The cars headed for Puducherry illustrate the march of automobile technology. Some signify its baby steps, some others its giant strides.
Here’s what one can expect. The fleet includes a Citroen Traction Avant 11B. The Traction Avant is French for front-wheel drive. Citroen may not have introduced the world to front-wheel drive – Alvis, Cord and DKW beat Citroen to it – but it definitely popularised the concept, especially in Europe.
Hand-crafting is the mark of many cars from the past. Visitors to the rally will get to see a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, which is one of the most exciting hand-crafted machines to emerge from the classic period.
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In its days, it was a benchmark in styling.
And the traditional rivalry between British and American cars continues, with both camps being adequately represented.
The American machines on the trip include a Chevrolet Fleetmaster, Chevrolet Styleline, Chevrolet Impala, Studebaker President, Dodge Kingsway Convertible, Ford Model A, Dodge Brothers, and Packard Clipper.
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The other flock includes Morris 8 Cutdoor, Morris 8 Series E, Morris Minor (Convertible), Austin Seven Chummy, Austin 8, Austin 16 and Triumph Herald.
“The bar has been raised this year with many 5hp, 7hp and 8hp cars joining in,” says Kylas Swaminathan, secretary, Madras Heritage Motoring Club. A small group of bike owners has signed up for the rally as well, with their Matchless G3L, Royal Enfield G2, BSA C11, Triumph 3H, Suzuki RV 90L, and an MV Agusta 150 cc.