From July 8 to September 6, Autoworld presents ‘Icons of the 90’s’, a major automotive exhibition that takes visitors back to one of the most iconic and influential decades in recent history.
The 1990s evoke freedom, innovation and pop culture. MTV, video games, grunge, hip-hop, the rise of the Internetand the first mobile phones shaped an entire generation. It was a period marked by rapid technological progress and changing lifestyles, while design, music, film and fashion developed a strong and distinctive identity.
The automotive world also experienced a particularly exciting decade. The 1990s introduced new technologies, more compact concepts, bold styling, increasing performance and a renewed focus on driving pleasure. Cars became safer, more reliable and more efficient, while also expressing stronger personalities. From city cars and sporty coupés to hot hatches and supercars, the decade produced models that have since become true automotive icons.
This summer, Autoworld brings that atmosphere back to life through an exhibition where the automobile takes centre stage. The exhibition highlights the richness and diversity of 1990s mobility, featuring city cars, convertibles and roadsters, hot hatches, sports saloons, Japanese sports cars, innovative family vehicles and spectacular supercars.
Two-wheelers also play an important role in the exhibition. Around fifteen motorcycles illustrate the revival of European brands such as Ducati, BMW and Triumph. Popular mopeds from the era are also featured: the machines that could be seen outside every secondary school and often played a role in defining teenage status.
Blending nostalgia, design, technology and pop culture, ‘Icons of the 90’s’ celebrates a decade that continues to inspire our imagination today.
Autoworld developed this exhibition in close collaboration with its partners, several private collections from Belgium and abroad, as well as with the Squadra Abarth & Rally Collection museum in Lier.
SPORT CARS AND SUPERCARS
At the top of every dream garage, sports cars and supercars continued to capture the imagination. European sports cars such as the Aston Martin DB7, Alfa Romeo SZ “Mostro”, Maserati 3200 GT and several Porsche models showcase the elegance and performance of the decade.
The supercar segment also experienced significant growth. The Bugatti EB110, Dodge Viper, Ferrari F50, Jaguar XJ220 and Honda NSX rank among the most remarkable cars of the 1990s, pushing the boundaries of design, engineering and performance.
CONVERTIBLES AND ROADSTERS
During the 1990s, almost every self-respecting manufacturer offered a convertible or roadster. Open-top drivingbecame a symbol of freedom, enjoyment and the carefree spirit that perfectly matched the decade.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata breathed new life into the classic roadster concept and became a global icon. The BMW Z1offered a more daring and futuristic interpretation, featuring striking design and innovative engineering solutions.
CITADINES ET GRANDES BERLINES
The 1990s marked an important chapter in the history of compact cars. City cars became more playful, practical and original. The Renault Twingo remains one of the most iconic examples: compact, cheerful and surprisingly spacious.
Premium manufacturers also explored new directions. Models such as the Audi A2 and the Mercedes-Benz A-Classdemonstrated that compact motoring could also be innovative, technologically advanced and contemporary.
At the same time, diesel cars enjoyed their golden age. With the introduction of common-rail injection technology, diesel engines became more powerful, economical and refined. Cars such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W124 became symbols of durability and reliability, built to cover hundreds of thousands of kilometres.
SPORTS SEDANS AND RALLY DNA
Performance was not limited to compact cars. Larger segments also saw the arrival of sedans offering impressive performance and strong personalities. Highlights include the Opel Lotus Omega, the Mercedes-Benz 500E and the Mercedes-Benz 190 Evo.
Rally-derived models such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and the Lancia Delta Integrale brought the spirit of motorsport to public roads. Today, they rank among the most sought-after and admired youngtimers of their generation.
HOT HATCHES: COMPACT, FAST AND DESIRABLE
Following the success of the Golf GTI, the hot hatch segment became a true phenomenon throughout the 1990s. Compact cars with powerful engines, sporty handling and strong character appealed to an entire generation of enthusiasts.
The exhibition features models such as the Peugeot 205 GTI, Peugeot 309 GTI and Renault Clio Williams, demonstrating how affordable compact cars evolved into genuine cult classics.
SPORTS CARS AND COUPÉS
The 1990s also marked the decade when Japanese sports cars firmly secured their place in automotive history. Combining advanced technology, powerful engines and a unique style, manufacturers such as Nissan, Toyota and Honda captivated a new generation of enthusiasts.
Models including the Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo, Toyota Supra and Nissan Skyline became icons of performance, tuning culture and popular culture. Their reputation is stronger than ever today.
PRACTICAL EVOLUTIONS: THE FIRST COMPACT MPVsLES PREMIERS MONOSPACES COMPACTS
Alongside performance and design, the decade also introduced innovative family vehicles. The first compact MPVspioneered a new approach to space, versatility and practicality.
The Renault Scénic and Fiat Multipla perfectly symbolise this evolution, proving that a practical car could also be innovative, distinctive and even daring.
MOTORCYLCES AND MOPEDS: FREEDOM AT SIXTEEN
The 1990s also gave two-wheelers a distinctive identity. European motorcycle manufacturers enjoyed a strong revival, particularly Ducati, BMW and Triumph. The exhibition includes models such as the BMW R1100GS, Ducati Monster, Ducati 916, Laverda 650, MV Agusta F4, Triumph Speed Triple and Norton F1.
Mopeds also have a prominent place in the exhibition. For many teenagers in the 1990s, a moped was the ultimate symbol of freedom. Being able to ride independently at sixteen, travel to school or meet friends was an essential part of youth culture at the time.
Autoworld showcases several popular mopeds from the era, including models from Honda, Aprilia and Malaguti.
