Salon Rétromobile, held at the Paris Porte de Versailles Expo is the first major classic car show of the year in Europe, held this year (2024) for the 48th time.
Most of the major European classic car dealers were present. There were displays by car manufacturers, museums and clubs, a large section devoted to vintage spare parts, car art and also a section with cars for sale priced under 2,500 euros. In addition there was a hall full of cars waiting to be sold at the Artcurial auction later in the week. In all there were getting on for 500 separate stands, both large and small.
As could be seen from the poster, the main theme was MG, which celebrates its 100th aniversary in 2024. Of great interest to young and old was the MGB GT that had been sawn in half, to reveal all the inner workings.
Skoda had brought along three beautifully restored Skoda Superbs.
Renault had an impressive stand showing off both ancient and modern. My favourite, the 40CV racing car that we have seen in action so often at Goodwood.
Many artists had a display at Rétromobile, but the ones that caught my eye were the work of sculptor Antoine Dufilho.
Art of a different nature…
There were plenty of life-size Bugattis on show. Here are a few …
A couple of really impressive veteran cars. The Mercedes Simplex by Rothschild et Fils was expected to fetch over $10 million at Gooding & Company’s Amelia Island auction later in the year.
