Some people drive cars yet others build strong and lasting relationships with them. For Linda ‘PS’ Shongwe that bond began back in 2012, a connection that has only grown stronger over the past 13 years with his beloved 1998 VW Golf 2. “This is not just a car it is a legacy on wheels, a fire breather ,a legend I call ‘Mkhuzi Wezitha Zonkhe Zimlalele’,” said Linda proudly.Why such a powerful name? Linda believes that it is the king of flames because in the streets of Motshane, Mbabane and across all of Eswatini when his car rolls in, every other machine bows in respect. It is not only its arrogance, but also the presence, the sound and beauty that command attention. “What sets my car apart is not just the looks, but how it moves and responds,” explained Linda. He knows that the moment he steps on that throttle and the revs rise; there is a kind of mechanical harmony that fills up his soul. Also ,when the piped exhaust sings, the engine roars and it feels like they are one that is when Linda knows that it will not be just a normal drive but it will be a dance on the road. “I can spend the whole day on high revs, full throttle and Mkhuzi Wezitha will never complain,” explained Linda.To Linda his car is no longer just a car but they share something deeper, an emotional journey that started in 2012 when they first came to each other’s life. “Back at that time, he was not just a vehicle but he was a dream on wheels,” he shared. When the years passed by he became his best friend.
In these 13 years Linda had poured his heart in maintaining, upgrading and modifying his car in order to match its performance with its personality and through it all it has never disappointed him.
Why not an upgrade?
People will never understand the kind of loyalty and connection that comes from sharing over a decade with a machine that feels like a part of his identity. “New cars come with tech and flash but none of them carry the spirit and story of my Golf 2,” said Linda. Mkhuzi is not just a car to Linda but his king of flames, his road warrior and symbol of passion so that is why he chooses to stay firm with his car. To other drivers, Linda shared that; “You do not need a car that takes you places, but you need one that speaks your language, understands your rhythm and burns with your fire.”
Leave a comment