Villach Collection

Online auction without reserve prices from March 3–15, 2026 – Live finale with viewing in Villach

Over 200 vehicles of European mobility history – exceptionally curated, maintained as museum pieces and without reserve price. On-site viewing possible during the live finale.

The Story

A Collection Built on Passion

Rudolf Pirker didn't collect trophies. He collected memories on wheels. What began in 1962 as a rescue mission—saving decommissioned, rusted vehicles from the scrapyard—grew over six decades into one of the most authentic collections of European everyday mobility. No luxury cars, no status symbols. Instead: Goggomobils, Lloyd "street singers," BMW Isettas, Puch motorcycles and Lohner scooters—vehicles that represented freedom, independence and the start of a new life for millions of people.

In 1987, the Villach Oldtimer Museum opened its doors on the Draupromenade. After 20 years, it moved to a larger building in Villach-Zauchen with 1,000 m² of exhibition space, doubled in 2015/16. Together with his sons Kurti and Rudi, Rudolf Pirker restored the vehicles, built a workshop and created a place where adults rediscovered memories and young people learned what mobility once looked like.

After Rudolf Pirker's death in 2021, the question arose that eventually catches up with many collections: What happens when the person is gone who held it all together? The answer was a deliberate one: no preservation behind glass, no gathering dust. Instead, passing it on. The more than 200 vehicles are now finding new owners—people with their own idea of happiness on wheels. A rare opportunity to become part of a living history.