RAWALPINDI:
A 1933 model Morris Major car that has been owned by a Rawalpindi family for three generations is not only an attraction at various vintage car exhibitions but also fulfils the family’s daily travel needs.
Its owner Shabbir Hussain told The Express Tribune that the car remains in pristine shape, with its original colour and interior intact. Hussain, who is a mechanic himself, said that the car was acquired by his family in 1940.
“It has never had any mechanical issue in the 80+ years that the car has been in our family,” says Hussain. It helps that he is a car mechanic himself with his workshop at Gawalmandi.
The car’s exterior and interior have not been changed with the vehicle exuding a vintage air.
The car has five doors and can comfortably seat five people and is a hatchback. Its rims are in spoke style as was the trend in those times. The vehicle came with a spare tyre that could either be mounted on the side or at the back.
Hussain said the speedometer in the vehicle was original and still running without any problems.
The doors and the car’s interior are made of precious wood which has stood the test of time despite the passage of 90 years.
“Even the engine is in mint condition,” insisted Hussain who uses the car for his daily chores as well.
It is different from other cars as it does not have a clutch. It is built in such a way that the vehicle is drive with the help of levers, he added.
So far only the tyres of this vehicle have been changed, he said. As it is a very old vehicle, it is very difficult to get the tyres of this vehicle from the market, he continued.
He pointed out that other vintage vehicles owned by car enthusiasts had undergone multiple modifications.
Hussain added that the engine ran on petrol and had an impressive fuel economy. “Five members of my family can travel in style and comfort.”
“What sets our vehicle apart is that it remains in its original state. It has never gone to any mechanic’s workshop. I fix it myself if it is slightly damaged,” he added.
The vintage vehicle remains a popular attraction whenever Hussain takes it out for a spin. “People ask me to stop so they can take selfies and make videos to post on social media,” says Hussain. “It is the same at exhibitions that bring together vintage car enthusiasts.”
A lot of questions are about whether I would like to sell the car, he continues before answering his question. “I have never thought of selling it as this car is part of our family and for us it is priceless.”
Published in The Express Tribune, November 21st, 2023.
