Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Iconic Race Cars Boasting Legendary Liveries Featured At Salon Privé Event
Motorsport enthusiasts often remember their favourite cars by the iconic sponsorship logos that adorned them. These vivid images are a testament to the branding deals struck by car makers and the artistic application of sponsor identities on vehicle bodies. Salon Privé has embraced this theme, showcasing some of the world's most significant competition cars, each easily recognisable by their sponsor's graphics.
The Legendary Liveries Class at Salon Privé features notable racers from the Group C era, including the Silk Cut Jaguar XJR-8/9 and Rothmans Porsche 962. Equally famous are two rally giants: one from the 1970s and another from the 1990s, both celebrated for their distinctive company-sponsored liveries.
The Lancia Stratos HF, chassis #829ARO*001637*, is renowned for its 'Alitalia' livery. Designed by Bertone's Marcello Gandini, it was built for competition with 400 road versions produced to meet Group 4 homologation requirements. Launched in 1971 with a Ferrari Dino V6 engine, it became a dominant force in rallying.
Salon Privé’s Stratos, known as '1637', was assembled in 1974 during a period of numerous WRC victories for Lancia. It was prepared for the 1975 Safari Rally with special modifications like metal guards and longer-travel dampers. Driven by Sandro Munari and Vic Preston Jnr., it finished 11th overall in the grueling event.
The Subaru Impreza WRC97, chassis #PRO/WRC/97001, carries the iconic '555' livery. Despite ending its sponsorship deal with British American Tobacco in 1993, Subaru retained the design due to its strong association with success. This car was pivotal in Subaru's 1997 WRC team victory and was used by Colin McRae for testing.
Developed by Prodrive in response to new regulations, the Impreza WRC97 featured a two-door GC8 shell and a turbocharged flat-four engine producing 310bhp. It achieved significant success in the 1997 season, helping Subaru clinch the manufacturers’ championship while McRae narrowly missed out on top driver honours.
Group C Titans
The Shell Dunlop Works Porsche 962 is another highlight at Salon Privé. With striking German flag colours and Shell Dunlop livery, it was developed for the 1988 Le Mans race. Driven by Derek Bell, Hans Stuck, and Klaus Ludwig, it finished second overall after a race-long battle despite early setbacks.
The taka-Q Works Toyota 88C also stands out with its unique livery. Driven at Le Mans in 1988 by Tiff Needell, Paolo Barilla, and Hitoshi Ogawa, it started from tenth place and competed against formidable opponents like Silk Cut Jaguars and Sauber Mercedes.
Memorable Moments
The Silk Cut Jaguar XJR-8/9 boasts an iconic double Le Mans-winning livery used over five seasons. The car achieved significant victories including wins at Jerez, Silverstone, Brands Hatch, and Nürburgring during its racing career.
The Rothmans Works Porsche 962 is celebrated for its historic livery used across seven seasons with four Le Mans wins. One of only two lightweight-spec cars built for the 1987 season, it achieved multiple pole positions and podium finishes throughout its campaign.
Andrew Bagley, Concours Chairman of Salon Privé remarked: "We may sometimes despair at the level of commercialism in motorsport, but where would we be without it? Our Legendary Liveries Class proves that it has at least brought some very bold and unforgettable identities to competition cars over the years."
Salon Privé’s collection includes some of motorsport’s most famous examples of branded liveries. These cars not only represent engineering excellence but also evoke strong memories through their distinctive designs.
Blenheim Palace will host Salon Privé Concours on August 28-29, 2024. This event marks its 19th anniversary year and promises to showcase an impressive array of legendary liveried vehicles that have left an indelible mark on motorsport history.
Continue with Google