The 42nd edition of South Africa’s largest one-day classic car show, Cars in the Park, roared into life on the 4th of August 2024, at Zwartkops Raceway. Organized by the Pretoria Old Motor Club, the event was a resounding success. Here’s what went down.
This year’s show had a special focus on pre-World War II vehicles, showcasing automotive history from a bygone era. From a stunning 1908 Buick to veteran and vintage cars built up to 1939, the display offered a glimpse into the evolution of motoring before the war forced a shift in production priorities.
A true highlight was the 1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, meticulously converted to electric power by Gerald Burrell. This engineering marvel retained its original charm while embracing modern technology. The car was presented alongside another magnificent pre-war Rolls-Royce, a 1930s 20-25 model tourer, showcasing the elegance of the era.
Beyond the pre-war gems, the show featured a diverse array of classics. Datsuns and Nissans, particularly strong in the Pretoria area since the late 1960s were well-represented. Enthusiast clubs displayed their pride and joy, with the Triumph Club showcasing a range from the 1920s to the late 1970s, and the Jeep Club boasting a collection of meticulously restored CJ models. The Unimog Club brought a touch of off-road history, while Ford Escorts and Mustangs, celebrating their respective golden eras and 60th birthday, added muscle to the mix.
Classic European marques weren’t left behind. Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprints, marking their 70th anniversary, shared the spotlight with stunning Ford GTs from Colin Lazarus’s display. Volkswagen enthusiasts were treated to a feast of early Beetles, including a rare split window model, alongside Kombis, Type 3s, and elegant Karmann Ghias. Chrysler’s presence came courtesy of the iconic Valiant, including the sporty Barracuda variants.
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DKW, a brand that faded in the mid-1960s, displayed its enduring legacy with a lineup featuring the 3=6 and 1000S models. A true automotive oddity was a meticulously crafted 1909 Reliable Dayton replica, built by POMC member Jurjen Kamstra based solely on photographs.
Adding a touch of racing spirit, pre-war cars were given the rare opportunity to lap the Zwartkops track at a leisurely pace. This historic circuit, established in 1961, offered a unique experience for owners and spectators alike. Porsches, celebrating the 911’s birthday, and a handful of Ferraris rounded out the celebration of automotive heritage. A new and exciting addition to the show was the Rally Stage, organized by well-known rally driver Ben van der Westhuizen. Featuring classic rally cars on the Zwartkops kart circuit, it injected a dose of action and dynamism into the event.
Frik Kraamwinkel, the chief organizer, expressed immense satisfaction with the event. He extended his gratitude to the participating clubs, stall holders, car owners, the enthusiastic public, and the dedicated POMC and Lions Club teams who made Cars in the Park 2024 a resounding success. The event proved once again to be a vibrant celebration of classic cars, automotive history, and the passionate community that surrounds it.
