The Cars Narrative
As the Windrush generation worked hard by securing employment in various sectors it became possible to generate disposable income through various savings methods (with local banks / building societies or via community saving schemes generally known as partners) to purchase big ticket items such as houses and cars.
Settling
For those that purchased a car it opened up a new chapter in the “settling into UK” period whilst improving the quality of life, and maintain Caribbean social values, (keeping in touch by attending family and friend events such as weddings & christenings or general visits during bank holidays). In addition, meant traveling to other social events, either in or out of town was a special occasion.
A key benefit of independent transport became a priority during the settling into the UK period of time as it reduced the risk to families of any anti-social interactions with racist people seeking to bring about physical harm to the Windrush generation as they commuted to and from work or attending social events.
Employment Opportunities
As more cars were purchased by the Windrush generation who were skilled mechanics with an entrepreneur approach established their own motor mechanic garage and in doing so by offering a high customer service and value for money generated new and a steady repeat client base enough to support their family and create employment for others
The cars in this section are examples of some of cars driven by the Windrush generation:
Pricing
The average cost that for an affordable car in 1961 e.g. Austin Cambridge was offered for £390. The equivalent new car was £772.
The four-door Cortina De Luxe £687 new and reduce on secondary sales (used car) typically sold for around £400.
Private sales were also the opportunity to purchase cars via the art of negotiations with the seller which in cases led to a cost-effective “bargain purchase”