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Restored Aston Martin Bulldog Sets Speed Record, Heads To Pebble Beach
The Aston Martin Bulldog, after an extensive 7,000-hour restoration at Classic Motor Cars (CMC) in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, is set to return to its owner in the United States. This iconic British car will participate in the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours in California, where it will compete in the wedge-shaped concept car and prototype class.
The Bulldog's restoration journey began when American businessman Philip Sarofim acquired it in 2019. He appointed Richard Gauntlett to oversee the project and chose CMC for the restoration. The car arrived at CMC in early 2020 and underwent a meticulous process to achieve its original speed goal of 200mph.
In November 2021, during its first shake-down session at the Yeovilton Navy base in Somerset, the Bulldog reached 162mph. By June 2023, it surpassed its initial target by achieving a speed of 205.4mph at Campbeltown, Scotland, driven by Aston Martin works driver Darren Turner.
Tim Griffin, Managing Director of CMC, expressed pride in the team's work on the Bulldog. He stated: "We are proud and privileged to have restored Bulldog and it is a testament to the team in Bridgnorth that this was acknowledged with three major awards: RAC Restoration of the year, the Coppa d’Oro award at the Concorso D’Eleganza at Ville D’ Este and The Victor Gauntlett Trophy which was awarded to the team by the Aston Martin Owners Club."
The Bulldog's unique history includes being styled by William Towns and produced by Aston Martin in 1979. Initially failing to meet its speed goal, it became an automotive myth until Sarofim's acquisition. The car also holds a distinctive record as the only vehicle to have been on both HMS Prince Of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carriers.
Impact on Future Generations
Philip Sarofim emphasised the importance of concept cars like the Bulldog in inspiring future generations. He said: "My business is all about finding entrepreneurs who are looking to change the world, and, for me, that is what concept car designers do – they prove that it’s not necessary to accept the past in order to look to the future. I am a great believer in the power of icons such as Bulldog to inspire the next generation to push the boundaries and shoot for the stars."
The 'Puppies' Prototypes
Alongside Bulldog's restoration, CMC also worked on four unique prototype cars designed by William Towns: Minimissa, Microdot, Tracer, and Hustler. These 'puppies' were sympathetically restored over 3,600 hours and accompanied Bulldog to Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire in May 2024 for a historic recreation of a 1979 interview between William Towns and Thames TV.
David Barzilay from CMC highlighted ongoing interest in Bulldog's story: "The team will be watching results from Pebble Beach closely and hoping for another win." He added: "The story of Bulldog and its ‘puppies’ has been followed closely by enthusiasts and journalists all over the world, and both a documentary and a book are being produced."
The successful restoration of Bulldog was made possible through collaboration with various stakeholders including owner Philip Sarofim, restoration manager Richard Gauntlett, skilled technicians at CMC, and support from the Royal Navy.
The legendary Aston Martin Bulldog continues its journey as it leaves for new adventures across new shores.
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