George Old Car Show to celebrate 140 years of motoring innovation

Excitement is building in the heart of the Southern Cape as the iconic George Old Car Show approaches its 29th edition on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14. This year’s event promises to be a spectacular celebration of motoring heritage, honouring significant milestones in automotive history that have shaped our roads today. The show, held at the Eden Technical High School in George under the auspices of the Southern Cape Old Car Club (SCOCC), will pay homage to the Pioneers of Motoring, marking the 140th anniversary of Carl Benz’s invention of the horseless motor carriage in 1886.

This year’s festivities will showcase a remarkable exhibition of early Benz vehicles, including a replica of the historic 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, the 1901 Benz Ideal, and the 1913 Benz 8/20 PS Tourenwagen. Attendees will not only experience the origins of motoring but also the evolution of one of the most recognised automotive brands in the world.

The show will further honour the 100th anniversary of the formation of Mercedes-Benz, following the merger of Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft and Benz & Cie. to create Daimler-Benz AG in 1926. Visitors will be treated to an exclusive exhibition of pre-World War II Mercedes-Benz models, featuring classics such as the 1935 Mercedes-Benz W23 130H, the elegant 1938 Mercedes-Benz W142 Type 320, and the stunning 1935 Mercedes-Benz W29 500K Special Roadster.

Adding to the allure, the Mercedes-Benz Club of South Africa will present a selection of post-War Mercedes-Benz models, celebrating its own 40th anniversary. “Every member of the SCOCC who dedicates their time, effort, and resources to conserve these vehicles plays a crucial role in keeping our motoring history alive,” shares Waldo Scribante, the SCOCC chairman and founder of Scribs BENZeum.

A symbolic tribute and exciting festivities

The festivities extend beyond the George Old Car Show itself, as the Vettoer, organised by Philip Kuschke, will precede the main event on Friday, February 13, celebrating its 20th anniversary. This unique tour, reserved for vehicles manufactured without front brakes, has become an emblematic tradition supported by the Model T Ford Club of South Africa. In a fitting tribute to motoring origins, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen is set to lead the lineup of this prestigious tour, which will depart from Prince Albert en route to George.

Fascinating entries for the Vettoer include a Stanley Steamer and a variety of vintage motorcycles. Alongside these extraordinary vehicles, classic tractors will share the exhibition field with an array of remarkable automobiles of all marques, encapsulating the excitement and nostalgia of the "Pioneers of Motoring" theme.

The Executive Mayor of the George Municipality, Alderman Browen Johnson, expresses enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This celebration of motor heritage is the largest and most respected showcase of automotive passion and craftsmanship in the country. The municipality is steadfastly committed to promoting George as a premier tourist destination.”

Show organiser Alewijn Dippenaar echoes this sentiment, noting that the George Old Car Show serves as a meeting place for classic car enthusiasts in an age dominated by supercars. “This event represents a focal point for all iconic marques and those who share a passion for old and classic vehicles,” he says, anticipating a rewarding experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.

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