The 10 Most Remarkable Vehicles from the 2026 Amelia Concours d’Elegance
The Amelia Concours d’Elegance has long served as a pilgrimage for automotive purists, blending the salty Atlantic breeze of Fernandina Beach with the high-octane aura of history’s greatest machines. As I walked the fairway this past March, I was struck once again by how the Amelia Concours d’Elegance manages to bridge the gap between pre-war elegance and the bleeding edge of hypercar engineering. After a decade covering the world’s most prestigious automotive auctions and showcases, I can say with confidence that the 2026 iteration offered a masterclass in design evolution.
Evaluating the Amelia Concours d’Elegance is about more than just checking boxes for rarity; it’s about understanding the provenance and technical bravery behind the metal. Whether you are looking for classic car investment opportunities or simply marveling at high-performance vehicle restoration, this year’s field delivered in spades. Here are the 10 most captivating machines that defined the weekend.
1934 LaSalle 350
Walking the field, the 1934 LaSalle 350 immediately grabbed my attention. Owned by John Gagliardi of Farmington, Connecticut, this vibrant orange specimen is a masterclass in Art Deco-era styling. With only about 7,000 units ever produced, it remains one of the more elusive offerings from GM’s defunct luxury sub-brand. Beyond its visual charm, the LaSalle 350 carries immense historical weight, having served as the official pace car for the 1934 Indianapolis 500. It is a prime example of why vintage automobile collecting remains such a robust pursuit for those who appreciate design heritage.
1957 Ford Thunderbird
There is an undeniable magnetism to the 1957 Ford Thunderbird. Dressed in a quintessential 1950s pink, the vehicle showcased the final evolution of the first-generation T-Bird. Featuring a sleeker front bumper and a more aggressive, oversized grille, it perfectly balances mid-century charm with mechanical capability. Beneath that sculpted hood resides a 5.1-liter V-8 producing 245 horsepower—a serious number for its day. Ed and Carole Blumenthal have preserved this piece of Americana beautifully, highlighting why the Thunderbird is a staple in the classic car market.
1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet Police Car
While the 356 is a legend in the world of collector vehicle insurance and investment, seeing one outfitted for law enforcement duty is a rare treat. Owned by Maurice Kaspy, this Dutch police-spec unit represents the final year of 356 production. The inclusion of the original blue beacon light on the front fender is a period-correct touch that adds a layer of quirky authority to the iconic Porsche silhouette. It serves as a reminder that even the most prestigious performance brands had their utilitarian moments.
1985 Renault R5 Turbo II
When discussing motorsports history, the Renault R5 Turbo II is unavoidable. This mid-engined firecracker was birthed from the necessity of homologation, designed specifically to dominate the rally stages of the 1980s. Malcolm Davidow’s example, presented in a crisp, clean condition, stands as a testament to the era when manufacturers were bold enough to turn compact hatchbacks into mid-engine monsters. It remains a high-interest asset for those tracking performance car auctions.
1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione II
Parked in close proximity to the Renault was the Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione II, a machine that dominated the World Rally Championship with ruthless efficiency. The navy-blue-over-beige color palette on this specific model is nothing short of sophisticated. The Integrale is frequently cited by experts as one of the most successful rally cars ever conceived, making it a cornerstone for anyone looking to enter the investment-grade vehicle market.
1954 Kurtis 500S
Frank Kurtis was a visionary in the realm of race-car engineering, and the 1954 Kurtis 500S is a petite powerhouse that proves big things come in small packages. With a monstrous Cadillac V-8 squeezed into an ultra-light frame, this car is a thrill to behold. Only 30 were ever built, and seeing one in the collection of Dana and Patti Mecum underscores the caliber of engineering featured at the Amelia Concours d’Elegance.
2008 Harmon Splinter
Innovation takes many forms, and the Harmon Splinter—constructed primarily of wood—is perhaps the most unusual project I have encountered in years. Created by Joe Harmon as a master’s thesis, this one-of-a-kind sports car is a feat of material science. It represents the “art” in the Amelia Concours d’Elegance, drawing massive crowds throughout the event. It challenges the conventional boundaries of luxury automotive engineering and serves as a reminder that passion projects often yield the most interesting results.
2024 SCAD Aether
The future of manufacturing was on full display with the Aether, a 3-D-printed sports car concept designed by Savannah College of Art and Design students. Using acrylic gel cured with UV light, this concept marks a departure from traditional metallurgy. As we look toward the 2030s, concepts like the Aether provide a glimpse into the democratization of complex vehicle manufacturing.
2024 Bugatti Mistral
If the Aether represents the future, the Bugatti Mistral represents the pinnacle of current internal combustion hypercars. Boasting a quad-turbo W-16 engine capable of 1578 horsepower, the Mistral is a visceral reminder of what human engineering can achieve. Having set a blistering speed record of 282 mph, this open-top hypercar is the “holy grail” for many collectors, and seeing it parked silently was a highlight of the weekend. It is the ultimate benchmark for high-performance vehicle seekers.
The Dario Franchitti Collection
The Amelia Concours d’Elegance would not be complete without honoring the legends who steer these machines. The display of Dario Franchitti’s race car collection—celebrating his three Indy 500 wins—was a highlight for fans of open-wheel racing. Franchitti’s transition to working with Gordon Murray Automotive shows that his passion for technical perfection continues to evolve, much like the automotive industry itself.
Honorable Mention: GEM eLXD Electric Medic Car
In a refreshing nod to local service, the Fernandina Beach medic cart—a GEM eLXD—was a charming addition. While it doesn’t possess the speed of a Bugatti, it highlights the importance of sustainable utility in resort environments. It serves as a reminder that the Amelia Concours d’Elegance is deeply integrated into the local culture of Florida.
The 2026 event was a testament to the enduring power of automotive design. Whether you are a seasoned collector looking for your next classic car investment or an enthusiast inspired by the latest in high-performance vehicle technology, the lessons learned at Amelia Island are invaluable.
Are you looking to expand your own collection or learn more about the current collector car market? Reach out to our team of automotive specialists today to discuss your next acquisition or to schedule an appraisal for your prized vehicle. Let’s make history together.
