Rétromobile: A French Classic Car Show Like No Other
Rétromobile, the iconic French classic car show, is celebrating its 50th anniversary, having continually reinvented itself. Despite the inclusion of modern cars, which some find disturbing, Rétromobile remains a must-visit event for car enthusiasts. With six halls, thousands of exhibits, a multi-million-euro auction, and an abundance of Dinky toys, it's the world's greatest classic car show.
Located at the exhibition halls at Porte de Versailles, a convention center south of Paris, Rétromobile is easily accessible. Visitors can take the Eurostar and the Métro for a classic car heaven experience, followed by a delicious meal at a Parisian bistro.
The show is a love letter to bespoke cars, paying homage to the pomp and passing of French car-making. Once, French carrossiers were renowned for their avant-garde designs, craft construction skills, and technical accomplishment. Panel-beating, upholstery, design, and exotic materials were hallmarks of the cars produced between the 1930s and 1950s.
Rétromobile showcases these spectacularly rare French cars, including Delage, Delahaye, Talbot Lago, Facel Vega, and Voisin, alongside standard exotics like Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Aston Martins. The show attracts a diverse audience, from young enthusiasts to those seeking an alternative to the ubiquitous family SUVs at conventional motor shows.
After the 2008 financial collapse and the Covid pandemic, Rétromobile experienced a resurgence, with visitor numbers exceeding 100,000 last year. The show features a high-profile auction, with the first Rétromobile auction held in 1993. This year, Goodings, a new sponsor, offered a well-stocked catalogue of classic cars.
However, the inclusion of modern cars has sparked debate. While traditionalists appreciate car makers taking responsibility, some worry about the show's integrity. Modern car makers are allowed to participate, but they must showcase their backstories rather than pushing the latest models. For instance, BMW displayed its art cars, and DS showcased 1960s examples of the original DS produced for French presidents.
Peugeot celebrated the 205 GTi with a stand featuring its new electric E-208 GTi and classic hot hatchbacks. Citroën, with its rich design history, showcased striking examples from its Conservatoire museum, despite its uncertain future under Stellantis ownership.
The show also features hidden gems, such as the Karin concept by Trevor Fiore, which introduced the three-abreast, central driving position of the McLaren F1. André Lefebvre's 1956 C10 and the ELO concept from last year are other notable exhibits.
Despite the commercial aspect, some cars, like Panhards, Citroëns, Alpines, Peugeots, and Renaults, are less prominent, creating a 'gentlemen versus players' atmosphere. Rétromobile's organizers should be cautious to avoid the 'let them eat cake' attitude that led to the demise of the Geneva Motor Show.
In conclusion, Rétromobile remains highly recommended for all car fans, offering a unique blend of history and passion. Visitors can explore the show for more than a day, discovering French car culture and Parisian art galleries and museums, many of which offer free entry once a month. As one visitor noted, Rétromobile evokes childhood memories and dreams, making it a truly special event.
