The low, unmistakable rumble of V8 engines rolled across the Brentwood Mall car park in Chaguanas on Sunday, as a carefully curated collection of classic cars transported visitors back to the golden age of motoring. Beneath the afternoon sun, chrome gleamed and polished bodywork reflected not just pride of ownership, but a shared reverence for a bygone era.
Staged by Trinbago Old School Projects, the free event drew enthusiasts of all ages—some reliving memories, others discovering for the first time the raw appeal of mid-to-late 20th-century engineering. These were machines built with presence and personality, long before the dominance of sensors and complex electronics. At the heart of the spectacle were the iconic V8 engines, celebrated for their power and distinctive configuration.
For Nigel Jones, spokesman for the group, the gathering represented more than a simple showcase.
“There’s a deep sense of nostalgia attached to these vehicles,” he explained. “Our community, which has grown to over 70,000 followers on social media, continues to expand because people want to reconnect with that feeling.”
That sense of anticipation extends beyond the showground. Jones noted that many enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting a Government announcement on the potential importation of classic cars—an issue that has captured the attention of collectors and hobbyists alike.
“It’s something people are really looking forward to,” he said, pointing out that older vehicles often offer a simplicity that appeals to owners. “Parts are accessible, and they’re easier to repair. You’re not dealing with layers of complicated electronics.”
Among the standout exhibits was a striking 1958 Dodge Custom Royal, proudly displayed by the Ramdass family of Cunupia. With its sweeping lines and commanding presence, the vehicle drew admirers throughout the day. For Mel Ramdass, however, its value lies far beyond aesthetics.
“This car belonged to my grandfather,” she said, her voice carrying both pride and sentiment.
“It was passed down, and now it’s part of our family legacy.”
She added that the Custom Royal is believed to be the only factory-built right-hand-drive model of its kind in Trinidad and Tobago—a rare distinction that adds to its allure.
Yet such heritage comes at a cost. The car, she admitted with a smile, is a gas guzzler, reserved mainly for special occasions. Even a short journey between Cunupia and Chaguanas can consume fuel worth up to $150. Still, for the Ramdass family, its sentimental worth far outweighs the expense.
Not all the classic cars at the show live such sheltered lives. For Paul Llanos, his 1968 Chevrolet Camaro is no museum piece but a daily companion. Having owned the vehicle for two decades, Llanos embraces both its quirks and its charm.
“It’s affordable to maintain, though it does use a bit of fuel,” he said. “But it’s made to be enjoyed—not just parked up.”
As the day unfolded, the event became more than a display of vintage automobiles. It was a meeting point for stories, memories and shared passion—a reminder that, even in an age of modern convenience, there remains something deeply compelling about the roar of a classic engine and the legacy it carries.
