Million dollar classic car burned down: Hispano-Suiza J12 Vanvooren Cabriolet

As quickly as it came, it went: At the most important classic car event in the world, a rolling jewel won an impressive prize – only a few days later it fell victim to a fire.

A jewel of automotive history is probably lost forever. A Hispano-Suiza J12 Vanvooren convertible (built in 1934) valued at two million dollars has fallen victim to a devastating fire. The incident occurred on a highway near Monterey (US state of California) – just a few days after the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance 2024.

Everything happened quickly: Suddenly, thick smoke billowed out of the trailer, and a short while later, flames shot up into the sky, several meters high. The driver reacted quickly. He uncoupled the tractor and got to safety.

The Monterey fire department was soon able to bring the fire under control. But help came too late for the valuable vintage car. A burnt-out wreck remained. Luckily, no one was injured in the fire.

Only a few days earlier, a 1979 Ford Ghia Probe 1 had gone up in flames. The one-off model was a so-called concept study to explore what was technically feasible. This car was also worth millions, and this fire also occurred on a trailer in Monterey.

“It’s unusual for something like this to happen twice,” says Chris Grogan, chief of the Monterey Fire Department. But none of the fires appear suspicious. Despite the frequency, the fire department sees no reason for concern. “It’s just a streak of bad luck.”

The Hispano-Suiza J12 was more than just a car. It was a rolling work of art, a testament to the engineering skills of the past. This was confirmed just a few days earlier by the strong jury of the classic car competition.

The burned-out example belonged to Hong Kong billionaire Michael Kadoorie. It had just won second place in its class at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. A final triumph before a tragic end.