The Heart of Luxury: A Judge’s Inside Look at the 2026 Audrain Concours d’Elegance
The gilded enclave of Newport, Rhode Island, once the summer playground of America’s industrial titans, has evolved into more than just a museum of architectural marvels. Today, it serves as the backdrop for an event that, for connoisseurs of fine automobiles, arguably surpasses even the legendary Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. I speak, of course, of the Audrain Concours d’Elegance. In 2026, I had the distinct privilege of being invited as a judge, a role that offered a singular, unvarnished glimpse into the world where engineering artistry meets historical significance.
The journey to becoming a judge at an event as prestigious as the Audrain is less about lineage and more about a cumulative understanding of automotive history and design. For years, I had followed the trajectory of the Audrain Motor Week, which began in 2019 as an ambitious venture by the Audrain Group to create an event that was more than just a competition. It was, from its inception, a holistic celebration of automotive culture, featuring a unique blend of formal concours, high-octane driving tours, and philanthropic efforts that support automotive-related causes, particularly those aimed at STEM education.
Having been acquainted with the Audrain for several years, I had witnessed firsthand the evolution of the event and its growing reputation. When the opportunity arose to be a judge, I accepted without hesitation. The vision of this event, spearheaded by its charismatic Master of Ceremonies and spiritual guide, Donald Osborne, is simple yet profound: to bridge the gap between the historical reverence of Pebble Beach and the electric excitement of modern racing.
The Audrain Concours d’Elegance is not just a display of vintage cars; it is a living testament to human ingenuity, perseverance, and passion. It is a place where the engineering prowess of the early 20th century is celebrated alongside the technological marvels of the present day.
The Anatomy of a Concours: What It Takes to Judge Automotive Artistry
The notion of judging a Concours d’Elegance can often seem daunting to the uninitiated. However, at its core, it is a process that combines historical knowledge with a discerning eye for design and execution. The Audrain, in particular, emphasizes a philosophy that balances the rigorous scrutiny of historical accuracy with the emotional appreciation of automotive beauty.
The judging process at the Audrain begins with the careful selection of judges. The committee carefully assembles a team of individuals who possess a deep understanding of automotive history, engineering, and design. This ensures that the judging reflects the high standards of the event and provides a diverse perspective on the featured vehicles. The camaraderie among the judges is remarkable, with participants ranging from industry veterans to seasoned collectors and automotive historians. This collective expertise creates an environment that is both educational and enjoyable, as judges share their insights and experiences.
The day of judging at the Audrain Concours d’Elegance is a carefully orchestrated affair. The judges are organized into teams, each assigned to a specific class of vehicles. My team, for instance, was tasked with judging the Sporting Choice Award, which honors the most sporting car on the field, irrespective of its specific marque or era. This broad scope allows judges to appreciate a wide range of vehicles, from vintage race cars to modern sports cars that embody the spirit of driving passion.
A Judge’s Perspective: Navigating the Judging Process
In 2026, my experience as a judge at the Audrain Concours d’Elegance was a journey through the evolution of automotive excellence. The event featured a diverse array of vehicles, from prewar rarities to modern hypercars, all carefully curated to showcase the breadth of automotive history and design.
One of the most memorable moments during the judging process was the evaluation of the Ferrari Classico category. The Audrain’s commitment to showcasing Ferrari’s rich heritage was evident in the selection of vehicles presented, with examples of iconic models that defined Ferrari’s dominance in motorsport and road-going luxury. The meticulous attention to detail in each restoration demonstrated a deep respect for the legacy of these automobiles.
My co-judge for the Sporting Choice Award was Ray Evernham, a legendary figure in NASCAR and a respected voice in automotive circles. Evernham and I found immediate common ground, as we had both competed at Pikes Peak, the treacherous mountain road race known for its challenging elevation and demanding conditions. Our task was to identify a vehicle that embodies the spirit of sport and performance.
The judging process involves a thorough examination of each vehicle, including its engine, bodywork, and interior. However, it is not just about technical specifications. The judges also consider the historical significance of the vehicle, its racing history, and its overall design.
