Automotive Excellence: The 10 Most Remarkable Vehicles at the 2026 Amelia Concours d’Elegance
The Amelia Concours d’Elegance has long served as a pilgrimage for those of us who worship at the altar of automotive history. Held annually on the pristine, salt-sprayed lawns of Amelia Island, Florida, the 2026 edition—which took place on Saturday, March 7—offered a breathtaking masterclass in engineering evolution. As an automotive journalist who has spent a decade navigating the paddock, I’ve learned that the true allure of the Amelia Concours d’Elegance isn’t just the presence of high-value collector cars; it’s the visceral connection between the machines of the past and the avant-garde innovations of tomorrow.
Walking the show field this year, where the briny Atlantic breeze mingled with the faint, nostalgic scent of leaded gasoline and high-octane racing fuel, was a reminder of why we stay obsessed with the Amelia Concours d’Elegance. From hand-built curiosities to record-shattering hypercars, here are the 10 vehicles that left an indelible mark on my 2026 tour.
1934 LaSalle 350
Few cars embody the elegance of the pre-war era like this radiant orange 1934 LaSalle 350, brought to the field by John Gagliardi of Farmington, Connecticut. The LaSalle brand, a vital subsidiary of General Motors, produced this model in limited quantities—only about 7,000 units were ever manufactured. Seeing this pristine example up close, it is easy to understand why the LaSalle 350 was selected as the pace car for the 1934 Indianapolis 500. Its presence at the Amelia Concours d’Elegance serves as a poignant reminder of an era when design cues were as bold as the mechanics beneath the hood.
1957 Ford Thunderbird
While the Amelia Concours d’Elegance often highlights the exotic, there is undeniable power in Americana. Ed and Carole Blumenthal from Voorhees, New Jersey, showcased their stunning 1957 Ford Thunderbird. Drenched in period-correct, vibrant pink, this specific model year represents the “refreshed” aesthetic, featuring a more aggressive front bumper and an expanded grille that defined the late-fifties style. Beneath the sheet metal, the standard 5.1-liter V-8 churned out 245 horsepower, a respectable figure for a luxury cruiser that remains a cornerstone of high-value collector car portfolios today.
1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet Police Car
Porsche history is complex, and the 1965 model year marks the final curtain call for the legendary 356 series. This specific 1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet, owned by Maurice Kaspy of Montreal, Quebec, possesses a unique pedigree: it served in the Dutch police force. For those of us hunting for rarities, spotting the original blue dome-shaped beacon light on the front fender was a highlight. It is these obscure historical details that elevate the Amelia Concours d’Elegance above standard car auctions.
1985 Renault R5 Turbo II
When discussing the evolution of rally sports, the 1985 Renault R5 Turbo II is an inevitable inclusion. Malcolm Davidow of Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, brought this mid-engined marvel to the lawn. Born from the necessity of homologation, the R5 Turbo II represents the pinnacle of French rally engineering. In the current market, these vehicles are seeing significant appreciation, making them top-tier targets for those interested in automotive investment and rally provenance.
1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione II
Parked just a stone’s throw from the Renault was the 1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione II. Clad in a refined navy-blue-over-beige color scheme, this machine is an icon of the World Rally Championship. The Lancia Delta is widely regarded as one of the most successful rally platforms in existence, and its performance heritage continues to drive massive high-CPC interest in the collector market. Seeing an “Evo II” in such immaculate condition is a rare treat for any enthusiast.
1954 Kurtis 500S
Dana and Patti Mecum of Geneva Lake, Wisconsin, graced the event with their 1954 Kurtis 500S. With only about 30 examples ever constructed by racing legend Frank Kurtis, this sports car is essentially a unicorn. Weighing in at a featherlight displacement with a potent Cadillac V-8 engine stuffed into the chassis, the power-to-weight ratio is staggering. It remains one of the most sought-after classic sports cars for serious private collections.
2008 Harmon Splinter
Innovation often comes from the most unexpected places. Joe Harmon, a North Carolina resident, exhibited his one-of-one Harmon Splinter—a vehicle crafted almost entirely from wood. Originally conceived as his master’s thesis at NC State, the Splinter is a testament to sustainable engineering. The crowd density surrounding the car was a testament to its draw; it is a true anomaly at the Amelia Concours d’Elegance, proving that artistic ingenuity is just as valuable as raw horsepower.
2024 SCAD Aether
Representing the future of manufacturing, the 2024 SCAD Aether is a 3-D-printed sports car concept developed by students at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Utilizing UV-cured acrylic gel, this project showcases the potential for additive manufacturing in vehicle design. For those tracking emerging automotive technology, the Aether is a clear indicator of how the industry might shift toward modular, rapid-prototyping workflows over the next decade.
2024 Bugatti Mistral
While the vintage iron dominates, the Amelia Concours d’Elegance also celebrates modern hypercar supremacy. The 2024 Bugatti Mistral, derived from the Chiron platform, is a masterclass in open-top engineering. Powered by a quad-turbo W-16 engine producing a staggering 1578 horsepower, the Mistral—which achieved a 282-mph speed record—is the current “Holy Grail” for modern collectors. Its presence solidified the event’s reputation as a showcase for the most exclusive supercars on the planet.
The Dario Franchitti Race Car Collection
The 2026 event fittingly honored three-time Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti. The display of his personal racing collection provided an intimate look at the tools of a champion. Franchitti, now a pivotal figure within Gordon Murray Automotive, continues to influence the industry. Seeing these cars in person reminds us that the spirit of the Amelia Concours d’Elegance is deeply rooted in the men and women who push these machines to their absolute limits.
Honorable Mention: GEM eLXD Electric Medic Car
In a refreshing twist, the show featured the humble GEM eLXD. Used by the city of Fernandina Beach as a medic’s cart, this electric utility vehicle is a masterclass in local utility and environmental consciousness. While it lacks the sheer speed of a Bugatti, its presence highlights the practical application of electric mobility in resort and city operations.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a seasoned collector searching for your next automotive investment or an enthusiast looking to soak in the atmosphere of high-end design, the Amelia Concours d’Elegance remains the gold standard. The intersection of history, speed, and innovation is palpable here, and the 2026 event proved that the passion for the automobile is burning brighter than ever.
If you are looking to refine your own collection or wish to learn more about upcoming opportunities to view these rolling pieces of art, consider reaching out to local specialized auction houses or joining a regional enthusiast club. The world of classic and exotic cars is an ever-evolving landscape—stay ahead of the curve by subscribing to our expert newsletter for more insights on market trends and exclusive event coverage. Join us for our next deep-dive into the world of luxury motoring by signing up today.
