Concorso Italiano announced today the exclusive Alfa 8C Competizione will be a featured vehicle at the leading kick-off event to Monterey weekend, Friday, August 14.

Alfa 8C Competizione is a stunning and lavish car that has been built in limited numbers, as the ‘crown jewel’ of the manufacturer's fleet. With its sweeping curves and powerful engine, the 8C Competizione brings real Alfa design, engineering and power back to the market. The engine comes from Maserati. The 8C encompasses an exhilarating style with its true sports car shape and an aggressive look, attracting high-end buyers who will wait up to one year to purchase one of only 500 models to be built.

Concorso Italiano owner, Tom McDowell said, “We are excited to feature the Alfa 8C as it encompasses all the elements we look for with sensational styling and searing performance exemplifying the ultimate in Italian design and providing the automotive enthusiasm we strive for at Concorso.”

Concorso Italiano has also revealed that it will present its prestigious annual “La Bella Macchina” award to legendary late-night host and avid automotive hobbyist, comedian Jay Leno. “Jay is the international face of the ultimate car guy and has been an enthusiastic ambassador for the hobby for more than 30 years. With his own large collection ranging from Lamborghinis and jet powered motorcycles to Duesenbergs and a tank-engined 30-foot hot rod, Jay’s eclectic taste knows no boundaries, other than making sure it has four wheels and a great history,” said McDowell. “He’s a hands-on, passionate guy who’s not afraid to get a little dirt under his fingernails and he has everything we look for in an honoree.  He’s the car guy’s car guy.”

Special notables scheduled to appear at the event include De Tomaso Pantera designer Tom Tjaarda, designers Matteo Fioravanti, Luca Fioravanti and Bertone Cento, designers Lilli Bertone, Michael Robinson and distinguished Lamborghini test driver, 40-year veteran Valentino Balboni. The annual "La Bella Macchina" Hall of Fame Award is presented to special Concorso Italiano guests for outstanding contributions to and a passion for the automotive industry. The award has been bestowed on more than 50 individuals since its inception in 1992. Previous recipients include distinguished designers Sergio Pininfarina, Giotto Bizzarini and Giorgio Giugiaro, race drivers Stirling Moss, Phil Hill and Carroll Shelby, and industry notables Piero Ferrari and Luigi Chinetti, Jr. among others.

Concorso Italiano is a must-attend convergence of sophistication, taste and fun that embraces cultural elements of Italian style, including music, cuisine, fashion, and travel. The event is centred on as many as 1,000 collectable Italian automobiles, motorcycles, and boats. Keith Martin of Sports Car Market and Alan Richmond have been confirmed as Masters of Ceremonies this year and the event already has support from Ferrari Club of America-Pacific Region, Lamborghini Club America, Pantera International, Ferrari Owners Club, FIAT America Car Club, Iso Bizzarrini Club of America, as well as Allante Club of America.