As the outdoor show season comes to a close in the UK, we need to look to sunnier climes for our fix. Unfortunately this is just a virtual visit as I can think of nothing better than jetting off to Italy for classic cars, Italian cuisine and some fine beers and wines.

At the Varignana, October 2023 – A 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 S Berlinetta Touring, owned by Corrado and Elena Lopresto was awarded the prestigious ‘Best of Show’ accolade at the inaugural Concorso d’Eleganza Varignana 1705 event at the Palazzo di Varignana in Bologna, Italy.
The judges noted that the 1939 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 S Berlinetta Touring stood out for its peerless design, rich history, and a meticulous restoration that allows admirers to behold the car in pristine condition – complete with its original registration document and license plate, revealing former illustrious owners such as Prince Caetani.
The Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 S Berlinetta Touring also claimed the top spot in the “Pre-war Elegance,” class, sharing the limelight with other exceptional winners. Noteworthy among them is the 1929 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 SS, driven by Luca Patron, triumphing in the “Heroic Races” class – a vehicle believed to be one of the last four Alfa Romeos crafted by English coachbuilder James Young.
In the “Italian Fine Gems” class, the spotlight shone on a stunning 1950 FIAT 1100 E Vistotal by Silvia Nicolis, hailing from the Nicolis Museum in Verona. This bespoke creation by Carrozzeria Castagna of Milan, held intricate details such as a transparent plexiglass steering wheel and the “Vistotal” panoramic windshield, which exemplified 1930s style.
The “Great Class Sports Car” trophy was claimed by Andrea Baroni’s 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso, surpassing rivals with its allure and elegance.
In the category of “Grit & Style”, the 1955 Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider owned by Gianmarco Rossi stood out, distinguished by a rare Pininfarina hard top and Resinflex interior.
Lastly, Lorenzo Matteucci’s 1972 BMW 3.0 CSL triumphed in the “German Icons” category, noted as a potent racing car which has been impeccably preserved and easily distinguishable due its unique “inca orange” paint.
In recognition of this ethos, a special prize, the “Spirit of Varignana”, was created and awarded to Alessandro Maccaferri’s 1993 Porsche 964 Speedster, as it best embodied the unique character inspired by the Palazzo di Varignana and reflected the lifestyle it represents.







Very interesting article Mike Thanks Jim
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