its estimated value ranges from $1,500,000 to $2,250,000.
From the Mitchell Rasansky Collection, two more Bugatti icons join the lineup. The 1927 Bugatti Type 35B Grand Prix, with period competition history, is estimated at $2,500,000 to $3,000,000. The 1925 Bugatti Type 35 Supercharged Grand Prix is ideal for vintage racing. Its estimate is $625,000 to $850,000.
Pioneering Innovation: Panhard-Levassor
Two exciting offerings from Panhard-Levassor, among the earliest motorcar manufacturers, will debut in the US. The 1898 Panhard-Levassor M4E ‘Course’/Racing Paris-Amsterdam ‘Americaine’ Four-Seater (chassis and engine 1451) is a genuine factory “Course”-specification car. It lined up for the ambitious Paris to Amsterdam race.
Powered by the latest M4E-Phènix engines, it could reach at least 40 mph. This model was the first to debut a steering wheel and aluminum engine castings. It marks an important milestone in automotive history. Chassis 1451 retains its original coachwork. It comes with a supplemental Course/Racing-style body. It is extensively documented with factory records. This Panhard-Levassor is a proven London to Brighton Veteran Car Run entrant. It finished first three times and is entered for the 2025 Run. A modern starter motor aids its operation. Its estimate is $1,250,000 to $2,000,000.
Also featured is an exceptionally preserved 1912 Panhard-Levassor X14 20CV Torpédo. This is one of the earliest surviving examples with Vanvooren coachwork. Its estimated value is between $450,000 and $650,000.
European Classics of Distinction
Other classic era European offerings include the well-documented 1937 Lagonda LG45 Rapide. This car epitomizes British sports touring of the 1930s. It is one of just 25 LG45 Rapides built. It features Frank Feeley design and W.O. Bentley’s engineering. Following a concours-level restoration, it won Best of Show at Forest Grove and Best in Class at The Quail in 2012. Its estimate is $700,000 to $900,000.
A coveted three-carburetor 1937 Delahaye 135 Coupe des Alpes Cabriolet is also offered. It is equipped with a scarce and desirable manual gearbox. This is one of just seven examples with similar Henri Chapron roadster coachwork. This beautifully restored Delahaye won its class at Pebble Beach in 2016. It won First in Class and Best of Show finalist at the Audrain Concours in 2024. Its estimate is $700,000 to $850,000.
American Engineering Excellence
Early American engineering is showcased by the 1931 Stutz DV-32 Bearcat. This rarely seen, exciting two-place American Classic is finished in a brilliant blue over black. It was part of the famed Harrah’s Automobile Collection for over 25 years. It was restored by noted Stutz specialists, Old Iron Works. Its estimate is $900,000 to $1,200,000.
A concours favorite, the 1934 Packard Twelve 1107 Coupe Roadster, also joins the sale. It is presented in elegant dark blue over black. Its estimated value is between $275,000 and $350,000.
The Unrestored Wonders from Mohr-Fry Collection
Gooding Christie’s Pebble Beach presentations will also feature two unrestored cars from the White Motor Company. These were purchased new by plant breeder William Mohr. Following a tragic accident in 1923, these cars were stored. They remained fantastically preserved in a barn and never restored. They come from single-family ownership since new.
The 1908 White Model L Steam Car, with attractive “Roi des Belges” coachwork, is one of only 12 known survivors. It is a solid preservation-class candidate. Its estimate is $100,000 to $150,000, offered without reserve. The 1915 White Model 4-45 Seven-Passenger Touring is a rare, gasoline-powered White. It presents with remarkable patina in its outstanding, unrestored condition. It still wears its original California license plates. Its estimate is $50,000 to $70,000, also without reserve.
In summary, this collection of antique and classic automobiles at Pebble Beach represents an extraordinary opportunity. These cars are more than just vehicles. They are tangible pieces of history. They showcase engineering brilliance and timeless design. Gooding Christie’s continues to provide a platform for these magnificent machines.
Disclaimer: Estimates provided are for informational purposes only and do not guarantee actual sale prices. Final sale prices may vary significantly.
Source: Gooding Christie
