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? My passion for vintage cars comes from my father, who was a panel beater. He would take me to hot rod and custom car shows with him, and the experience made a really big impression on me. I love the way classic cars create a community. People who share the same passion can meet over a bonnet and form friendships that last a lifetime.