IN THE heart of an automobile workshop, two machines from distant worlds stand side by side, each telling a story of engineering triumph, cultural adaptation and preservation. One is a sturdy American sedan and the other, a spirited two-stroke motorcycle of Czechoslovakian origin. Together, they form the cherished collection of Ajay Pandhe, a passionate workshop owner whose hands have kept history alive for decades. The 1974 Dodge Dart 4-Door Sedan, imported from the USA which is still retaining its original paint was acquired by Pandhe in 2008, represents transoceanic prestige as a humble US workhorse that became a symbol of luxury on Indian roads. Beside it sits a classic Jawa 250, under his guardianship for over 20 years, embodying the thump of India’s motorcycling golden age. These two vehicles, poles apart in design and origin but for Pandhe, they are not mere possessions but bridges between continents and eras, celebrating the universal language of automotive passion.

 

“The metallic gleam of a classic car often hides a rich, untold history, and few vehicles embody this blend of engineering legacy and cultural context quite like the 1974 Dodge Dart 4-Door Sedan,” Pandhe explained. “This American compact, a humble workhorse in its homeland, transformed into a symbol of prestige and power when it sailed across the seas to the bustling streets of cities like Mumbai. While American automakers traditionally focused on large, powerful V8s, the 1973 Oil Crisis immediately fuelled demand for economical vehicles. The Dart, a sensible, mid-sized car built on Chrysler’s sturdy A-body platform, fit the need perfectly.

 

“It was known for its no-nonsense design and reliable mechanicals with the Chrysler Slant-Six engine,” added Pandhe, reflecting on why he was drawn to this particular model. For Pandhe, the Jawa 250 represents an enduring bond between man and machine. “Over the years, this motorcycle has witnessed changing times while remaining constant itself. It has been maintained not just as a machine, but as a companion, carrying memories, conversations, and countless quiet rides,” recalled Pandhe. Pandhe’s commitment to meticulous maintenance ensures that these treasures not only survive but thrive, serving as rolling reminders of automotive history’s enduring appeal. In his workshop, American ingenuity meets Czech-Indian spirit, proving that true passion for classics transcends borders and time. Pandhe’s cherished possession will be seen at the Rotary-The Hitavada Vintage Car Rally organised in association with Cent Ind Vintage Automobile Association at St Ursula High School ground on December 28.