The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is one of the most prestigious car shows in the world, showing off some of the most beautiful exotics, priceless classics and exciting new concepts in the world. But ahead of the luxurious event, several car clubs are holding their own prestigious car events. While at Pebble this year, we specifically made sure we spend time at Legends of the Autobahn, to soak in all of the incredible cars.
While most of Pebble Beach is honestly filled with uber-rare Italian or British classics, Legends is entirely German. Put together by the BMW Car Club of America, the Mercedes-Benz Club of America, the Audi Club of America and Michelin, Legends of the Autobahn is about the most exciting German cars ever made. The cars that graced the fairways of the Nicklaus Club-Monterey were some of the coolest German cars we’ve seen.
There was, of course, the incredible BMW M1, which is always a pleasure to see in person. It’s just such a cool car and such a rare that that its presence is undeniable. There was also a BMW Z1, one of our favorite roadsters. How could someone not love the Z1? With its slide-down doors and pop-up headlights, it’s one of the most charming little roadsters in history. My personal favorite, though, was the E28-gen ALPINA B9 3.5 because A) it looked awesome and B) I have a love affair with ALPINA.
Also at Legends were a ton of different 2002s and E9 BMWs that were all stunning. Everything there was in pristine condition, of course, which is just so lovely to see. If you ever get a chance to go to Pebble, check out Legends of the Autobahn. While all the British and Italian exotics are incredible, it’s cool to see the less-loved German classics and not just from BMW.
Just to be clear, Legends of the Autobahn is not part of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the Monterey Motorsports Reunion are the main events of what is casually referred to as “Monterey Car Week.” The Concours and the historic races at Laguna Seca coordinate their dates to coincide, but they are separate events. All the auctions and other events, including Legends of the Autobahn, are also separate events, scheduled for this one week in August. All are independent events and not part of “Pebble Beach.”
You’re right
It would have been more successful if I was there 😁
-James Prisby
Nice to see an M1 not hanging off a wall.
What’s wrong with BMW, those kidneys are way too large! I know, because I have a keyboard!!!