Set against the leafy backdrop of Queanbeyan, Auto Italia 2026 delivered yet another unforgettable gathering of Italian automotive culture. With a strong contingent of vehicles making the journey from Melbourne and Sydney, this year’s event felt bigger, more diverse, and more passionate than ever.
From priceless classics to cutting-edge supercars, the show was a vivid reminder of why Italian motoring continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
A major drawcard was the presence of Ferrari Sydney, who showcased two of their latest offerings. The undeniable star was the all-new Ferrari Testarossa 849 presented in its launch specification.
Finished in a striking Rosso Fiammante red, the car drew constant crowds eager to inspect its sculpted surfaces and intricate aerodynamic detailing. Ferrari has moved to a hybrid powertrain for its new hero model, pairing a twin-turbo V8 with plug-in hybrid assistance to deliver around 800 horsepower from the combustion engine alone, and approximately 1,000 horsepower combined. Power is sent through an advanced 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in under 2.5 seconds—firmly placing it among the fastest production cars ever built while reviving the legendary Testarossa nameplate.
Estimated to land in Australia north of AUD $900,000 before options and on-road costs, the Testarossa 849 represents Ferrari’s bold step into the future while honouring one of its most iconic lineages.
For classic enthusiasts, the event delivered in spades. A genuine Lancia 037 stood proudly alongside a Fiat 131 Abarth resplendent in its iconic Alitalia livery—two machines that embody the raw, unfiltered spirit of rallying’s golden era.
Nearby, nestled among a stunning collection of Alfa Romeos, sat a beautifully prepared Alfa Romeo 105 Series GTV. Enhanced with a suite of components from Alfaholics, it perfectly balanced originality with performance-focused upgrades, making it a standout for purists and modifiers alike.
Adding another layer of intrigue were several high-quality tribute and recreation vehicles. A breathtaking Ferrari 330 P4 tribute captured the essence of endurance racing’s most beautiful era, while multiple Lancia Stratos recreations showcased the enduring appeal of one of the most radical designs ever to hit the stages. These builds, crafted with extraordinary attention to detail, highlight the passion within the community to preserve and celebrate automotive history in accessible ways.
The show also reflected a shifting appreciation for “modern classics.” Cars like the Alfa Romeo 156 GTA and Alfa Romeo 147 GTA are rapidly gaining recognition, alongside Ferrari’s analogue-era gems such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the elegant Ferrari 456 GT. A strong selection of Maseratis added further depth, reinforcing the brand’s resurgence and enduring appeal among collectors.
Among the rarities were several standout icons of Italian design and engineering. An early De Tomaso Pantera sat alongside a later wide-body variant, illustrating the evolution of this cult favourite. Equally captivating were an Iso Grifo and the exquisite Lancia Flaminia Zagato Sport—the latter recently explored in depth on the Famous podcast with Glenn Ridge and its fascinating backstory.
Events like Auto Italia thrive on community, and 2026 was no exception. Famous Insurance were proud supporters and attendees, helping bring together enthusiasts from across the country.
