The 29th annual Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance in Florida has captivated car enthusiasts, uncovering a plethora of vintage treasures. Among them, this stunning 1947 Delahaye 135 MS Narval Cabriolet stole the show by winning the prestigious Best of Show award. This iconic car, one of only six Narval convertibles ever built, captured hearts with its unique design.
Narwhal is exceptional
The name “Narwhal” is derived from the resemblance between the nose of a car and the distinctive hump of a narwhal's head. Built in Paris, this marvel of automotive engineering was unveiled by Delahaye in 1947. It has retained its charm ever since, as the car on display at Amelia Island was the same car on display at the Paris Motor Show at the time.
A history of reconciliation
This Delahaye Narval belongs to Charles Trenet, the famous French librettist, adding a touch of history to his lineage. Trenet shipped it to the United States in 1948 to accompany his concert tours. Since then, it has passed through the hands of three enthusiastic owners.
Wonderful resurrection
After lovingly restored, the car has returned to its original colour, burnt orange, a color dear to coachbuilder Joseph Figoni. The latter, co-owner of Figoni et Falaschi, was famous for his creations. The restoration restored this 1947 Delahaye 135 MS Narval convertible to a condition worthy of contemporary elegance.
Ferrari star: 250 GTO from 1962
However, it wasn't just the Delahaye River that shined. A 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO won Best of Show in the Concours de Sport category. Thanks to its glorious racing past, this Ferrari has been carefully restored by Motion Products, preserving its appearance dating back to the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Record the event on Amelia Island
The event welcomed a record 27,000 visitors from February 29 to March 3 at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club and Hotel on Amelia Island. Participants benefited from seminars and film screenings, and were amazed by the 250 vehicles on display. The auction was a triumph, with a 1967 Ford GT40 Mk I Road Coupe becoming the most expensive car, selling for $4,405,000.
With information from the development of cars
Text Charles Trinit's car triumphs at Amelia Island comes from Annual Cars – Car News
