Auto Barn Classics & Tyre - ABC&T

24/12/2025

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22/12/2025

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South Africa’s First Serious Automobile Accident🦉

On 1 October 1903, South Africa experienced its first serious recorded automobile accident at the Maitland level crossing near Cape Town. The incident involved Charles Garlick, who was driving his father’s new 24 hp Darracq. With him were his friend, Harry Markham, and their chauffeur, Snellgrove.

The car entered the railway crossing through an open gate, but the opposite gate closed behind them, leaving the vehicle trapped on the tracks. Unable to reverse in time, the occupants were struck by the Johannesburg Express.

Snellgrove was thrown clear of the car. Garlick sustained only minor injuries, but Markham was badly injured, suffering a broken thigh. The Darracq was extensively damaged.

The vehicle was later rebuilt at the Garlick workshop. A replacement chassis was ordered from Paris, and the car was returned to service, making the workshop one of the earliest motor repair facilities in Cape Town.

The accident is recorded in Early Motoring in South Africa by R. H. Johnston.

24/02/2025

I had the honor of meeting Jose Izquierdo from Argentina. he desperately was in need of tyres for his Citroen 2CV during his most amazing adventure in Africa. So happy that I could offer him the service that he needed. All set for the last part of his journey.

18/07/2024

Another restoration leaves our company, 1957 MGA after nut & bolt restoration.🥰

05/06/2024

Sometimes we find the most interesting collections in the smallest towns in South Africa. We head to Ceres in the Western Cape to view a collection that has been carefully built up over 60 years. Words and photos: Wilhelm Lutjeharms At first glance it appears to be just another tyre fitment workshop...

21/09/2023

They call it the Quattro Dance and that 5 cylinder sound is mind blowing.

23/05/2023

18/04/2023

Early Concept Transportation, very advanced for its time.😎

20/03/2023

My newest addition to my collection, 1982 Corvette C3 464 Cucic Inch (7.4 Litre)

05/10/2022

If you do not dream it, it is very unlikely that you will achieve it.

26/07/2022

How very sad😭