Old world classics spell elegant charm

The 9th Auto Expo may have attracted crowds of automobile lovers for a variety of reasons. Though the star attraction remained ₹1 lakh car from the Tata Motors stable and luxury products from makers across the world, for the discerning auto lovers, there were some old classics to be savoured.

Away from the glitter of the new automobiles, the beauties of yesteryears continue to pull people, bringing with them an array of cinematic and automobile history.

There is Chevrolet Belair, a 1957 classic currently owned by vintage car buff Diljeet Titus. In its heydays, the market spin to the car said, 'The road is not built that can make it breathe hard.' The car produces 165 bhp and can still top a speed of 145 km per hour with its 4500 cc V8 engine. It has a gold-anchored trim and is one of the most desirable collector cars produced in North America.

For Bollywood buffs, the Ford Woody stationwagon made in 1941 is a delight to watch. It was used in blockbuster

Gadar

starring Sunny Deol and Amisha Patel. The station wagon was owned by the erstwhile 'Raja Saheb' of Ayodhya and used for hunting expeditions.

The eight-passenger vehicle with a V8 engine was Ford Motors' most expensive product in 1941. This station wagon had a large array of accessories and used sliding glass in all but the front doors. Only 9,485 units were built using maple with either mahogany or red gum paneling.

For small and mini-car buffs, there are rare beauties like the Austin Chummy, made in 1924. This British legend has a 747-cc, 4-cylinder engine. And, this is not the only mini-car of yesteryears on display.

Car enthusiasts can find Fiat Topolino, a 1950, 4-cylinder, 600 cc Italian vehicle. The small engine was indicative of the post-World War II scarred Europe, severely trying to reduce oil demand.

Topping the list of beauties is 5248 cc, 8-cylinder Buick 90 L, a seven-passenger 1935 made limousine. The car originally was bought by the Raja Saheb of Ayodhya, and later acquired by Bal Angre.

Only 191 units of the limousine were produced. The car was used in many Hollywood movies.

Vintage car enthusiasts can also look for Austin 10, a 1932 car made in England and Buick Super 8, a 5248 cc, eight cylinder car. Both these automobiles are owned by lawyer KTS Tulsi.

Motorcycle enthusiasts need not despair as they too can have their fill of vintage products and be witness to history.

There is a Levis 3.5 hp, made in England of 1928 vintage. It has a single cylinder, double exhaust with hand shift gear. Giving it competition for attraction is Triumph, a 350 cc single cylinder two-wheeler of 1940 make.