Concours d’ Elegance

A car concours, often referred to as a Concours d’Elegance, is an event where exceptional, classic, and historic cars are judged on criteria such as originality, condition, quality of restoration, design, and historical significance. Unlike a regular car show, a concours is not just about displaying cars, but also about the quality and authenticity of the vehicles on display.

With classic cars, a great deal of attention is often paid to originality. This may include examining the correct color, upholstery, engine, technical components, bodywork details, and even small parts such as fasteners and markings. Some concours events focus on fully restored cars, while others specifically value original cars with a beautiful and authentic patina.

Among the best-known international car concours d’élégance are the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California (USA), the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on Lake Como (IT), the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in Florida (USA), Hampton Court Palace (UK), and Chantilly Arts & Elegance in France. In the Netherlands, the Concours d’Elegance Wheels Marienwaerdt is the largest event.

For a classic car, participating in a concours can be a major reason to undertake a restoration down to the finest detail. At the same time, a car does not need to be concours-restored to be of great historical or technical value. Originality, history, and authenticity play an important role in this regard.