Bulawayo vintage mayoral limousine back on the road

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has announced the successful restoration of its iconic 1972 Daimler limousine, thanks to a generous US$2,122 donation and the dedication of vintage car specialists. Once decommissioned due to persistent mechanical issues, the vintage car has been returned to its former glory and recently made a grand reappearance at the 2025 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair.

The vehicle, a symbol of elegance and municipal pride, had been lying dormant in the basement of the city's Rates Hall after being taken out of service in 2022. Its restoration marks a poignant return of a piece of Bulawayo's civic history. The Daimler, long associated with mayoral functions and dignitary visits, was once a common sight during official city processions and events.

According to minutes from the latest council meeting, the acting director of works, Methusi Dibidi, explained the vehicle had gone for years without proper servicing due to its rare and outdated technology. For many years, the car was maintained by a specialist from Anderson Motors, who serviced it personally. However, after his passing, no local mechanic possessed the necessary expertise, leading to the car's eventual retirement.

Mayor David Coltart, recognising the historical value of the vehicle, recommended Philip Minaar, a specialist in vintage automobiles, to take on the challenging task. Minaar inspected the Daimler and diagnosed multiple issues, including faults in the cooling and fuel systems, the carburettor, and the auto-electrical network.

In December 2024, the project received a timely boost from a donor based in the United Kingdom. The donation included essential spare parts: a carburettor repair kit (US$905.86), a Daimler fuel pump (US$190.18), and a column-mounted indicator and flasher switch (US$265.99). Minaar, whose estimated labour was valued at US$760, generously waived his service fees, donating his time and expertise to the project.

The total donation value amounted to US$2,122.03, with the city council covering an additional US$465.14 for customs clearance. With the spares secured and installed, the Daimler was brought back to life - a significant moment during the 2025 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, where it was proudly showcased.

Although Mayor Coltart was unable to accompany the restored vehicle due to other official duties, his vision for urban renewal through dignified symbolism was praised by city officials. The restoration of the Daimler, while not solving service delivery issues like water or employment, reflects a broader ambition to revive Bulawayo's grandeur and civic pride.

"The Daimler doesn't provide water or jobs," said Dibidi, "but its restoration is symbolic of our broader plan to restore the dignity and history of our city. It's a nod to our heritage and an investment in the spirit of Bulawayo."

The restoration effort also saw the involvement of Captain Chris Brittlebank, a retired Emirates Boeing 777 pilot and former schoolmate of Mayor Coltart, who played a crucial role in sourcing the rare parts in the UK.

City officials hope the Daimler will now resume its role as a ceremonial vehicle for mayoral duties and visiting dignitaries, continuing its legacy as a symbol of Bulawayo's cultural and industrial heritage.