AUTO E MOTO D’EPOCA SIGNALS A RECOVERY IN THE CLASSIC CAR SECTOR
October 28, 2024
From October 24 to 27, the 41st edition of AUTO e MOTO d’EPOCA took place, for the second consecutive year at BolognaFiere. Attendance increased over 2023 numbers across all four days, especially on opening day and Saturday.
The event confirmed its ability to attract enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the world, despite an unpredictable series of exceptional weather challenges. Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna region showed remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
The fair saw a significant recovery in the classic car and motorcycle market, “an upward trend” according to show organizer Mario Carlo Baccaglini. “Unlike other European industry fairs, we can truly be satisfied with the results achieved... All sectors of the market have grown, and all price ranges are represented. Particular cars, rarities, well-preserved original conditions, and attractively priced offerings are in high demand; above all, cars with a story to tell prevail.”
According to Gianpiero Calzolari, President of BolognaFiere, AUTO e MOTO d’EPOCA “came to Bologna from Padova to grow and increase its international presence, fully meeting this goal... in the heart of the Motor Valley.”
Dealers expressed satisfaction, noting growth in sales across various sectors. Attention remains steady for classic Porsches, as well as Italian and European cars from the 1950s. A new generation of collectors is increasingly interested in youngtimers, often seeking special models and limited editions.
The ASI Village hosted the ASI Historical Motorism Award, which was presented to Arturo Merzario.
Finally, the ACI Storico stand was a resounding success, with over 25 notable presentations on the ACI stage for the many enthusiasts in attendance. Among these was the press conference for the presentation of AUTOMOTIVE MASTERPIECES’ editorial project on the Targa Florio, part of the CHASSIS books series: the volume TARGA FLORIO’S CHASSIS, with author Sandro Binelli and Marco Gandino, moderated by automotive journalist Marco di Pietro.
At AUTO e MOTO d’EPOCA 2024, at least ten cars included among the AUTOMOTIVE MASTERPIECES were present, as always proudly showcasing their significant historical and collectible value.
Cars
1952 Ermini Sport Internazionale
- Coachbuilder: Carrozzeria Motto
- Chassis n°: 055352
- Engine n°: 004
This car raced 1952 Mille Miglia and Targa Florio (1st in class) and 1953 Mille Miglia and Coppa d’Oro delle Dolomiti, among other important races in early 50s.
Edoardo Ernesto Tenconi (IT)
1956 Bandini 750 Sport Internazionale
- Coachbuilder: Bandini
- Chassis n°: 159
- Engine n°: 129278
This Bandini, also called simply "Saponetta" (bar of soap) for its shape, ran twice the Mille Miglia in 1956 and 1957. Had a long racing and documented history.
Private collection
1961 O.S.C.A. 1600 GT
- Coachbuilder: Carrozzeria Touring
- Chassis n°: 0014
- Engine n°: 0014
Chassis number 0014 is one of the two prototype OSCA 1600 GT bodied by Touring Superleggera and the car exhibited at the Salone dell'Automobile in Turin in 1961.
Corrado Lopresto (IT)
1953 Lancia Aurelia B20
- Coachbuilder: Pinin Farina
- Chassis n°: *B20-2883*
- Engine n°: B20*3168*
Example of the 3rd series. Nobleman Giovanni Pignatelli drove it in 1954 at the Mille Miglia, Coppa della Toscana, 6 Ore Notturna of Bari, Coppa della Perugina.
Private collection
1969 Fiat 124 Sport Spider
- Coachbuilder: Pininfarina
- Chassis n°: 124BS*0023977*
- Engine n°: 124AC3.000 0242438
First of four 124s used for Fiat's semi-official rally debut. Prepared by Conrero. 1st in class - 19th overall at the 1970 Monte Carlo and great racing season.
Private collection