The fourth edition of the Autocar India Modern Classic Rally concluded at the Grand Hyatt, Mumbai, on February 1, featuring the event’s largest-ever display and a strong public turnout. Over 140 modern classic cars took part this year, spanning the 1970s to the 2010s, before coming together for a celebratory drive through the streets of Mumbai.
A major highlight of this year’s rally was a special display of cars from the late Ratan Tata’s personal collection, including his Ferrari California and Chevrolet Corvette C4. The wider showcase was equally strong, with standout modern classics such as the Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta, Dodge Viper and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
A showcase of modern classic icons
Ratan Tata’s collection leads a landmark display at the 2026 rally
Like previous editions, the Autocar India Modern Classic Rally 2026 showcased a wide spectrum of significant modern classic cars. Among the standout displays was a special showcase of four cars from Ratan Tata’s personal collection, led by his Ferrari California. Acquired during the Tata-Fiat era, the front-engined V8 convertible served as the centrepiece. It was joined by his Chevrolet Corvette C4 and Pontiac Firebird, both representing classic American V8 muscle, and a Lincoln Continental that highlighted his preference for large, comfort-focused cruisers.
Referencing the cars on display, Perseus Bandrawalla, curator of the Modern Classic Rally, said, “Modern classics represent a golden era of driving, where engineering excellence and mechanical purity came together to create cars that continue to inspire generations.”
While the first day of the rally focused on a static showcase of modern classics, the second day saw the cars take to the road in a celebratory drive through Mumbai. The rally set off from the Grand Hyatt Mumbai and passed through the Sea Link and Coastal Road, drawing crowds of onlookers along the route.
Commenting on the importance of events such as the Modern Classic Rally, Hormazd Sorabjee, editor, Autocar India, said, “Modern classic cars are more than collector’s items. They’re rolling history; they spark conversation, and they bring people together through a shared passion for driving. The Modern Classic Rally continues to champion that spirit.”
Some iconic modern classics showcased
The rally drew some of the most important modern classic cars in India
As mentioned earlier, this year’s rally featured over 140 modern classic cars, spanning models from the 1970s through to the 2010s, marking the largest and most diverse line-up in the event’s history. These were some of the most important ones on display:
Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta
One of just 49 right-hand-drive examples worldwide and the final naturally aspirated mid-engined V8 produced by Ferrari.
Ferrari 488 Pista Spider
Ferrari’s last special-edition mid-engined V8, limited to 1,100 units worldwide, is powered by a 720hp twin-turbo mill that is based on the 488 GTB’s engine.
Dodge Viper
The only known Dodge Viper in India, powered by an 8.0-litre naturally aspirated V10 producing over 400hp, is owned by the Maharaja of Gondal.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
It is the first car fully designed and built by AMG and a modern tribute to the iconic 300 SL Gullwing. The example on display also served as a backup safety car during Formula 1’s India stint.
Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini’s first high-volume V10 supercar, it was offered with a naturally aspirated engine and available in both rear- and all-wheel-drive configurations.
Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica
The final evolution of Lamborghini’s naturally aspirated V10 era, featuring a rear-wheel-drive layout focused on driver engagement.
Porsche 944
Porsche’s front-engined, transaxle sports car is known for its near 50:50 weight distribution, everyday usability and role in bringing Porsche performance to a wider audience in the 1980s.
Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
An American muscle car made globally recognisable by its appearance in Smokey and the Bandit, the Trans Am is known for its distinctive styling and V8-powered performance.
Citroen DS
An automotive icon known for its hydropneumatic suspension and advanced engineering, it is one of only two examples surviving in India.
BMW M3 Convertible (E46)
This convertible version of the E46 M3, powered by BMW’s 3.2-litre naturally aspirated straight-six, is widely regarded as one of the most desirable modern-era M3s.