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.

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Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest carmaker, has introduced the Victoris Aurum Edition Strong Hybrid to mark the first anniversary of the Victoris SUV, featuring an accessory kit priced at INR 22,990.

The launch follows the model reaching sales of 100,000 and 150,000 units within its initial year of production. The Aurum Edition incorporates copper-coloured inserts on the front, side and rear skid plates, along with revised wheel arch trim.

On the outside, it gets chrome garnishes across the front grille, fenders, bumpers, body side mouldings and door visors. Interior additions comprise all-weather 3D cabin mats, a 3D boot mat and a trunk sill guard.

Furthermore, the company has partnered with actor Shahid Kapoor to lead the promotional campaign for the variant.

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer – Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, "Conceptualised as a ‘Got it All’ SUV for today’s dynamic young go-getters who ‘want it all’, the Victoris has truly won the hearts of buyers. As we celebrate its first anniversary, it’s worth noting that the Victoris has become the fastest-selling PV to clock both the 150,000- and 100,000-unit sales milestones, going on to achieve the highest sales for any car in India during its 1st year of launch. Recognising these extraordinary achievements, we are introducing the Victoris Aurum Edition Strong Hybrid, with tasteful enhancements that are sure to grab eyeballs and make this festive season feel all the more special for our valuable customers. Our association with Shahid Kapoor, for the new Aurum Edition is also sure to complement the Victoris’ contemporary appeal."

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Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has detailed the safety specifications and platform architecture for its upcoming Bayon SUV model ahead of its official launch in India on 26 October 2026.

Built on the Global K Enhanced Platform, the Bayon utilises a body structure comprising of 69 percent high-strength steel grades, integrating hot-stamped components across the front apron, dashboard, rear floor and side reinforcements.

The vehicle incorporates Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, providing 23 driver assistance features supported by three radar units and 12 parking sensors. Over 35 safety features are fitted as standard across all variants, including six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The Bayon will be powered by a 1.5-litre MPi four-cylinder petrol engine producing 84.4 kW (115 PS) and 143.8 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or an Intelligent Variable Transmission. Exterior options will span 10 colour configurations across monotone, dual-tone, and matte finishes.

Tarun Garg, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai Motor India, said, "At Hyundai, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it enhances the everyday experiences of our customers. With the Hyundai BAYON, we have combined a robust body structure, advanced safety technologies, and intelligent driver assistance systems to deliver a comprehensive safety experience. From its reinforced chassis and high-strength steel construction to Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, the BAYON is engineered to inspire confidence not only in challenging situations, but throughout every journey. This reflects our commitment to delivering intelligent mobility solutions that are safe, connected, and progressive for modern India."

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Japanese automotive major Mitsubishi Motors has commenced sales of the Pajero cross-country SUV in Thailand, serving as the initial market for the model’s international release.

The Pajero’s production takes place at the Laem Chabang facility operated by Mitsubishi Motors in Chonburi Province, which functions as a manufacturing hub for export operations.

Shipments to Australia and Japan are scheduled ahead of market releases in mid-December, followed by sequential introductions across approximately 100 countries and regions in the Middle East and Latin America starting in fiscal 2027.

The Pajero integrates four-wheel-drive capability with passenger car handling characteristics and positioning as a flagship offering.

Keisuke Kishiura, President and Chief Operating Officer, Mitsubishi Motors, said, "We are delighted to begin sales of the all-new Pajero in Thailand as the first market for its global rollout. Thailand is not only an important market for Mitsubishi Motors, but also a key hub for our production and exports. The all-new Pajero is a flagship model that embodies Mitsubishi Motors and is positioned among the top-tier cross-country SUVs in the Thai market. We will continue to deliver appealing products from Thailand to customers around the world and provide value that exceeds expectations."

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Param Automotive Group has inaugurated an upgraded dealership facility in Ahmedabad to mark its silver jubilee year.

Located at the site established in 2002, the facility spans 40,000 square feet and features display space for 18 vehicles.

The showroom includes customer lounges, delivery zones, accessory bays, test-drive areas and hospitality spaces to support vehicle sales and customer service operations.

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