Auto Channel

Beauty contest for classic four-wheelers and modern concept cars in a traditional setting

2006 once again has a highlight lined up for devotees of dream cars from the past and fans of forward-looking design: the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d´Este 2006. This beauty contest for classic cars takes place from 21st to 23rd April against the magnificent backdrop of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este in Cernobbio and Lake Como, where elegant four-wheelers ranging from 1920 to 1970 will roll along the catwalk. Here tradition also meets futuristic design: current concept cars and prototypes will be on show as well. This year marks the eighth consecutive edition of this major event under the patronage of BMW Group.

The most attractive of the models on display will be honoured with awards that are highly esteemed among connoisseurs. They include the Coppa d’Oro di Villa d’Este, the Trofeo BMW Group and the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Design Award for Concept Cars. On Saturday the cars will be judged by an international jury and invited guests. Urs Paul Ramseier, Selecting Adviser of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2006, looks ahead to the forthcoming event with keen optimism: “The challenge to maintain or indeed surpass the quality of the cars taking part is a big one. But the diversity of automotive design down the ages just as great. We are all working to ensure that the art of automotive styling as reflected in the marvellous creations of the designers can be presented at Lake Como once again in 2006.” Collectors from Europe and the USA will again be bringing along a broad cross-section of some 50 classics to Cernobbio, Italian, French, British, German and American brands represented.

Holger Lapp, Director of BMW Group Mobile Tradition and President of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, adds: “The Concorso thrives on the sensuous combination of past and future. It demonstrates that the avant-garde brought forth outstanding examples in every era of automotive design – and it is these very cars that will be on show at Lake Como.”

Jean-Marc Droulers, President of Villa d’Este SpA, looks back on the long and great tradition of the Concorso: “Since 1929 the Hotel Villa d’Este has provided the context for the Concorso d’Eleganza – the most traditional of all concours d’élégance. On the last weekend of April, there is no more beautiful place in the world to savour Italian ars vivendi and automotive culture.”

Public day on Sunday, 23rd April

In recent years, the Concorso has enjoyed a steady growth in public interest. Several thousand visitors are expected to attend on Sunday, 23rd April, when – as every year – the public are given the opportunity to take part in the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Whereas Saturday is reserved for invited guests and the media, on Sunday the cars participating in the Concorso will be displayed in the extensive grounds of neighbouring Villa Erba. Apart from stunning classics and futuristic concept cars, there will be special exhibitions showcasing further distinguished examples of automotive design. The public will also have an opportunity to vote for their favourites to win the Trofeo BMW Italia and the BMW Group Design Award. Gates open for the public day on Sunday at 09.30 am. Admission is EUR 10, for families EUR 20, EUR 8 reduced.

Further information about “Concorso d´Eleganza Villa d´Este“: www.concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com