When we think of the cars in our childhood, Ferrari or a Lamborghini are not the ones to pop up in our mind. But any mention of Premier Padmini or Ambassador brings back a kaleidoscope of memories!
Ambassador and other cars of those times might not have modern-day cutting-edge technology, but they are classics in every sense. Let's look at five Indian-made vehicles that deserve the "classic" tag!
Until three decades ago, the Ambassador car was so popular that it was the vehicle of choice for VIPs, officialdom and ministers. It was also the perfect family car. It´s wide body could accommodate as many as 10 kids or atleast 6 adults. It was sturdy and easily repaired. It perfectly represented socialist India in the first four decades after Independence. Without Ambassador, Indian automotive history wouldn't be as we know it. Production of Ambassadors in India started around the 1950s.
Hindustan Motors is the brand behind this hit Indian vehicle. Ambassador was the "King of the Road" for more than 40 years!
Photo Credit: wallpapercave.com
When compiling a list of Indian classic car models, we can't let the Contessa sit out. This car is synonymous with all villains and rags-to-riches heroes in Bollywood films in the 70s and 80s.
This car was based on the Vauxhall VX Series. Hindustan Motors Contessa was one of India's only few luxury cars in the 1980s. This posh sedan quickly caught the attention of government officials and the rich. The sight of a Contessa with dark tinted windows usually signalled the presence of a VIP or celebrity inside.
Photo Credit: wallpapercave.com
Any petrolhead from the 1960s cannot possibly forget what owning an Ideal Jawa Yezdi Roadking meant. The bike´s run of popularity lasted for nearly 20 years and this was the bike of choice for rallies and road races. Orginally based in Mysore, this classic brand was a strong competitor to Royal Enfield back then and still maintains a solid cult to this day. Enthusiasts have formed Yezdi riding groups and they meet annually to take their old Yezdis on a ride. Recently, Jawa revived the Yezdi brand and introduced 3 new motorcycle models as part of the comeback.
Photo Credit: www.youtube.com
Calling one of the earliest produced bikes of the world´s oldest motorcycle manufacturer as a classic is a bit of an understatement. This classic bike was initially produced for the government for use in the army. Today, the Royal Enfield Bullet sells in more than 50 countries, still sells to the Indian army and features on every aspiring motorcyclist´s bucket list.
Photo Credit: www.royalenfield.com
Premier Automobiles manufactured this almost-vintage car model from 1970 to 1998. Initially, the Padmini was launched in India as Fiat 1100 Delight. Owing to its staggering response and sky-rocketing sales, the carmaker introduced Premier Padmini with several upgrades. Even though today, the car is mostly spotted as a cabs in Mumbai, one cannot forget its edgy features and performance at a time when the only option Indians had was the stolid and strong Ambassador.
Photo Credit: www.pinterest.com
These iconic sets of wheels perfectly sum up the evolution of vehicles in India. They might be old boys, but they lead you straight down the nostalgic path!
