The legendary BMW 328 and the legendary Mercedes 300 SL triumph at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este

Lake Como was once again confirmed as the world capital of automotive elegance. From 15 to 17 May, the shores of Cernobbio hosted the 2026 edition of the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, an event that as always was the meeting point for collectors and enthusiasts arriving from every corner of the globe.

The leitmotif of this edition, 'Future Needs Heritage', staged a veritable journey through time lasting more than a century. On display in the grounds of the Grand Hotel were masterpieces that have written automotive history, from the pioneers of the four-wheeler to the most futuristic concept cars of today.

The most eagerly awaited verdict, that of the jury of international experts, elected the 1937 BMW 328 'Bügelfalte' as the overall winner. It is a jewel of inestimable value, the only special roadster born and assembled directly in the historic Munich workshops. Its nickname is due to the very special metal line that redesigns the profile of the front wings.

Collector Stefano Martinoli accepted the prestigious 'Bmw Group Trophy - Best of Show' from the hands of Helmut Käs, head of Bmw Group Classic, Wilhelm Schmid, managing director of watch manufacturer A. Lange & Söhne, and jury president Lorenzo Ramaciotti. In addition to the cup, Martinoli was awarded a unique piece of haute horlogerie: a chronograph by A. Lange & Söhne. Lange & Söhne chronograph in white gold and pink dial, created especially for the occasion with the competition coat of arms hand-engraved on the back.

The historic Coppa d'Oro Villa d'Este Trophy, awarded by public referendum, went to a splendid 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster, brought to Italia by American collector Eric Blumencranz. The example in question represents one of the very last models ever to come off the Star's assembly lines.