Every year, classic car enthusiasts and design enthusiasts gather on the shores of Lake Como in Italy for one of the most exclusive and elegant events in the automotive world: the Concours d'Elegance di Villa d'Este. Held in the sumptuous setting of the Hotel Villa d'Este and Villa Erba, the concours celebrates beauty, innovation and refinement in the world of classic cars. But beyond the vehicles, it is a true ode to style and history that brings together lovers of beautiful things.
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History and Origins of the Competition
The Concours d'Elegance was born in 1929, at a time when car manufacturers were fiercely competing to create the most elegant and avant-garde cars. The event was initially conceived to promote the new creations of the major car brands, at a time when Italy was experiencing an era of artistic transformation marked by Art Deco and innovations in transport technologies.
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After a hiatus during the Second World War, the competition resumed, becoming a veritable institution over the years. Since 1995, BMW Group Classic has sponsored the event, giving it an international dimension and ensuring it a prominent place in the calendar of collectors and classic car enthusiasts.
An Ideal Setting: The Villa d'Este
Villa d'Este, a five-star hotel housed in a 16th-century mansion, provides a setting worthy of the beauty of the cars on display. Situated on the banks of majestic Lake Como, the villa is surrounded by Italian gardens, sculpture-lined paths and terraces overlooking the water. This heavenly setting adds an extra touch to the already luxurious atmosphere of the event.
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Cars in the Service of Art
The heart of the Concours d’Élégance is of course the competition between vehicles, which are judged on their style, state of preservation or restoration, and historical authenticity. It is not just about showcasing cars, but about showcasing rolling works of art. Each car tells a unique story and is a testament to the creative genius and technical excellence of its era.
Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.fr/pin/302304193738365711/ (Ferrari 335 Sport)
The categories of the competition vary each year, and typically include pre-war vehicles, sports cars from the 1950s to the 1970s, modern concept cars and prototypes. Iconic models that have been presented include legendary classics such as the Ferrari 250 GTO, the Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, and futuristic prototypes from the likes of Aston Martin and Lamborghini.
Best of Show: The Ultimate Reward
Among the most sought-after distinctions, the most prestigious is undoubtedly the **"Best of Show"**, which rewards the most exceptional car of the event. This title is awarded by a jury composed of world-renowned experts in the field of automobiles, design and art history. This award reflects not only the excellence of the car in terms of design, but also its historical importance and its contribution to the evolution of the automobile.
Concept Cars and Prototypes: Innovation in the Spotlight
Alongside classic vehicles, the Villa d'Este Concours dedicates a special place to concept cars and prototypes. This category is one of the most fascinating, as it offers a glimpse into the trends and innovative ideas that will influence the future of the automotive industry. Renowned manufacturers take advantage of this platform to present avant-garde vehicles, often the result of collaborations with fashion designers or luxury brands.
Photo credit: https://www.pinterest.fr/pin/71565081567454472/ ( Lamborghini Athon Concept )
A Select and Passionate Audience
The Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance is not just an event for car enthusiasts; it is a rendezvous for aesthetes from all walks of life. Every year, celebrities, designers, collectors and wealthy entrepreneurs flock to admire these jewels of automotive history. Elegant outfits and passionate discussions about art and mechanics are part of the experience, creating a unique atmosphere where luxury and history meet.
The Villa d'Este Competition is a tribute to excellence that, year after year, continues to captivate minds and inspire new generations of designers and collectors.
