Toyota Starlet takes top honours at Retromania 2018
A 34 year-old Toyota Starlet was voted “Car Of The Show” last Sunday when the Retro and Classic Car Club of Barbados hosted its third annual Retromania Exhibition, at the Haggatt Hall base of Sagicor General Insurance.
Driven by Tahir Kara, the red racing-prepared car, pushing 1600 cc, was a hit with both judges and car enthusiasts who were impressed with its originality and appeal.
Part of the appeal was its attractive paint finish, a powerful rebuilt engine and the generally good condition of the more than three-decade-old vehicle.
“This car is owned by my uncle Sulieman Esuf but I love it and take it to the shows. Last year I was here but didn’t compete and now this year the Starlet is the winner. I was surprised, but it is a great feeling to win Car Of the Show,” said Kara.
Sponsored by Sagicor General Insurance, Retromania 2018 attracted hundreds of spectators and more than 50 vehicles, including a number of Classics and a range of retro-vehicles, dating back to the 1970’s and 1980’s. Among the branded vehicles on show were Fords, Minis, BMWs, Subarus, Toyotas, Hyundais, Nissans, a Porsche and a Jaguar.
Fred Thormann, with his 1981 BMW 7 series, took the prize for best original car but was given a good run for his money by Phil Harden’s 1968 racing-green Jaguar which attracted great attention and positive comments.
Car enthusiasts also received special treats for just being present as they witnessed the unveiling of two additional retro vehicles, which were added to the fleet and also joined the list of those being insured by Sagicor General.
The cars unveiled on the day were a 1984 Ford Fiesta owned by David Browne, and a glistening green 1988 Daihatsu Charmant owned by popular bodywork specialist Greg Cheese Catwell.
Through the creativity of Sagicor General Insurance and their efforts to tailor insurance products to suit the marketplace, the owners of Classic and Retro cars on the island have been able to have their valuable assets insured at more affordable rates, for as little as $250 per year, and this has ignited a great interest among younger persons in restoring vehicles.
Vice President of Marketing and Business Development Mark Blakeley said they were happy to provide such coverage and also partner with the clubs to stage an annual event which has been growing every year.
Blakeley also revealed that the Sagicor Group was able to have its new Medical Bus on display for the first time and scores of attendees at the car show took the opportunity to benefit from free health checks on location.
Said the Vice President: “The crowds were good and a wide variety of vehicles were on show. We are proud to be able to assist these guys in preserving their assets and at the same time create an event that can be enjoyed by the whole family.” (PR)
