Stay (New) Classy, Pakistan
This here is the BMW Neue Klasse. It needs no introduction because it's been instrumental in helping BMW reach where the propeller-shaped-logo-toting brand is today (that propeller bit is a myth; Also, a small side note, the latest logo is a bit meh!). If you've followed BMW for a while, names like New Class, 1600, 1800, 2002, etc. must have popped up now and again. The model line was launched before the 3 Series and proved commercially successful. And how can one forget the mirrored ‘turbo’ on the 2002 turbo and the early press images of that car. But, unless you look closely (which you should), the car you see here doesn't exactly stand out, so why are we talking about it? That's because I feel that it in a way embodies the motoring culture of Pakistan — or at least a large part of what is known to us.
The art behind decorating each truck in an almost bespoke way isn't new for the country. It started with a lone painter drawing faces of prominent people on buses and trucks, but soon enough, commercial vehicles turned into a moving canvas for artists in the country. It's certainly not limited to early Bedfords or Mercedes trucks, and the motifs now find their way to even the latest models. This is a great way not just to propagate an art form that wasn't exactly celebrated, but also to ensure that the monotony of modern automotive design (at least the banality of truck and bus design) doesn't make the view from your windscreen boring.
This BMW New Class contributes to the cause as well. Owned by a gentleman called Tauqir Awan from Pakistan, the car has its bits covered in truck art. It is, I am told, a common phenomenon in the country to cover up paint imperfections with truck art, especially where there's a need to re-chrome. It sits on what appear to be BBS-style wheels and also sports an unashamed love for the M colours. It’s down to the owner's personal preference, obvs, but the use of these motifs makes it very unique.
It is safe to say that truck art deserves more coverage globally, so I’d do my part. You can expect more of this on The Car Cult soon. This quick story wouldn't have been possible without the photos and information from Classic Cars Pakistan.
