MBABANE – A dedicated group of South African classic car enthusiasts, united by their passion for the iconic Toyota Cressida, are set to embark on a historic cross-border event.
For the first time ever, the Kingdom of Eswatini will host a unique automotive spectacle. This inaugural journey into Eswatini promises a captivating showcase of these beloved vintage sedans, offering a rare glimpse into a vibrant and committed subculture of South African motoring.
The Toyota Cressida – particularly the older, boxier models – has attained legendary status in Southern Africa. The Cressida model has become a symbol of a bygone era; a testament to Toyota’s renowned reliability and robust engineering, and a design that has become a cherished classic. This is not merely a gathering of old vehicles, but a celebration of a living legend maintained and lovingly restored by a community that sees beyond rust and faded paint.
In an interview with Zweli Vilakati, the representative of the Cressidas crew in Eswatini, we got a glimpse of their intended proceedings. He stated that from October 3 to 5, a South African-based crew called Toyota Toycam Crew (Toyota classics owners dating back to the 80s), will grace Eswatini for the first time in mostly Cressida models.
“The main day is Saturday, October 4 when we will be invading Matsapha and Manzini as a convoy starting at Kwaluseni at 10am. Over 25 cars will arrive on Friday at Oshoek from Johannesburg and Pretoria, and more will arrive on the morning of October 4 from Johannesburg, Newcastle and Durban. They are coming for the first time and aim to make the biggest [Cressida] convoy of its kind. The main goal is to showcase clean old cars, promote the longevity and durability of Toyota, and remind the streets of what a Cressida used to be back in the 80s,” he said. He further explained that the convoy aims to identify gaps within Eswatini communities and when they return, they want to help fill those gaps.
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