California concours broadens its horizons

| 21 Aug 2014

The Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance, taking place at the Trump National Golf Club at Rancho Palos Verdes on 14 September, has increased its number of competitive classes from 20 to 23.

The eclectic event, which already caters for Microcars, Ferraris 1950-1972 and Woodies 1928-1951 will be expanding its classes to include Chryslers designed by Virgil Exner, while dividing the Post-War American category into two parts – 1957-1958 and 1959-1966.

Virgil Exner was a stylist famed for his forward-thinking designs and love of fins. He spent time at General Motors and Studebaker before moving to Chrysler's Advanced Styling Group in 1949, and helped to develop a number of cars including the 1952 Chrysler K-310, Chrysler d'Elegance and DeSoto Adventurer.

Among the rarities set to shine is the Grand Marshal Don Penoz 25th Anniversary Esperante Spyder, a hand-built model produced to mark 25 years of car manufacture at the firm. 

In addition to the concours competition, the event will recognise the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang and, bizarrely, in its 51st year, the Porsche 911. 

It's not all static displays, either: the day before the event visitors will have the chance to take part in the Road Rallye, where they can enjoy the beauty of the Palos Verdes Peninsula while competing for prizes. 

Now in its 22nd year, the Palos Verdes Concours will again be raising money for local charities. Those set to benefit this year include the Harbor Area Boys & Girls Clubs and the Palos Verdes Art Centre educational and outreach programmes, which help the disabled youngsters of Los Angeles County. 

Tickets to the event are priced at $35 until 30 June, when they increase to $45, and they cost $50 on the gate. 

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