Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership finalists 2024

Launched in 1975 and designed by Paolo Martin at Pininfarina, the Camargue has always proved somewhat divisive amongst enthusiasts of the famous marque. It was also the most expensive production car in the world at the time, but there’s no doubt the stunning example here has plenty of presence.

Steven bought the car in 2015, his wife having found it for sale at a dealer in the Cotswolds, and describes it as a bit of a ‘barn find’ on account of it having spent 15 years in secret underground storage. That certainly adds some intrigue to the history, but the amazing condition of this particular example is all down to the efforts of the owner and his wife.

“We spent eight years bringing it to this condition, and being from the first year of production at Mulliner Park Ward we think it could be the finest such example in the UK. The interior is completely original and we also chose to retain the original colour of Cobalt Blue, which really suits such an imposing car.”

The aim was for a sympathetic restoration, and alongside the bare-metal repaint the original leather was carefully reconditioned by a specialist. No major engine work was needed, apart from normal maintenance, but both the brake and suspension systems were subjected to a thorough overhaul.

Although it still has a low mileage for a car that’s 45 years old the proud owners have certainly enjoyed it to the full, and in 2018 they covered almost 3000 miles on a tour of the Continent. It would have been a very luxurious way to travel! In a final part of the story the owner managed to track down Colin Grassick, the owner of the dealership in Scotland that sold the car when it was new.