Cuban car culture is iconic, with the streets of Havana lined with vibrant classic American cars that have become as much a part of the country’s identity as its music and cigars. American-made cars, symbols of wealth and status, flooded Cuba before the 1959 revolution. However, the U.S. embargo prevented the import of new cars or parts, forcing Cubans to rely on ingenuity to maintain these vehicles.
It did, however, make Cuba home to over 60,000 vintage American cars, many of which are still in operation despite being more than 60 years old. Maintaining these cars is no easy feat, but Cubans take immense pride in preserving them. These vehicles, lovingly maintained and passed down through generations, are a symbol of resilience. Cuban mechanics have become experts at improvisation—crafting replacements from anything available, even using Russian or Chinese engines.
Havana hosts an annual Classic Car Parade, celebrating these automobiles as part of Cuba’s national heritage. Often referred to as the world’s largest open-air car museum, Cuba draws car enthusiasts from around the globe.
It is only fitting that these cars appear to have embraced a country with a timeless nostalgic quality that intrigues many travellers. So next time sit back, light a cigar, and feel the Cuban air on your face as you journey through a vibrant country full of history and culture!
