It’s almost a cliché to mention the challenges of owning a modified car in Germany these days.

TÜV inspections, strict police enforcement, and a general disdain for low-slung vehicles often limit most German enthusiasts’ mods to little more than OEM-spec aftermarket wheels and a set of lowering springs. Maybe some window tints or, if you’re feeling particularly brave, a prohibitively expensive off-the-shelf exhaust back box.

In contrast, the Tuning Experience hall at the 2024 Essen Motor Show (EMS) stands as a rebellious beacon for those who risk it all to stand out and express themselves, regardless of the fines, bad reputation, and the ever-present risk of impoundment – or worse, crushing.

Unlike the other halls at Messe Essen come EMS time, filled with OEM manufacturers and aftermarket brands showcasing their products, the Tuning Experience is a pure show-and-shine. This year, German models dominated the hall, a testament to the country’s deep-rooted pride in its automotive industry.

From Mk1s to Mk8s, Volkswagens were very well represented. I was particularly taken by a Mk1 Caddy with an aluminium canoe strapped to its roof. Take that, BMX riders and surfers!

There was also a surprisingly large amount of JDM cars. These included an S15 Nissan Silvia and a rare navy blue Toyota Century – two unexpected but welcome surprises.

Italy and France were represented with two of their most legendary hatchbacks: Peugeot’s 205 and Lancia’s Delta Integrale.

I couldn’t settle on a single favourite, but two cars stood out above the rest.

First, this 1975 BMW E21 was an astonishing build. Immaculately finished with a fantastic slot-in carbon fibre ‘cut bonnet’ solution, its classic looks are underpinned by modern build techniques. But it was the E30 M3 S14 engine that was the star of the build. Rare as hen’s teeth, I found myself gazing into the engine bay for longer than I’d care to admit…

But this early R107 stole my heart like no other car could at EMS this year. It wasn’t the fastest car at the show by any means, but I can’t resist an R107 or any other early Mercedes-Benz SL, for that matter. It also gave me a chance to test my three-pointed star nerdiness out, deducing that this was an early car in Milan Brown produced somewhere between 1975 and ’79.

With air suspension, BBS RS wheels, an AMG front valance, and a gorgeous leather interior, this was the car I would have driven away in, no question.

While Essen Motor Show’s Tuning Experience may not have the same vibe as it used to in the basement-level show hall, it’s great to see it still thriving – and with it, the enduring strength of German car culture.

Mario Christou
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