The Classic Drivers Club (CDC) recently hosted its fourth Vintage and Classic Car exhibition of the year at a posh Kolkata club bringing together aspirants, owners and restorers of these lost jewels. The event showcased a total of 62 vehicles, while some were left out due to a lack of space.

Among the standout exhibits were iconic British automobiles and motorcycles that defined an era of engineering excellence. The 1937 Rolls-Royce 25/30 and Colwyn Cabriolet reflected pre-war opulence, while the Morris Minor (1949-1951) and Austin 7 evoked nostalgia for Britain’s golden age of motoring.

Enthusiasts admired the MG Magnette ZA (1955) and Triumph Spitfire 4 (1963), which embodied mid-century sports car charm, while rugged classics like the Land Rover Series 3 (1974) and Range Rover Classic (1984) underscored the nation’s off-road dominance.

On two wheels, the BSA Bantam D1 (1948) and Ariel Red Hunter (1937, 1947) stood alongside wartime legends such as the Matchless G3L (1941) and Triumph 3HW (1940), highlighting Britain’s role in shaping global motorcycling history.

Besides the British automobiles, the exhibition featured a diverse line-up including the Volkswagen Beetle, Fiat 1100 series, Chevrolet Fleetmaster and Mercury 8, alongside Indian icons like the Hindustan Ambassador and Contessa. Legendary two-wheelers such as the Vespa, Yamaha RX100 and Rajdoot GTS 175 added to the show’s global appeal.

These meticulously restored machines weren’t just showpieces but living testaments to automobile ingenuity, drawing admiration from collectors and history buffs alike.

Speaking to Motoring Trends about how these exhibitions serve as a platform for reliving lost times, Pallab Roy, a vintage and classic car owner and restorer averred, “Kolkata, a city steeped in heritage, extends its cultural legacy beyond architecture and historic buildings to vintage automobiles. With growing awareness, these classic cars are increasingly showcased at exhibitions, ensuring preservation and maintenance. Unlike static artifacts, vintage cars require periodic use to remain operational, much like old cameras or watches that deteriorate when left idle. Events like this provide an opportunity to keep them roadworthy, facilitating servicing, cleaning and restoration.”

Among his notable collections was a 1967 Mercedes-Benz 230S, a luxury-class model that introduced the monocoque chassis, coolant-based radiators and tubeless tyres—marking significant innovations for its time.

Another highlight of his collection was a meticulously restored 1947 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Sport Sedan with original upholstery patterns, a wood-grain dashboard and factory-matched paint composition. Completing the collection was a 1951 Mercury, a right-hand-drive export model featuring a flathead V8 engine and the distinctive ‘suicide doors’, later phased out due to safety concerns.

“The perception of vintage cars in Kolkata has evolved dramatically. Decades ago, classic automobiles were often abandoned on roadsides or sold for scrap. Today, increased global exposure through the internet and events has fueled a strong collector’s market. Unlike modern vehicles designed for rapid model turnover, early automobiles were built to endure for decades, often requiring in-house maintenance in remote areas. This resilience, combined with growing public interest, particularly among younger generations, has revitalised Kolkata’s classic car scene, ensuring these automotive icons remain in pristine condition for years to come,” he noted.

Reviving eras past

Saikat Dutta, owner of a 1963 Triumph Spitfire, candidly spoke about the difficulties in maintaining classic cars. “I have had this car for nearly two decades but maintaining it presents significant challenges, particularly when sourcing spare parts. Everything has to be imported. Even the smallest bolts are unavailable locally, requiring shipments from the UK or the US, where suppliers like Moss Motors continue to manufacture components.” 

“However, the future of vintage car preservation is uncertain. The number of skilled mechanics proficient in maintaining these machines is dwindling as newer generations focus on modern vehicles. With fewer experts available to service these aging automobiles, ensuring their longevity will require dedicated enthusiasts, continued knowledge transfer and access to specialised parts and expertise,” he added.

His passion for vintage automobiles began in childhood, shaped by a home filled with classic cars. While life briefly took him away from the hobby, a close friend, Sanjay Ghosh, a noted collector, rekindled his enthusiasm, leading him to acquire his 1947 Chevrolet Fleetmaster in 2007.

Ritabrata Mukherjee, a member of the general committee at CDC, reflected on the organisation’s journey since its inception in 2017 stating, “With a growing community of approximately 150 members collectively owning around 200 vintage and classic automobiles and motorcycles, the club has established itself as a cornerstone of Kolkata’s classic car culture,” said Mukherjee.

Over the years, CDC has hosted nearly 200 events, collaborating with prestigious institutions such as the Calcutta Club, Saturday Club and Hindustan Club. Flagship initiatives include the Alipore Museum Show and the Braille Rally, a unique CSR initiative entering its second year. 

Commenting on how far is the club’s footprint, he noted, “Currently, membership is exclusive to West Bengal, though expansion beyond the state is under consideration. The club organises six to eight annual events including long-distance drives to heritage destinations within the state. Unlike traditional collectors, who view vintage vehicles as static relics, the club emphasises road use, ensuring these machines remain functional.” 

The club has also fostered academic collaborations, recently partnering with IIT Kharagpur and preparing for an upcoming engagement with Jadavpur University’s festival in March, where vintage cars and motorcycles will be showcased.

At its core, the club is dedicated to preserving Kolkata’s rich motoring legacy ensuring that these historic automobiles remain not just museum pieces but living testaments to a bygone era of craftsmanship and design.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) has released its unaudited financial results for Q3 FY2026 and nine months ending 31 December 2025.

