WLC Founder Talks Car Culture, Ford Capris & That Shocking New Capri!
In this podcast I’m catching up with my mate Kirpal Singh Randhawa, founder of West London Classics, the car club that’s gone from a small group of petrolheads getting together to chat about carburettors, to one of the most significant forces in London’s car community!
Whether it’s fast Fords, hot Hondas, gleaming Golfs and other four-wheeled classic dreams, WLC events will have the hardest-hearted gearhead wiping a tear of joy at being in the presence of some seriously desirable metal.
But what’s the secret behind the meteoric rise of West London Classics? Why can’t Kirpal stop buying Ford Capris and what are his thoughts on the new electric Ford Capri?
But first, let’s talk car clubs, community, and how this whole thing got started…
The Rise of West London Classics – Lockdown to Legend
Like all good ideas, West London Classics was born during a time of isolation – COVID lockdown, when most of us were binge-watching Netflix or trying to figure out sourdough. Kirpal, however, had other ideas. He and his son decided that while the world was going mad, they’d start a car club. Why? Because cars don’t get viruses – they just need oil changes and the occasional head gasket replacement.
“We did our first event in 2020 – it was like 300 cars on a scorching hot day, and from there, it just blew up!” Kirpal recalls. Now, when he says “blew up”, he means in a good way. They’ve gone from that humble start to running full-blown car shows that have grown in size, popularity, and, most importantly, the sheer diversity of cars and people involved.
The club now organises major annual events – including their huge Show and Shine – but also participates in smaller meets and collaborates with other big car shows like Petrolheadonism Underground at Wembley. And they’re not stopping there! Next month you’ll be seeing them at NEC in Birmingham. That’s right, folks, West London Classics is making its mark on the national stage.
Why Car Clubs Matter – More Than Just Bonnet-Staring
As Kirpal explains, the car community isn’t just about standing around, staring under the bonnet with a furrowed brow (though there’s plenty of that). It’s about people. Car shows and clubs give like-minded petrolheads a place to meet, talk shop, and – importantly – forget about the daily grind. It’s also a family affair – Kirpal mentions seeing school friends at events he hasn’t spoken to in 40 years!
“It brings people together,” he says. “There’s nothing like it – I’ve met people at shows I haven’t seen in decades. It’s all about community, mate.”
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – there’s something about classic cars that sparks joy (unless you’ve just had an MOT failure of course). They remind us of better times, of our youth, of freedom. And in a world that’s slowly restricting where, how, and what we drive (looking at you, ULEZ), that freedom feels more precious than ever.
The New Electric Capri – Just… Why?
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. The new Ford Capri. Yes, they’ve taken the name of one of the most iconic cars in British automotive history and slapped it on… an electric crossover. It’s like putting the Ferrari badge on a forklift. Kirpal, being a lifelong Capri enthusiast, doesn’t hold back on his opinion.
“It’s diabolical!” he declares. “How they can even call it a Capri is beyond me. It’s embarrassing. They’ve ruined the name!”
Harsh? Maybe. But let’s be honest, if you’re a fan of the original Capri – with its sleek lines, rear-wheel drive, and charm – the idea of an electric SUV wearing the same badge feels like sacrilege. Ford has committed the cardinal sin of trying to trade on nostalgia while completely missing the point of what made the original a legend.
Remember when they tried to replace the Capri with the Ford Probe? That didn’t go well, either. But hey, Ford seems to have a short memory. I’ll let Kirpal have the final word on this one: “They’ve just given it the name to sell it, but it’s not a Capri. Not even close.” Ouch.
The Heart of the Car Community – Keeping the Flame Alive
What’s clear from our chat is that the car community isn’t going anywhere. It might be evolving – with electric cars and ULEZ restrictions changing the landscape – but the passion for classic cars, for the feel of metal, oil, and petrol, remains undiminished. Kirpal talks about the importance of keeping the next generation engaged. His son is as car-mad as he is, and that’s the key to keeping this community alive.
“My son’s taking over the Instagram – he’s the social media whiz. We’ve got 9,000 followers now, and it’s growing fast. It’s all about getting the younger generation involved.”
And it’s not just about the cars. There’s a deeper, more personal side to it. Kirpal and I talk about how cars – and car events – play a role in mental health. Whether it’s wrenching on your pride and joy in the garage or taking a drive to clear your head, cars provide an outlet, a way to escape the pressures of life.
What’s Next for West London Classics?
The future is looking bright for West London Classics. Their next big event is at the NEC, but they’re also planning their annual Show and Shine, which has grown into a festival, actually a “mela”, of its own. One thing’s for sure – this club isn’t slowing down.
As for Kirpal’s personal fleet? A Stag and an awesome Tickford Capri, but he’s always on the lookout for the next classic. And if Ford’s listening, maybe it’s time to give him a real Capri – one that can really live up to the badge.
This conversation with Kirpal Singh Randhawa highlights what makes West London Classics so special – it’s not just about the cars; it’s about the people, the connections, and the community. Whether you’re into classic car events, or just appreciate the way cars bring people together, you’ll love this episode.
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