Aston Martin Bulldog Clinches Victory In Prestigious Pebble Beach Class

Published: Tuesday, August 20, 2024, 20:36 [IST]

The Aston Martin Bulldog, meticulously restored by Classic Motor Cars Ltd (CMC) in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, has triumphed in the ‘Wedge-Shaped Concept Cars & Prototypes late’ category at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This prestigious event is renowned for showcasing the finest classic cars globally.

Tim Griffin, CMC’s Managing Director, expressed his delight: "Winning best in class is a fantastic achievement. This amazing car’s journey and its win at the Pebble Beach concours is testament to the fantastic team at CMC and their dedication to the project." His words highlight the team's hard work and commitment.

Philip Sarofim, an American businessman and car collector who owns the Bulldog, shared his excitement: "I am ecstatic that the Aston Martin Bulldog has won its class at the toughest and most prestigious Concours on the planet! It is a fitting testament to the hard work, diligence and incredible skill of the entire team at CMC and all those who have dedicated themselves to this inspirational project."

David Barzilay, Director of Communications at CMC, praised Richard Gauntlett's pivotal role: "Richard Gauntlett, who presented the car to the judges and who managed the restoration, is the glue that held the Bulldog project together. His knowledge of the car’s technical specifications, and its significance in motoring history allowed the restoration of Bulldog to retain its originality while being preserved for the future. He has played a key role in its on-going legacy and the car winning its class."

The Bulldog was initially designed by Aston Martin in the 1970s with an ambitious goal of becoming the fastest production car. However, it did not meet its 200mph target, leading to project cancellation. In 2019, Philip Sarofim acquired this unique vehicle and appointed Richard Gauntlett to oversee its restoration by CMC.

Achieving New Milestones

The restoration was completed in 2021, with its first public appearance at Hampton Court Concours of Elegance. Remarkably, in June 2023, driven by Aston Martin works driver Darren Turner in Campbeltown, Scotland, the Bulldog surpassed its original speed goal by reaching 205.4mph.

Another notable mention is Sarofim's Lancia Stratos Zero. Supported by CMC in previous events, it won in a different category – ‘Wedge-Shaped Concept Cars & Prototypes early’ – at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

This victory underscores CMC's expertise in classic car restoration. Their dedication ensures these historic vehicles not only retain their originality but also achieve new milestones.

The success of these restorations highlights CMC's commitment to preserving automotive history while pushing boundaries in performance.