The Concours of Elegance 2024, set to take place from August 30th to September 1st, will witness the historic reunion of two ultra-rare 1930s Talbot-Lago masterpieces. These exceptional art deco streamliners—a 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS bodied by Figoni and Falaschi and a 1939 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Aerocoupé by Pourtout—will be showcased together for the first time in decades, amidst the regal surroundings of Hampton Court Palace in London.
A Legendary Brand’s Renaissance
The Talbot-Lago marque, a symbol of elegance and performance, was revitalized in the 1930s by the visionary Anglo-Italian engineer Anthony Lago. Collaborating with former Fiat and Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq engineer Walter Becchia, Lago set out to create a line of glamorous, high-performance sports cars. The T150-C SS models, which stand as testaments to this ambition, were designed with a focus on both competition success and grand touring sophistication.
Powered by a 4.0-liter inline-six engine with advanced features like hemispherical combustion chambers and triple Zenith-Stromberg carburetors, the T150-C SS was among the most powerful cars of its era. With only about 30 units produced, each car became a coveted collector’s item.
The 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS New York Teardrop
One of the stars of this reunion is the 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS, known as the New York Teardrop. This particular model is the fourth T150-C SS chassis ever built and is distinguished by its breathtaking Figoni and Falaschi bodywork, often referred to as the Goutte d’Eau or “Teardrop.” Unlike other Teardrop models, this example was uniquely crafted without a sunroof, giving it an unbroken, flowing silhouette.
Not only a beauty to behold, this Teardrop was also a formidable competitor on the racetrack. It placed 11th at the 1950 Grand Prix in Watkins Glen and later competed in other notable events. After passing through the hands of prominent collectors, it now resides in The Pearl Collection in Switzerland.
The 1939 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Aerocoupé by Pourtout
The second car in this extraordinary pair is the 1939 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Aerocoupé, one of only three ever produced by the famed French coachbuilder Pourtout. Designed by the legendary Georges Paulin, this Aerocoupé is a masterpiece of automotive craftsmanship, combining striking aesthetics with exceptional performance.
This particular car, chassis 90120, has a fascinating history. Built during the tumultuous period of World War II, it was hidden from the Nazis and only completed in 1944. The car went on to have a remarkable racing career, winning 14 out of 16 events between 1950 and 1952 under the Ecurie Nice banner. After being meticulously restored to its original racing specification, the Aerocoupé won its class at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in 2014.
A Showcase of Automotive Excellence
These two Talbot-Lagos will be the centerpiece of a display featuring 60 of the world’s rarest and most spectacular automobiles at Hampton Court Palace. In addition to the main Concours display, visitors can explore special features like the Levitt Concours, which celebrates passionate female owners, the 30UNDER30, highlighting enthusiastic young collectors, and the Club Trophy, showcasing the finest examples from the UK’s top car clubs.
Beyond the automotive marvels, the Concours of Elegance 2024 promises an experience of unparalleled luxury. Guests can enjoy champagne by Charles Heidsieck, gourmet picnics by Fortnum & Mason, and a curated collection of art, jewelry, and fashion displays. Presenting Partner A. Lange & Söhne will also exhibit some of its most intricate timepieces, adding to the event’s aura of refinement and exclusivity.
Join us at Hampton Court Palace for a celebration of automotive history and luxury, where these breathtaking Talbot-Lagos and other extraordinary vehicles will take center stage.
