RETRO CLASSICS ESSEN® is ready to go and will open its doors from April 8 to April 12, 2026, at Messe Essen. The event brings a wide spectrum of everything related to classic mobility and driving culture to Essen.
Across eight exhibition halls, the Galeria, and outdoor areas 1 & 2, visitors can expect an extensive range of offerings, including numerous exhibitors, exceptional vehicles on two and four wheels, exciting special exhibitions, and diverse insights into the world of automotive culture. The blend of history, technology, and passion makes RETRO CLASSICS ESSEN® a unique experience for a broad audience.
In addition to the large vehicle sales market, the entry-level market—featuring vehicles priced up to €10,000—offers attractive opportunities, especially for new collectors. The program is further complemented by an international parts market and Automania, the well-established model car collectors’ exchange. The British Lane in the Galeria and numerous club stands also provide authentic insights and opportunities for personal interaction within the community.
This year, special attention is once again given to high-profile special exhibitions and anniversaries. Highlights include “125 Years of Opel Motorsport,” “100 Years of Bugatti Royale,” and “50 Years of Golf GTI.” The program is further enriched by major brand anniversaries, including Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Audi, Citroën, and BMW.
An interactive highlight awaits visitors in outdoor area 2: on a specially designed Unimog test track, visitors can experience the vehicles’ off-road capabilities firsthand as passengers.
Opening press conference on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 12:15 PM in Hall 8. Experience selected highlights up close before exploring the exhibition grounds yourself afterward. Find out more
