The Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance, one of the world’s most renowned automotive events, will include a major expansion in its 2004 line up as it joins forces with Concorso d’Italia, the popular show featuring Italian sports and classic cars. Concorso d’Italia will take place at Meadow Brook Hall on Saturday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will showcase more than 100 Italian manufactured and/or designed cars.

In addition, several of Concorso d’Italia’s select cars will be on display during the 26th annual Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance at Meadow Brook Hall on Sunday, Aug. 1, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Created in 2002, Concorso d’Italia was previously held at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores.

“Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance is internationally acclaimed, and we are proud to be included in its incredible week of events celebrating the automobile,” said Michael Brady, Concorso d’Italia co-founder. “We will throw a little Italian spice into the mix."

Concorso d’Italia will present the popular Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, DeTomaso, Alfa Romeo and several other Italian marques in groupings of the highly desirable makes and models. Italian music will enhance the elegant and festive mood.

Featured cars include several Italian prototypes never before seen in the United States. Ital-Design’s very first design, the 1968 Manta, will be on display as well as the AMX/3, an American Motors Italian prototype designed by Dick Teague. Also included will be several Giotto Bizzarrini prototypes and “one-offs,” while the legendary designer himself is scheduled to receive a lifetime achievement award and may display his Evolution BZ2001 Prototype PE.

“We are genuinely excited to have a whole new Italian dimension to Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance,” said by Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance chairman Richard Kughn.  “This event celebrates the significant automotive contributions made by the great visionary Italian manufacturers and designers.”

Also on the grounds will be an art tent where work by some of the most recognized automotive painters and sculptors of our time will be available for purchase. Awards specifically created for this event are themselves impressive pieces of art, regarded as some of the finest sculptures and crystal that collectors can receive. The original artwork reproduced on this year’s show poster will be a featured item in the annual art auction, a highlight of the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance Gala Black Tie Strolling Dinner on Saturday, July 31.