Hundreds of vintage motorbikes, cars, and rare models gathered at the Vietnam Scooter Fest 2026 in TP HCM on 8-9/8. This event caters to vintage vehicle enthusiasts and those who appreciate nostalgic values.

A similar gathering for vintage vehicle enthusiasts and collectors last took place in 2019. Due to the pandemic and other reasons, the event is making its return this year.

Vespa, the Italian brand, accounted for the largest number of vintage vehicles on display. TP HCM also boasts the country's largest community of vintage Vespa enthusiasts.

Vespa scooters from various versions were present, with some dating back to the 1940s and 1950s. Some owners meticulously preserve their vehicles in original condition, sourcing genuine parts or from international collectors. Others customize their scooters, altering styling, colors, and equipment to suit their preferences.

At the event, organizers dedicated an area to showcase Vespa models from different production eras, aiming to identify the most beautifully preserved and original vehicles.

"I don't own a vintage Vespa, but I enjoy learning about and admiring these models because their design is timeless and distinctively Italian," said Bao Viet, a 35-year-old architect working in TP HCM, as he walked around the display.

Pictured is a Vespa 100 Sport, produced by the Italian manufacturer in the 1970s and 1980s primarily for the American and European markets. The exterior paint was refreshed by the owner, while the overall styling and details remain original.

Two scooters, a Lambretta (left) and a Vespa, feature custom yellow finishes in distinct classic and modern styles. At the event, an "Old Saigon" space was recreated with various images for visitors to explore and capture moments.

One owner adorned their scooter's bodywork with the song title "Vespa va Lambretta, tinh yeu thang hoa".

Beyond Vespa and Lambretta, the public also had the opportunity to admire many other rare vintage vehicles. Pictured is a Motobecane B1V2 two-stroke, manufactured in 1938, 88 years ago.

Motobecane is a French brand. The B1V2 was created as a simple, economical, and lightweight motorcycle, primarily serving the French populace before World War II.

The Velo Solex 3800, a motorized bicycle with a two-stroke engine mounted on the front wheel. If not pedaling, the rider lowers the engine, causing a friction roller to press directly against the front tire to turn the wheel. Solex bikes were common in Saigon during the 1960s, symbolizing the elegance and sophistication of users at the time.

A scene recreated a fuel pump for mixed gasoline and oil, alongside a Rumi Formichino, an unusually designed scooter from Moto Rumi (Italy). Unlike contemporary Vespa or Lambretta models, which primarily used pressed steel frames, the Formichino featured a cast aluminum frame. "Formichino" means "little ant" in Italian, and the vehicle was mainly produced in the 1950s.

A red Honda C50 (Dame) model, manufactured in the 1960s, also appeared at the festival for vintage vehicle enthusiasts. Compared to Vespa and Lambretta models, this Honda vehicle is younger.

The "Old Beetle" Volkswagen Beetle 1302-S, owned by an enthusiast in TP HCM. Produced in the 1970s, this model contributed to the nearly century-long journey of one of the most commercially successful vehicles of all time in terms of sales.

A Lada 1500S sedan, a Russian brand vehicle, at the vintage car festival. Tran Vu Trung, the owner, stated that the cost of restoring the car's original functions exceeded its purchase price. In Vietnam, the community of vintage Lada enthusiasts is very small. The model pictured was produced in the 1970s and 1980s.

People posed for photos next to a 1959 Cadillac Eldorado, a rare sight in Vietnam. The car's design resembles a spaceship, with a length of over 5 m and headlights and taillights that evoke science fiction films.

Pham Trung