KZN Dubs Club unite motorists for the love of classic cars

Members of the KZN Dubs Club aim to get attention – with specialised sound systems, pimped rims and paint jobs that make their VWs stand out from the crowd.

The club has grown from VW exclusive to include all car types and with over 100 members across the province, they regularly meet for car shows and social events.

“It is about brotherhood among our fellow VW members that got extended to the Audi family, and now is growing into almost every car brand,” said Etete resident and chairperson Ranesh Mahabeer.

Tongaat member Ian Raman drives a 1998 golf GTi that he bought for a mere R40 000 and has since poured about R81 000 into upgrading it.

“That is the beauty of owning these old cars. I get to build it to fit my expectations and doing so fills me with pride,” said Raman who has only ever owned a VW and he is on his 31st car.

The members said their club was a place for car lovers to socialize and celebrate the effort the members put into pimping their rides.

Although there are a few standard cars, most are modified and some members use their vehicles for only special occasions.

One such member is Randhir Lutchman from Verulam who drives a 1981 Golf Mk1. 

“It is a very rare car to find now, so when you own one and it’s in a good condition, you attract people’s eyes. Unfortunately, you do not only attract the eyes of good people,” said Lutchman, who prefers to keep his car safely parked under lock and key.

Chairperson Ranesh Mahabeer said the club was started for “the boys and their toys”, but has grown into a family affair, with members often bringing their entire family along for the ride.

“Our club is not like the rest. We welcome everyone to join in, it is not about whose car is better or faster. Our club is more about the passion we share and our ability to help each other from the knowledge we have built up over the years. We buy these cars and customize them to represent who we are and what we love,” said Mahabeer.

He said although their cars were capable, they were not for racing and every club member was expected to uphold the club’s name by respecting the rules of the road.