Hyderabad's Vintage Car Revival: Analog Passion in Digital Age
In an era dominated by sleek, computerized engines and electric vehicles, a dedicated community in Hyderabad is finding profound joy in the analog world of vintage automobiles. The hobby of collecting, restoring, and preserving classic cars has emerged as a powerful movement that connects enthusiasts with history, family legacy, and mechanical artistry.
Preserving Royal and Family Heritage
Ashwin Yerabati, a businessman and member of the Deccan Heritage group, explains that his journey as a car collector began in 1988. "Over the years, my daughter and I have developed a deep interest in preserving these automobiles," he shares. Their impressive collection includes:
- Chevrolet Limousines
- A 1918 four-cylinder Chevrolet Tourer
- An Austin Six
- A Buick 8
- Several other historically significant models
Each vehicle carries a rich narrative, with many having served royal families across India, including the Nizams of Hyderabad, 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," Yerabati emphasizes.
The Transformative Power of Classic Ownership
Karthik Korupolu Reddy, another businessman, describes how life transformed after acquiring his 1967 Volkswagen Beetle in 2022. "It's a total crowd-puller," he notes. "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 public attention, Reddy has discovered the grit required to maintain a classic vehicle and the joy of connecting with fellow enthusiasts. "The best part is the sheer surprise of the hobby," he adds. "You never know what automotive icon will roll up next, and that mystery is what keeps the passion alive."
Carrying Forward a Family Legacy
For Syed Mohammad Ishaq, a student, the passion for vintage cars represents a family inheritance. "The passion was passed down to us by our father," he explains. "He is a dedicated collector, and now my cousin and I are carrying that legacy forward."
Their collection of seven vehicles includes:
- Mercedes models from the 1980s
- Landmasters from the 1950s
- Ambassadors from the 1970s
"Riding these vehicles brings a sense of nostalgia and pride," Ishaq reflects. "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."
Living History on Hyderabad's Roads
Deepak Kant Gir, administrator of the Cars n Coffee enthusiasts' group, shares the significance of his Packard Eight. "This isn't just a car for us—it's my bond with my father and a living part of Hyderabad's history," he reveals.
The vehicle has transitioned from serving the Nizam's government to becoming a family car in 1967. Since forming their car enthusiasts' group in 2023, which meets on the first and third Sundays of each month for breakfast drives across Hyderabad, Gir frequently brings the Packard Eight out, where it continues to captivate public attention.
These collectors demonstrate that vintage car preservation in Hyderabad is more than a hobby—it's a commitment to safeguarding automotive heritage, fostering community connections, and celebrating the timeless bond between humans and machines in an increasingly digital world.
