What Cubans Say About Their Old American Cars

The vibrant streets of Cuba are synonymous with a unique charm that is incomparable to any other place in the world. One of the major contributing factors to this distinctiveness is the abundance of vintage American cars that roam the streets. These beautifully restored relics from the past have become an iconic symbol of Cuban life and serve as a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of the Cuban people.

Unlike most countries where modern vehicles dominate the roads, Cuba is a time capsule of the 1950s, with classic American cars being the primary mode of transportation. From colorful convertibles to elegant sedans, these automobiles have become an inseparable part of the Cuban identity, captivating tourists and locals alike.

UNDER CUBA’S HOOD: What Cubans Say About Their Old American Cars

by Michael Shapiro ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	28012 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	57 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Living Nostalgia

For Cubans, these old American cars represent more than just a means of getting from point A to point B. They embody a rich history and provide a sense of nostalgia for an era long gone. The Communist Revolution in 1959 marked the end of American car imports to Cuba, freezing the automobile industry in time. As a result, Cubans had to find creative ways to keep these vehicles running.

Through sheer determination and resourcefulness, Cuban mechanics have become experts at keeping these vintage cars operational. Many of the original engines have been replaced with diesel engines from other vehicles, and spare parts are improvised from whatever materials are available. These makeshift solutions have enabled the cars to survive for over six decades, defying all odds.

Driving through Havana, the capital city, it's not uncommon to witness a beautifully restored American car cruising alongside more dilapidated counterparts. The contrasting conditions are a testament to the varying degrees of love and care that are put into each vehicle. For some, these cars are cherished family heirlooms that have been passed down through generations, while for others, they serve as a livelihood and a means of making a living as a taxi driver.

A Thriving Tourism Industry

The allure of these vintage cars has also given rise to a thriving tourism industry in Cuba. Visitors from around the world flock to the island, eager for a chance to experience a ride in one of these iconic vehicles. In recent years, specialized car tour companies have emerged, providing tourists with the opportunity to explore the streets of Cuba in style.

For many tourists, a ride in a classic American car is a bucket list experience. The sight of a brightly colored vintage convertible with its top down and salsa music playing instantly transports visitors back in time. It's a chance to relive the glitz and glamour of the 1950s, even if only for a brief moment.

The fascination with these cars has also inspired photographers, filmmakers, and artists to capture their beauty through various mediums. The elegant curves and timeless design elements of these vehicles make them the perfect subject for creative expression.

The Challenges of Ownership

While owning an iconic American car in Cuba may seem like a dream come true, it comes with its fair share of challenges. Limited access to spare parts and the high cost of maintenance make it difficult for owners to keep these cars in pristine condition.

The U.S. embargo on Cuba has further complicated matters, making it nearly impossible to import new parts or obtain original replacements. As a result, owners have to resort to creative means, such as handcrafting parts or relying on assistance from international car enthusiasts who are willing to help.

Additionally, the scarcity of fuel presents another hurdle for car owners. With limited resources available, Cubans have become adept at finding alternative fuels or developing their own mixtures to keep their vehicles running.

Preserving a Piece of History

Despite the challenges, the Cuban love affair with these old American cars shows no signs of slowing down. Car enthusiasts and collectors from around the world are drawn to Cuba, hoping to acquire these rare gems for their own collections.

Efforts are being made to preserve these cars as a part of the country's cultural heritage. Organizations like the A Lo Cubano Car Club work tirelessly to protect and restore these vehicles, ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to appreciate their beauty and historical significance.

What Cubans say about their old American cars is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people. These cars are not just machines; they are a symbol of the Cuban spirit, and their continued presence on the island serves as a reminder of the country's rich history and unwavering determination to defy all odds.

So, the next time you find yourself in Cuba, take a ride in one of these vintage American cars and immerse yourself in the nostalgia and charm that they embody. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

UNDER CUBA’S HOOD: What Cubans Say About Their Old American Cars

by Michael Shapiro ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	28012 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	57 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Michael Shapiro is the exceptional traveller who doesn’t sit in mere contemplation of landscape, but needs to rub shoulders with people, hear their anecdotes, memories, desires and hopes. It’s for that he has achieved the great synthesis that this book represents, and his expose on the existence of old American cars is crisscrossed with the sincere, loving, cheerful and nostalgic presence of Cubans who live proud of their work, their intelligence and their skills to overcome the difficulties of everyday life on the island.