Statesman Vintage Car Rally stuns Delhiites

The 50th edition of “The Statesman Vintage and Classic Car Rally” left the residents of the National Capital spellbound. Approximately 100 vehicles came to the show, which got everyone down to the Connaught Place (Delhi), where the rally was flagged off by Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of Air Staff.

The assembly of vehicles witnessed the presence of cars like 1938 Buick limousine, Cadillacs, Rolls Royces, Dodges, Jaguars, Chevrolet Impalas, a black Baby Austin of 1918 and VolksWagen Beetle. The show stoppers were automobiles like 1919 Citroen, a 1920 Willy Overland along with several Buicks, Austins and Dodges.

Mr. Shahamat Hussain, a proud owner of vintage cars, brought an assemblage of Willys jeep to the event. Expressing his joy, he said, "I bought this car from Uttar Pradesh and it took me years to restore it to its pristine condition. I basically like to buy my vintage and classic cars in their junk condition and I like to mould them and restore it my own way.” He added,"The Jeep also comes with the original helmet used in the 40s,first aid box, fire extinguisher, the original starting handles and jack. It took me 2-4 years to collect the entire set.”

The rally ended at National Stadium where prize distribution ceremony was conducted. The 1919 Citroen won the award for being the oldest car present at the rally. Other winning vintages were 1920 Willy Overland, the 1930 Stutz, the 1939 Bentley, a 1938 Buick, a 1926 Austin, a 1929 Morris, a 1939 Hillman, a 1937 Rolls Royce, a 1934 Lagonda, a 1939 Singer, a 1942 Packard and a 1939 Riley. Non-winning cars were also given commendations by the organisers. The event finished-off in style with a performance from Border Security Force Band at the end.

Source: The Statesman

Also Read: Honda Drive To Discover 6: Odyssey of Rajasthan