In an era of sleek, computerised engines, Hyderabad’s vintage car enthusiasts are finding joy in the analog. The hobby of collecting and restoring classic automobiles has become a powerful way to connect with history and family legacy. Whether it’s a car passed down through generations or a rare find from a royal estate, these vehicles are symbols of pride and persistence. Hyderabad Times caught up with the city’s collectors to discuss the obsession, the mechanics, and the timeless bond between man and machine.‘It’s about honouring their legacy and the history of these machines’
My journey as a car collector began in 1988. Over the years, my daughter and I have developed a deep interest in preserving these automobiles. Our collection includes Chevrolet Limousines, a 1918 four-cylinder Chevrolet Tourer, an Austin Six, a Buick 8, and several others. Each of these cars carries a rich history — many were once used by royal families across the country, including the Nizams, the Nawabs of Lucknow, and the royal household of Gwalior. For us, it is about keeping the heritage alive and honouring the history of these machines.— Ashwin Yerabati, businessman & member of Deccan Heritage‘Life on the road has changed since I got the Beetle’
Ever since I acquired my 1967 Volkswagen Beetle in 2022, life on the road has changed. It’s a total crowd-puller; the first few times I took it out, people would literally swarm the car for photos. The admiration the car evokes is truly unforgettable. Beyond the attention, I’ve learned the grit of maintaining a classic and the joy of connecting with others who share this interest. The best part? The sheer surprise of the hobby. You never know what automotive icon will roll up next, and that mystery is what keeps the passion alive.— Karthik Korupolu Reddy, businessman ‘Riding these cars fills you with a sense of nostalgia and pride’
The passion for vintage cars was passed down to us by our father. He is a dedicated collector, and now my cousin and I are carrying that legacy forward. We currently own seven cars, including Mercedes from the 1980s, Landmasters from the 1950s, and Ambassadors from the 1970s. Riding these vehicles brings a sense of nostalgia and pride; it’s not just about driving, but about experiencing a piece of history and keeping it alive on today’s roads. That feeling is strengthened every time we delve into the mechanics of these vehicles or uncover the unique stories behind each model.— Syed Mohammad Ishaq, student ‘More than a car, my Packard Eight carries Hyderabad’s history’
This isn’t just a car for us — it’s my bond with my father and a living part of Hyderabad’s history. From serving the Nizam’s government to becoming our family car in 1967, it has been part of our journey. Since forming our car enthusiasts’ group in 2023 that meets on the first and third Sundays of each month for breakfast drives across the city, I’ve often had the chance to bring the car out, where it continues to draw attention from the public. — Deepak Kant Gir, admin of Cars n Coffee— Biswajit Talukdar
