The concept of a Concours d’Elegance (or competition of elegance) originated in 17th Century Paris. The French aristocracy used to parade around the city’s parks during summer weekends and holidays. As horse-drawn carriages gave way to the motorcar, the competitions transitioned to automobile owners being judged on both the appearance and condition of their vehicles. The combination of extreme rarity, perfect condition and beautiful appearance are all key factors for making a car a Concours d’Elegance winner. Here are the top 5 Concours d’Elegances in the world today:
Click on the images to view them in their full size |
Amelia Island |
Location: Florida, USA The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is held annually at the Florida’s Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. It was founded in 1996 by businessman and car collector, Bill Warner, and has grown to become one of the premier events of its kind in the world since then. Judges select first, second and third-placed cars in each category, while subjective awards to standout vehicles are also given out. Your car also has to be chosen by the organizers, who will deem whether it is worthy of being displayed. |
Image Source |
Villa d’Este |
Location: Lago di Como, Italy This event has taken place each year since 1929 against the stunning backdrop of Lake Como. While this Concours is somewhat small relative to the others in this list, it’s also one of the most glamorous. Visitors can view approximately 50 exquisitely-prepared cars dating from the 1920s through to the 1970s. Luxury car manufacturers take the opportunity to showcase their most exclusive and expensive new offerings at this Concours – Aston Martin notably showed its One-77 supercar to the viewing public for the first time at the 2009 edition. |
Image Source |
Greenwich |
Location: Connecticut, USA Held annually during the first weekend of June, the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance kicks off on a Friday, with a Grand Tour of cars parading down Greenwich Avenue. On the Saturday, a Concours Americana takes place. Only American-produced cars and motorcycles are allowed to enter. The main event, the Concours International, takes place on the Sunday. This caters to imported (non-American) cars and motorcycles. Contemporary supercars are also on display. |
Image Source |
|
Pebble Beach |
Location: California, USA The Concours d'Elegance at Pebble Beach is widely considered to be the most prestigious event of its kind in the world. The first edition was held in 1950, and it acts as the finale for Monterey Car Week in its present incarnation. Some 15,000 spectators view approximately 200 cars on display, and there are 25 judging classes that they are entered in. Pebble Beach also raises money for charity - some $14 million has been raised and given away over the years. |
Image Source |
Salon Prive’ |
Location: London, UK Held on the South Lawn of the spectacular Blenheim Palace, Salon Prive' is now in its 11th year. It was conceived by Andrew and David Bagley, who saw a niche for supercar manufacturers to present their latest models openly and safely. It's more of a quintessentially-British garden party laden with very expensive cars than anything else. Luxury goods brands also display their products to visitors. |
Written by: Jake Schembri |
Each of These Flawless Diamonds Has a fascinating History
There are diamonds, then there are the finest, most flawless diamonds ever discovered. Find out the history behind 6 of the world's finest diamonds.
The Beauty of Cape Town Is Highly Apparent In This Video
Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the world's most beautiful cities, and this video captures it in the most incredible way. Take a look at Cape Town's beauty.
This Amazing Superyacht Design is Fit For a Bond Villain
Designer Timur Bozca call himself "limitless", and it's not hard to see why. The Black Swan is one of the most jaw-dropping superyacht designs ever seen.
Finland Is Far More Than Merely a Winter Wonderland...
Finland has a reputation for being a winter wonderland, but there's much more to the country than that. Here are the top 10 attractions to enjoy in Finland.
South Korea Has More to Offer You Than You Ever Imagined
South Korea is truly an amazing vacation destination, as you're about to see. Here are the top must-visit attractions in South Korea.
These Are the Most Expensive Cars Sold So Far in 2018
It's only four months into the new year, but millions of dollars have already changed hands in classic car auctions. Here are the 10 most expensive cars.
Feast Your Eyes on 6 of the Best Movie Cars of All Time
There have been many great cars in films, but a select few stand head and shoulders above the rest. Here are 6 of them.
Discover the Delights of the Darjeeling Line In India
The intrepid explorer, Mark Twain, took this train journey on his travels through Asia during the late 19th Century. Come and explore this enchanting railway.
Bakfiets – The Unique Car-Replacement Bicycle
Today, we would like to share with you a unique vehicle that can make commuting around the city much easier.
The Very First Models of Famous Car Brands
Photos of the first models of these 10 well-known car manufacturers, so you can get an idea of where they came from and where they are now...
Join Us for a Tour of 8 Giant, Luxurious Cruises
8 vessels that will undoubtedly inspire you to plan a future sailing vacation aboard them - complete with accompanying videos showcasing their delightful features.
All Aboard the Fastest Steam Trains in Locomotive History!
Who doesn't feel a child-like nostalgic thrill when encountering a great, big steam engine? And these are the 18 fastest in locomotive history. Enjoy!
Working for Years, This Student Built Something Incredible
he following pictures showcase Luca's exceptional talent and the incredible model he built of a Boeing 777
The Bus-Train: A Game-Changer in Public Transportation
Hop aboard the 'Dual-Mode Vehicle (DMV)' – a bus that can transform into a train.
