Vintage Fiat rally rolls through scenic ghats to Mahabaleshwar

Pune:A convoy of over 20 vintage Fiat cars turned heads across Pune on Saturday, travelling nearly 120 km to Mahabaleshwar in a classic rally organised by the Fiat Classic Car Club of India. Some of the meticulously maintained vehicles dated back to 1955, representing India's early post-Independence motoring era and proving that decades-old machines can still run smoothly with dedicated care.The roughly four-hour drive passed through city stretches and winding ghat roads, drawing attention from commuters who paused to take pictures and videos of the convoy. With shiny chrome trims, distinct bodylines and retro headlamps, the cars offered a glimpse into a period when vehicles were designed for longevity and mechanical simplicity.
Models such as the Millicento, Superselect, President and Padmini featured prominently. Owners said preserving these vehicles requires patience, technical skill and consistent maintenance, often sourcing rare parts or restoring components by hand. Several cars have remained within families for decades, turning ownership into a form of custodianship rather than collection. The club currently has around 55 members, most of which are from Pune and a few from Mumbai and Bangalore. These members usually participate in long distance drives to keep the vehicles operational. Organiser Sanjay Dhere said the rally aimed to promote preservation of automotive heritage and spark interest among younger generations. He said, "Members regularly undertake drives to destinations such as Goa, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kanyakumari, using road journeys to demonstrate that vintage cars remain functional machines."Speaking about his own vehicle, Dhere added, "My father bought the 1984 Premier Padmini when he was the Revenue Minister in the 90s, and now it has been passed on to me."Participant Sheetal Sonkambale, who owns a 1991 Fiat, said, "My car is a repository of family memories rather than just a vehicle. Maintaining it personally and showcasing it at rallies brings joy, while appreciation from onlookers remains the greatest reward."The rally concluded in Mahabaleshwar, where enthusiasts exchanged restoration experiences and technical insights, reinforcing how vintage motoring continues through community driven effort.