Photo Essay: The American Cars of Cuba
One of the images of Cuba ingrained in my mind is the incredible scene of classic American cars from the 1950s that continue to ply Cuban streets. Indeed, a ride in a classic American car (many serve as taxis) is a rite of passage for visitors to Havana.
It is an image Detroit should be proud of: pristine Buicks, Cadillacs, Chevys, Dodges, and Fords chauffeuring tourists around, serving as props for selfies, and being as much a part of the city as a horse-drawn carriage is in Central Park.
The reasons behind the classic Americana lie in the trade embargo that began after Fidel Castro assumed power. Under dictator Fulgencio Batista in the 1950s, Cuba was a popular holiday destination and a big importer of American cars.
Here are some of the automotive jewels FBT Editorial Director Jonathan Spira saw firsthand.
1960 Buick LeSabre convertible
Click here to continue to Page 2 – More Classic Fords, Chevys, and Buicks