Crazy! I Have Never Seen Vehicles Loaded Like This Before
I thought I had overloaded my car before, and been on some crowded buses and trains. But I have never seen anything like these overcrowded vehicles!
The Story of the Only Aircraft Built With Pivoting Wings
Did you know NASA once tested pivoting wing technology?
James Bond's Best 15 Cars, Boats and Planes!
James Bond is a movie icon, but the super-spy would not have been half as effective without his fleet of luxury vehicles armed with his signature gadgets.
10 of The Most Unusual Vehicles You Will Ever See
An odd or unusual vehicle stands out in the crowd. Here we look at some of the weirdest vehicles ever made.
Days Of Future Past: 14 Bizarre Cars From Bygone Eras
These wacky retro car concepts are seriously so cool.
15 Stunning Aviation Photos That Inspire Awe
We’ve compiled some of the coolest and most amazing photos of aircraft and aviation that we guarantee you will love.
The Great Lakes Claimed Many Ships - Here Are 7 Of Them
The Great Lakes used to be America's busiest highways. Unfortunately, it wasn't always smooth sailing. Here are the stories of 7 shipwrecks haunting the lakes.
These Ships Make Sure You Travel the Seas in Style
If you're a fan of travel, then you won't want to miss this video on the craziest cruise-ships ever made
Need for Speed – France's Record-Breaking SUPERFAST Train
We’ve all heard of the Japanese bullet trains, but did you know about the TGV – France’s super fast trains?
11 Forgotten Standard Car Features We Don't Use Anymore
Would you want these old car features to be brought back?
You Won’t Believe How Massive These Steam Locomotives Were
Here we present some of the largest steam locomotives ever built throughout railway history.
The Car, the Star: 12 Famous Cars From Movies and TV
There were many famous cars in movies and TV over the years, but some stand out above all the others. Here are the 12 most famous ever to grace our screens.
These Incredible Racing Cars Take Me Way Back!
Whether we are racing fans or not, certain racing cars are iconic for one reason or another. Here are 14 of the most iconic racing cars of all time.
Unique Classic Cars of Exceptional Historical Value
These are the some of finest specimens of automobile design, the classic shapes and timeless look of which can leave no one indifferent
These Are the Strangest Vehicles I've Ever Laid Eyes On.
From a five person bike to giant monstrosities, these are some of the wildest designs for vehicles we've ever seen! Take a look!
A ROYAL History of the Rolls-Royce Car
For 119 years, Rolls-Royce has exemplified a unique blend of creativity, invention, and luxury.
These Are the Most Incredible Trains Ever Built
While many trains in operation today are no more than a means of very mundane transport, these 10 amazing trains will be remembered forever.
These Were the Fastest Production Cars Money Could Buy
Many records have been broken as part of man's relentless pursuit of more and more speed. Each of these 16 cars has held the production car speed record.
These Timeless Campervans Are Classics of Their Era
There is no greater sense of freedom than hitting the road in a campervan, and some people still prefer to ride in the old classics.
This is What Happens to Your Car When You Hit Speed Bumps
Ever wonder what happens to your car when you go over speed bumps? This video will show you using a transparent car.
It's Incredible That These Weird Planes Ever Took Flight...
Some very clever men have created some extremely weird vehicles in the past century. In fact, these are probably the most bizarre aircraft ever. Take a look.
The 10 Worst Jet Airplanes Ever to Fly...
From the farcical, to the catastrophic and downright dangerous, these are the 10 worst jet airplanes ever.
17 Bizarre Autos That Will Leave You Scratching Your Head
Explore the world of weird cars that defy the norms of automotive design.
These 12 Beautiful Cars Are Literally One of a Kind
There are only one each of these beautiful, classic cars.
Bugatti Veyron Vs. Euro Fighter Jet Plane: Who Wins?
2 of the fastest air and land vehicles collide to determine the grand champion of speed. Who will emerge victorious?
These Classic Beauties Are Unbelievably Pricey and Rare
Each year, many a beautiful car changes hands, but some are the creme de la creme of the entire world. Here they are for your viewing pleasure, all in one place
These Are the 10 of the Fastest Trains On the Planet...
Trains are a huge part of how we get things from place to place. But which are the fastest, and why is that?
Nail On the Road? No Problem! Say Goodbye to Flat Tires
Ford Explorer will be the first vehicle fitted with unique tires that seal over punctures
The World’s 8 Most Amazing and Unique Flying Cars
Check out some of the most amazing and unique flying cars that have actually existed.
Some People Have the Strangest Cars...
Photos of some of the most bizarre automobiles you've ever seen.
Exploring the Fascinating History of the Flying Ship
The USS Plainview was an American ship that could fly. Literally. But what happened to it?
The Man Who Built a Train in His Basement!
Jason Shron from Rapido Trains Inc. loves VIA trains so much, he built a full-size train in his basement. Not just a copy, but a real train with the real interior and exterior of the original train! Some would call him crazy, some would appreciate hi
Oh Dear! How Did THAT Happen?
35 Awesome photos of people with no parking skills what so ever...