Swiss Classic World: Unveiling the Secret to Its Unmatched Appeal

Although the Swiss Classic World in Lucerne took place a few months ago, its impression still lingers. This fair, centered around vintage and youngtimer cars, offers a full load of classic car power at multiple locations. However, car enthusiasts will have to be patient, as the next event will not take place until May 20, 2025. To help you wait, streetwheelz1 has prepared a recap of the highlights for you.

The Swiss Classic World in Lucerne is huge. And very diverse. What’s on offer for the keen visitor is automotive feeling at its finest. Visiting the four halls will take some time if you really want to immerse yourself in the wealth of car models. A whole day should definitely be planned. After all, there’s plenty to do if you want to see all the highlights. Streetwheelz1 walked several kilometers that day as well.

Expensive collector models already outside on the forecourt

Even on the parking lot in front of the exhibition hall, there were about 50 vintage cars on display. For instance, there was a colorful lineup of various Porsche models, including the Porsche Boxster (likely 981), Porsche 911 F-model, Porsche 993, Porsche 996, and Porsche Cayman. Particularly eye-catching was a pink Porsche 964 Carrera RS (circa 1991-1994), a lightweight racing version that can reach a value of up to 500,000 CHF among collectors. Also notable was a yellow Porsche 911 F-model (likely from the 1970s). These early F-models are extremely rare and highly sought after by collectors, fetching up to 400,000 CHF.

Some other spotted models: Renault Caravelle, Volvo Amazon, Renault 4CV, Ferrari 348 Spyder, Morgan Plus-4, Plymouth Barracuda, and Jaguar E-Type. At some point, an HRG Tigress drove across the forecourt, of which only four were made worldwide. Whether this particular model was an original or a replica is unknown, but if you know more, feel free to share your insights in the comments.

Visiting the four halls

If the parking lot was the appetizer, the visit to the four exhibition halls was undoubtedly the lavish main course. Around 200 exhibitors showcased their cars, including classic car valuation services, car dealers, manufacturers of car care products, and, of course, car dealers like Niki Hasler, who exhibited a Ferrari F40 at the event. At another stand, a BMW E24 (most likely a BMW 635CSi) was shown, which had been discovered after 10 years in a garage and now looked brand new.

Of course, you could see the usual suspects from different eras at the fair, including Porsche, Lancia, Jaguar, Ford, Maserati, Fiat (e.g., 1500). Particularly exclusive models were also on display, such as an Alfa Romeo 6C from the 1940s, which can fetch seven-figure sums depending on its condition. Next to it was a Pontiac GTO. Or a Sbarro, which immediately caught the eye with its gullwing doors. In another hall, a bright yellow Saker GT stood out. These accents are what make the menu particularly flavorful. Another true legend was also present: the Lotus 99T/6, which was driven by Ayrton Senna in 1987. Cars of such priceless value are not seen every day.

Certain decorative elements were also worth mentioning. In the passageway between the halls stood a small bar with a very special vehicle: a Lamborghini tractor. When you see an Aventador, Urus, or Countach nowadays while car spotting, it’s hard to imagine that it all started with a tractor. Yet suddenly, you stand before such a machine, and an agricultural vehicle becomes something magical.

What makes this fair so special

In museums and car shows, the vehicles are placed on pedestals, so to speak, untouchable. Sure, you can photograph them, but they remain exhibits. But the Swiss Classic World goes a step further. Many cars are for sale. Not for free, of course, but they do have price tags. Some will cost you. An Allard K1 (1946) was available for 99,000 CHF, a Ghia 1967 (only 57 units built) for 285,000 CHF. A turquoise Monteverdi High Speed 375 L (1968), a one-off with Frua bodywork, was on offer for 550,000 CHF (Geneva Salon prototype). Another 100,000 CHF would get you a Ferrari 330 GTC (1968).

However, for some models, it might have been a tempting consideration for the average earner. The median monthly salary in 2022 was 6,788 CHF. For roughly this amount, you could have bought one or the other model at the fair.

Some particularly beautiful models were also located in the outside tent with the auction vehicles, including a Ford Mustang Fastback, Maserati 3500 GT, and even a BORGWARD Isabella. A particularly striking example was a red Ferrari 512 BB, which in good condition can cost well over 300,000 CHF. The car was definitely one of the highlights. The thought, “What if…?” surely had its appeal for some visitors.

Grand finale: The parade of rally participants

A fitting end to the visit was watching the arriving SCW rally cars. Anyone who appreciated engine sounds and wanted to see a few special models all at once was treated to a great display with this parade.

So, it’s definitely time for May 2025 to arrive soon.

About the event organizer

Since 2014, the SWISS CLASSIC WORLD in Lucerne has been the leading vintage car fair in Switzerland, positioning itself as a central platform for the entire classic car scene. It offers professionals and enthusiasts alike the opportunity to network and experience classic cars in all their facets in a modern and attractive environment. The fair focuses on quality rather than quantity and complements existing events without competing with them. The program is revised and developed annually to meet the needs of the scene. The next SWISS CLASSIC WORLD will take place from May 30 to June 1, 2025.

Location / Address

Messe Luzern
Messegelände Allmend
Horwerstrasse 87
CH – 6005 Lucerne

Future SWISS CLASSIC WORLD dates

• 30.05. – 01.06.2025
• 29.05. – 31.05.2026
• 28.05. – 30.05.2027
• 26.05. – 28.05.2028

More information at: https://www.swissclassicworld.ch