Vintage Icons, Muscle Legends and Family Fun Await on Sunday, July 6th 2025
The unmistakable rumble of American V8s and the crisp styling of European classics will once again fill the Nasrec Expo Centre as The Classic Car Show returns for its 13th edition on Sunday, July 6th, 2025. This beloved Johannesburg motoring tradition promises a full-throttle celebration of automotive heritage, attracting petrolheads, collectors, and families alike to a day of chrome, character, and culture.
Held at the Nasrec Expo Centre, just south-west of the Johannesburg CBD, gates open to the public at 9am, with early access from 8am available exclusively for classic car entrants. Tickets are now available via Computicket, priced at R100 for adults and R40 for children under 12. Cash tickets on the day will be slightly higher at R120 and R50 respectively—another reason to book ahead.
A South African Classic of Its Own
First held in 2012, The Classic Car Show was born from organiser Paulo Calisto’s humble idea to bring like-minded enthusiasts together. A few dozen cars were expected; instead, the event drew hundreds—and it’s never looked back.
“The idea to do a classic car show back in 2012 changed my life,” says Calisto. “It’s become more than a passion project—it’s part of my identity now.”
Due to the disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic, this year marks the 13th edition of the event, rather than the 14th. But in true classic car fashion, it’s aged remarkably well. Each year, the show evolves without losing its original soul: to celebrate vehicles that shaped generations and still turn heads decades later.
A Car Mix Like No Other in SA
What makes The Classic Car Show stand apart is its uniquely South African demographic richness. The event draws from communities across Gauteng—from Jo’burg’s southern suburbs and the East Rand to the West Rand and beyond—producing an eclectic yet authentic gathering of automotive history.
On the American front, expect to see everything from patina-rich Pontiacs and Buicks of the 1950s, to heavily-customised Chevys from the iconic Tri-Five era (1955–1957), as well as chrome-laden Cadillacs, Oldsmobiles, and thunderous muscle cars from the 1970s. If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing a garage-load of Ford Mustangs, Dodge Chargers, or Mercury Cougars in one place, this is your moment.
European enthusiasts will be equally spoiled. A treasure trove of rare and beautifully-kept classics awaits—from Ford Taunuses, Opel Mantas, and DKWs, to immaculate Minis, Anglias, and iconic Volkswagens including the coveted split-window Kombis and oval-window Beetles.
For Owners and Enthusiasts Alike
Classic car owners can enter through Gate 7 from 8am, enjoying free access for the driver and one passenger. Calisto reminds participants to avoid long queues by following the western route around the CBD and making use of Gates 5 and 7, especially for older vehicles not equipped for heat or idle-heavy conditions.
“This is particularly important for drivers of classics, which were never designed for static traffic and lack modern cooling systems,” Calisto explains.
Spectator parking will be available within walking distance of Gate 5, with all public entries beginning at 9am sharp.
More Than Just a Car Show
While the cars are the stars, The Classic Car Show is geared to entertain the entire family. Visitors can look forward to:
- Drifting demonstrations to get the adrenaline pumping
- Helicopter rides offering a bird’s eye view of the action
- Jumping castles and family activities for the little ones
- Top-tier food and beverage vendors, showcasing the best eats in Jo’burg South
A Safe Space for Automotive Treasures
Security has been a key focus this year, with measures in place to protect the rare and often irreplaceable cars on display. “We’ve stepped up our efforts to ensure that unwanted touching of paintwork and chrome doesn’t happen,” Calisto says. “Respect for the vehicles—and their owners—is central to the show’s ethos.”
Now with 14 classic cars in his personal collection, including Chevy pickups and VW Kombis, Calisto is proof that passion grows when it’s shared. And that’s exactly what The Classic Car Show offers—a place where past meets present, and enthusiasts, families, and dreamers converge to admire the beauty of timeless engineering.
Event Snapshot
Venue: Nasrec Expo Centre, Johannesburg
Date: Sunday, 6 July 2025
Public Opening Time: 9am
Classic Car Entry: Gate 7 from 8am (driver + 1 passenger enter free)
Tickets:
– R100 adults / R40 kids under 12 (Computicket)
– R120 adults / R50 kids under 12 (at the gate, cash)