The company reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of INR 123.44 billion for Q3, representing a 6.3 percent increase YoY. Revenue for the quarter reached INR 1,797.35 billion, up 8 percent compared to the same period last year. EBITDA stood at INR 2,018.3 billion, a 7.6 percent rise, supported by festive demand and the implementation of GST 2.0.

The company stated that the domestic demand was supported by wholesale volumes increasing 5 percent QoQ. The Hyundai Creta recorded sales of over 200,000 units in the 2025 calendar year, while the new Venue model has received nearly 80,000 bookings to date.

Hyundai Motor India also entered the commercial mobility segment with the Prime HB and SD taxi models. Exports grew by 21 percent YoY in Q3 FY26, accounting for 25 percent of the total sales mix.

For the nine-month period, EBITDA reached INR 6,632.5 billion, a 3.3 percent increase. EBITDA margins expanded to 12.8 percent, up from 12.5 percent in the previous year, despite costs related to capacity stabilisation and commodity prices.

Tarun Garg, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, said, “The third quarter performance underscores our resilience and strong execution of 'Quality of Growth' strategy, marked by healthy growth in volumes, revenue and profitability. Notably on a year-to-date basis, EBITDA margins expanded to 12.8 percent as against 12.5 percent last year, supported by our efforts towards improving sales mix and prudent cost control measures. As we move ahead, the robust January’26 sales number gives us great momentum towards a healthy 2026.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Stellantis-owned Jeep has announced its Strategic Plan Jeep 2.0, positioning India as a central hub for its operations in the Asia Pacific region. The plan focuses on localisation, manufacturing depth, and export expansion from the company's facility in Ranjangaon, Pune.

As part of the strategy, Jeep intends to increase localisation levels to 90 percent, up from the current 65–70 percent. This move is aimed at strengthening supply-chain resilience and cost competitiveness. The Ranjangaon plant, which has an annual capacity of 160,000 vehicles, currently exports the Compass, Meridian, and Commander to markets including Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Plans are underway to expand exports to Africa and North America.

The company plans to introduce a new vehicle lineup in India starting from 2027. In the interim, Jeep will maintain its current portfolio through refreshes and special editions. To support its customers, the brand has introduced the Confidence 7 programme, which includes a buyback scheme, pre-maintenance packages, and extended warranties.

At present, Jeep operates over 85 sales and service touchpoints across 70 cities in India. The automaker stated that in 2025, the Wrangler Willys 41 limited edition sold out within seven days. The company is also focusing on its owner community, which has reached 100,000 members, through experiential platforms and brand clubs.

Shailesh Hazela, CEO & Managing Director, Stellantis India, said, “Jeep’s 85-year legacy is built on authenticity and adventure. Strategic Plan Jeep 2.0 lays out how we will sharpen our product strategy and strengthen the customer experience year after year, driven by deeper localisation, global product alignment, expanding our vehicle offerings, and programs that deliver real value. We are equally focused on taking care of our existing customers, ensuring they receive the support, service and confidence they expect from Jeep. Success in India demands resilience and long-term commitment and we are investing with that clarity to ensure Jeep remains a brand of pride and desirability.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has reported its financial results for Q3 FY2026.

The company reported revenue of INR 475.344 billion, as against INR 368.02 billion last year, net profit came at INR 37.94 billion, as against INR 36.59 billion last year. It is to be noted that the net profit was impacted for Q3 FY2026 was impacted due to a one-time provision of INR 5,939 million relating to new Labour Codes.

During the period, the company achieved its highest quarterly domestic sales of 564,669 units, an increase of 97,676 units over the previous year. Total sales reached 667,769 units, which included 103,100 units in exports. This performance was supported by a recovery in the car market following GST reform, with the small car segment in the 18 percent GST bracket contributing significantly to the volume increase.

For the nine-month period from April to December 2025, the company recorded its highest sales volume, net sales and net profit. Total sales volume reached 1,746,504 units, with domestic sales at 1,435,945 units and exports at 310,559 units. Net sales for this period increased to INR 1,242 billion, while net profit grew to INR 1,085 billion.

Financial statements for the period have been restated following the amalgamation of Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) with MSIL. This process took effect from 1 April 2025. The company continues to monitor market conditions as it manages its manufacturing and sales operations.

The recovery in the car market was led by the small car segment. Sales growth in this category accounted for 68,328 units of the total domestic increase. The company remains focused on domestic and export markets to maintain its sales volumes.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Volkswagen Passenger Cars India has showcased the Tayron R-Line, marking the first of five product interventions scheduled for 2026.

The company plans to introduce updates or new models in every quarter to maintain market presence. These interventions will include SUV, Sedan and Hatchback body styles, with each model intended for different segments of the premium market.

For 2026, the company stated it has established objectives focused on products, customer engagement and experiences. The strategy involves using product actions to address various customer sets throughout the year. The brand aims to sustain interest through these quarterly releases across its vehicle portfolio.

The roadmap for the year is designed to cover multiple segments, ensuring a consistent rollout of updates. By addressing three body styles, the manufacturer intends to reach a broad audience within the premium category. The initiative forms part of a wider plan to enhance the ownership experience and interaction with the brand in India.

Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, said, “Today, we are glad to showcase the Tayron R-Line for the first time in India. I am also delighted to announce that we have planned four more product interventions throughout the year. This year, every quarter will witness a new product intervention that will cater to a different premium customer set. Our objective is to continue building excitement for customers through smart product actions and introducing models that will continue to build aspirations.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!