Car shows are known for their spectacular locations, and the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court is no exception. This prestigious event takes place in the magnificent setting of King Henry VIII’s 16th-century castle, Hampton Court Palace. With A. Lange & Söhne as the title sponsor, the competition showcases rows of classic and vintage cars in the stunning Great Fountain Garden. This meticulously designed garden features neatly shaped trees, a circular driveway surrounding a reflective water feature, and the grand facade of the palace itself.
In 2022, the Concours of Elegance celebrated the elegance of Art Deco. The coveted Best in Show award went to the exquisitely sculpted 1938 Delage D8-120 S “de Villars.” This car, which was sold for a staggering $7,299 USD when it was new, was one of the most expensive cars of its time. Its first taste of victory came at the Concours de l’Auto de Printemps in 1938, where it claimed the Best in Show title. After changing owners several times, it went on to win the European Classics section and the prestigious Best in Show award at Pebble Beach in 1996.
Another notable winner was the 1938 Hispano-Suiza H6B Dubonnet Xenia. Commissioned by André Dubonnet, heir to the Dubonnet aperitif fortune, this car showcased the innovative four-wheel independent “hyperflex” suspension system he co-developed with engineer Antoine-Marie Chedru. Adorned with a stunning body by Jacques Saoutchik, this sleek two-seater returned to the Concours of Elegance after its previous win in 2016 to claim the Bridge of Weir Design Award. The car is now proudly owned by the Mullin Automotive Museum and stands as a true embodiment of 1930s design optimism.
Among the esteemed lineup of cars, King Charles’s personal Aston Martin DB6 Volante received the Platinum Jubilee Award. This elegant roadster gained recognition not only for its regal association but also for its conversion to biofuel, making it an environmentally conscious choice. The car was famously used as a getaway vehicle at the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Adding a touch of modern flair to the event was the 1966 Ferrari 365P Berlinetta Speciale ‘Tre Posti.’ This unique three-seater with a center driving position took home the Ferrari 75th Anniversary award. Other notable attendees included the vibrant Parabolica-liveried McLaren F1 GTR Longtail, a tastefully redesigned 2005 Porsche Carrera GT by Zagato, and a charmingly weathered 1955 Ferrari 250 GT Europa with cracked paint and rusted metal trim.