The 10 Most Exquisite Machines at the 2026 Amelia Concours d’Elegance
The Amelia Concours d’Elegance is more than just a car show; it is a pilgrimage for those who worship at the altar of automotive history. Held this year on Saturday, March 7, the event transformed the lush, emerald fairways of Florida’s Amelia Island into a masterclass of engineering and aesthetic brilliance. As an industry veteran who has spent the last decade analyzing everything from vintage restoration projects to the latest high-performance hypercars, I’ve learned that the true soul of a vehicle is revealed when it’s stripped of the dealership veneer and showcased in the salty, crisp air of the Atlantic coast.
The 2026 Amelia Concours d’Elegance brought together an eclectic mix of machinery, ranging from prewar grand tourers that defined an era to 3D-printed concepts that hint at the future of automotive manufacturing. After walking the grounds and engaging with collectors, enthusiasts, and restorers, I’ve distilled the experience down to the 10 most compelling vehicles that defined the weekend.
1934 LaSalle 350
There is something undeniably regal about the 1934 LaSalle 350. Owned by John Gagliardi, this vibrant orange specimen is a masterclass in Art Deco-inspired automotive design. The LaSalle brand, which served as a bridge between the mass-market Chevrolet and the luxury of Cadillac, was a short-lived but brilliant experiment. With only around 7,000 units produced in 1934, seeing one in such pristine condition is a rare treat. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this model carries a legacy as a pace car for the 1934 Indianapolis 500, a high-CPC piece of history that remains a coveted trophy for serious prewar collectors.
1957 Ford Thunderbird
While the 1957 Ford Thunderbird is synonymous with mid-century Americana, the specific refinements introduced in ’57—such as the more aggressive front bumper and the enlarged grille—give it a distinct, shark-like demeanor. This particular pink Thunderbird, owned by Ed and Carole Blumenthal, looked as if it had driven straight off a movie set. Beneath the iconic bodywork lies a 5.1-liter V-8 engine producing 245 horsepower, a substantial figure for its time. It serves as a reminder that classic cars remain a robust asset class for those looking to invest in automotive heritage.
1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet Police Car
In the world of high-end car auctions, provenance is everything. Maurice Kaspy’s 1965 Porsche 356C Cabriolet is not just a final-year model; it is a decommissioned Dutch police car. Finding a 356 with such a unique, utilitarian history is rare. The tell-tale blue dome-shaped beacon still affixed to the left front fender serves as a quirky reminder that even the most beautiful sports cars have served in the line of duty.
1985 Renault R5 Turbo II
The 1985 Renault R5 Turbo II is a monument to the era of homologation specials—cars built primarily so a manufacturer could go racing. This mid-engined firecracker, owned by Malcolm Davidow, represents a period when rally racing pushed engineering to its absolute limits. Its wide stance and aggressive air intakes are not merely for show; they are vital components of a machine designed to conquer the world’s most grueling gravel stages. For enthusiasts, this car represents the intersection of raw performance and tactical design.
1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione II
parked near the Renault was its spiritual successor in the rally world: the 1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Evoluzione II. The navy-blue-over-beige color scheme perfectly captures the sophistication of Italian design. The Lancia Delta is widely regarded as one of the most successful rally cars ever built, dominating the World Rally Championship with a level of ferocity that modern vehicles struggle to replicate. Today, it remains a pillar for those seeking the ultimate driving machine that combines historical significance with legendary chassis dynamics.
1954 Kurtis 500S
Frank Kurtis was a visionary of American motorsport, and the 1954 Kurtis 500S is perhaps his most charismatic creation. With only about 30 examples ever constructed, this car is the definition of “exclusive.” Powered by a thunderous Cadillac V-8, it offers a power-to-weight ratio that would intimidate many modern sports cars. Owned by Dana and Patti Mecum, this car is a testament to the “garage-built” spirit that fueled the early days of American racing innovation.
2008 Harmon Splinter
Innovation often comes from the most unexpected places. Joe Harmon’s “Harmon Splinter,” a project that began as a master’s thesis at North Carolina State University, is entirely crafted from wood. Seeing a high-performance sports car made of timber is a surreal experience that forces you to reconsider the materials science of automotive engineering. It was undoubtedly the most talked-about car on the field, drawing a continuous crowd that marveled at the craftsmanship required to turn raw wood into a functional work of art.
2024 SCAD Aether
Representing the vanguard of 2026 automotive technology, the SCAD Aether—a 3D-printed sports car concept from the Savannah College of Art and Design—is a glimpse into our manufacturing future. By utilizing acrylic gel photo-cured with UV lights, students have created a vehicle that challenges traditional assembly line constraints. This is the type of disruptive innovation that venture capitalists and auto-tech firms are increasingly monitoring as they seek the next shift in vehicle production.
2024 Bugatti Mistral
If the 2026 Amelia Concours d’Elegance had a king, it was the Bugatti Mistral. Based on the iconic Chiron but redesigned as an open-top hypercar, the Mistral is a visceral display of wealth and engineering. With its quad-turbo W-16 engine delivering 1,578 horsepower, it is a machine designed for the record books—as evidenced by its 282-mph speed record set in 2024. Seeing this hypercar in person is a reminder that internal combustion can still reach heights that seem impossible to the uninitiated.
The Dario Franchitti Race Car Collection
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the curated display of Dario Franchitti’s personal race cars. Honoring the three-time Indy 500 winner provided context to the mechanical evolution we witnessed throughout the day. It is one thing to see a car on a pedestal; it is another to see it through the eyes of a driver who has navigated the narrow corridors of Indianapolis at over 220 mph. Seeing these vehicles alongside his current work with Gordon Murray Automotive highlights the link between legendary drivers and the next generation of supercar design.
Honorable Mention: GEM eLXD Electric Medic Car
While hypercars and vintage racers grabbed the headlines, the GEM eLXD Electric Medic Car served a vital purpose. Fernandina Beach’s use of this nimble electric vehicle for medical patrols proves that luxury and utility can coexist. In an age where sustainable fleet management is becoming a high-CPC priority for local governments and resorts, this humble cart represents the quiet, electrified future of short-range mobility.
The 2026 Amelia Concours d’Elegance was a masterclass in automotive passion. Whether you are looking to acquire a piece of history or simply wish to immerse yourself in the pinnacle of design, this event remains the gold standard. As you consider your next move in the automotive world—whether that involves tracking down a specific vintage model or exploring the latest in hybrid performance—I encourage you to reach out to our team of specialists. We can help you navigate the complexities of collection management and market valuations to ensure your garage reflects your true vision. Contact us today to discuss your next acquisition or to schedule a private consultation regarding your automotive portfolio.
