The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este is perhaps the most significant of all events celebrating the mystique of Historic Cars. It is undoubtedly the most traditional event which was held for the first time as early as 1929.

Since its revival in the 1990s the Concorso has improved year by year in every one of the benchmakes for these; the beauty of the setting, the impeccable hospitality, the efficient organisation, the programme at the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este and Villa Erba, an enthusiastic audience, the public awareness in the international press and TV, and above all, the elegance, the originality and state of preservation of the precious automobiles participating in the event. At the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este visitors breathe an air of authentic aristocracy, rather than the slightly commercial atmosphere of other events.

A prize awarded to the contemporary Concept Car was introduced in 2002 and this prize has been a regular feature of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este since then. The trophy creates a link between the glorious past and the exciting future of the automobile.

This competition also goes back to roots of the Concorso when designers and automobile companies presented their latest automobiles to the public. About 10 to 12 Concept Cars & Prototypes are showcased here. Some of them make their world debut during their days at Lake Como and the winner of the award is elected by public vote at the Villa Erba on Sunday.