Auto Design

BMW and the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este will be celebrating their 80^th anniversary this year with a very special edition that will also mark the ten anniversary of the BMW sponsorship and involvement of the famous event on the banks of Lake Como. Although BMW was established in 1916 (as a constructor of aircraft engines) the company built its first passenger car in 1929 after becoming famous for its motorcycles.

First established in 1929 the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este was re-established in 1990 and ever since has steadily grown into an international event that car connoisseurs and enthusiasts cannot miss. The day to note on their personal agenda is April 26, when the gates at Villa Erba will open to the public and everybody has access to the car participating to the Concorso and many more on exhibits from the BMW Group and other participants.

“The past 80 years have shown the high status that BMW accords to design and style. The same applies to the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. And that is not least of all why are a perfect fit,” commented Karl Baumer, Director of BMW Group Classic and Chairman of the Concorso, at the press conference announcing the event.

Although it had to be expected that some classic cars collector would cut on their budget, as times require, this year too there will at least some 50 rare cars of the past parading on the red carpet at Villa Erba, for the prize giving. As usual, they have been selected with the advice of Urs Paul Ramseier and will be judged by a panel chaired by the renowned Lorenzo Ramaciotti.

With the classic cars of the past, which list includes the 1838 Bugatti Atlantic 57SC, who is returning to Europe after an 18 years absence) the beautiful 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B, Berlinetta, (back to Italy for the first time since 1947), the Peter Kalikov 1972 Momo Mirage, 2+2 coupé by Frua, and the Bertone’s 1969 BMW 2800 Spicup, convertible coupé, 1969; there will be on display and on the catwalk a dozen modern show-cars from the recent motor-show.

On its turn, BMW, which as organising sponsor is not competing in the Concorso will present a review of all the roadsters the company has designed and built through the past 75 years; from the early 315/1 e 319/1 to the new Z4, being launched this year, through the mythical 328 and 507, and the recent Z1, Z3 e Z8.

As usual, on the previous day, Saturday 25^th, the cars participating to the Concorso will be examined and judged at Villa D’Este who is open only to invited guests.

Access to Villa Erba is € 12,50 for the entire day. More information at www.concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com