This Sunday, 3 August 2025, Zwartkops Raceway will once again play host to one of South Africa’s most beloved motoring traditions — Cars in the Park. Now in its 43rd year, the event remains the crown jewel of classic motoring celebrations on the national calendar. With over 2,500 classic cars, motorcycles, modern collectables, and supercars expected to descend upon the circuit, this year’s edition promises an extraordinary celebration of automotive heritage, innovation, and enduring passion.
Yet beyond the gleaming chrome and growling engines, 2025’s event tells a deeply personal story — one that began nearly six decades ago with a chance encounter on a Pretoria street.
The Encounter That Started It All
In 1966, Steffan Stander, then a young man from Cullinan, was piloting his 36-year-old Ford Model A through the streets of Arcadia when fate intervened. Driving in the opposite direction was Erwin Kuschke in a Model T Ford. Captivated, Steffan gave chase and signaled for Erwin to pull over near Loftus Versfeld. Two enthusiasts of vintage motoring bonded instantly, and in that spontaneous meeting, the seeds of the Pretoria Old Motor Club were sown.
Fast forward to today, and that same Model A — weathered by time, but rich with character — will be on display in the Special Invites section at Zwartkops, proudly presented by an 84-year-old Steffan himself. His son, Neil Stander, continues the family’s motoring legacy with his own Model A and a painstakingly restored 1967 Ford Mustang.
Erwin, who sadly passed away years ago, is remembered with great affection. His sons, Philip and Emil Kuschke, remain pillars of the old car movement in South Africa — a testament to the generational impact of that singular meeting.
Spotlight on the Special Invites
This year’s Special Invites display celebrates four significant genres of motoring heritage:
- Vintage (Pre-1930):
From Francois van Staden’s 1928 Chevrolet Phaeton to Taco Kamstra’s 1926 Pontiac, this section brings the pioneers of motoring history to life. Other highlights include a 1925 Citroën B12 Torpedo and an array of Ford Model T and Model A vehicles. - Early Classics (1931–1945):
The elegance of the interwar period will be showcased by Bob Bouwmeesters’ 1933 Rolls-Royce, Sakkie van der Watt’s rare 1937 Cord 812, and the streamlined 1940 V12 Lincoln owned by Justus de Waal. - Homologation Specials (1970s–1990s):
Born from motorsport necessity, these rare production-run vehicles include Ford’s Cortina and Capri Perana models, and Toyota’s TRD — a rally-bred marvel of the 1980s. - Classic Motorcycles:
Life-long two-wheeled enthusiast Tom Linley will display three rare Velocette motorcycles, celebrating the mechanical artistry of a bygone era.
The Lazarus Legacy
A familiar figure at Cars in the Park is Colin Lazarus, whose connection to the Ford brand runs deep. The Lazarus Motor Corporation — a landmark for motorists on the N1 — has its roots in Bronkhorstspruit, where Colin took the reins of the family’s Ford dealership in his early twenties.
At Zwartkops, his display will include a striking collection of modern Ford GT supercars, a 1966 GT40 homage, and an immaculately preserved 1957 Ford Thunderbird. Keep an eye out for his 1960s Thames car transporter, parked at the top entrance — an Instagram-worthy piece of motoring nostalgia.
Motoring Meets Media
This year welcomes All Things Motoring as a new sponsor. Hosted by Michael Pashut, the show airs on Ignition TV and offers a contemporary take on the motoring world. Pretoria FM, the event’s long-time media partner, continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Cars in the Park, with dedicated interviews and features leading up to the event.
Frik Kraamwinkel, event organiser and chairperson of the Pretoria Old Motor Club, emphasises the show’s broader appeal:
“This year our main theme is the History of the Motor Car. South Africa holds a special place in global motoring history — we’ve been assembling vehicles since 1923. While our roots are in vintage and classic cars, the show now embraces everything with a story to tell, even as recent as 2025.”
More Than Just a Car Show
With over 100 car clubs and interest groups expected, Cars in the Park isn’t just about viewing exceptional vehicles — it’s about community. Visitors can browse more than 160 stalls offering food, collectibles, apparel, motoring accessories, and more. The Lions Club will once again be on hand to fuel guests with refreshments and good cheer.
Essential Info
- Date: Sunday, 3 August 2025
- Venue: Zwartkops Raceway, Pretoria
- Gates Open:
- Exhibitors: 6:00 am
- Public: 8:30 am
- Tickets:
- R130 (iTickets online)
- R150 (at the gate)
- Children under 12: Free
- Exhibitors (and one passenger): Free
- Additional passengers: Full admission applies
A Celebration of History, Community, and Passion
As South Africa’s largest classic motoring event, Cars in the Park is more than just a show — it’s a tribute to the machines that moved generations, the stories that connect them, and the enthusiasts who ensure they live on. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, casual admirer, or simply after a fun family day out, Zwartkops Raceway is the place to be this Sunday.
Because history doesn’t just belong in books — sometimes, it drives right past you.
