Preserving History through Classic Cars

Morning Parade: A Journey through Time

At 7.30 am, the cars begin to assemble at The Cosmopolitan Club. This marks the beginning of a special day filled with automotive history. After a delicious breakfast and a detailed briefing, the parade is flagged off at 9.30 am by the district collector Kranthi Kumar and the commissioner of Police V Balakrishnan. The convoy then makes its way to Lakshmi Mills Urban Center, creating a sight that is both nostalgic and captivating.As the cars make their way through the city streets, it's as if time stands still. People gather along the route, their eyes fixed on these magnificent machines from different eras. It's a moment of celebration and remembrance, as the city comes together to honor its automotive heritage.

Public Display: A Treasure Trove of Classics

Once the cars reach Lakshmi Mills Urban Center, they are on full display from 10.30 am to 5 pm. Among the highlights are iconic models such as the Fiat Topolino (1936), Chevrolet Master (1939), Mercedes-Benz Fintail (1960), and Toyota Sera (1991). These cars are not just pieces of metal and rubber; they are living testimonies to the evolution of the automobile.Visitors have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these classics. They can admire the intricate details, feel the history in their hands, and even imagine what it was like to drive these cars during their prime. It's a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Restorers' Stories: Preserving the Past

Abhinandan Chandrasekhar, a renowned restorer who runs Vintage Miles in Coimbatore, is one of the highlights of the event. His journey began as a child, tinkering with his father's 1957 Ambassador. Today, he has restored over 100 cars, including some for royal families.Restoring vintage cars is not just a job for Abhinandan; it's a labor of love. He believes that these cars are not just relics of the past but drivable, reliable machines that can inspire others to appreciate vintage vehicles. His work showcases the dedication and passion of restorers who are committed to preserving automotive history.

Challenges and Opportunities

Organizing such a show is not without its challenges. As mentioned, most of these cars are driven only once a year, making it difficult to get them event-ready. However, organizers are exploring ways to make participation even easier in the future. Providing flatbeds to transport the cars could be a solution that helps more restorers bring their masterpieces to the event.Despite the challenges, the event has seen a growing interest and enthusiasm over the years. From an intimate affair with around 30 - 35 vintage cars four years ago to a display of 42 cars this year, it's clear that the city's passion for preserving automotive heritage is on the rise.