The Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (‘FIVA’) will take part in the upcoming edition of Retro Classics Essen, one of Europe’s most important trade fairs dedicated to historic automobility.
The event will take place in Essen, Germany, from April 8 to 12, bringing together collectors, retailers, clubs, institutions and enthusiasts from across the historic vehicle world.
FIVA will be present together with ADAC Klassik, its German national member (National Authority of FIVA - ‘ANF’) which will host a booth of 200 m², specifically designed to showcase the importance of historic vehicle preservation and the background behind the vehicles that shaped automotive history. This space will also host the Allgemeiner Schnauferl‑Club (ASC) which celebrated last year its 125th anniversary and is a founding member of FIVA. Their presence on the 60th Anniversary of FIVA brings special significance.
The vehicles on display at the stand have been carefully selected and will feature two passenger cars, a truck and a motorcycle. The two cars will be a 1903 Leon Buat, which participated multiple times in the ‘London to Brighton Veteran Car Run’ and a 1936 Lagonda, symbolically representing a vehicle that was already 30 years old when FIVA was founded in 1966, highlighting how perceptions of heritage evolve over time.
There will also be a 1913 Pierce Arrow Truck a commercial truck that previously participated in the FIVA World Event Utilitarian 2025 in Netphen, emphasizing the importance of preserving not only automobiles, but also commercial vehicles that played a vital role in economic and social development and history.
Last but not least, a historic motorcycle will also be presented by the Veteranen-Fahrzeug-Verband (VFV): a 1914 Wanderer “Heeresmodell”, which received the prestigious FIVA Best Preservation Award several years ago. The VFV, a well known and respected German club, organises every year a historic rally in Ibbenbüren, with bikes ranging between between the late 19th century and the Second World War. The Wanderer has been a pearl in such event, and now the visitors in Essen will be able to admire it as well. It serves as an excellent example of authentic conservation rather than restoration — a core principle of FIVA’s philosophy.
Together, these vehicles create a narrative about authenticity, preservation and the cultural value of historic vehicles, illustrating different aspects of automotive heritage and FIVA’s mission to safeguard it.
At the main booth of ADAC, presentations and talks will take place every day during the fair, covering a vast range of topics related to historic mobility. On Saturday, the main focus will be on FIVA and its mission and will feature the attendance of policymakers and stakeholders of our historic automotive movement. A special gathering is planned for Saturday afternoon, when FIVA and its partners will celebrate the 60th anniversary of FIVA. Several members of the FIVA community will be invited to join the stage for this informal, yet truly meaningful celebration.
If you happen to visit Retro Classics Essen, stop by the booth in Hall 7, C14 —especially on Saturday. If possible, let us know in advance with an email to [email protected] or a WhatsApp message at +39/391 7259962
With remarkable vehicles, engaging discussions and a shared passion, the ADAC and FIVA booth at Retro Classics Essen 2026 promises to be a highlight of the season. We are all looking forward to welcoming you there.