Some 10,000 automobile enthusiasts swarmed the sun-drenched grounds of Meadow Brook Hall for the annual fundraiser Sunday.

 

'Our staff says this is the biggest event we've had,' said Beverly Langstrom, media spokeswoman. 'It's wonderful, because you just don't know about turnouts during these economic times. But we weren't surprised from the standpoint of the superlative collection of cars.'

 

The area's premier show for classic, expensive cars displayed 235 of the best vehicles in the world including Dusenbergs, 16-cylinder vehicles, 8-liter Bentleys and an Aerocar that flies and converts into a car.

 

One of the most talked about was the North American debut of the 2008 BAT 11 (Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica) car developed by Dr. Gary Kaberle of Traverse City.

 

He purchased a BAT 9, one of three Bertone-Alfa Romeo BAT concept cars built in the 1950s based on a study of aerodynamics, when he was 17. Kaberle had no intention of selling it, until his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. The proceeds helped with treatments for four years until her death in 1991.

 

Afterward, he vowed to raise awareness of the disease by creating his own version of the rare vehicle.

 

'It's a car with a purpose: promoting prevention, self-exams and treatments. It's a visible symbol of beauty, faith, hope and survival, much like people who value collector cars for the same reason,' he said.

 

Bashir Aud of Rochester Hills stood in awe of the BAT car during his first Concours d'Elegance.

 

'It really catches your eye. The black and silver rims make it look like there are double wheels. The wood finish of the interior and the color is just phenomenal,' Aud said. 'And the fact the creator channeled his efforts into something so positive with this car makes it even more outstanding.'