The Pinnacle of Performance: Sporting Choice Award
The Sporting Choice Award is one of the most prestigious recognitions at the Audrain Concours d’Elegance. It is awarded to a vehicle that exemplifies the spirit of sport and performance, irrespective of its specific marque or era. This award represents the embodiment of automotive passion, innovation, and driving excellence.
The competition for the Sporting Choice Award was fierce in 2026. Several exceptional vehicles stood out, each with its own unique story and pedigree. Among the contenders were several vintage sports cars that embodied the golden age of motorsport, as well as modern-day marvels that push the boundaries of performance and design.
One of the most captivating vehicles on the lawn was a rare 1952 Allard JR that had competed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Allard JR is a significant part of automotive history, with only seven examples ever built. This particular vehicle was fitted with a Jaguar C-Type body to comply with Le Mans regulations but retained its powerful 5.3-liter Cadillac V-8 engine. It remained the most successful of the seven Allard JRs ever produced, making it a truly exceptional find.
Another strong contender for the Sporting Choice Award was a 1940 Cadillac Series 62 Bonham & Schwartz Convertible Victoria. This custom-bodied Cadillac was one of two built by Bonham & Schwartz, a legendary coachbuilder that also created custom bodies for Clarke Gable’s Duesenberg. The candy-red Series 62 was visually striking, with a unique design that stood out from the crowd. It was the only surviving example of the two, as its sibling had been destroyed in a fire. This car was built for the Doheny family, the founders of Beverly Hills, and represents a significant piece of California history.
The Final Decision
The ultimate decision for the Sporting Choice Award came down to two exceptional vehicles: a 1938 Talbot-Lago T150 C Lago Figoni et Falaschi Teardrop Coupe and a 1951 Cisitalia 202SC Pinin Farina Cabriolet.
The Talbot-Lago T150 C “Goutte d’Eau” (Teardrop) is a legendary automobile with a unique history. It is the only long-wheelbase T150 C ever built, with only 15 regular wheelbase versions produced. This particular car holds a racing record that will never be broken: built in 1938, it won the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa in 1948, making it the oldest car to ever win a Grand Prix race. The thought of a 10-year-old car winning an F1 race in the modern era is almost unfathomable, and it alone was almost enough to sway our decision.
However, the Cisitalia 202SC Pinin Farina Cabriolet simply spoke to us. With its striking color, elegant lines, and perfect stance, it created a mental image of a leisurely drive along a beautiful coastline, complete with vintage Wayfarers. The Cisitalia 202 is a masterpiece of design, recognized by the Museum of Modern Art in New York with a place in its permanent collection. And on that day, in that color, and with its top dropped, the Cisitalia was the car we kept coming back to. It was the most “wow” inducing, the most charming, and ultimately, the car that best embodied the spirit of sport and performance. We awarded the Cisitalia the Sporting Choice Award, and it was a decision that felt deeply satisfying.
The Audrain Concours d’Elegance is more than just a car show; it is a celebration of history, innovation, and passion. It is an event that brings together collectors, enthusiasts, and historians to appreciate the beauty and engineering of automobiles from around the world. And in 2026, it was a truly unforgettable experience for all who attended.
Why This Matters: Connecting Cars to Our Lives
For many, the world of classic cars and concours d’elegance can seem distant and irrelevant to their daily lives. However, the lessons learned at these events have far-reaching implications for how we view engineering, innovation, and human ingenuity.
The Power of Attention to Detail
The meticulous attention to detail that defines Concours d’Elegance vehicles is a powerful reminder that the most extraordinary achievements are often the result of painstaking precision. From the hand-built chassis of a Talbot-Lago to the custom coachwork of a Cadillac Series 62, each vehicle tells a story of craftsmanship and dedication. This level of commitment to quality is something we can all aspire to in our own lives, whether it be in our careers, our relationships, or our personal pursuits.
The Importance of Preservation
The preservation of automotive history is a critical aspect of Concours d’Elegance events. These events serve as a vital link between the past and the future, allowing
