Learners, families and gearheads packed Santos Beach on Sunday as the Santos Beach Auto Extremo returned with an eclectic display—from a 1915 Model T Ford to the newest Mercedes‑AMG GT. Organisers estimate about 1,500 attendees, with proceeds after costs going to selected charities. The show also doubled as a tourism boost for the Southern Cape, with exhibitors and visitors travelling in from across the country.
What Happened
What began nearly 30 years ago as a spring braai among local motorists has grown into one of South Africa’s most scenic motoring showcases. The 2025 edition featured 200+ registered vehicles, including a 1936 Bentley 4¼‑litre Park Ward, 1938 Mercedes‑Benz Type 320, Ferraris, Porsches (including the rare 914), Aston Martins, BMW 333i and i8, plus Mossel Bay’s favourite DKW two‑stroke saloons. Sponsors and community groups—Lions, Round Table and NSRI Mossel Bay—helped keep the event family‑friendly and safe.
“Once again, heritage met horsepower at Santos Beach,” said founder Waldo Scribante of Scribs BENZeum, crediting MUA Insurance Acceptances as headline sponsor for 2025. “From retro classics to razor‑sharp supercars, there was something for every enthusiast.”
Official Response
MUA CEO Vajra Singh said supporting the event is about celebrating a shared passion while protecting collector vehicles. Local public safety partners also had a visible presence.
For official contacts and safety information: Mossel Bay Local Municipality (gov.za directory) • NSRI Station 15 Mossel Bay
Community Impact
Beyond the spectacle, the show channels after‑cost profits to charity and underscores the tourism value of well‑run, people‑centred events on the Garden Route coastline. For Mossel Bay’s economy—accommodation, restaurants and small traders—the full‑day beachfront footfall is a welcome lift in early spring. For more regional context, explore our Business coverage and latest News reports.
Next Steps
Organisers say planning for the next edition is already under way. Classic‑car owners keen to participate should prepare vehicle details, provenance documents and high‑res photos for entry vetting, and watch official pages for entry windows and charity partners. For municipal permits and beachfront event guidelines, consult Mossel Bay Municipality; for sea‑safety demonstrations and volunteering, see NSRI Station 15.
Fact Box: 2025 Highlights
- Attendance: ~1,500 people (organisers’ estimate)
- Registered vehicles: 200+ across vintage, classic, supercar and “future collectible” categories
- Notables: 1915 Model T Ford; 1936 Bentley 4¼‑litre Park Ward; Porsche 914
- Community partners: Lions Club, Round Table, NSRI Mossel Bay
- Charity: All profits after costs to selected beneficiaries
By Quan Dambuza (Motoring & Tourism Desk) | Last updated: 24 September 2025, 09:58 SAST
Source note: organiser media briefing/press release.
