Winners Never Fade — They Only Grow More Legendary With Time
If there’s one event that consistently reminds us why the automobile is more than just a machine, it’s The Amelia. The 30th anniversary of this prestigious concours d’elegance delivered a weekend of unmatched automotive excellence, where passion met perfection on the manicured lawns of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. In a showcase of history, design, and engineering mastery, two exceptional vehicles claimed the highest honors, proving once again that true icons are timeless.
A Pre-War Marvel: 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900
Best of Show – Concours d’Elegance was awarded to a stunning 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900, a vehicle steeped in both racing heritage and design supremacy. With chassis number 412028, this particular Alfa is believed to have been a prototype for the legendary 1938 Mille Miglia. Originally ordered by Giuseppe Farina—yes, that Farina, the future first Formula 1 World Champion—this Alfa Romeo boasts a short chassis and a uniquely tuned engine, revealing details that set it apart even from its revered 8C brethren.
More than just a machine, the victory carried an emotional weight for its owner, Deborah Keller. “My husband and I won an award here together in 2020. He passed away a year ago, and he would be proud to have this car win. It was in the stars today,” Keller shared, a reminder that classic cars are not only about mechanical beauty but also deeply personal stories.
photo: @2025 Amelia Concours best of show / @ameliaconcours.com/
The Birth of a Revolution: 1967 Lotus 49
Taking home Best of Show – Concours de Sport was the 1967 Lotus 49, chassis 49/2, a car that changed the trajectory of Formula 1 forever. This particular Lotus debuted at Zandvoort with Jimmy Clark at the helm, marking the first race for the now-legendary Cosworth DFV engine. It went on to carve its place in motorsport history with wins at Silverstone and Watkins Glen, further solidifying its reputation in the hands of drivers like Jackie Oliver, Jo Siffert, and Mario Andretti. Even in retirement, it found a second life under Pete Lovely, gracing grand prix grids until 1971.
“It’s nice that the car gets the attention it deserves. It really is an important car in Formula 1 history,” said owner Chris MacAllister, reflecting on the Lotus’ enduring legacy. And he’s right—without the Lotus 49 and its pioneering design, F1 as we know it today might look very different.
More Than a Show—A Cultural Movement
But The Amelia isn’t just about the winners. With more than 240 historic vehicles spanning 35 classes, the show was a rolling museum of innovation and artistry. From pre-war masterpieces to ‘80s and ‘90s icons at RADwood, it was a playground for every kind of enthusiast. Patrick Dempsey’s presence (yes, that Patrick Dempsey) and his screening of Back on Track added a cinematic touch, while four-time Indy 500 champion Hélio Castroneves lent his charisma and championship pedigree to the occasion.
Numbers don’t lie, and The Amelia 2025 boasted impressive figures: 17,000 attendees, over 500 volunteers, 225 Mobil 1 Ride and Drive experiences, and $119,000 pledged to local nonprofits. Not to mention Reverie, an immersive culinary experience that kicked off the weekend in pure luxury fashion.
photo: @2025 Amelia Concours best of show / @ameliaconcours.com/
The Verdict: A Flawless Blend of Heritage and Innovation?
While the event was undoubtedly a success, a subtle tension loomed. As concours culture evolves, so too do the expectations. With younger generations shifting interest towards ‘80s, ‘90s, and even 2000s cars, there’s an ongoing conversation about how events like The Amelia can continue to innovate while preserving tradition. The introduction of new hospitality experiences and contemporary exhibits is promising, but will it be enough to keep the concours world from feeling too museum-like?
For now, The Amelia remains a beacon for the automotive elite, an unparalleled celebration of speed, beauty, and legacy. Whether you revel in pre-war craftsmanship or motorsport’s golden era, one thing remains clear: the best of the best never fade—they only grow more legendary with time.
