Retro Classics Essen will take place for the first time from April 8 to 12, 2026. The AFAG trade fair organizers, the organizers behind Retro Classics Stuttgart and Retro Classics Bavaria, are thus taking over from Techno Classica in Essen.
The event stands for high-quality presentations, in-depth expertise and hands-on automotive history - in the heart of a region with a deeply rooted automotive tradition.
An outstanding highlight will be the special show 100 Years of Bugatti Royal by Eric van Lammeren in Hall 3. At its center are three extraordinary vehicles as spectacular reconstructions of the so-called "Missing Royales": the Bugatti Royale Prototype Packard (1926), the Royale Prototype Weymann (1929) and the Royale Esders Roadster (1932).
The three vehicles revive an almost vanished chapter of automotive history as driving works of art and impressively pay tribute to the visionary power of the Bugatti brand - crowned by the iconic radiator figure of Rembrandt Bugatti's dancing elephant.
In addition to many international dealers and specialists as well as many clubs, Classic Data will also be present with a stand. Classic Data has been collecting comprehensive market data on classic cars, modern classics, exotic cars and special vehicles since 1984 and has already carried out over 400,000 vehicle valuations together with partner offices.
As an economically independent company with no links to insurance companies, dealers or restoration businesses, Classic Data stands for neutral, objective valuations based on the tried-and-tested dual control principle, in which market values are determined centrally and vehicles are also appraised on site by experts. This combination of database, experience and independence makes Classic Data a recognized authority far beyond Germany.
"The fair is one of the most important trade fairs for classic vehicles with a supra-regional reach, and the proportion of international visitors is particularly high," explains Marius Brune, Managing Director of Classic Data GmbH & Co. "As an exhibitor in Essen from the very beginning, we are always pleased about the good contacts with customers and trade visitors. We are confident that Retro Classics Essen will continue this success and enrich it with new ideas."
Tickets can be purchased online or on site. More information about Retro Classics Essen can be found on the website of the classic car fair.
