The Classic Cars of Cuba

Iskandar Blogger 2:17 AM

A Half Century of Driving Classics
It has now been 54 years since the Cuba Embargo was implemented. The Embargo stopped all imports in and out of Cuba from the United States including automobiles and the parts needed to make them run. The people of Cuba were buying and driving the
American cars in the 1950's and loving them. This was a time when Cuba was booming. 




The streets were filled with cars and business was good for tourism and the import and exports of goods.

Now a half century later the people of Cuba are still driving these classic around because it is all they have had for transportation. The people have kept these cars alive by any means even hand building parts. Interviews with locals tells the truth on the struggles to keep these cars on the road.



In some cases the gas tanks have rusted completely off the car and owners have had to use plastic containers placed in the back seats or floor. The gas is then siphon out by a pump to gas the engines. Most of the work be it body or mechanical is done by hand. Keeping these cars alive is a necessity. 


The streets are lined with these driving pieces of art. You can see Pontiac's, Chevy's, Dodge, Ford, Buick's and more. Some of these cars have had a fresh coat of paint that matches the original color and then some have a brilliant island color to them. I can only wonder if the locals here had access to real parts what they could do with their dream machines.




In 2008 the Cuba Government loosen up the regulations and the imports of some cars was allowed. These cars went to top officials and government employees. In 2011 the government made these cars available to the public but the supply was limited so once again top officials got the cars. 


Now the laws have changed so that the citizens could buy a import car however there is a high tax about 100% to have one. This is pay for roads and transportation needs. The future will soon weed out these classic cars that are a piece of Cuban culture. Many people love seeing the rolling art when they visit Cuba.