Three From Pebble

Story and photos by Daniel De Gallo

Newbie Daniel De Gallo gives us a perspective of Pebble Beach from the Little Car show, the Tour d’Elegance, and the Concours in this overview.

The Little Car Show in downtown Pacific Grove, is a well-lived tradition, always on the Wednesday of that week, free to the public, in a relaxed atmosphere. This year, we were graced with the presence of mostly (but not limited to) Italian, British and French cars, amongst which were: Fiat Topolino, Fiat 1100 station wagon (familiare) “third-eye” (only available on 1957-1958 models), Fiat 500 station wagon (giardiniera), Volvo wagon, DKW, modified Isetta, Trabant, Peugeot 404 cabriolet by Pininfarina, and many more.

Tour d’Élégance. Another tradition at Pebble Beach, always on the Thursday of that week. In spite of a wildfire affecting the Big Sur area further down on Highway 1, which made the route made much shorter through Carmel Valley, the attendance for the Tour was significant this year. It gives one a good chance to see what cars are to be seen on the show field (entrants), on the Sunday of that week. Ironically in regards to that fire, the conditions were quite damp for the departure point. Rain or shine, the show must go on!

The Concours! Mostly overcast day, though not too cold, making for a nice and cozy experience. A large number of entrants and classes, including a special Vignale class, featured marque Ferrari, pre-war streamliners class, automobiles of royal India class, and many others. Best in show contestants were the red 1938 Delahaye 165 by Figoni et Falaschi, two Ferraris, and one Duesenberg. Drum roll: Best in Show prize went to the… Duesy!