Why this Historic Bugatti Stole Hearts and the Spotlight at the 2024 IHMA Awards

A preserved 1934 Bugatti Type 59, once owned by King Leopold of Belgium, has been crowned Car of the Year at the 2024 International Historic Motoring Awards (IHMA). The prestigious event, presented by Lockton Insurance, was held at the luxurious Peninsula London on 22 November.

This accolade marked a historic moment for the collector car community, with thousands of public votes securing the Bugatti’s victory.

The IHMA: A Celebration of Automotive Excellence

The International Historic Motoring Awards is an annual celebration of the finest achievements in the world of classic and collector cars. The 2024 edition, now in its 14th year, honoured exceptional individuals, organisations, and vehicles across 16 award categories.

Highlights from the Evening

• Venue: The Peninsula London, one of the city’s newest luxury hotels.
• Attendees: Over 400 guests, including:
  • Rowan Atkinson (actor and car enthusiast)
  • Andy Green (World Land Speed Record holder)
  • Ian Callum and Peter Stevens (renowned car designers)
  • Richard Hammond (television presenter)
  • Sandra Button (Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance chairman)
  • Influencers like Supercar Blondie.

The Hosts

Broadcaster and race driver Amanda Stretton hosted the event. Rowan Atkinson delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating the enduring charm of classic cars.

Car of the Year: A Public Favourite

Unlike other awards decided by a panel of judges, the Car of the Year award was determined by public vote. The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 emerged as the clear winner, capturing hearts worldwide. This rare Bugatti is celebrated for its originality, elegance, and storied history, including its royal provenance and victory as the first preservation car to win Best of Show at Pebble Beach.

Other Notable Winners

Book of the Year

• Winner: The Last Eye Witness by Doug Nye
• Details: This book brings early motor racing (1902-1914) to life with Maurice Louis Branger’s photography and Nye’s insightful commentary.
• You can buy this book here and do use our discount code (Heaven10) to get 10% off.

Breakthrough Event of the Year

• Winner: The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance
• Details: Hosted in Udaipur, India, this event united 81 historic cars, including royal collections from five principalities.

Museum of the Year

• Winner: Revs Institute
• Details: Known for its innovative ‘Active Matter’ philosophy, Revs Institute transforms automotive preservation. Visitors can witness live restoration in its gallery workshop.

Motorsport Event of the Year

• Winner: Goodwood Revival Meeting
• Details: Despite challenging weather, the 2024 Revival made history as the first historic racing event to mandate sustainable fuels.

Restoration of the Year

• Winner: Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport by Chropynska
• Details: A meticulous five-year restoration returned this Talbot-Lago to its 1948 Paris Motor Show specification.

Rally/Tour of the Year

• Winner: The Peking to Paris Motor Challenge by HERO-ERA
• Details: This gruelling 14,000km journey across nine countries tested 100 crews in one of motorsport’s most demanding endurance events.

Bespoke Car of the Year: The Audi Tradition Masterpiece

Among the most exciting highlights of the International Historic Motoring Awards was the unveiling of the Bespoke Car of the Year. This accolade was claimed by the Auto Union Type 52 ‘Schnellsportwagen’ (below), a visionary creation by Audi Tradition and Crosthwaite & Gardiner.

A Word from the Organisers

Geoff Love, co-founder of Hothouse Media, expressed his pride in the event, stating:

“We were delighted to host the biggest and best edition of the International Historic Motoring Awards so far, with many of the world’s most important car collectors and industry leaders in attendance. This event proves the IHMA is the only truly international awards ceremony in the collector car industry.”

The Legacy of the IHMA

Launched in 2011 by Geoff Love and David Lillywhite, the IHMA has become a cornerstone of the classic car world. It celebrates innovation, restoration, and passion, highlighting achievements that preserve the history and future of motoring.

Why This Matters

The IHMA’s recognition of cars like the Bugatti Type 59 reflects the growing appreciation for originality and conservation in the collector car community. Public voting also highlights the emotional connection people have with these automotive icons.

What’s Next for the Bugatti Type 59?

The Bugatti’s victory at both Pebble Beach and the IHMA cements its place as one of the world’s most significant collector cars. Will it inspire more preservation-focused restorations? Let’s home so. Long live classic cars.

Share Your Thoughts

What do you think about the Bugatti Type 59’s rise to fame? Does public voting bring a fresh perspective to awards like these? Share your thoughts in the comments below.