From October 17 to 19, 2025, the classic car scene met at Messezentrum Salzburg for the 21st edition of the international classic car fair. Classic Expo set a new visitor record with around 24,000 entries.
No wonder founder Hermann Schwarz was enthusiastic afterwards: "Classic Expo has long since become the communicative center of the classic car scene. It's not just about cars, but above all about encounters and the exchange of passion. The fact that we can celebrate a record number of visitors this year confirms the special significance of this event."
Fully booked and lots of extras
According to the organizers, guests have always appreciated the successful mix of dealers, service providers, the parts market and the range of private vehicles for sale. But clubs and associations are also an integral part of the trade fair flair and contribute to the unique atmosphere of the event. Ten full halls and a fully occupied exhibition center ensured a wide range of products and services at the Classic Expo.
No good classic car show is complete without special exhibitions, which provide exceptional insights into the history of the automobile and present unique objects to an interested public. This year these were exhibitions on: "150 Years of Ferdinand Porsche" and, following on from this, "Porsche Tradition - Emotion in Motion" and - once again in Salzburg after the big festival at the Salzburgring from May 16 to 18 - the "75 Years of the VW Bulli".
Auction and satisfied dealers
Another crowd-puller was the classic car auction organized by Humer, Granner & Co GmbH, which once again provided plenty of excitement on Saturday. Over 170 vehicles came under the hammer, including the last new car of star conductor Herbert von Karajan.
The exhibitors draw a consistently positive balance and emphasize the special quality of the audience. Thomas H. Rupf from Carruca explains: "I've been there from the very beginning and it goes without saying that I'll be back again in the future. The many cars in the auction have noticeably attracted additional visitors." Ralf Reller, who was represented for the first time with Automobile Reller, praised the: "beautiful trade fair, right from the set-up" and adds: "The atmosphere was excellent, we sold well. The public was interested and ready to buy." Markus Geroldinger from Platzer & Wimmer, who took part as an exhibitor for the first time this year as long-time visitors, also drew a positive balance: "With us, the dream of owning a classic car can be realized from as little as 15,000 euros. Brands don't matter - the individuality and quality of the vehicles is what counts. The Classic Expo offers us the ideal opportunity to present this variety of collector's items."
This proved once again that the "car show" format is alive and kicking for classic cars and that the Classic Expo in Salzburg more than fulfilled its role as a meeting place for enthusiasts, collectors, dealers and newcomers to share their passion.
The next edition will take place from October 16 to 18, 2026, once again at Messezentrum Salzburg.
