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Once a showcase for the latest in high-performance vehicles, Top Marques Monaco has embraced the allure of the past with its growing Classic Cars section.
Since its inception in 2004, Top Marques Monaco has carved out a reputation as one of the world’s premier luxury supercar events, consistently showcasing cutting-edge technology, high-performance vehicles, and the most sophisticated designs from the automotive world. But in recent years, Top Marques has expanded its horizons, bringing a breath of fresh air and new energy to the luxury automobile world with the introduction of a Classic Cars department.
A New Era for Classic Cars at Top Marques
After a successful debut in 2019 under the management of Monaco Check-In, the idea of a dedicated Classic Cars section took root. And in 2022, this concept became a reality. For the first time, a new 3,000m² area was added to the event, specifically for the display and sale of classic cars. This section quickly became a popular attraction where nostalgia and luxury met, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of automotive history.
What was once a show entirely focused on the future of high-performance vehicles, now gracefully embraces the allure of the past. This new venture created a warm ambiance that felt different from the usual high-octane thrill of supercars. It was no longer just about futuristic technology and speed—it became about timeless beauty, history, and a collective passion for cars that transcend generations.
The Passion Behind Classic Cars
At the heart of the Classic Cars department is a celebration of cars that have shaped the automobile world over decades. For many, these vehicles are more than just machines—they are a symbol of craftsmanship, design, and history. Visitors are not just on the lookout for their next investment, but to meet fellow enthusiasts who share their love for iconic vehicles. The classic car world has long had a devoted fanbase, but now, thanks to Top Marques, it has also found a more prominent stage.
One of the standout examples in the 2022 edition was the legendary James Bond DB5, complete with all its gadgets, listed for sale for more than €3 million. The vehicle, famous for its appearances in the 007 films, became a showstopper, attracting both collectors and fans of the iconic British spy. Such extraordinary pieces are not just valuable in terms of their price tag but are an essential part of the cultural fabric of automotive history.
As Thierry Boutsen, a key partner of the Classic Cars section, remarked, it was important to bring these timeless automobiles into the spotlight for a new generation. Classic cars, with their nostalgia and romance, appeal to car lovers young and old, and Top Marques Monaco was the perfect setting for these cherished vehicles to meet their admirers.
Thierry Boutsen: A Lifelong Passion for Classic Cars
For Thierry Boutsen, cars have been in his blood since birth. Declaring his ambition to be a racing driver at age three, his life revolved around motorsport. After a successful Formula 1 career, Thierry returned to the automotive world with his Boutsen Classic Cars business. In 2022, he became a key partner in launching the Classic Cars section at Top Marques Monaco, marking a new chapter for the event.
Growing up in Brussels, Thierry was drawn to iconic models like the Porsche 911S, Ferrari Dino, and Shelby cars, sparking his passion for classic vehicles. In 2019, a partnership with a Japanese collector allowed him to dive deeper into the market. “Classic cars, especially those before the 1990s, are easy to handle, repair, and have a unique, human touch. They’re crafted with soul, not designed by computers,” Thierry explains.
He contrasts this with today’s cars, which, while technologically advanced, lack the emotional connection of their predecessors. “Cars today are precision-engineered by computers, making them almost too perfect, with very little involvement from designers. Classic cars are about emotion, about feeling the road, hearing the engine roar, and driving something with character.”
In 2018, Thierry opened Boutsen Classic Cars (BCC), and in 2022, alongside his good friend Salim Zeghdar, Thierry took on an exciting new venture—reviving Top Marques Monaco with a focus on classic cars. “The idea came up during one of our discussions about old cars and motorbikes,” Thierry explains. “We wanted to bring classic cars into Top Marques and create a unique space for them.”
“The first year was special because it was something new. Everyone who came had big eyes—they weren’t expecting to see such rare machines,” Thierry recalls. Over the following years, the Classic Cars section grew, attracting more exhibitors and buyers. “It’s all about emotion. People are drawn to the history, the design, and the stories behind these cars. They give you feelings that modern cars just can’t replicate.”
Last year, the success of the Classic Cars section soared. While it’s difficult to quantify exactly how many sales were made, Thierry proudly notes, “We sold a very special scooter at the cocktail evening and another car—both big successes.” But beyond the sales, the event is about bringing together enthusiasts, collectors, and friends who share a deep love for cars. “It’s a networking event, but mainly a gathering of passionate people who truly love cars. The combination of supercars, classic cars, and motorbikes creates a special atmosphere that attracts so many.”
Growth and Evolution of the Classic Car Department
Since its introduction, the Classic Cars section has grown exponentially, reflecting the increasing demand for vintage cars and the enthusiasm surrounding them. In 2024, the event expanded further with over 70 premium vintage vehicles, showcasing models spanning from the 1950s to the 2000s. Among the featured vehicles were rare and sought-after models like the Ferrari Enzo, Porsche Carrera GT, McLaren P1, Lamborghini Miura, and even a 1966 Porsche 906. The presence of these masterpieces from car history has attracted a diverse range of visitors, from seasoned collectors to those simply drawn to the sheer elegance of these cars.
In addition to the Classic Car exhibitors, a number of well-known names from the vintage car world have been part of this growth, including Boutsen Classic Cars, DPM Motors, and RM Autosport. These specialists bring a curated selection of automobiles, and it is not uncommon for a rare vehicle to find its new owner on the spot.
The Future of Classic Cars at Top Marques
As we look to the future, the popularity of classic cars shows no signs of slowing down. The allure of vintage automobiles continues to grow as more people appreciate the craftsmanship, engineering, and design that went into these vehicles. While the future of the automobile industry will undoubtedly continue to focus on electric and autonomous vehicles, classic cars represent a different kind of luxury—a luxury that is deeply rooted in history and craftsmanship.
Top Marques Monaco is poised to remain a central hub for the classic car community, with plans to expand even further in the coming years. The event’s organizers recognize that classic cars are more than just a market—they are a celebration of automotive culture, a bond between generations, and a testament to the timeless nature of these vehicles.
As Top Marques grows, there’s no doubt that the classic car section will continue to shine as a beloved cornerstone of the event, cherished by both the seasoned car aficionados and newcomers discovering the magic of vintage automobiles for the first time.
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