Uncomplicated yet effective automobiles from yesteryear

Unlike the modern motor industry, which is dominated by safety features, technology and fuel economy, cars back then were simply built to travel from one place to another, never mind essentials like a safety belt.

This past weekend, the Old Wheelers Club and Museum in Olympia hosted their annual “;Bonnets Up”; open day, one of the many events showcasing the cars and stories of yesteryear.

The theme is easy to understand, says Rainer Rusch, to share the simplicity of the engines in appreciation of the vintage vehicles.

“”;Bonnets Up”; is basically a vehicle show we have here every few months to pop up your bonnet and show off the old school engines we still have in our beautiful cars, and to admire the cars,” he says.

Back then, engines were as basic as can be. Computers and other technological gadgets were unheard of, nevermind computerised cars that are so advanced they can start, park and drive on their own.

Many of the cars on display were originals, while the vehicles from the 1970s and earlier drew the most attention due to the nostalgia they evoke in both old and young who flocked to the Old Wheelers Club to soak up the atmosphere.

According to the internet, vintage cars can be classified as vehicles over 20 years old, while an antique is 45 years old, or older.

To any vintage motor enthusiast, age doesn”;t really matter. What matters is the car itself. Many times, the cars are the common ground for strangers from all walks of life, who stand around these masterpieces marvelling, before walking away as friends.

As the owner of a few antiques, Rusch is super proud of his 1939 Chevrolet bakkie, which has been restored to its original state. Comparing the “;39 Chevy with its unique shape, to the pick ups of today, shows just how much vehicles have evolved.

Rusch says his love for vintage cars began many years ago due to the simplicity and beauty of the silhouettes, which is rare nowadays.

Despite not being a mechanic, Rusch boasts that even he can work on these cars.

“All the cars in the museum belong to our members and 99% of them are still in a running condition and licensed,” he says.

Rusch”;s enthusiasm is tangible as he talks about some of the cars on display, like the red vintage Porsche and the white Ford Anglia.

Though the Old Wheelers Museum, the only one in Namibia, may be becoming too small to house all the vehicles, there are plans to expand it in order to showcase more beautiful old cars. Besides vintage vehicles and motorcycles, a range of spare parts, vintage industrial machinery, workshop equipment, tools, old fuel pumps and much more is on display.

The curator even made an effort to display information cards about the cars, including data about the models, ownership and technical specifications, proving that each car has its own unique story to tell.

Though getting your hands on spare parts is not easy, with collectors around the world connected through the internet, parts can be ordered from just about anywhere, says Rusch, emphasising that collecting and restoring old cars is a passion for only a few, due to the costs involved in the hobby.

The Old Wheelers Club is more than a place where old cars are on display.

It also offers a unique venue complete with a restaurant and a beer garden to complement the convivial atmosphere.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.