The countdown to South Africa’s premier classic car event is officially underway. On August 4, 2024, the 42nd Cars in the Park will take place at Zwartkops Raceway near Pretoria, promising to be bigger and better than ever.
“The Cars in the Park for 2024 is just over two months away, and it’s all systems go for another wonderful event. As usual, we will be catering to over 2 500 classic and special-interest vehicles at Zwartkops, and we expect upwards of 10 000 visitors. We will also highlight several special-interest events within the classic car world,” says Frik Kraamwinkel, the chief organiser of the event which is being run by the Pretoria Old Motor Club.
Mustang, Porche and Fiat mark milestones
One of the standout features of the 2024 event will be the 60th-anniversary celebration of the Ford Mustang. The Mustang, an enduring legend, will be showcased with iconic models from its six-decade history in South Africa.
First sold in the U.S. in April 1964, the Mustang quickly became the fastest-selling new car in history. It was introduced to South Africa as a special import, initially only in left-hand drive. The first right-hand-drive models became available 50 years later, leading to a surge in popularity, with many left-hand-drive models imported privately.
Expect to see some special models, including Shelby variants from the late 1960s, at Zwartkops on August 4.
Additionally, Porsche will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its iconic 911 series. The original 911 was first shown in 1963 as the 901 model and went on sale in 1964. South African enthusiasts were among the first to import this standout sports car, and fans can look forward to a full range of classic Porsche 911 models at this year’s event.
Fiat will also mark a significant milestone, celebrating 125 years since its founding by Giovanni Agnelli in 1899. Fiat has a long-standing place in the hearts of South African car enthusiasts, and Fiat club members are preparing to showcase some very special models on August 4.
Pre-World War II cars on display
In the pit area at Zwartkops, the Pretoria Old Motor Club will display special interest vehicles, under the guidance of long-standing POMC member Emil Kuschke. This year, the focus will be on pre-World War II cars from the late 1930s to the vintage era. These older cars will be featured alongside modern supercars, providing a fascinating comparison for visitors.
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“We have received requests from over 100 car clubs for specific display areas. The clubs’ displays showcase members’ cars, ranging from the 1920s to the modern era. The motor clubs have always shown tremendous support for our show, and we recognize their importance to the old car movement.” says Kraamwinkel.
Non-club members invited
A unique aspect of Cars in the Park is that non-club-affiliated owners of classic cars over 30 years old are also invited to showcase their vehicles on August 4. Drivers of classic cars and one passenger are admitted free of charge, resulting in a diverse array of cars, from immaculate restorations to delightfully scruffy relics.
Each year, newly discovered classics emerge, adding to the excitement for regular visitors. Cars in the Park has evolved into a wonderful family day of entertainment, even for those new to the classic car scene.
This year, nearly 140 stalls will offer everything from full-sized cars to model cars, clothing, books, tools, and novelties. There will also be live music, special children’s entertainment, and plenty of food and drink available.
A highlight of this year’s show will be a special rally stage run on the Zwartkops karting circuit in the heart of the show area. The grounds at Zwartkops Raceway, located on the R55 route near Laudium, west of Pretoria, will open to receive classic cars from the crack of dawn on Sunday, August 4.
Enthusiasts wanting to display their genuine classics should have their cars on show by 08:30. Drivers of classic cars, plus one passenger, will be admitted free of charge before 08:30.
The gates for the general public open at 08:30. Tickets for the show will be available from iTickets at R120 for adults, while children under 12 will be admitted free of charge. Adult tickets at the gate will cost R140. For more information, visit the Pretoria Old Motor Club’s website or visit the club’s Cars in the Park page on Facebook.
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