Under the name ‘Travel with Style’, the luxury French brand Cartier hosted the first international concours d’elegance in India at the Royal Western India Turf Club, Mumbai, in 2008. On 12 March 2011, Cartier will host the second edition of this outstanding automotive beauty contest in New Delhi.

A total of 56 cars have been selected to compete in seven categories at this year’s Cartier concours, with a 15-strong jury that includes HRH Prince Michael of Kent, Simon Kidston, Sir Anthony Bamford, David Clark, Lapo Elkann, Bryan Ferry, Gordon Murray and Peter Stevens, to name but a few. Their job will be pleasurable but not easy; how will they choose between such unique jewels as, for example, the 1911 Rolls-Royce 40/50 H.P. Silver Ghost ‘Throne Car’ of H.E.H. the Nizam of Hyderabad; the 1930 Stutz with LeBaron bodywork, featuring a unique 4-passenger Speedster body with a dual cowl; and the ‘ultimate winged wonder’, the 1959 Chevrolet Impala – a car of cult status in India – when awarding Best in Show? And these are just three of the many contenders, in what promises to be an event that sets the very highest international standards.

It will also offer a rare chance to view some of the most beautiful classics that are usually hidden behind the ornate wooden doors of Indian collectors: marques ranging from Bentley, Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, to Rolls-Royce and the popular Indian marque, Hindusthan.

Photos from the Cartier Travel with Style Concours d'Elegance 2008 in Mumbai.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: Cartier