March 21–25 saw the 24th iteration of the world’s largest gathering of classic car enthusiasts and vendors at Essen’s Messe exhibition center. With over 1,200 exhibitors from 30 countries and a total attendance of 181,400 visitors, Techno-Classica retains its position as one of, if not the, world’s largest classic car gathering.
“We have clearly emphasized our claim to be the world’s leading fair for the classic vehicle sector,” said Anton L. Franssen, Managing Director of the organizer S.I.H.A. According to Franssen, Techno-Classica has grown, especially internationally, “The proportion of foreign guests has risen once more. Not only from Europe but also from the USA, Australia, Japan and South America. We are discerning the still subdued but increasing enthusiasm for classic automobiles in countries like Russia and China, as well.”
With over 220 clubs and 20 automobile manufacturers staging elaborate displays, there was plenty to do and see at Essen this year. Of particular interest was a display of over 21 Pegasos, one of the largest collections of the Spanish marque ever assembled.
Next year’s Techno-Classica will be marked by its 25th “silver” anniversary and will take place at Messe Essen from April 10 (Preview, Press and Trade Visitor Day) to April 14, 2013. S.I.H.A. boss Franssen promises, “Even now, exhibitors and visitors can already look forward to absolutely special, exclusive automobile anniversary surprises.”
