The Best of France and Italy was held Sunday,
November 3rd at Woodley Park in Van Nuys, CA. Attracting over 300 participants, it was a wonderfully laid-back event,
standing in complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of Concorso Italiano,
but still brings out varied and esoteric machinery. When was the last time
that you saw Jay Leno's Bugatti exhibited one row away from a Renault 4CV?
Alfa Romeo was particularly well represented with a nice selection of post-war
models. There were a variety of Fiats and several beautifully restored Fiat
500's were seen cruising the grounds. Surprisingly, though, not a single
Multipla showed up. With a cap of three litres, the event precludes many
of the more frequently seen cars, although they are allowed on application.
A small selection of Ferraris, Maseratis and the ilk did attend. The emphasis,
however, is on the rest.
The Best of France and Italy is a non-judged event, with the exception of
the Alfa Club which holds its own. The non-judged approach, nominal entry
fee and relaxed atmosphere encourage enthusiasts to bring what they have.
This being Southern California, it's an ecclectic lot.
Last year, reportedly, it rained on show day, but this time the weather was
perfect for a day in the park. Tina Van Curen is to be congratulated for
putting on a wonderful event. Already a local draw, as its reputation grows
and it becomes a regional must-do, it will only get better. Next year's event is already scheduled for November 2, 2003 at Woodley Park.
Photo Gallery: The Best of France and Italy
Click on images to view larger images.
Fiat 850 Sedan, a rare sight now in any country.
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One of the finest sedans ever built, the Alfa Giulia.
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The chassis with a thousand faces, the Fiat 600.
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A Lancia ready for the Targa Florio.
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From France, the Facel Vega.
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Variation on the Guilia 1600 was the Nuovo 1300 Alfa sedan.
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Alfas galore, this a 1600 Bertone.
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The 1600 Alfa Spider in race trim.
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Fiat 500 based Autobianchi.
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Another rare entry from France, a pre-war Delage.
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Lancia Lambda, a milestone car in anyone's book.
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The Type 57 Bugatti was also presented at the show.
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Period Fiat 1100 race car.
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Large, but so nice, the Alfa 1900 Pininfarina.
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