Salon Privé is showcasing a dazzling array of iconic competition cars, each renowned for its memorable sponsorship liveries. The “Legendary Liveries” class highlights the synergy between racing performance and branding, featuring some of the most famous race and rally cars from history.
Featured Cars:
- 1974 Lancia Stratos HF – ‘Alitalia’ Livery
- Chassis: #829ARO001637
- Overview: Designed by Bertone and powered by Ferrari’s 2418cc Dino V6, the Stratos HF was a dominant force in rallying. This specific car was crucial in testing for the 1975 Safari Rally, showcasing extensive modifications for endurance racing. It achieved an impressive 11th overall in the Safari Rally and has a storied history, including campaigns under the ‘Alitalia’ banner and subsequent private ownership in the UK and Japan.
- Current Status: Restored to its Alitalia livery, this Stratos remains a celebrated example of rally heritage.
- 1996 Subaru Impreza WRC97 – ‘555’ Livery
- Chassis: #PRO/WRC/97001
- Overview: The first of the Impreza WRC97, this car was pivotal in Subaru’s 1997 WRC success, laying the groundwork for a season with eight wins out of fourteen rounds. It continued to compete privately and was driven by Valentino Rossi for his first rally success. Restored to its original specification, it remains a symbol of Subaru’s rally dominance.
- Current Status: Preserved in its ‘555’ livery, reflecting its pivotal role in Subaru’s rally achievements.
Group C Titans:
- Shell Dunlop Works Porsche 962
- Overview: This car, adorned in striking German flag colors and Shell Dunlop livery, was a dominant competitor at Le Mans in 1988. It was the last Works Porsche 962 built and delivered exceptional performance, including a dramatic recovery to finish 2nd at Le Mans after running out of fuel.
- Current Status: An emblem of Porsche’s Group C success.
- Taka-Q Works Toyota 88C
- Overview: Known for its unique taka-Q livery, this car competed at Le Mans in 1988 and had notable success across multiple championships. With a 2.1-liter engine producing 650bhp, it was a formidable competitor in Group C racing.
- Current Status: A significant piece of Toyota’s racing history.
- Silk Cut Jaguar XJR-8/9
- Overview: Famous for its Silk Cut livery, the XJR-8/9 won multiple championships, including the 1987 World Sportscar Championship. It featured in five consecutive seasons, with notable victories and high performance at Le Mans.
- Current Status: A symbol of Jaguar’s racing prowess.
- Rothmans Works Porsche 962
- Overview: The Rothmans livery is one of the most iconic in racing history. This 962 was used by the works Porsche team throughout the World Championship, achieving four Le Mans wins and numerous pole positions.
- Current Status: It represents the pinnacle of Porsche’s Group C era.
Quote from Andrew Bagley, Concours Chairman:
“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. Models like the 555 Subaru WRC and Silk Cut Jaguar XJR-8 are now almost inseparable from their sponsor’s names. Salon Privé’s collection showcases some of the most famous examples of this ‘art,’ sure to evoke fond memories for our guests.”
With entries for the 2024 Salon Privé Concours now closed, this year’s event promises to be a visual feast of racing history and sponsorship artistry.
Source: Salon Privé
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