At the beginning of September, one of the most iconic line-ups of iconic cars is set to take center stage in the UK at the annual Concours of Elegance. Baroque Ground finds out all the details
Taking place from 1 to 3 September, 2017, the UK Concours of Elegance is the annual celebration of elegant automobiles, showcasing over 60 of the rarest and most exclusive vehicles ever produced. Visitors to Hampton Court will enjoy seeing an exciting array of historic and iconic cars, including ones built before 1914 (The First World War) all the way up to limited edition vehicles and super cars created in the 21st Century.
The 2017 edition of this exciting event includes a number of unique vehicles, such as the 1896 Arnold Benz Motor Carriage, the UK debut of the amazing Maserati A6G ‘Barn Find’ and a number of exquisite Le Mans hero D-type Jaguars. Let’s not forget two very rare and exclusive Aston Martin vehicles, a 1923 ‘Clover Leaf’ and the DBR09/01 racing car, not to mention a treasure house of Ferrari’s to celebrate this exceptional car’s 70th anniversary.
Another highlight of the show will be the very rare 1928 Bentley Victor Broom Drophead, made in a limited edition of just eight cars. Watch out for the Tatra 77, the first series production vehicle with an aerodynamic design, manufactured in 1934, as well as the 1930 Duesenberg Model J Murphy Disappearing Top Convertible Coupe. This is one of around 60 Convertible Coupe Model J Duesenberg series cars ever made. There’s also the 1933/35 Lancia Astura Aerodinamico Castagna, originally built by Italian coach-builder Castagna for an Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Lugano.
Many of these exclusive vehicles have never been displayed before in the UK. In addition, a number of the Concours of Elegance cars will take part in a 2-day driving tour just before the start of the Concours event. During the event itself, the winner of the Concours of Elegance will be announced. The winner is chosen by the owners of the cars on display, who decide which vehicle on show that year is “Best of Show’.
Of course, aside from those unique vehicles mentioned above, there are hundreds of other vehicles on display that also take part in competitions such as the Club Trophy. The winner of this event secures a place in next year’s Concours of Elegance event.
Below is a full schedule of events for the Concours of Elegance UK 2017:
UK CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE 2018 PROGRAMME OF EVENTS
Friday September 1 (Owners’ Day)
Grand Arrival on Owners’ Day
A spectacle in itself, this event features 60 fine cars in a procession before they take their places in the Fountain Gardens to be displayed over the weekend event.
The Club Trophy, supported by the Royal Automobile Club
The best car clubs in the UK, including the Aston Martin Owners Club, Bentley Drivers Club, Jaguar Drivers Club and the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club, display 40 of the rarest and most impressive cars belonging to their members.
Saturday 2nd September
The Jaguar Trophy
A competition to choose from 90 of the finest Jaguars in the UK. The winning car receives the Jaguar trophy and a host of other prizes.
Car Club Displays
Members of leading UK car clubs can park their vehicles in the gardens of Hampton Court Palace to let visitors see a selection of rare luxury and performance vehicles.
Sunday 3rd September
The Octane Tour
Run in conjunction with Octane Magazine, the tour is open to classic vehicles past, present and future. Participants tour the region before parking at Hampton Court. This year will feature 50 cars, covering all eras of motoring history.
The Bentley Trophy
Celebrating one of Britain’s most famous car manufacturers, this competition features 90 fine Bentley models. A panel of experts judge which car wins the coveted trophy.
Car Club Displays
A second collection of UK car club members who display their vehicles in the gardens.
Grand Depart
One of the event’s highlights, this takes place as the Concours of Elegance wraps up on Sunday afternoon. This display features 60 of the world’s rarest cars that start their engines and prepare to leave the grounds of Hampton Court Palace as hundreds of onlookers wave goodbye.
Exhibitors
Some of the world’s most famous premium car manufacturers will attend this prestigious event, including Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Jaguar Land Rover and Rolls-Royce. Visitors can see some of their latest models as well as some of their most iconic and historic vehicles.
Royal Warrant Holders Association & QEST Pavilion
A Royal Warrant is a mark of recognition of those who supply goods or services to the Royal Households. View some of the vehicles and products in this category.