1966 Ferrari 275 GTB Crowned Best of Show at Concorso d’Eleganza Varignana 1705

he second edition of the Concorso d’Eleganza Varignana 1705 concluded in grand style as the iconic 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB, owned by Mr. Giuseppe Matildi, was awarded the prestigious Best of Show prize.

Held from 27-29 September 2024 at the exquisite Palazzo di Varignana resort in Bologna, the event celebrated the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship. The Palazzo di Varignana, renowned for its Italian hospitality and culinary excellence, served as a stunning backdrop for the concours, epitomizing the “Heritage of Italian Lifestyle.”

A Showcase of Automotive Masterpieces

The 2024 Concorso featured 35 meticulously curated automobiles, primarily built before 1973, displayed across six categories. Each car was selected for its groundbreaking design, engineering, and historical significance by an esteemed panel of international automotive experts.

The jury included notable figures such as:

• Stefano Pasini, President of the Jury and esteemed author.
• Stephen Bayley, architect and Octane magazine contributor.
• Alessandra Giorgetti, Vice President of Registro Internazionale Touring Superleggera.
• François Melcion, Director of Retromobile Paris.
• Adolfo Orsi, automotive historian and descendant of the Maserati custodians.
• Peter Read, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club’s Motoring Committee.

Best of Show: The 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB

Mr. Matildi’s Ferrari 275 GTB (chassis number 08795) emerged as the star of the event, winning both its category, Il Meglio Della Motor Valley (The Best of the Motor Valley), and the Best of Show award.

• Originally sold in 1966 through the Crepaldi dealership in Milan, this long-nose 275 GTB is part of a limited series featuring experimental Torque Tube chassis technology, addressing vibration issues in earlier models.
• Its lightweight aluminium doors and hoods distinguish it from standard steel-bodied versions, adding to its rarity.
• Certified by Ferrari Classiche, the car’s authenticity and historical importance are undisputed.
• Owned by Mr. Matildi since 1989, the car has competed in numerous high-profile events, including 10 editions of the Tour de France Automobile and 8 Italia Classica rallies.

The vehicle underwent two extensive restorations: one by Sauro in 1996 and another by Bonini, completed in 2023, bringing it to concours-quality perfection while preserving its history.

Praise for the Winning Ferrari

The judges lauded the Ferrari 275 GTB for its breathtaking design and faultless restoration. Presented in its original Giallo Fly yellow, the car was hailed as one of Ferrari’s finest masterpieces, combining timeless elegance with technical innovation.

Mr. Matildi expressed his gratitude:
“I am delighted to receive this prestigious award at the Concorso d’Eleganza at Palazzo di Varignana. The event’s exceptional organization and the beautiful setting made it a truly unforgettable experience.”

Class Winners and Special Awards

Other standout vehicles included:

• 1925 Bugatti Type 35A (Prima Del Temporale): A pre-war icon celebrated for its elegance and racing pedigree.
• 1950 Alfa Romeo 2500 SS Villa d’Este (Italiane Fuori Dal Coro): A post-war luxury model embodying Italian craftsmanship.
• 1964 Porsche 904 (Eccellenze di Stoccarda): A lightweight racing legend showcasing Stuttgart’s engineering excellence.
• 1963 Jaguar XKE 3.8 OTS (British Postcards): Revered as one of the most beautiful cars ever made.
• 1940 Auto Avio 815 (Motor Valley Trophy): A pivotal piece of Ferrari history, regarded as the brand’s first car.

The Audience Trophy went to the 1936 Fiat 508 CS Berlinetta MM, owned by Vittorio Maria Mandelli, as voted by attendees.

Concorso Highlights

The event dazzled attendees with a remarkable array of cars, including a 1966 Lamborghini Miura prototype, which is considered the forerunner of the modern supercar era. Renowned collector Corrado Lopresto also showcased the 1947 Isotta Fraschini 8C Monterosa Coupe Touring, adding to the concours’ prestige.

A Vision for the Future

Carlo Gherardi, Founder of Palazzo di Varignana, commented:
“This year’s Concorso exceeded all expectations. The quality of the cars, the expertise of the judges, and the shared passion of collectors made it a truly extraordinary event. We are honoured to crown the Ferrari 275 GTB as Best of Show and look forward to future editions of this celebration of automotive excellence.”

Supported by Cribis, BPER Banca, Lallier Champagne, and Fiore 1827, the Concorso d’Eleganza Varignana 1705 has firmly established itself as a premier global event, blending automotive history, luxury, and Italian heritage in a breathtaking setting.

For more details, visit:
www.palazzodivarignana.com/en/experiences/concorso-deleganza/