On February 8, 2025, the Eden Technical High School grounds in central George played host to one of the most memorable editions of the George Old Car Show. With near-perfect weather—sunshine interspersed with gentle cloud cover—the event attracted over 12,000 enthusiastic visitors, all eager to witness a dazzling parade of more than 1,000 historic vehicles.
A One-Day Spectacle That Delivered
In a bold move that paid off handsomely, the Southern Cape Old Car Club switched from a traditional two-day affair to a concentrated one-day show. “Even before the doors opened at 9 am, the fields were already brimming with spectators,” remarked Waldo Scribante, chairman of the organizing club. “We remained packed right up until closing time at 6 pm. The decision was a resounding success.”
Embracing British Heritage
This year’s show carried a distinctive British theme, a decision that ushered in an influx of British-built cars from all corners of South Africa. An orchestrated campaign leading up to the event saw a remarkable turnout of marques such as MG, Triumph, Austin Healey, Morris, and Austin. The display wasn’t limited to the everyday; more exotic names like Aston Martin, Jensen, Morgan, Mini Cooper, and iconic British Fords—ranging from Anglias and Cortinas to Vauxhalls—captivated the crowd. Even classic Austin Seven models from the 1920s found their place in the lineup, highlighting the rich tapestry of British automotive history.
The Majestic Rolls-Royce and Bentley Display
Arguably the crown jewel of the day was the awe-inspiring Rolls-Royce and Bentley display, meticulously arranged on the top field. Over 20 British motoring monarchs, representing decades of evolution—from the elegant models of the 1930s to a modern 2016 Phantom Limelight that journeyed all the way from Paarl—drew gasps of admiration. “I was particularly pleased to see the spread between Bentley and Rolls models, covering such a range of eras,” Scribante noted. Among these, a standout was the Shooting Brake Rolls-Royce owned by Brian Bruce of Knysna, its wood-enforced estate-car bodywork, commissioned in India on an early 20/25 chassis, embodying both innovation and nostalgia.
A Glimpse into the Past
The show also featured an impressive vintage and veteran display that offered a window into automotive history. Enthusiasts marveled at rarities like the 1925 Morris Cowley Bullnose and a stately white 1912 Rover Colonial, complete with a warrior-like radiator mascot. A mid-1920s Talbot Tourer, preserved in unrestored form and boasting a century-old patina, added to the allure. Not to be overlooked was the event’s oldest entrant—a 1904 French De Dion Bouton Model Q, a tiny single-cylinder marvel proudly owned by Tom van der Vyver.
British Rarities and International Surprises
Among the prized British exhibits was a pristine red Aston Martin DB2/4 Mk III from 1958. Once relegated to the humble task of carting hay on a small holding in Vereeniging during the ‘70s, the car was lovingly restored to its original glory by Ron Hollis. Its period-correct high-horsepower engine, complete with a set of triple Weber carburettors, made it an instant standout.
Adding an unexpected international twist was the mid-1960s Iso Rivolta—a rare Italian supercar and the only one of its kind in the country. Having journeyed from Johannesburg after a long storage period in Port Elizabeth, the Iso Rivolta, powered by a 5.3-litre Chevrolet engine, reminded onlookers of the diverse heritage that classic car enthusiasts cherish.
A Continental Showcase
Not limited to British excellence, the event showcased a magnificent collection of German marques. The Mercedes-Benz Club’s exhibit shared the stage with BMW, Porsche, Borgward, Volkswagen, and DKW models, while an eye-catching Ferrari display, featuring a standout 1990s 512 TR, added an extra dash of continental flair.
Farm Machinery and the Spirit of the Drive
A visit to the show wasn’t complete without a nod to South Africa’s agricultural heritage. The Suid Kaap Veteran Tractor and Farm Implement Club presented a well-curated display of tractors and farm machinery, with Andre Barnard guiding the audience through the lineup. Among the highlights was a 1950s David Brown tractor—a subtle yet poignant reminder of the connection between automotive excellence and the legacy of companies like Aston Martin, which still carry the “DB” initials in homage to David Brown.
The event’s drive-by runs were equally engaging. The British car drive, which concluded the day at 5 pm, saw a lively procession featuring Morris Minors, MGBs, Triumphs, Rolls-Royce, and Bentleys. Notably, Vickee Fleetwood of East London embarked on the drive in her family heirloom—a 1959 Austin Healey Sprite with its distinctive frog-eye design.
American Classics and Two-Wheeled Wonders
Scattered throughout the main field were symbols of American automotive might: Ford Mustangs, Chevrolets, Ford Fairlanes, and Valiants that paid homage to the legacy of the American Chrysler group. A few examples of South Africa’s own car—the Ranger built by General Motors in the early 1970s—offered a unique blend of Opel styling and Vauxhall accents, even finding favor in European markets.
The passion for vintage motoring extended to two wheels as well. The classic motorcycle display featured icons dating back to the 1930s, with highlights including late 1950s AJS machines and water-cooled Suzuki 750 GT superbikes from the 1970s bike-boom era. The vibrant energy of the Eden Vespa Club also lit up the show, as scooter hooters and three-wheeler trikes—with engines adapted from Volkswagens and Nissans—provided a modern twist on a nostalgic ride.
A Testament to Passion
With over 1,000 participants, the 28th George Old Car Show was more than just a display of classic vehicles—it was a celebration of passion. As show co-ordinator Alewijn Dippenaar aptly put it at a pre-show gathering, every single vehicle on the field represented someone’s devotion to preserving and celebrating automotive history. The event not only provided a platform for collectors and enthusiasts to showcase their prized possessions but also acted as a vibrant meeting place where stories, memories, and a shared love for classic motoring converged.
Looking ahead, plans are already in motion to ensure that the 2026 rendition of the George Old Car Show promises to be an equally rewarding experience for all. For more information about this year’s event and the Southern Cape Old Car Club, visit www.scocc.co.za.
