WINDHOEK, Oct. 9 — Rolling back the clock to a bygone era, classic car enthusiasts in Namibia gathered in the capital, Windhoek, on Saturday to showcase the country’s rich automotive heritage at the Bonnet Up Car Show. The vintage car collection included brands such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Mazda, a 1938 DKW F5, and many others, with the oldest model being a 1934 Chevrolet Coupe, which boasted 45 KW back in its prime.
The cars were elegantly lined up in an open parking area for display. Meanwhile, 30 owners and over 100 visitors engaged in lively conversations over glasses of beer. Some vintage cars were also exhibited in the museum of the Old Wheelers Club, the official local antique car group in Namibia, established in 1986 to provide a platform for classic car enthusiasts to connect.
Rainer Rusch, the chairman of the club, emphasized the event’s significance in highlighting the locals’ unusual passion for old cars and their commitment to preserving car models that are unlikely to be manufactured again or restored if not well-maintained. “Namibia boasts a wealth of high-quality old cars that one may rarely find in good condition but are seldom displayed, hence the need to provide a space to showcase them to the rest of the nation.”
This event, hosted three or more times each year, provided insights into Namibia’s rich historical and ever-evolving car market. The exhibitions and vintage collections prominently featured European brands, with notable examples including iconic models like the 1959 Mercedes-Benz W180 and the 1951 Volkswagen Beetle. The latter, known for its rear-mounted engine, was specifically designed to enhance traction in demanding and muddy terrains.
Each owner had a unique bond with their cherished “oldie” because, as Uwe Rauhut, a Windhoek resident, put it, “they don’t make them like that anymore.” Rauhut’s fascination with old cars and motorbikes began at the age of 16 when he became skilled in repairing and reselling them using traditional techniques.
“These cars, some of them over 100 years old, are unlike anything you can find today. They can sit here for 20 years and still be strong, unlike most modern cars,” he said.
For the elderly like Rauhut, the event represented more than just a pastime. It was a connection between generations and a testament to the enduring love for classic cars that stands the test of time. “I not only teach the youngsters about proper vehicle maintenance, but I also relive fond memories of these classic vehicles. Old cars are not just a fashion statement; they are a hobby,” he added.
In the meantime, according to Rusch, the gathering is part of environmental protection efforts, spreading the message of safeguarding nature through shared best practices. “Maintaining an old car reduces the dumping of waste and scrap into the environment. In this way, we contribute to promoting sustainability, a central aspect of the Old Wheelers Club,” he explained.
“People’s interest in classic cars has always been strong in Namibia, with the club’s membership growing to over 500 people across the country,” Rusch said.
“For us, this vibrant community with an interest in classic cars proves that true beauty never fades. It just sometimes needs a tune-up,” Rusch added. (Xinhua)
