Hooked On Classics

For automotive upholsterer Kira Jurado, cars aren’t just machines, they’re vehicles for collecting cherished memories, writes motoring expert and WhichCar presenter Elise Elliott.

- Elise Elliott

Pulling up to Kira Jurado’s farm in Bargo, about 100 kilometres south-west of Sydney, is like taking a step back in time. Kira owns four beautiful vintage vehicles: a 1928 Ford Model A Tudor hot rod; a 1932 Ford Coupe; a 1940 DeSoto and a 1976 Toyota Crown wagon. It’s an impressive collection in anyone’s book, although perhaps not surprising for someone who’s an automotive upholsterer (also known as a motor trimmer) by trade.

Kira says the bright blue Tudor is a sentimental favourite: her late father built it, and many childhood memories include cruising to car shows in this magnificent vehicle. There’s something special about the all-original 1940 DeSoto, which was launched by Chrysler and ceased production in 1961, too. Rather delightfully, Kira reserves this rare beauty for taking her three dogs – Jack, Roxy and Dallas – for a spin through the countryside. Despite being the youngest of the three, Dallas always commands the front passenger seat.

As a motor trimmer, Kira repairs, refreshes and replaces the upholstery, linings and trims on all kinds of vehicles. The walls of Kira’s workshop – her favourite room – are lined with vintage sewing machines, another example of her passion for her work. Kira says revitalising classic cars always brings her much joy. “Seeing a customer’s face light up when they see their beloved car looking brand new again is amazing.”

Have you always appreciated classic cars?