The iconic Aston Martin Bulldog, meticulously restored by Classic Motor Cars Ltd (CMC) in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, has secured victory in the ‘Wedge-Shaped Concept Cars & Prototypes late’ class at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Tim Griffin, Managing Director of CMC, expressed his pride in the achievement, stating, “Winning best in class is a fantastic achievement. This amazing car’s journey and its win at the Pebble Beach Concours is a testament to the fantastic team at CMC and their dedication to the project.”
American businessman and car collector Philip Sarofim, the owner of the Bulldog, shared his excitement, saying, “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, also highlighted the critical role of Richard Gauntlett, who managed the restoration and presented the car to the judges. “Richard Gauntlett 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 to retain its originality while being preserved for the future. He has played a key role in its ongoing legacy and the car winning its class,” Barzilay noted.
Originally designed in the 1970s to be the fastest production car on the road, the Aston Martin Bulldog fell short of its 200 mph goal, leading to the project’s cancellation. However, the car’s story didn’t end there. Acquired by Philip Sarofim in 2019, the Bulldog was entrusted to CMC for a full restoration, managed by Richard Gauntlett. The restoration was completed in 2021, with the car making its post-restoration debut at the Hampton Court Concours of Elegance.
In June 2023, the Bulldog made history by exceeding its original goal, reaching a top speed of 205.4 mph in Campbeltown, Scotland, driven by Aston Martin works driver Darren Turner.
In addition to the Bulldog’s success, the Lancia Stratos Zero, another of Sarofim’s prized vehicles and a past recipient of CMC’s expertise, won the ‘Wedge-Shaped Concept Cars & Prototypes early’ class at the Concours, further highlighting the excellence of CMC’s craftsmanship.
Source: Classic Motor Cars
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