The 28th Annual Retromobile classic car exposition took place in Paris again this year from February 7-16. This was a ten-day extravagan- za much appreciated by experienced classics owners, lovers and potential buyers alike. While it is a relatively small show in comparison to Essen, Retromobile has developed a very special atmosphere as well as a very large following, which makes it one of the most enjoyable events of its kind on the calendar.
The theme for 2003 was World Record Breakers with a substantial portion of the Montagu Motor Museum having been transported to Paris to highlight man’s quest for ultimate speed. In addition to the attention drawn by such historic Land Speed Record cars as Campbell’s Bluebird, one of the unmitigated stars of the show was the presence of an unrestored Ferrari TR 250, which may very well be one of the only remaining examples in original, unrestored condition. Elsewhere throughout Paris’ Palace d’Exposition could be found elegant pre-war Alfas, Delahayes and Delages dotted about the hall amongst the huge and esoteric collections of automobilia – hundreds of rare peddle cars, enough parts to build an entire Horch, collections of old Le Mans photos…a real treasure trove.
Submitted by Ed McDonough
