Jaguar has a deep understanding of the word "tradition.” It has been the cornerstone that has ruled the famous luxury car manufacturer from Coventry since its foundation.
In order to celebrate its 75 years of history and English tradition, Jaguar participated in the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, held in the fashion high street of Rodeo Drive, in the posh ambiance of Beverly Hills, Calif.
The event is a Father's Day tradition that every year draws thousands of Southern California car aficionados and tourists alike. Born as a Ferrari-only event, it is still organized in partnership with the Italian carmaker. The theme of this year's Concours was "A Different Road," which included an unbelievable range of collectors cars: from the early classics of 1925 - 1948 to European cars and pre-1975 American automobiles. Of course, Jaguar was proud to offer test drives of the all-new 2011 XJ alongside its vintage model line-up. The thousands of attendees were ravished by the astonishing collection of vintage Jaguars on display.
Bruce Meyer, Chairman of the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, outlined its creation like a proud father would describe his son's school or sports achievements, "We are on Rodeo Drive, the very famous fashion street and this is a show that I started quite a few years ago. It is about automobiles, fashion and watches. It is a special show because it takes place on Father's Day, so fathers come with no guilt of leaving their families for going to a car show. We have admirers that tell us how much they like cars. People are here for the sport of it and for sharing their cars."
The highlights of the day were the rare 1956 Jaguar D-Type, three-time LeMans winner and also the winner of the Concours' Jaguar "Best in Class" Award; a fabulous 1950 roadster XK120 OTS, famous for its innovative design and for being the world's fastest standard production car at the time of its launch. Another celebrated work of art was the 1964 Jaguar Semi Lightweight E-Type, proudly owned by Meyer.
Being so close to Hollywood, it was a natural consequence to have some celebrity presence. Stars like David Alan Grier ("In Living Color" and "RACE"), Zachary Levi ("Chuck") and James Remar ("Sex in the City" and "Dexter") were all on hand. Moreover, Patrick Dempsey's 1955 Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was a big hit of the event, along with Mel Tormé's 1937 Jaguar SS100 and reality TV star Colby Donaldson's 1969 Camaro.
"A Different Road" is also the slogan of the show-stealing 2011 Jaguar XJ. After attending the Concours, there could not be a better catchphrase for all of the elegant and unique cars displayed on Rodeo Drive. Meyer was also on the Drive Committee for The Robb Report, so he had the chance to test the all-new XJ in Napa Valley, and shared his feelings for the car, "It is absolutely spectacular, it totally took me by surprise, I am a fan of Jaguar and the 2011 XJ performed like a sports car. I liked everything about that car; it is roomy, powerful and has a very solid feeling. It is innovation and tradition."
What an absolutely fantastic way to celebrate Jaguar's 75th birthday and for all the fathers that attended the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, it was another testimony of Jaguar's inimitable approach to luxury and tradition.
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