1933 Alfa Romeo wins 'Gold Cup' at Villa d'Este

A 1933 Alfa Romeo that its owner longed for as a youngster growing up in South Africa took home the "Coppa d'Oro Villa d'Este" honors at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. The award is voted on by the attendees at the first day of the event, on the shores of Lake Como in Italy.

David Cohen said he often saw the Alfa Romeo 6C GS 6th Series when he was riding his bicycle as a boy in South Africa and could only dream of one day owning the car.

After the car passed from one owner to the next, Cohen--who now lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada--ended up buying the car in 2002. Nearly four years ago it began a thorough restoration, bringing the car to its present concours-winning condition.

“This is an amazing honor,” Cohen said moments after being handed the winner's gold cup. “I used to see this car every day as a kid, and to win this honor is amazing.”

The car finished sixth overall in the 1935 24 Hours of Le Mans, winning its class. It was rebodied following its racing days and is now a stunning example of prewar Alfas.

“It truly is a gorgeous car,” Cohen said.

By Roger Hart