Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 is set to strengthen its focus on the global classic car community by significantly expanding its classic vehicle programme. The event will feature a dedicated classic car area in Hall 11.1, offering a comprehensive mix of exhibitions, live demonstrations, expert sessions and networking opportunities for industry professionals and enthusiasts.
A key highlight is the Classic Alliance, an initiative launched by Automechanika Frankfurt in collaboration with Bosch Classic, DAT, Eucon, ROWE and FIVA. The alliance has been created as a platform for companies, associations and institutions involved in the classic vehicle ecosystem, fostering collaboration while addressing the needs of trade visitors and industry experts.
One of the major attractions at the event will be a live restoration project, where renowned restoration specialist Mike Kastrop (“Classic Mike”), along with Pauline Louwman and their team, will restore a rare 1954 Simca Figoni throughout the exhibition. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe the restoration process firsthand and gain insights into traditional restoration techniques.
The exhibition will also showcase several unique automotive exhibits, including a fully operational cutaway 1960 Volkswagen Beetle, one of only four originally built for training and demonstration purposes. As in previous editions, the event will also feature a collection of exceptional vehicles from the Nationales Automuseum.
Networking will play a central role in the programme, with daily “Happy Hour” sessions designed to encourage interaction among exhibitors, collectors, restorers and industry professionals. The international presence of the classic vehicle community will be further reinforced by the participation of FIVA, the global federation for historic vehicles, which joins the event as a strategic partner of the Classic Alliance.
Adding to the excitement, AUTO BILD KLASSIK will present the prestigious “Der Goldene Klassiker” awards on the opening evening of the trade fair. The winning vehicles will remain on display throughout the event, offering visitors an opportunity to experience some of the finest classic automobiles on showcase.
Stage programme combines expertise with car culture
The range of experiences on offer will be supplemented by a stage programme in the classic car area. This programme explores the themes of the event in greater depth and brings together key industry players. The content and themes to be explored in these talks and events include:
- Data solutions for classic cars – Eucon shows off the latest developments with their parts and vehicle databases
- Young talent and company succession plans – Best practice example from the Oldtimer Galerie Bremen
- International opportunities in the classic car scene – With FIVA, the international association for classic cars and its President Dr. Alberto Scuro and Senior Vice President Jos Theuns
- Classic car scene and club landscape in Germany – Dialogue with leading associations and initiatives
- Auction and market trends – Adolfo Orsi, Publisher of the “Classic Car Auction Yearbook” and bearer of one of the biggest names in the history of Maserati, shares his insights
- Knowledge transfer and ensuring a skilled workforce – Various approaches ranging from AI to traditional training concepts are discussed by industry figures and representatives of private business initiatives and foundations
- Passion for motorcycles – A look at the motorcycle scene, its features and its needs from the standpoint of clubs, a restoration firm, a historian and a young trainee
- Spare parts supply for the classic car sector – Solutions from the aftermarket and industry on offer from DAT, Eucon and Vogtmann
- SilverDAT CLASSIC, classic car expertise – Raphael Dammann, Head of Sales Strategy, presents the very latest developments for the experts
- Additive manufacturing – Formnext presents solutions in the field of plastic and metal technologies
The programme brings the classic car sector to life at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 and clearly positions it as a key component of the international aftermarket in future. Please check the event calendar to find the precise times and titles of the presentations, as well as who will be taking part in the discussions on stage.
