Modern Classics Rally - Mumbai 2021

A lot has happened since the last time Perseus (and the rest of the Autocar India clan) organised a Mercedes-Benz rally in late 2020. The ‘second wave’ of Covid-19 left the entire country in tatters, so organising a car rally in March 2021 (as it was planned originally) was just out of the question. Now, with a steady increase in inoculation and a relatively better situation, getting out for leisure has become possible. And for those who love cars, what could be a better excuse than getting to witness some of their favourite machines on the move (and on display).

The other potential issue that the organisers must’ve faced is that it’s very difficult to make the wider audience understand the importance of modern classics and why people are in love with them. Giving momentum to this must’ve been a herculean task in itself, but if the crowd’s response to the rally was anything to go by, it’s clear that they have quite successfully managed to attract the right cars and owners. A bigger testament to its success is the presence of those who were keen to stand out in the blistering sun to spot these cars.

There were nearly 50 cars present at the event including a handful of sporting cars from the past like the Porsche Boxster (typ 986), Audi TT (mk1), Lamborghini Murcielago, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, Dodge Viper, Mercedes-Benz SLK (R170), Lotus Elise, Ferrari 348, Honda S2000, Maserati Gran Turismo, etc. The showstopper for many must’ve been the Citroen DS, Jaguar E-Type, Aston Martin DBS, Honda NSX, Maserati Biturbo, or one of the well-restored American muscle cars. Other noteworthy cars were the two SECs (both C126s), an E30 325i, E36 convertible, Toyota Land Cruiser, a Mk2 Golf, Nissan 300 ZX, Toyota Supra, a bunch of Land Rovers, etc.

Enjoy the photos:

PS: If you’re someone who thinks showing off your ‘pops and bangs’ VAG tune right outside the venue is a good idea, please don’t ruin these events for us