A 1931 Cadillac 452A All-Weather Phaeton and the 1957 Chevrolet 210 El Capitola custom created by legendary car builder Sam Barris received top honours at the 38th Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, which was held in Connecticut, US from May 30 to June 1, 2024.
The custom Chevrolet emerged victorious in Saturday’s Concours de Sport, showcasing 17 curated classes, while the Cadillac claimed Best of Show in Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance, which featured classes such as Pre-War European Classics, Pre- and Post-War Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, and Supercars. Contemporary architect, professor and car enthusiast Steven Harris was celebrated as Grand Marshal.
The Concours de Sport winner started life as a 1957 Chevrolet 210, before original owner Don Fletcher commissioned Sam Barris to transform it into El Capitola – a unique custom build. Significantly, El Capitola was the last car Sam Barris built before he decided to leave the custom industry behind, in order to become an insurance investigator and fire commissioner.
El Capitola took two years to complete, and its modifications include a chopped roof, removal of the B-pillars, door handles, badges and emblems, as well as custom bodywork that was shaped with 630 pounds of lead. The interior features rolled Naugahyde faux leather and gold frieze fabric, chromed instruments, swivelling bucket seats and a rear-mounted television set.
The one-of-a-kind Chevrolet was displayed by current owner Tim McMann, who said: “It’s unbelievable that a custom should even be a finalist, much less win Best of Show. I’m over the moon.”
Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance winner was a 1931 Cadillac 452A All-Weather Phaeton owned by Leigh Brent. One of just four All-Weather Phaetons known to survive, it was among the final models built by Fleetwood in Pennsylvania in 1931. The car was restored by Pruitt Automotive in 1986, and periodic refreshes have been carried out since then – the car has recently been treated to new paintwork.
In addition to the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance itself, visitors could experience Hagerty’s Ride and Drive program, which provided the opportunity to drive a classic car on a guided tour of the area, while the Hagerty Youth Judging Program engaged eight-to-14-year-olds in evaluating a selection of show vehicles. Other attractions included fascinating seminars covering the latest developments in the automotive industry, luxury shopping and new-vehicle experiences.
For more information about the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, click here.
