1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster Named “Best of Show” at 2021 The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering
Carmel, Calif. (August 13, 2021) – A 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster was awarded Rolex Circle of Champions “Best of Show” out of more than 200 entrants today at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. Automotive industry leaders, motorsports legends, celebrities and a wide variety of automotive enthusiasts, assembled on the scenic fairways of Quail Lodge & Golf Club for the show’s culminating awards ceremony.
The vehicle owned by K. Heinz Keller from California was selected for its design, engineering, sophistication and presentation. Keller acquired the car in 1986 from a private owner in Colorado, and the vehicle underwent an eight-year ground-up restoration.
In addition to “Best of Show” and the top honors given in each of the 11 classes, the following special awards were announced:
Spirit of The Quail 1902 Indian Single Cylinder Owner: Shawn W. Coady – Illinois
Hagerty Drivers Foundation & Preservation Award 1969 Ford Bronco “Oly” Owner: Philip Sarofim – California
Octane Editor’s Choice Award 1957 Fiat 600 / Eden Roc Owner: Anne Brockinton Lee / The Robert E. Lee Collection – Nevada
ArtCenter College of Design Award 2015 McLaren/Lanzante P1 HDK Owner: Thomas O’Gara – California
Car Park Concours de Quailegance Award 1962 Land Rover S2A 109 Dormobile Owner: Ali Javidan – California
This year’s event was headlined by three featured classes. The first of these, “50th Anniversary of the Alfa Romeo Montreal,” paid tribute to one of the most unique sports coupés of the 1970s. The second featured class, “Automotive Couture, French Cars Featuring the 50th Anniversary of the Citroën SM,” celebrated a historic milestone with several examples of the SM and other stylish French vehicles such as a 1965 Matra Bonnet Djet VS. Additionally, “Cars of Curiosity” showcased unique vehicles including a 1957 Fiat 600 / Eden Roc and a 1978 Lamborghini Urraco P2000.
Guests enjoyed an in-depth discussion with Formula World Champion Jenson Button during the Fireside Chat which took place on the event’s main stage. Button, who was interviewed by Philip Kadoorie, Non-Executive Director of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, shared his love of cars and the motorsports hobby with the audience.
The event played host to several vehicle debuts and premieres from revered manufacturers and sponsors. Rimac Automobili, Lotus Cars, Pagani Automobili, Automobili Pininfarina, Gateway Bronco, Lamborghini, Hennessey, Acura, Bugatti and Bentley Motors each held press conferences to unveil new models and make significant announcements. Highlights included the U.S. premiere of the Lotus Emira, a new mid-engine premium sports car; the first public displays of the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid, GT Speed and special Mulliner introductions including the coach-built Bacalar and continuation Blower Car Zeros; and the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4.
Bugatti Bolide 
Hennessey Venom F5 
Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4
“The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering is truly one of the world’s most prestigious motoring events,” said Kai Lermen, General Manager of Quail Lodge & Golf Club. “Our 18th annual celebration delivered the allure, excitement and passion The Quail has become known for. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and automotive icons, the beautiful atmosphere of Quail Lodge & Golf Club, and, most of all, the enthusiasm of the automotive community, this event has continued to grow and evolve year after year. We are looking forward to everything 2022 has to bring!”
Next year’s show is scheduled for August 19, 2022. To learn more, please visit the event website, and follow the action on Facebook and Instagram.