Rétromobile 2024: Another record breaking show!
Published: 06/02/2024
With more than 130,000 visiting enthusiasts, the 48th edition of Rétromobile surpassed all expectations confirming its status as the reference event, not just in France but also internationally, for collector vehicle lovers.
The vitality of Rétromobile was illustrated by its ability to bring together all the sector’s stakeholders across a surface area of 75,000 sqm. After an unprecedented parade through the streets of Paris to celebrate the centenary of the UTAC Linas-Montlhéry autodrome, the three pavilions featured a profusive and varied offering.
From the entrance, visitors could discover a variety of car manufacturers and the most prestigious figures in the collector car world including many traders of exceptional vehicles such as Lukas Huni AG, Girardo, Fiskens, Joe Macari, Kidston and Gallery Aaldering – among others.
The dream offered by Rétromobile was nonetheless entirely affordable, with the presence of collector clubs for all tastes and a sales area featuring no fewer than 150 vehicles at under €25,000.
The new highlights and events at this year’s show were an outstanding success: firstly, the zone given over to living heritage companies (EPV) shone a light on French know-how and excellence and initiatives to preserve motoring heritage.
Alongside, another new feature of this 48th show was the Rétromobile Conservation Award, presented to a 1903 Mercedes Simplex HP 60. Its condition, its story and the fact that the car had remained within the same family for 121 years won over the judges.
Finally, diversification was the order of the day with the new Motorcycle Zone which welcomed no fewer than six manufacturers and the Ace Café, and a 2,000 sqm official exhibit dedicated to the Monneret family saga, adding a new dimension to the event.
In addition to the poster mascot MG EX181, which was the true star of the show this year, the exhibition also welcomed several of the finest automobiles of the last century.
Among the most spectacular examples: the Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic and Bugatti Royale, along with two Ferrari 250 GTOs that delighted the most discerning collectors hailing from the four corners of the globe. But that’s not all: several driving legends put in an appearance at the exhibition, with the attendance of Jacky Ickx, Sébastien Loeb, Stéphane Peterhansel, Charles Leclerc, Magnus Walker and Philippe Monneret.
An eagerly awaited event at every exhibition, the auction organised by Artcurial Motorcars brought in a total of €17.8m ($19.2m) from all sales, proving that the classic car market remains as strong and attractive as ever.
Romain Grabowski, Rétromobile Exhibition Director, said: “I'd like to warmly thank all the exhibitors, visitors and partners who turned out for this 48th edition. Despite a tumultuous period, our audience once again demonstrated their loyalty and love for classic cars. We are proud to announce that the 130,000 visitor mark has been surpassed, reflecting our year-round commitment to providing quality content. It is thanks to this passionate intergenerational community that we are able to tell the wonderful human and mechanical story of Rétromobile every year. Many thanks to all those who contribute to making this event so unique and memorable.”
Save the dates of 5 to 9 February 2025 for the 49th edition of the show.