Top Classic Mercedes Car Shows Around the World
Highlighting Must-Visit Events for Vintage Mercedes Enthusiasts
For vintage car lovers, few things compare to the sight of rows upon rows of gleaming chrome, luxurious interiors, and the iconic three-pointed star. Whether you’re a collector, restorer, or just a fan, attending classic Mercedes car shows is a must. These events are more than exhibitions — they’re immersive experiences that connect enthusiasts with the timeless elegance and engineering excellence of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
This guide explores the top classic Mercedes car shows around the world, offering insight into what makes each event special and why you should consider adding them to your bucket list.
Why Classic Mercedes Car Shows Matter
Classic Mercedes-Benz models like the 300SL Gullwing, W113 “Pagoda,” and the W111 coupe aren’t just cars — they’re rolling art. Attending shows dedicated to these vehicles offers several unique benefits:
🔧 Meet restorers, collectors, and experts
📷 See ultra-rare models not often displayed publicly
🎤 Attend technical talks, seminars, and Q&A sessions
🛍️ Find rare parts, manuals, and accessories
🧠 Learn about model-specific history and restoration tips
Whether in California, Germany, or Japan, these events help preserve the legacy of vintage Mercedes and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts.
1. Techno-Classica Essen – Germany
Location: Messe Essen, Germany
Time of Year: April
Why Go: It’s the largest classic car show in the world.
Techno-Classica Essen is the Holy Grail of classic Mercedes car shows. With over 1,200 exhibitors and more than 200,000 visitors annually, it features a stunning array of classic Benzes from pre-war legends to ’80s icons.
Highlights:
Mercedes-Benz Classic usually has a major factory presence
Auctions of rare and historically significant models
Supplier booths for OEM and reproduction vintage Mercedes parts
Pro Tip: Go early in the week to avoid the weekend crowds.
2. Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance – USA
Location: Pebble Beach, California
Time of Year: August
Why Go: It’s the most prestigious classic car event in North America.
Held on the 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links, this is where elegance meets exclusivity. While the show features all marques, Mercedes-Benz often steals the spotlight with impeccably restored 540Ks, 300SLs, and even pre-war SSKs.
Highlights:
Invitation-only entries of the world’s finest cars
Celebrity appearances and historic Mercedes unveilings
High-end auctions and luxury brand showcases
Pro Tip: Dress for the occasion — this is a black-tie event for automobiles.
3. Mercedes-Benz Club of America’s StarFest – USA
Location: Varies (Rotating U.S. cities)
Time of Year: Typically in summer or early fall
Why Go: It’s the premier Mercedes-specific event in the U.S.
StarFest is organized by the Mercedes-Benz Club of America (MBCA) and includes track events, concours judging, tech sessions, and social events all revolving around classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Highlights:
Driving tours and time trials
Authentic concours d’elegance judging
Technical presentations by experts and club members
Pro Tip: If you’re in the U.S., this is the best way to connect with fellow enthusiasts and the MBCA community.
4. Goodwood Festival of Speed & Revival – UK
Location: West Sussex, England
Time of Year: July (Festival of Speed), September (Revival)
Why Go: Motorsport meets classic elegance.
While not exclusively a Mercedes show, Goodwood features legendary Silver Arrows and classic Benzes in high-speed demonstrations and curated exhibits. The Revival, in particular, focuses on vintage racing and period-correct styling.
Highlights:
Mercedes factory support with historic racing vehicles
Rare pre-war Grand Prix Benz on display
Themed paddocks and vintage air shows
Pro Tip: Dress vintage for the Revival — it’s encouraged and enhances the experience!
5. Classic Days at Schloss Dyck – Germany
Location: Jüchen, Germany
Time of Year: August
Why Go: A magical event set in castle gardens.
Known as Germany’s “Goodwood,” Classic Days blends elegance and nostalgia in a scenic castle setting. It draws thousands of fans of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles, from 190SL convertibles to 300SEL 6.3 sedans.
Highlights:
Informal atmosphere and lush backdrop
Car parades and picnic setups
Factory displays and club meetups
Pro Tip: Bring a folding chair and relax — this is more garden party than car show.
6. Retromobile – France
Location: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
Time of Year: February
Why Go: Paris + Mercedes = Perfection
Retromobile is a celebration of vintage cars right in the heart of Paris. Mercedes-Benz always makes a strong appearance, and it’s a great venue to spot classic Mercedes models in pristine condition — or up for auction.
Highlights:
Unique historical exhibitions from Mercedes-Benz Classic
Rare parts vendors and memorabilia
Classic Mercedes-Benz cars from French collectors and museums
Pro Tip: Book early — Paris in February is still busy and hotels fill up quickly.
7. Tokyo Classic Car Festival – Japan
Location: Meiji Jingu Gaien Park, Tokyo
Time of Year: November
Why Go: Japan’s best-kept classic car secret.
Organized by the Toyota Automobile Museum, this event includes plenty of Japanese classics — but also a strong contingent of European vehicles, including rare Mercedes-Benz sedans, coupes, and roadsters.
Highlights:
Cultural cross-section of JDM and European luxury
Meticulously maintained Mercedes models
Family-friendly park setting
Pro Tip: Respect is everything in Japan — don’t touch the cars and always ask for photos.
8. Classic Auto Madrid – Spain
Location: Madrid
Time of Year: February
Why Go: A Mediterranean flair to vintage car appreciation.
This annual show in Spain’s capital may be smaller than Essen or Retromobile, but it draws serious collectors and restorers. Expect to see classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles alongside Alfa Romeos, Jaguars, and Citroëns.
Highlights:
Spanish Mercedes-Benz collectors’ displays
Clubs with 190SLs, W123s, and Pontons
Market for original accessories and manuals
Pro Tip: Combine with a Madrid vacation — tapas and torque!
Final Thoughts
Attending classic Mercedes car shows is about more than admiring beautiful vehicles — it’s about joining a global community united by a passion for elegance, engineering, and heritage. Whether you’re looking to showcase your own ride, buy a vintage Mercedes, or just soak in the ambiance, these shows deliver unforgettable experiences.
Quick Travel Checklist:
✅ Camera (you’ll regret not bringing one)
✅ Notebook (for collecting restoration tips)
✅ Club membership (for access and networking)
✅ Business cards (network with parts vendors and restorers)
From the fairways of Pebble Beach to the castle grounds of Germany, these shows prove that the love for classic Mercedes-Benz knows no borders.
Start planning your trip today — the world’s top classic Mercedes car shows are waiting! 🧳🚘✨
