The Best Classic Car Show in London? The Concours of Elegance Review

Written by guest author Peter Brooker

The Concours of Elegance event at Hampton Court Palace was a delight. I saw two Aston Martin DB5's, one of which used to belong to Dick Emery, an English comic actor whose name you may recognise as he replaced Harry Secombe on The Goon Show for one episode in 1957. But more than likely, you won't have the foggiest. 

I stuck my nose through the passenger window and got a good whiff of the diesel-infused leather interiors and I can honestly say, I haven’t been that aroused since I sniffed the diesel-infused leather interiors in the Goldeneye DB5 at Spyscape in New York. Although the leathers in that DB5 had beed graced by the musk and arse cheeks of Pierce Brosnan which obviously heightens the experience. I’m sure Dick Emery’s musk was equally as flavoursome but doesn’t carry nearly the same cache. In Spyscape they even had the bottle of Bollinger in the centre console and an empty box of condoms next to some bra and panties in the backseat. Presumably they belonged to Caroline the MI6 evaluator. These additional props may have been put there in jest, but I felt it was in poor taste. For one Spyscape is a family exhibition, and two I doubt Brosnan's Bond would have worn condoms, Dalton's maybe. It was the 80s after all. 

I was there by the good grace of Timothy Everest (tailor to Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible 1&2 and Ralph Fiennes in Skyfall, Spectre & No Time To Die), now of Grey Flannel on Chiltern Street. His passion and knowledge for classic automobiles makes him, well, deeply passionate and knowledgeable about the motor industry. 

I on the other hand know nothing about cars. However, I did point out to Anastasia that the lashes on the Lamborghini Miura P400 seen in the opening scene of The Italian Job are purely decorative and without, make it look like Sideswipe with alopecia. (Sideswipe was a Transformer, part of the initial crew of Autobots aboard the Ark when it crash-landed on Earth four million years ago. Although Sideswipe transformed into a Lamborghini Countach and not a Miura P400, I thought the gag still worked. Though when it takes over 500 words to explain the gag, perhaps not). 

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About Concours

The term "concours event" typically refers to a Concours d'Elegance, which is a prestigious automotive event that showcases classic, vintage, and rare automobiles. These events often feature meticulously restored or well-preserved cars, and they emphasise the elegance, style, and historical significance of these vehicles. These events are not limited to a single location and can be found in various parts of the world, often associated with luxury automotive brands or exclusive clubs. Concours d'Elegance events celebrate the art and history of automobile design and are a must-attend for automotive enthusiasts and collectors.

Key aspects of a Concours d'Elegance event include:

1. Vehicle Display: Rare and vintage cars are displayed for enthusiasts and judges to admire. These cars are often grouped into various categories based on factors like age, make, or model.

2. Judging: Expert judges evaluate each vehicle based on criteria such as historical accuracy, condition, authenticity, craftsmanship, and overall elegance.

3. Elegance and Style: The emphasis is on the aesthetic beauty, design, and historical significance of the automobiles. Owners often go to great lengths to ensure their vehicles are in pristine condition.

4. Exclusivity: Many Concours events are invitation-only and feature a limited number of prestigious vehicles. Attendance is often restricted to a select group of enthusiasts and collectors.

5. Awards: Vehicles that meet the highest standards receive awards and recognition. These awards may include "Best in Show," "People's Choice," or category-specific awards.

6. Historical Significance: Some Concours events focus on specific themes or eras of automotive history, highlighting the evolution of automobile design and technology.