Classic cars on show

Carl Gilchrist, Gleaner Writers

Several classic cars were on show last Sunday at the Orchid Society of Ocho Rios' annual show on the property of Couples Sans Souci, St Mary.

The show-stopper was undoubtedly a 1958 MG-A, owned by Sans Souci's general manager, Pierre Battaglia, that was restored, locally, to immaculate condition and drives beautifully.

"It was restored from scratch; from the chassis to the body and the engine, as well as the upholstery... everything was restored. It took about three and a half years and now it's fully functional and certified by the Jamaica Classic Car Association," Battaglia said.

The MG comes with a 1600cc engine with double carburettor. During the restoration process, it was refitted with a wooden floor just like the original factory model.

"It can go pretty fast because the chassis is very light. The body of the car is light, but the engine is powerful. It has 80 hp, but because the chassis is so light there is a lot of speed to this car," the owner explained.

Amazing project

Battaglia said all the factory guidelines were observed when the car was being remodelled, including the brakes.

"It was an amazing project and now it's looking good," said a proud Battaglia. "It's a pleasure to share with 'her' an enjoyable Sunday ride."

Another crowd-stopper was a 1931 Ford Model A (something close to the Model T). It is owned by Paul Chong, who also has a 1959 Austin Metropolitan and a 1957 Austin A35.

"I've had the Ford Model A for about 15 years now. It's in excellent driving condition and is licensed for the road," said Chong.

He explained that the car was "in pieces" when he acquired it, but it was restored about 10 years ago locally.

The Ford Model A comes with a powerful 2000cc engine.

The Austin Metropolitan features an American designed Nash body and a BMC (English) engine, hence the name. The engine size is 1500cc.

The Austin A35 has a 950cc engine and was acquired by Chong from an unnamed female driver, who had owned it for decades.

"She got old and decided to sell it. It was in immaculate condition, so I've not done anything to that car except to license it and drive it," Chong said.

All three cars are registered with the Jamaica Classic Car Association.