
Retromobile 2025: the show.
February 12, 2025
From February 5 to 9, 2025, the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles in Paris hosted the 49th edition of Rétromobile, one of the most prestigious events for classic car enthusiasts. With an exhibition space of 73,000 m², the event welcomed nearly 620 exhibitors and over 1,000 vehicles, offering visitors a fascinating journey through automotive history.
One of the central themes of this edition was the 70th anniversary of the Citroën DS, an icon of the automotive world. The exhibition "La DS, une œuvre d'art depuis 70 ans" showcased a selection of twelve emblematic models, including the 1972 DS 21 Prestige, used by Michel Debré, Prime Minister under General de Gaulle, and the 1961 DS19 Cabrio Factory. The display highlighted the innovation and avant-garde design that made the DS a symbol of elegance and technology.
Another major attraction was the exhibition dedicated to the history of French Formula 1, from the 1960s to today. Sixteen single-seaters that made history in motorsport were on display, including the 1969 Matra MS 80, the 1979 Renault RS 10—the first turbocharged F1 car to win a Grand Prix—and the 1997 Williams Renault FW19, with which Jacques Villeneuve won the world championship. During the event, drivers and key figures in the automotive world, such as Jean Alesi and René Arnoux, shared their experiences with the public.
Among the curiosities, a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 600 that once belonged to Maria Callas stood out, recently restored by the Classic Center in Stuttgart. The vehicle, featuring a rare two-tone paint scheme, was displayed for the first time after restoration, attracting great interest among visitors.
For the second consecutive year, Rétromobile dedicated a significant space to two-wheelers, with a special exhibition centered on Éric de Seynes, CEO of Yamaha Motor Europe and a passionate motorcyclist. The display featured over 25 motorcycles from his personal collection, offering insight into his career and the evolution of motorcycling.
There was also space for the "future": Renault showcased historic models such as the Renault 5 TL and Renault 4, alongside their modern electric counterparts, the Renault 5 and Renault 4 “E-Tech Electric.” Additionally, Renault unveiled the Renault Filante Record 2025, an aerodynamically designed electric single-seater inspired by record-breaking cars of the 1920s. DS Automobiles presented the world premiere of its new flagship model, the DS N°8, which, with its elegant design and refined finishes, reaffirms its role as a symbol of the French art of travel.
As always, cars from Automotive Masterpieces were present. Besides those up for auction during the event, three exceptional cars were on display. One was the 1949 Ferrari 166 Panoramica Sanction II, a tribute to the "Panoramica" concept, built today by Zagato on a chassis originally from a Ferrari 166 Vignale coupé. This one-off was accompanied by two former Mille Miglia racers, both of which participated in the 1951 and 1952 editions: the 1948 Fiat 1100 S (sn 1100S*500135*) and the 1948 Fiat 1100 S Stanguellini (sn 1100S*500053*), the latter of which also ranked 9th overall at the L'Aosta-Gran San Bernardo.
Rétromobile 2025 reaffirmed itself as an unmissable event for classic car enthusiasts, while presenting innovations that will shape the future of the automobile.
Cars
1948 Fiat 1100 S
- Coachbuilder: Carrozzerie Speciali Fiat
- Chassis n°: 1100S*500135*
- Engine n°: 1100S*500116*
A former Mille Miglia racer. It has participated in 1951 and 1952 editions. Completely restored, it was featured in a Ruoteclassiche magazine’s article in 2004.
Private collection
1949 Ferrari 166 Panoramica Sanction II
- Coachbuilder: Zagato
- Chassis n°: 0061S
- Engine n°: TBD
A philological reconstruction. A tribute to Panoramica bodywork concept built nowadays by Zagato on a rolling chassis originally of a Ferrari 166 Vignale coupé.
Private collection
1948 Fiat 1100 S Stanguellini
- Coachbuilder: Carrozzeria Motto
- Chassis n°: 1100S*500053*
- Engine n°: 1100S*500069*
Stanguellini powered. Born with Fiat Carrozzerie Speciale body, it evolved in a Ferrari-like Motto shape. It has participated in 1951 and 1952 Mille Miglia. It ranked 9thplace overall at the L’Aosta- Gran San Bernardo.
Private collection