It will be a busy start of the season with the Goodwood Members' Meeting on the schedule in April. The last time we visited was the very cold 2018 edition when it was snowing most of the time. Among the stars that year was this Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza, which seemed unaffected by the wintery conditions. Originally sold to French racer Philippe Etancelin, it is now part of a prominent British collection. Chassis 2211097 was raced for the owner by Patrick Blakeney-Edwards, who won his race with great verve.
On April 7, Gooding will auction the Estate of Mark Smith. Offered at no reserve is an eclectic mix of machines collected by the Lynchburg, Virginia native over many years. The common thread between the lots is the remarkably well-preserved condition. Headlining the sale is this Mercedes-Benz 500 K Offener Tourenwagen. One of just four known to have survived with this body style, this example was bought new by Nazi official Rudolph Hess. After the War, it moved to the United States and since 1955 has had just two owners.
Also boasting a lovely patina is this one-off Chrysler CG Imperial LeBaron Custom Roadster. Built on the top-of-the-range Chrysler chassis of the day, it was fitted with a very rakish LeBaron body for first owner Dr. William F. Whelan with many custom features. Cherished by several long-term owners, the unique Chrysler joined the stable of the late Mark Smith in 2001.
Another 1930s masterpiece is this Bentley 3˝-Litre Antem Drophead Coupe, which was ordered new by prominent Bentley customer André Embericos. It is one of just two Bentleys that were ever bodied by Parisian carrossier Antem. Although re-painted blue at some point, the Derby Bentley has also survived in a fabulous condition.

Enjoy the links:

1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza (2211097)

1935 Bentley 3˝-Litre Antem Drophead Coupe (B-5-EJ)

1932 Chrysler CG Imperial LeBaron Custom Roadster (7803110)

1934 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Offener Tourenwagen (105355)