A 1928 Durant car, entered by Sachit Shah, is set to be a standout feature of the 2024 Africa Concours d’Elegance on September 29 at the Nairobi Racecourse.
The Durant Motors Corporation, established by Billy Durant in 1921, aimed to rival General Motors. The company used engines made by Continental and had saloon car bodies crafted by the Budd Company before closing in 1932. The Durant car, competing in the pre-1930 class, is expected to be the only one of its kind in Kenya and one of the few remaining in Africa. It boasts a unique wooden box body, reflecting the practical design of the 1930s for both passenger and cargo use.
The Concours will feature a mix of new and returning competitors, showcasing a variety of cars and motorcycles, including some that have never been seen at the Racecourse before. Highlights include:
– A 1966 Ford Mustang, entered by renowned rally driver Rob Collinge
– A 1968 Saab 96, presented by Thomas Frowein
– A 1937 MGTA, exhibited by Paras Shah
Newcomers to the event include:
– Pablo Kengara, who will showcase a 1970 Fiat 500F and a 1985 Mercedes Benz W123
– Hamed Ehsani, debuting with a 1976 Morris Minor and a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle
– Leo Otieno, presenting a 1971 Alfa Romeo 1750GTV that he has spent six years restoring