Artcurial Motorcars: The Official Rétromobile 2025 Auction Unveiled!

Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix Usine from 1930, Ferrari 275 GTB from 1966, and Fiat 124 Abarth Rally GR. IV from 1964… these are just a few legendary names that have left their mark on the history of the automobile, one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century. These icons will be showcased at the Artcurial Motorcars stand, located in the heart of Pavilion 3. To help you wait, the Retromobile team invites you to discover their top 5 favorite vehicles.

Our Favorites

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" - 1955

A symbol of elegance and performance, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" made automotive history upon its launch in 1954. Admired by icons such as Pablo Picasso, the Shah of Iran, and Clark Gable, it stands out with its innovative design and unmatched performance for its time. Its tubular chassis, iconic gullwing doors, and six-cylinder engine with direct injection made it a true technological masterpiece. With a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph) and an acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (0-60 mph) in under 9 seconds, it redefined the standards for sports cars.

The model presented by Artcurial Motorcars left the factory on August 9, 1955, bound for the United States. After belonging to four American collectors, it arrived in England in the 1980s, where it was restored with an elegant black exterior and red leather interior. Still equipped with its original engine and custom-fitted luggage, this stunning example has been meticulously maintained by specialists, ensuring its exceptional condition. A rare gem for enthusiasts of extraordinary vehicles.

Fiat 131 Abarth Rally - 1976

An icon of 1970s rally racing, the Fiat 131 Abarth Rally is a legend born for competition. Homologated for Group 4 to replace the 124 Abarth, Fiat had to produce 400 road-going versions—a feat that combined performance and accessibility. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1976, this "civilized" version featured a 2.0-liter, 16-valve four-cylinder engine delivering 140 hp, housed in a lightweight chassis of under one ton. This technical marvel was enhanced with plastic body panels, a reengineered suspension, and a sporty interior. The competition version, even more refined, dominated as a powerhouse, winning three world championships (1977, 1978, 1980) and etching its name in rally history with legendary victories like those of Darniche and Mahé at the Tour de Corse.

The model presented has recently been prepared in a Group 4 configuration to compete in historic rally events. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to match the standards of the factory models of the era: a faithfully reproduced dashboard, Abarth-stamped gearbox and differential, and a stunning sponsor-free livery reminiscent of the 1980 season. The engine retains its carburetors, ensuring robustness and ease of maintenance. Accompanied by a file of invoices and pending its FIA certification, this 131 Abarth Rally is a unique opportunity for historic rally enthusiasts. Powerful, authentic, and race-ready, it perfectly embodies Fiat's motorsport legacy.

Packard Super Eight "Yacht" by Chapron

A true icon of originality, this 1937/1948 Packard Super Eight “Yacht” is a one-of-a-kind creation by renowned French coachbuilder Henri Chapron. Commissioned by Louis Réard, the inventor of the bikini, this extraordinary vehicle was designed as a promotional car, combining the elegance of seaside resorts with the freedom of the automobile. Its nautical-inspired design features remarkable details: a sleek bow, portholes, mooring cleats, and even a mast in the center of the rear cockpit. A true "road yacht," it was christened with champagne in 1948 and amazed crowds at numerous events, including the Tour de France cycling race and various concours d’élégance.

Remaining in the hands of its creator until 1976 and then part of a private collection, this extraordinary automobile has only been seen on rare occasions, notably at the Rétromobile show in 1987. In an exceptional state of preservation, it retains its original components and has had only three owners in 75 years. A legendary vehicle and a testament to an era of extravagance, this Packard represents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts of historical objects at the crossroads of luxury, design, and advertising.

Gurgel Xavante X12 (1978)

A true automotive UFO, the Gurgel Xavante X12 is an exotic rarity that combines ruggedness, originality, and ingenuity. Designed by Joao Conrado do Amaral Gurgel, a Brazilian engineer who trained at General Motors, this all-terrain vehicle is built on a Volkswagen mechanical base with a fiberglass body. Innovative for its time, it features a patented tubular chassis and the "Seletraction" system, a clever solution that redistributes power in case of traction loss, similar to a limited-slip differential. First showcased in Europe at the Geneva Motor Show in 1979, the Xavante is a symbol of Brazilian versatility.

Imported in 2023, this 1978 model has undergone a full overhaul: its 1600cc engine, brakes, steering, electrical system, and paintwork are all in excellent condition, as confirmed by a recent appraisal. Equipped with practical and original details (manual winch, sand shovel, jerrycan holder), it’s ready for any adventure. Its modular design—with removable doors and windows, adaptable soft top, and foldable windshield—makes it the perfect companion for vacations. Extremely rare in Europe and boasting a bold style, this Xavante is an invitation to explore off the beaten path.

Honda Goldwing 1000 GL - 1976

Launched in 1975 at the Paris Motor Show, the Honda Goldwing 1000 GL marked a turning point in the world of large touring motorcycles. Designed to compete with BMW and Moto Guzzi, it quickly established itself as a luxury machine for long-distance travel, combining comfort and technology. Featuring a flat 4-cylinder engine, inspired by automotive engineering, delivering 84 hp, and a shaft-driven transmission, the Goldwing revolutionized the touring segment. Its under-seat fuel tank lowered the center of gravity, providing exceptional handling for a motorcycle of its size.

The model presented here is a true collector’s item, with only 9,332 km on the clock. This is the very first model of this legendary motorcycle, preserved in perfect condition and finished in its original Candy Antares Red Special R6CS paint. Every component is original, including the paint and exhaust, which have not been repainted. The only replacement was the timing belt, changed about ten years ago, though it will need replacing again. The bike comes with its manuals, tool kit, and a full set of three original keys. A rare example, ideal for fans of the iconic Japanese brand or exceptional collectors, this motorcycle is perfect for those seeking an emblematic model in impeccable condition.