In August, the Monterey Peninsula transforms into a mecca for car enthusiasts, culminating in the event many consider the week’s highlight: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering.
Held at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel Valley, The Quail is a showcase of luxury and performance vehicles and the definitive experience of Monterey Car Week.
Each year, the event features cars with various prestige and historical significance, a world tour of food spread throughout the fairway and, of course, endless glasses of champagne. I’ve covered The Quail in its entirety several times now, but this year I focused on capturing standout cars for their aesthetic appeal and the diversity they represent.
True to form, The Quail 2024 brought together every facet of automotive culture. The variety on display was unmatched from future hypercars and restomods to custom one-offs, concours-level restorations, and manufacturer special editions. There was even a rally car section, which was my personal highlight.
Of all the cars on display, however, one stole the spotlight for me: the new 993-based Gunther Werks GWR. Given I am a Porsche fanboy, this should come as no surprise.
The GWR’s full carbon fibre body houses a Rothsport-built 4.0L flat-six that revs to 9,000rpm, producing 500hp. Having a power-to-weight ratio of 4.8lbs per hp, it must be absurdly fast. Considering everything nowadays is forced induction or hybrid, I can only imagine how visceral and theatrical the GWR’s naturally aspirated driving experience will be.
Air-cooled dreams aside, beyond the cars The Quail’s meticulous attention to detail always ensures a superb event, and this year was no different. From the curated displays to the exceptional service, it’s hard to top.
Ultimately, The Quail epitomizes Monterey Car Week, blending automotive passion with elegance. For attendees, it offers a rare chance to experience automotive history and innovation in a setting that truly celebrates the art of the automobile.
Naveed Yousufzai
Instagram: eatwithnaveed