Rétromobile: Half a century of passion celebrated in grand style

More than just a trade show, Rétromobile has established itself as a crossroads blending automotive culture, heritage, and innovation. For its anniversary edition, Rétromobile's poster highlights the automobile when it transcends its mere mechanical function to become a work of art, featuring the BMW 3.0 CSL painted by Alexander Calder in 1975. In collaboration with BMW, several other Art Cars that participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans will be on display, illustrating the intersection of design and sport.

Citroën in a good position

A regular at the show since its inception, Citroën is dedicating a spectacular space to over a century of creativity and innovation. Beyond the new ELO concept car, the brand is highlighting an exceptional piece: the Traction Avant 15 Cabriolet 6-cylinder, the only prototype from Citroën, exhibited at the very first Rétromobile in 1976 and presented again for this anniversary.

This extremely rare example – one of only three authentic ones in existence – embodies the pioneering spirit of Citroën and celebrates 50 years of the Traction at the show as a symbol of technical innovation and style.

The rally and McQueen celebrated

Rétromobile 2026 also dedicates a vast retrospective to rally, retracing several decades of achievements, with iconic cars – from the Peugeot 205 T16s to Lancia Stratos – and figures like Bruno Saby or Didier Auriol evoking the golden age of the discipline on the Live stage.

The passion for speed will also be expressed through a retrospective dedicated to Steve McQueen, hero of the film " Le Mans exploring the actor's cultural influence on the automotive world, from sports cars to motorcycles, shaping his myth.

Mazda and the rotor saga

This anniversary edition also celebrates 35 years since Mazda's victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. At the heart of the Japanese manufacturer's space will be the famous Mazda 787B, winner in 1991 and the first rotary-powered car to triumph in the Le Mans classic. A mechanical legend on display for visitors. Around it, several iconic models are exhibited, such as the 1968 Cosmo Sport 110S, the 1969 Luce R130, and a 1979 RX-7, retracing the history of the brand's famous engine.

Gooding, the new resident auction house

For the first time, Gooding Christie's is acting as the official auction house, orchestrating a prestigious sale. Among the highlights are... Classic Ferrari for sale A 1960 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, a 1958 250 GT LWB California Spider, and a historic selection ofAlfa Romeo 6C, including one model that raced at Le Mans in 1929.

The automobile is first and foremost an experience.

Outside, the Retro Demo Zone will be one of the attractions to admire. Every day, historic vehicles are brought to life – from the American Stuart tank presented by the Tank Museum to the 1913 Vinot & Deguingand omnibus offered by the Teuf Teuf Club – providing visitors with a joyful immersion. As you will have gathered, the Paris Motor Show is not only celebrating its 50th anniversary, it demonstrates how the automobile, in all its diversity, remains a living link between past, present, and future, uniting passions around its exceptional machines, passions that continue to resonate.

Practical information for Rétromobile 2026

When and where: From January 28 to 1^er February 2026. Paris Expo Porte de Versailles – Halls 4 and 7

Hours : Wednesday, January 28: 10am-19pm. Thursday, January 29: 10am-20:30pm. Friday, January 30: 10am-10pm. Saturday, January 31: 10am-22:30pm. Sunday, February 20: 01am-19pm (Tuesday, January 27: Preview screening from 18pm-22pm)

Prices : Tickets available 7 days in advance: €21. Online ticket: €22. On-site ticket: €25. Group rate (10 tickets or more): €17. Children aged 12-16: €12. Children under 12: Free. People with disabilities and their companions: €17 (upon presentation of a disability card). Preview ticket: €100.

Ticketing : www.retromobile.com