New Delhi: Many a head turned as lovingly restored vintage cars drove down the capital’s streets Sunday in the 45th Statesman Vintage and Classic Car Rally, flagged off by Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik. Rolling out from Statesman House in the morning, the cars travelled to the Greater Noida YMCA and finally Modern School Barakhamba Road for prize distribution.

Car lovers in the capital, including children, turned out in large numbers to witness these heritage wonders. Around 130 vintage and classic vehicles participated in the rally.

Starting from very old sturdy Fords, little Austins, Bentleys, Lagondas, Miervas, the stylish Rolls Royce, Chevrolets and the Jaguars from the olden times, the rally was lead by a 1914 John Morris fire engine from the National Rail Museum, a regular favourite and a winner in many events.

Indian Oil, Heritage Motoring Club of India, Titus & Co, Bank of India, Religare, Ceres Juices amongst other top brands partnered along with Brandsmith for making the 45th Statesman vintage rally a memorable event, like the yesteryears.

As the classic beauties started rolling out from the majestic Statesman building, the participants and visitors went on overdrive with their cameras to capture the magical moment.

The rally brought together the petrolheads, shutterbugs, picnickers and even children in their Sunday best.

“The Statesman Vintage & Classic Rally is now a signature event for Delhites and its popularity is increasing with each passing year. Its heartening to see 21 first time entrants in this year,s rally,” said CEO Brandsmith Rahul Mittra and the exclusive promotions & event partner of this niche annual event.

The rally drove via India Gate, Purana Quila road, Pragati Maidan, Ring Road, DND flyway, through the Greater Noida Expressway to the YMCA and finally to Modern School. At the YMCA the participants, along with their family members, were entertained by the rock band Black Slade and treated with a sumptuous lunch and beverages.

The 1914 John Morris won the Statesman Challenge trophy for the oldest participating vehicle and the Indian Oil Trophy. A 1939 Bentley received the C.R. Irani trophy, out of the total 42 running trophies.