Get ready to rev your engines and test your automotive knowledge, because Retromobile 2026 is here, and it’s a gearhead’s dream come true! But here’s where it gets controversial: as the world’s most celebrated classic car meet turns 50, it’s no longer just about dusty auto-jumbles and rusty relics. High-end dealers, auction houses, and manufacturers have moved in, sparking debates about whether it’s lost its grassroots charm. So, can you guess the icons hiding in plain sight at this year’s event? Let’s dive in.
Retromobile, held in the heart of Paris, has long been hailed as the ultimate gathering for classic car enthusiasts. It’s not your typical glossy, track-focused affair—its true magic lies in its staggering diversity. Need a spare part for a 1960s Renault that’s seen better days? They’ve got it. Craving a glimpse of multimillion-dollar hypercars? Those are here too. But this year, as the show celebrates its golden anniversary, it’s evolving—and not everyone is thrilled about it.
And this is the part most people miss: Retromobile isn’t just about the big names. Sure, Volkswagen showcased a stunning collection of Golf GTIs alongside a sneak peek at the electric ID Polo GTI, and Peugeot lined up its iconic 205 GTIs to nod to the new 208 GTI electric. But nestled among the manufacturer displays are the unsung heroes: ultra-specialist spares dealers. Their tables are piled high with restoration treasures—lamps, speedometers, chrome trim, and even vintage manuals. It’s a paradise for anyone looking to breathe life back into a forgotten classic.
Citroën stole the show with a lineup of its groundbreaking concept cars, including the legendary 2CV prototype. BMW, meanwhile, brought its Le Mans art cars—yes, the ones painted by icons like Andy Warhol, then raced for 24 hours in the harshest conditions. Talk about blending art and engineering!
But here’s a bold statement: the real stars of Retromobile aren’t the supercars—they’re the everyday French hatchbacks of yesteryear. Cars like the Citroën BX and Renault Fuego, once ubiquitous, are now rarer than the Ferraris of their time. Wandering through the hall dedicated to classic dealers and their sub-€30,000 gems felt like stepping into a time machine. A BX? Check. A CX? Present. Sadly, no GS, but a pair of Fuegos and a Renault 12 estate more than made up for it. It’s a guilty pleasure, but one that feels oh-so-right.
The premier-league dealer stands, with their theatrically lit McLarens, Bugattis, and Ferraris, almost felt routine in comparison. Don’t get me wrong—a McLaren F1 Longtail or a Bugatti Centodieci is always a sight to behold. But you can spot these at events like Goodwood or Salon Prive multiple times a year. What you can’t see everywhere? Ettore Bugatti’s 1927 Royale-turned-railcar. Yes, you read that right. After the Royale flopped as a car, Bugatti repurposed its massive 12.7-litre engine for a train—a revolutionary design that was faster, smoother, and cleaner than steam engines. How they got it into the exhibition hall is anyone’s guess, but it was the undisputed crowd favorite.
So, here’s the question: as Retromobile evolves, is it losing its soul, or simply growing up? Let us know in the comments. And while you’re at it, see if you can identify the cars in the final 10 photos—some are easy, others are head-scratchers. Your status as a car connoisseur awaits!
