AT 69, entrepreneur Tulsiram Pande’s eyes light up when he speaks of his two Italian classics, a bond forged over 40 years. The sleek 1956 Fiat TV 1100 (Tipo Turismo Veloce) 103E and the cute 1952 Fiat 500C Belvedere Topolino aren’t just vehicles in his collection; they represent precision engineering, family memories, and a deep love for vintage motoring. “The Fiat TV 1100 is a landmark automobile of its era,” says Pande, “combining performance, elegance, and engineering excellence.

 

The 103E variant is particularly admired for its refined driving characteristics and balanced design, making it a distinguished representative of 1950s European motoring.” He has owned this 1100cc Italian beauty since 1982, after two previous owners, preserving it carefully for over four decades, though it has been repainted in a new colour. Next to it stands the compact Topolino. “The Fiat Topolino is one of the earliest mass-produced small cars in the world and a landmark in automotive history,” Pande shares. “Known for its compact design, simplicity, and reliability, it represents an era when engineering focused on practicality, efficiency, and timeless aesthetics. The Belvedere variant, with its estate-style body, is particularly rare and distinctive.”

 

Acquired in 1984 after just one previous owner, this 569cc gem still wears its original colour unchanged! For Pande, these cars are close to his heart. “The vehicle reflects an era when automobiles were built with precision, character, and durability,” he says of the TV 1100. “Its long-term preservation has been a personal commitment and a source of pride, also fostering a shared passion for vintage motoring across generations within the family.” About the Topolino, he said, “This car is more than a machine, it is a living memory of a bygone era.

 

It represents craftsmanship, patience, and mechanical honesty. Over the years, it has become a bond between generations in my family. The time spent restoring, maintaining, and driving it has created priceless memories, especially shared with my son, who shares the same passion.” Maintenance comes through passion and networks. For the Topolino, “Servicing and maintenance are managed in-house. Both my son and I take a keen interest and are fully equipped to repair and maintain our cars whenever required. Spare parts are sourced through vintage automobile networks in cities like Mumbai and Delhi.

 

” The TV 1100 benefits from similar enthusiast support and skilled craftsmen. “Vintage vehicles are an important part of our motoring heritage. Far from being obsolete or polluting artefacts, they document the evolution of automotive engineering and society’s enduring pursuit of progress.” “Preserving them is an act of cultural responsibility,” Pande explained. These beloved Italian classics will be on display at the Rotary-The Hitavada Vintage Rally organised in association with Cent Ind Vintage Automobile Association at St Ursula High School ground on December 28. As Pande reminded, “Conserving vintage automobiles is a cultural duty, they should be cherished and passed on to future generations.” For Pande and his son, these cars are eternal companions, teaching lessons in patience, craftsmanship, and sustainability. “They are a forever keep,” he signed off.