This event, held at the storied Benedict Castle, is not just a car show. Also known as The Car Guy’s Car Show, it’s a celebration of classic automotive artistry and a testament to the enduring spirit of car enthusiasts. The castle, a grand structure built in the 1920s as a private residence for Charles Benedict and his wife, provides an enchanting backdrop for this gathering of automotive excellence. In this magical setting, classic cars come to life, each with its own story to tell, and the Benedict Castle Concours becomes an experience, a tradition, and a heartfelt celebration of all things automotive.

1967 Ford Mustang

Steve Sumpter, an Orange County Mustang Club member, fell in love with this car’s powerful performance and iconic design. This model year introduced a more aggressive styling with a wider, more robust body, a larger grille, and distinct side scoops. But he revamped it by adding a 302 V8- Holley 650 4V, a new carburetor, headman headers, and a Lecarra wood steering wheel. 

1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

This remarkable post-war marvel symbolizes 1950s Americana and is celebrated for its stylish design and impressive performance. The ’57 Bel Air is easily recognizable by its sleek, chrome-laden exterior, iconic tailfins, and distinctive grille. It came with various engine options, including the powerful 283 cubic inch V8 with optional fuel injection, a significant technological advancement at the time.  

1901 Duryea Four Wheel Phaeton

Marking a milestone in the automotive industry, the Duryea was the first successful gasoline-powered car built in the United States in 1893. This 1901 piece represents the pioneering spirit of the early automotive industry with a simple yet effective design with a single-cylinder engine and wooden carriage body. It’s owned by Barry and Karen Meguiar, a passionate car-loving couple who also own Meguiar’s Car Wax. 

1932 Ford Window Coupe

It’s hard to miss the 1932 Ford Window Coupe, with a sleek, curvy body and distinctive front grille, making it a favorite among classic car collectors and customizers. Also referred to as the Deuce Coupe, this car is an iconic symbol of 1930s automotive design. A ZZ4 350 SBC engine powers this car and features vintage leather interiors and an AC. 

1968 Pontiac GTO Convertible

Gary and Kathy Garner are a passionate couple who share a love for classic cars and often attend shows and events. They also own a remarkable 1968 Pontiac GTO Convertible, highly sought after by collectors. Of the 88,000 units made, only 9000 were convertibles, which explains why this car steals hearts. The owners replaced the convertible top and repainted the car’s original stock color. In addition, they changed the front seats and fixed the rear ones. 

1957 Corvette

A red 1957 Corvette is often shown at the event, representing the origins of a legendary sports car. This model was often called the solid-axle generation because the rear suspension was yet to be included. The car was powered by a fuel-injected 283 cubic inch V8 engine, which made the Corvette one of the first production cars to achieve one horsepower per cubic inch. Its sleek body, chrome accents, and sporty interior made it a symbol of American automotive innovation. 

1967 Morris Cooper S

The 1967 Morris Cooper S is a legendary icon in compact performance cars. Known for its precise handling and spirited performance, the model became famous for its success in rally racing, including multiple victories at the Monte Carlo Rally. A vehicle at the Benedict Castle Concours is quite unique as most of the cars sold in the US were Austin Cooper and Austin Cooper S. 

2004.5 Volvo S40 T5 AWD

Featured at the Fold/Volvo show at SEMA 2004, this compact luxury sedan combines Swedish design elegance with advanced safety features and performance. Don Nicholson, the owner of this masterpiece, grew up watching his great uncle, drag racing legend Dyno Don Nicholson, and immediately fell in love with automobiles. He eventually started his Elevate—Volvo Performance / Styling business and even served on the Benedict Castle Concours committee. 

1934 Packard 1101 Dietrich

Between 1924 and 1936, Packard produced a car to replace the earlier Packard Twin Six. A 4-door convertible is shown at the Benedict Castle Concours, featuring elegant, flowing lines and elegant details that show sophistication and style. Under the hood, it was powered by a smooth and powerful straight-eight engine, ensuring a refined driving experience. The 1101 Dietrich’s exquisite design, attention to detail, and luxurious appointments make it a prized collectible among classic car fans.

1940 Ford Woody Wagon

Barry and Karen Meguiar’s collection includes this 1940 Ford Woody Wagon, a beloved classic that shows the charm of vintage American station wagons. With a distinctive wood-paneled body, this car symbolizes the carefree beach lifestyle and is often associated with surfers and coastal culture. The 1940 model featured a more streamlined design and was powered by Ford’s reliable flathead V8 engine. Its spacious interior and versatile cargo area made it a practical yet stylish choice for families and adventurers.

1932 Hot Rod

When this car first appeared on the 1948 cover of Hot Rod magazine, many people fell in love. Hot Rods are extensively modified for performance and style. Typically featuring chopped roofs, powerful V8 engines, and custom paint jobs, these vehicles show the spirit of individuality and creativity. The owner did a great job restoring it to its original state. 

1966 Chevelle Malibu

Built by Harold’s Hot Rod Shop in Enid, Oklahoma, a 1966 Chevelle Malibu is a classic American muscle car known for its style, performance, and versatility blend. The ’66 Malibu featured a sleek, muscular design with a unique front grille and sharp lines. It was available with various powerful engines, including the potent 327 cubic inch V8, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts. The Malibu’s comfortable interior, robust build, and impressive capabilities made it a popular choice for both daily driving and weekend cruising.

1974 Alfa Romeo GTV

A beloved classic sports car, the 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV is known for its Italian design and exhilarating driving experience. Part of the iconic Giulia Sprint series, the GTV features a sleek, timeless design with sharp lines and a well-proportioned body. It’s celebrated for its agile handling, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and balanced chassis. The elegant interior, with classic gauges and comfortable seating, adds to the car’s charm.

De Tomaso Pantera

This iconic sports car blends Italian design with American muscle. Introduced in 1971, it features a striking, wedge-shaped body for an aggressive and exotic presence. With only 7,260 models produced, this car features a mid-mounted Ford 351 Cleveland V8 engine, impressive performance, and a speed of over 150 mph. The robust American V8 and sophisticated Italian styling make the Pantera a unique and desirable classic. 

Mercury Sport Coupe

Produced during the late 1930s and 1940s, the Sport Coupe features a sleek, streamlined body with elegant curves and a distinctive grille. Under the hood, it typically houses a flathead V8 engine, delivering reliable power and a smooth driving experience. The Mercury Sport Coupe offers a comfortable interior with plush seating and refined details. Its classic design and strong performance capabilities make it a sought-after vehicle among classic car enthusiasts and collectors.