Car Features

Every year during my childhood, when my parents took their annual leave, we would make the long trip to visit him. Those visits were the highlight of my year. Not because of the holiday itself—but because I knew there would always be something special waiting in his driveway. My grandfather was constantly restoring old vehicles, and every trip revealed a new surprise. One year it might be a vintage sedan, the next an old bakkie brought back from the brink. Those memories planted a seed in me that never stopped growing.

The Engine Decision – From Coyote Dreams to Stroker Reality

Originally the owner had his heart set on a modern Ford Coyote engine. And who could blame him? The Coyote is an incredible motor. But at the time, prices were steep, and the physical size of the dual overhead cam design created packaging headaches in the Capri’s tight engine bay. Reality stepped in and forced a change of direction.

A Chance Encounter

While visiting friends at Hartbeespoort Dam, the author was introduced to something far more exciting than expected. His friend proudly wanted to show off her new Honda motorcycle, but the moment the garage doors opened, all attention shifted.

There it was – a classic truck quietly standing in the garage.

From Demo Car to Dream Build

The C2 was originally purchased as a demo model in 2008. Before this, my automotive journey included a modified Honda Ballade that served as a show car. When the Citroën entered my life, the intention was simple: keep it stock. But if you have motorsport DNA in your blood, you know that “stock” rarely stays that way for long.

Power with Character

Under the bonnet sits a 351 Cleveland V8, an engine renowned for its strong breathing, unmistakable sound, and raw muscle. It delivers a perfect balance of classic V8 grunt and reliability, making every drive feel like an event. Whether cruising or stretching its legs, the engine runs smoothly and confidently — proof of careful ownership and respect for the machinery.

The Car That Started It All

My pride and joy is a 2004 Opel Corsa Lite, finished in silver. The car currently sits at around 180,000 km, with a full service history to back it up.

From Family Hands to a Long-Term Vision

The journey began in 2009 when the Cortina was purchased from a brother-in-law. At the time, it wore a modest light blue paint job and carried decades of history. Rather than rushing into a quick restoration, the decision was made to do things properly—slowly, carefully, and entirely at home.

A 1946 Ford Jailbar with a Past

This 1946 Ford Jailbar began life as a hardworking farm truck, left neglected for decades, parked under a tree like forgotten machinery instead of American heritage. Weather-beaten, sun-dried, and abandoned, it wore a natural patina long before patina was cool.

That was the dream.

The opportunity arrived in the most unexpected way. A 1959 Morris, gifted by a wife who knew exactly how dangerous a good surprise could be. The previous owner had no space to store it, and just like that, the little Morris had a new home. It was charming, complete, and full of potential — but the performance didn’t quite match the imagination.

That line, from the launch edition of a hot rod magazine, could not describe this build more accurately.

The idea took shape casually, as most dangerous ideas do. Paging through a magazine in Wynand Nell’s workshop on 29 July, the inaugural SA SpeedWeek was mentioned — scheduled for the end of September. Attending as spectators felt like a missed opportunity. If they were going, they were going to race.

There was no plan. Just enthusiasm, experience, and a willingness to work long hours.