Vintage Cars

The Dawn of Motorised Transport in India

Introduction

The arrival of motorcars in India marked a historic shift from animal-drawn vehicles to mechanized transport. Vintage cars not only introduced speed, comfort, and prestige to Indian roads but also represented the beginning of a modern transportation era. Their entry transformed mobility and paved the way for the development of the automobile industry in the country.

Early Arrival of Motorcars in India

The first motorcar was seen on Indian roads as early as 1898. During this pioneering phase, cars were imported from Europe and America, and only the elite—royalty, wealthy merchants, and British officials—had the privilege of owning them.

Between the First and Second World Wars, India witnessed the local assembly of cars, with manufacturing and assembly units being set up in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. This laid the foundation for the automobile industry’s growth in the decades to follow.

Iconic Vintage Models Featured on Stamps

India Post celebrates this era of automotive history through a special set of four beautifully designed stamps, portraying some of the most admired and exclusive vintage car models of their time:

Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost

Often hailed as “the best car in the world”, the Silver Ghost is considered the most valuable vintage car. Known for its elegance, engineering excellence, and luxurious design, it became a status symbol for Indian royalty and aristocracy.

Austin Twenty (Austin 20/4)

Introduced soon after World War I in 1919, the Austin Twenty was a large, sturdy family car. After the introduction of the Austin 20/6 in 1927, the earlier model became known as the Austin 20/4. It remained a popular and reliable choice among its owners.

Chevrolet Series BA Confederate (1932)

This American classic was manufactured in 1932 during the Great Depression. Despite a drop in production from over 600,000 to about 300,000 units, Chevrolet retained its position as the leading American carmaker. Its stylish and durable build made it a favourite among car enthusiasts.

Symbol of a Changing India

Vintage cars signified more than just transport—they symbolized technological progress, luxury, and modernisation. Their introduction:

✅ Revolutionised personal and public mobility
✅ Encouraged road development and traffic systems
✅ Inspired future automobile advancements in India

Even today, vintage car rallies and exhibitions keep their legacy alive, attracting automobile lovers and collectors who preserve these masterpieces with pride.

Philatelic Tribute by India Post

The issuance of stamps on Vintage Cars is a tribute to India’s automotive heritage. Through this collection, India Post honours the vehicles that marked the beginning of a new era of transportation, bridging India’s journey from traditional to modern mobility.