What is a Concours d’Elegance and how is it judged?

A Concours d'Elegance (French for "competition of elegance") is an elite automotive event where prestigious, rare, and antique vehicles are exhibited and meticulously judged. Rather than testing speed, these events are beauty pageants and restoration competitions where the most authentic, historically significant, and visually striking cars in the world compete for top awards like "Best of Show".

The concept originated in 17th-century France, where French aristocracy would parade their finest horse-drawn carriages in the parks of Paris during summer weekends. As the automobile was invented, the tradition evolved into a high-fashion garden party where vehicle owners could show off their latest, most luxurious machines.

Unlike standard car shows or races, Concours judging is incredibly rigorous:

Authenticity: Vehicles are evaluated based on how accurately they match the standard they were held to when they originally left the factory. This includes period-correct parts, factory-original paint styles, and even proper hardware.

Provenance: A car's history—such as previous famous owners, unique factory records, or notable racing heritage—is heavily factored into the scoring.

Elegance & Presentation: Judges evaluate the vehicle’s design, craftsmanship, and how beautifully it is presented.

Here at the Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week we follow a variation on what is often called "French" judging, which takes into account both objective as well as subjective elements. As the Concours and Motor Week celebrates the core attributes of Newport itself, "History, Luxury & Sport," our international team of judges look foremost at how each entry exemplifies one or more of those attributes.  

Most importantly, our judges will be seeking an emotional connection with the vehicles selected for awards.  Of course, originality and condition draw us in initially to make an emotional connection, but often the history of the car itself, and the involvement of its owners in its maintenance and preservation, can do more to foster that bond and to bring a vehicle into our hearts than a perfect, un-used, brand-new restoration might. 

We believe that the primary reason for displaying a vehicle at the Audrain Concours & Motor Week is to allow it to be shared with the greater public, introducing viewers who may have never seen a car or motorcycle such as yours or might never otherwise have that opportunity, to experience that same passion.