Me and my cars: Brijesh Chinai

We speak to Brijesh Chinai, custodian, Autoworld, The Pranlal Bhogilal Collection, about his dream cars, his motorsport hero, his automotive bucket list and more.

Published on Sep 01, 2024 08:30:00 AM

4,179 Views

The Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc (left) and 540K from the collection.

What are you driving and why?

I drive a 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 Sc for its timeless design and engineering excellence. To me, it represents the pinnacle of automotive innovation from that era. I also often drive a 1960s Jaguar Mark IX.

What’s next on your wish list?

I’m looking to add a pre-war Bugatti to our family collection.

The most fun you’ve had in a car?

In recent times, it was while driving a 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K on the newly opened coastal road along the Mumbai shore. The combination of the car’s raw power and the stunning views was delightful.

Favourite / dream money-no-object car?

My dream car is the Bugatti Type 57 SC, as it’s a vintage masterpiece of design and engineering, embodying the pinnacle of automotive excellence.

Type 57 SC is Brijesh’s dream car.

Who is your all-time greatest motorsport hero?

Since I love history, it has to be Hugh F. Locke King who envisioned the famous Brooklands racing track in the UK.

Favourite road?

The Stelvio Pass in northern Italy with its scenic views and continuous hairpins.

What’s on your automotive bucket list?

Driving the Lancia Dilambda from our collection in the Mille Miglia. The combination of history and elegance coupled with the beautiful Italian countryside is a dream come true for any car enthusiast.

What would you do with your last litre of fuel?

Save it for future generations to make them understand what petrol was.

Your ideal 5-car garage would be?

1936 Duesenberg

1938 Delahaye 165

1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS

1938 Delage D8

Jaguar E-type

What was your first car?

My first car was a Skoda Octavia vRS.

Also see:

Me and my cars: Sumeet Wadke

Me and my cars: Hani Musthafa