There is certainly something for everyone at Car Week in Monterey, and this year marked the 15th annual edition of a show that is geared specifically toward vehicles of German origin. “Legends of the Autobahn” was organized to bring together an array of noteworthy Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz models from throughout history. The show’s website indicates that “Legends of the Autobahn is a premier all-German marque Concours d’Elegance.”
This year’s program, held on August 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., attracted over 300 cars and was held on the golf links at Pacific Grove. Spectator admission was free, which was a nice surprise considering how expensive everything else can be in Monterey and the surrounding area.
Organizers partnered directly with leads from the Audi Club North America (ACNA), BMW CCA Car Club of America (CCA), and Mercedes-Benz Club of America (MBCA). Continental Tire was a title sponsor for this year’s event, which featured judged classes for each of the three featured marques, as well as an open class for other German-built vehicles.
These were a few of the many beautiful vehicles that caught my eye.
2015 Audi RS5
The design of the RS5, even at 10 years old, still commands attention. This example was finished in Mythos Black and came with a long list of options, including a sport exhaust system, carbon-fiber engine cover, body-color exterior mirrors, DVD player, Audi MMI navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and dynamic steering. It was originally sold from Audi of Concord, California, and had an original sticker price of $81,025 when new. Power comes from a 4.2-liter “FSI” V8 rated at 450 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to a Quattro all-wheel-drive system, this coupe was known for its strong grip and engaging driving experience.
1997 BMW 840Ci
When it came to grand-touring, it could be said BMW’s 8-Series coupe was the “Ultimate Driving Machine.” Finished in Cosmos Black over Light Silver, this car was originally delivered to Vista Motors of Pompano Beach, Florida. It featured an original retail price of $78,720 (including a $1,700 gas guzzler tax). Under the hood was a 4.4-liter DOHC V8 mated to a “Steptronic” five-speed automatic transmission. The 840Ci was known for its balance of performance and smoothness. Its pillarless coupe design still looks elegant over 30 years later, and its pop-up headlights invoked the BMW M1. Fun fact: Each 840Ci was pre-wired for a BMW cellular phone, which was a pretty big deal for the era.
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL
The 280 SL, which rode on the W113 chassis, was produced from 1963-71. According to documentation supplied by its owners, this car (which was affectionately named “Grace”) was purchased new at Tafei Motors in Louisville, Kentucky, and is currently part of a collection in Palm Springs. Grace is said to be almost entirely original with exception of a 1990s repaint in the original color. Even with over 95,000 miles on the odometer, Grace looks incredibly well-preserved! The SL is a sought-after classic today, known for its build quality and timeless design.
If you’re a fan of German cars, Legends of the Autobahn is worth a visit at Monterey Car Week next year. Registration starts at about $150 per vehicle and can be accessed from the event’s website.
I’m already having withdrawal from the great vibes and vehicles out at Monterey Car Week this year. Can’t wait to see what happens out there in 2026 and beyond!