Youngstar Awards 2026: An honor for youngtimers

Finally: the Youngstar Awards in June and the finale in October will be an event and competition for young cars instead of classic cars. Autosprint is involved as a partner.

The Youngstar Awards also provide a stage for underrated Japanese youngtimers such as the Toyota Celica (like this one at an event in the UK). Photo: iStock

Whether European, Asian or American, whether Mercedes W 123, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo or Chevrolet Caprice Classic: At the first «Youngstar Awards» on June 6, 2026 in the event hall of Arthaios AG in Däniken SO All youngtimers welcome. For one day, the grounds become a mecca for all those often younger fans who love cars that are not yet «real» oldies, but are nevertheless classics. And maintaining them often costs these enthusiasts much more than the car is worth.

Register now to take part
Until now, youngtimers have almost always been overshadowed by «real» oldies aged 30 and over. No more - thanks to the Youngstar Awards. Included: Autosprint as jury and media partner. Nice: The term youngtimer is taken loosely here: Cars built between 1975 and 2006 are eligible, on condition that they are registered: The car must be registered, should correspond to the character of the event and must not have a veteran's registration. The participation fee is only 25 francs. Please note: Only 50 vehicles are allowed to take part, so it's worth registering quickly at youngstar-awards.ch.

Iconic: A station wagon from the Mercedes 124 series built from 1984 to 1997. Photo: Mercedes

Two events and two awards
Also because the atmosphere full of petrol talk between the youngtimers promises a cult ambience. And because the very first Youngstar Awards beckon! This event was created by a team led by former «Auto Illustrierte» editor-in-chief Jörg Petersen. The expert jury selects the ten finalists from 50 vehicles (which can take part in one or both categories). In category A («Personal History & Style»), the emotional bond between the owner and the vehicle is assessed on the basis of authentic experiences. The evaluation criteria are vehicle history and emotional connection based on texts and photos submitted in advance and their presentation. In category B, the «classic evaluation» of the expert jury takes place. The focus here is on condition, fidelity to the original and the state of preservation and restoration, as well as stylish conversions. But that's not all: that's when it gets really exciting.

The ten best from June 6 qualify for the public vote: Fans and friends can vote at youngstar-awards.ch until October 4, 2026. Voting accounts for 40 percent of the rating! The grand finale is planned for November 7, 2026 in a grand setting: at Auto Zürich, Switzerland's largest car show since the end of the Geneva Motor Show. The three best in both categories will then be honored and the two title winners: the Youngstars 2026. Registration deadline for Youngtimers is March 31, 2026.

All info: youngstar-awards.ch

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