The largest Italian fair for classic cars and motorcycles was held 27-30 October in Padua, near Venice, in the north of Italy.

What better way to welcome autumn than revel in a cornucopia of classics? Many other fairs of this kind in the region take place in the first half of the year, so the exhibition in Padua is a welcome destination for those getting withdrawal symptoms. As per last year, fair organiser Mario Carlo Baccaglini offered exhibitors eleven halls with a total of 90,000 m². Of approximately 2,600 vehicles on display, about 1,600 were offered for sale. The number of exhibitors from European countries has increased again, up from 1,200 last year.

One of the highlights this year was the appearance of Alfa Romeo, claiming the largest stand. A trio of concept cars from Bertone, Pininfarina and Italdesign was the highlight. Also well worth seeing were the Alfa Romeo C6 2300 GT Castagna, the C 2900 B ‘Le Mans’ and 159 ‘Alfetta’ Formula 1 race cars by Zagato.

There was almost too much to take in – everything was on offer: spare parts, bikes, restorers, car clubs, toys, etc. The price range covered all budgets. Vehicles went from 1,000 euros to over 1m euros. In the large outdoor area, dealers displayed automotive rarities and some outstanding sports cars.

By the second day, many vehicles already boasted venduto signs. Dealer Peter Wiesner of Austria was represented this year with a bigger stand, and sold his first two vehicles shortly after the official opening. At the same location as last year was Franz Wittner with his car collection – Franz and business partner Tom Miller had a sensational Aston Martin DB 2/4 barn-find (1975) on show (below).

In short, the exhibition at Padua is clearly one of the best in Europe – one for next year’s diary. For further details, see the event's website.

Text & Photos: André Scheuermann