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Review Essen Techno Classica 2025

Press release
The recent Techno Classica Essen was nothing short of spectacular, and for Vintage & Prestige (V&P) and Historic Competition Services (H.C.S.), it was a resounding success. Their joint display of 18 exceptional pre-war automobiles earned them an impressive five trophies.
 
Among the award-winning highlights:
 
  • 1903 Peugeot Bébé — Presented in untouched original condition, this charming early automobile is fully prepared for the London to Brighton Run
  • 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Edwina — A grand cabriolet with a parallel bonnet, oozing Edwardian elegance
  • 1922 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Alpine Eagle — The Carlton factory record car, celebrated as the fastest Silver Ghost in the world
  • 1930 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 Special — A beautiful and potent example from Alfa’s golden era
  • 1929 Maserati 26M Grand Prix racer — A true piece of motor sport history
 
The centrepiece of their display was in Hall 5, where 18 top-tier historic cars were showcased. In addition, the duo contributed to the grandeur of the event’s “SIHA Castle,” decorating it with eight more handsome vehicles. Notable among these were a Bugatti Type 49, an original Riley Sprite T.T. racer, and a remarkably rare and elegant Bentley 4½-Litre drophead coupé by Gill.
 
Sales remained strong throughout the event, and the atmosphere was as vibrant as ever. At times, things turned delightfully unpredictable—especially when enthusiastic clients insisted on impromptu, and occasionally hilarious, test drives on the fairgrounds after hours.
 
This year’s Techno Classica was a heartfelt farewell. It marked the final event organised by the Franssen family after an exceptional 32-year legacy of curating Europe’s premier classic car show.
 
 
Both Vintage & Prestige of Northampton and Historic Competition Services of Antwerp now look ahead to the future. They're eager to return for the next  Techno Classica—wherever it may take place in 2026.
 
Words and photos by Michael Kliebenstein
 
Published:
Monday April 14th, 2025

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