The chrome gleams under the summer sun, polished to a mirror finish. A low growl emanates from the engine, a hint of the power nestled within. This is no regular car set to grace the hallowed grounds of Hampton Court Palace – it’s the ultra-rare Siata 298CS Balbo, a forgotten gem about to take centre stage at the prestigious Concours of Elegance.

Hampton Court: A Stage for Automotive Grandeur

Following the roaring success of the London Concours, the Thorough Events team is shifting gears. They’re meticulously planning the upcoming Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace. This year’s event will be a curated display of automotive royalty, a gathering of priceless machines guaranteed to leave petrolheads weak at the knees.

The 2024 edition promises to raise the bar even higher. The curatorial team has painstakingly scoured the globe, assembling a jaw-dropping line-up of automobiles that would make Enzo Ferrari himself blush. This year, amidst the Ferraris, Bugattis, and Bentleys, a lesser-known Italian gem will take its rightful place – the Siata 298CS Balbo.

The Allure of the Siata 298CS Balbo

For many car enthusiasts, the Siata name might not ring a bell. This small Italian manufacturer, active from the 1920s to the 1970s, specialised in crafting bespoke sports cars. They often used components from established marques like Fiat and Fiat Abarth. The 298CS Balbo is a prime example of this philosophy.

Under its curvaceous aluminium skin, sculpted by Carrozzeria Balbo, lies a potent heart. Its 2.0-litre V8 engine sourced from Fiat. This diminutive powerhouse wasn’t content with simply looking stunning; it carved its name on the American racing scene from 1953 to 1959. Remarkably, this particular 298CS Balbo has remained in the same family ever since, a testament to its enduring legacy.

A Diamond Among Diamonds: A Closer Look at CS 071

The Concours of Elegance is proud to present chassis number CS 071, one of only nine Siata 208 CS Balbo coupes ever built. There are a mere seven remaining in existence. This specific car boasts an even more remarkable history.

From Racetrack Warrior to Family Treasure

Originally imported to the United States by renowned dealer Tony Pompeo, CS 071 quickly entered the racing circuit. It battled across the Northeast from 1953 to 1959, competing in events like the Floyd Bennett Grand Prize Cup and the Keene Mountain Hill Climb.

In 1959, Dr. Julius Eisenstark stumbled upon CS 071 on a used car lot in Queens, New York. It was love at first sight. Dr.Eisenstark purchased the car, marking the beginning of a multi-decade relationship between the Eisenstark family and this extraordinary vehicle.

Under Dr. Eisenstark’s care, CS 071 underwent a fascinating transformation. It transitioned from a bare-bones race car to a more civilised GT suitable for everyday use. This meticulous care included a full restoration in 2017 by Automotive Restorations Inc. They returned the car to its original glory and earned it a Best in Class win at the 2018 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.

Since then, CS 071 has continued to be a showstopper, appearing at prestigious events. This included Pebble Beach and even gracing the screen on “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” with Jerry Seinfeld and Steve Martin. This Siata’s legacy is a homage to its exceptional design and engineering, as well as the dedication of its owners.

A Rare Opportunity: Witnessing Automotive History

The opportunity to witness this automotive jewel in the flesh is a rare privilege. The Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court provides the perfect setting to appreciate its sculpted lines, powerful engine, and rich racing history. It’s a chance to step back in time and experience a slice of Italian automotive artistry that deserves a place in the spotlight.

This fantastic weekend promises to be a multi-faceted celebration of automotive passion. Whether you’re a die-hard Siata enthusiast, a connoisseur of exquisite cuisine, or simply an admirer of automotive excellence, this event has something for everyone. Get you tickets here.

The Conversation Continues: Share Your Thoughts

The Siata 298CS Balbo is a reminder that automotive history is filled with hidden gems waiting to be rediscovered. Does the story of this rare Italian beauty pique your interest? Perhaps you have a personal favourite car that deserves a place in the spotlight? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below.

The post The Story of the 1953 Siata 208 CS Balbo appeared first on My Car Heaven.