French Car Auctions: Classic & Youngtimer Sports Cars – Reims | March 8th
A collection of French classic and youngtimer cars is set to go under the hammer this Saturday, , in Reims, France. The auction, organized by Catawiki, features a curated selection of vehicles appealing to collectors and enthusiasts.
The auction includes French classic cars, as well as “youngtimers” – vehicles generally considered to be between 20 and 30 years old, and increasingly sought after by collectors. Catawiki is highlighting curated collections by Franco Vigorito and Arjan Rietveld, suggesting a focus on quality and specific tastes within the classic car market.
While the exact number of cars being offered wasn’t specified in the provided information, Catawiki’s auction page indicates a current listing of over 100 cars available for bidding as of . The auction is scheduled to conclude on Monday, with bidding currently open.
The rising interest in youngtimers reflects a broader trend in the collector car market. Traditionally, classic car collecting focused on pre-1970s vehicles. However, a new generation of collectors, often those who grew up with these cars, are driving demand for models from the 1980s and 1990s. This shift has led to significant price appreciation for well-maintained examples of these vehicles.
The classic car market, like many luxury asset classes, has demonstrated resilience even during periods of economic uncertainty. Factors contributing to this include limited supply, increasing global wealth, and the appeal of classic cars as both a hobby and an investment. Auctions, like the one in Reims, provide a key venue for trading in these assets.
The Interclassics Maastricht event, held annually in January, provides further context to the European classic car scene. The 2025 event, which took place from to , featured over 800 classic cars and 3,500 exhibitors, demonstrating the scale of the European classic car community. The Bremen Classic Motorshow, held from to , also attracted over 650 exhibitors. These events serve as important meeting points for buyers, sellers, and enthusiasts.
The Retromobile Show in Paris, another major European event, is expected to draw over 130,000 visitors in 2025. These large-scale events highlight the continued vibrancy of the classic car market and the significant economic activity it generates.
The auction in Reims comes at a time when the broader automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the shift towards electric vehicles. While the future of internal combustion engine vehicles is uncertain, the classic car market offers a way to preserve and celebrate automotive history. The increasing value of well-maintained classic cars may also be seen as a hedge against the depreciation of newer vehicles.
For potential bidders, due diligence is crucial. Classic car values are highly dependent on condition, originality, and provenance. Expert inspection and a thorough understanding of the market are essential before making a purchase. Catawiki, as an online auction platform, provides a degree of transparency, but buyers should still exercise caution and seek independent advice if needed.
The auction also highlights the growing role of online platforms in the classic car market. Catawiki, along with other online auction sites, has made it easier for buyers and sellers from around the world to connect. This increased accessibility has broadened the market and contributed to rising prices.
Sunday, , will also see a Sunday service broadcast on YouTube, though This represents unrelated to the car auction. The broadcast is scheduled for the same day as the auction’s final bidding, potentially offering a contrasting view of leisure activities for those not participating in the automotive event.